Yorkshire lawyer appointed as national Civil Justice Committee chair

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Yorkshire lawyer appointed as national Civil Justice Committee chair

Switalskis director John McQuater has been appointed by The Law Society as chair of the Civil Justice Committee.

Doncaster-based John McQuater has been a Committee member since 2021 and brings over 40 years’ experience of working as a litigation lawyer to the chair role. The Civil Justice Committee reviews and promotes improvements in civil litigation policy which relates to legal disputes between individuals or between individuals and organisations.

At Switalskis, which has offices in Yorkshire and London, John is joint head of Personal Injury. He qualified in 1983 and two years later became a partner at Doncaster-based Atherton Godfrey, now Switalskis. John McQuater says of his new role: “There are many important issues, affecting national and international civil litigation, which face the Law Society. My role, as chair, is to ensure the views and experience of committee members help both shape and implement Law Society policy.”

About his appointment, John says: “On a personal level this will be a welcome challenge. Welcome as it is always good to be working with talented and knowledgeable colleagues. A challenge as there are many current issues to tackle including the extension of fixed costs and the debate around Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs).

“I hope my years of experience will help bring context and insights to many of the current issues the committee will be dealing with. I am grateful for the support of Switalskis, in taking on this role, where a number of colleagues also work at a national level.”

Law Society of England and Wales president Lubna Shuja says: “The Law Society welcomes and congratulates John McQuater on his recent appointment as Chair of our Civil Justice Committee. Having already served for several years on the Committee, John is well placed to lead its work over the next four years. It will be advising on issues affecting civil litigators and access to justice, areas in which he has much experience.”

John is also a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers, with accredited status as a senior fellow – the only solicitor in Yorkshire to hold this status. He is the author of ‘Model Letters for Personal Injury Lawyers’ and the ‘APIL Guide to Personal Injury Claims Procedure’. He is a past president of the Doncaster and District Law Society and of the Yorkshire Union of Law Societies.

Motor Source Group and Aurora EV forge dynamic new business partnership

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Motor Source Group and Aurora EV forge dynamic new business partnership
Motor Source Group, a provider of innovative salary sacrifice car programmes for businesses, and Aurora EV, an EV charge point installation business, have announced a strategic business relationship aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and fostering sustainable transportation solutions for business and employees. Motor Source Group offers a comprehensive salary sacrifice car programme designed to assist businesses with a full motoring solution and providing a range of hybrid and electric vehicles to support the journey to achieve Net Zero goals. The company’s commitment to simplicity, along with a customer-focused approach, ensures that both businesses and employees experience seamless car procurement and management processes. Aurora EV, with over five decades of combined experience in the motor and electrical industry, stands as a specialist installation business dedicated to providing top-tier EV charge point solutions. Their team of seasoned engineers possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise, guaranteeing efficient and reliable installation and maintenance of EV charge points. Aurora EV’s reputation for quality and excellence in the EV infrastructure arena has made them a trusted partner for numerous businesses and individuals seeking reliable charging solutions. The collaboration between Motor Source Group and Aurora EV marks a significant stride toward a sustainable and electrified future. By combining Motor Source Group’s salary sacrifice car programme with Aurora EV’s expertise in EV charge point installation, the partnership aims to create a holistic offering that empowers businesses to transition to electric mobility seamlessly and effectively. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Aurora EV,” said Steve Thornton, founder & CEO at Motor Source Group. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing businesses with comprehensive solutions that are convenient and easy to implement. With Aurora EV’s unmatched experience in EV charging installations, we can offer our clients a seamless transition to electric vehicles, fostering environmental responsibility and sustainability.” Ben Morris, Managing Director at Aurora EV, said: “Our partnership with Motor Source Group is a natural fit, as both our organizations share a passion for innovation and sustainable solutions. By combining our expertise with Motor Source Group’s forward-thinking approach, we can provide businesses with a complete package that supports their transition to electric mobility.” The collaboration between Motor Source Group and Aurora EV is expected to drive significant positive change in the corporate sector’s approach to sustainable transportation solutions. This partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to a greener future and marks the beginning of a journey toward impactful change in the automotive landscape.

Publisher expands in Sheffield

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Publisher expands in Sheffield
As part of its ongoing commitment to accelerate the diversification of its workforce and publishing, Hachette UK is expanding their national office in Sheffield. The 23-strong team have moved to a workspace previously used by Twinkl, a leading education business founded in Sheffield. Hachette UK now has 120 staff based across the cities of Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh, Newcastle and Sheffield. Of the 120 staff over 40% have been recruited locally and in Sheffield that number rises to over 50%. The Sheffield team includes colleagues from 8 different publishing divisions and a similar number of job functions, with particular strengths in editorial, marketing, sales, rights and IT. This move to a standalone space with two suites, meeting rooms with high-spec technology, a bespoke audio studio, and break-out and quiet spaces will enable Hachette UK to hire creative talent beyond London and better reach consumers. Nick Davies, MD of John Murray Press and national office lead at Hachette UK, said: “We are committed to growing our creative hubs across the UK. In just over two years, the national offices have more than doubled in size. The growth in Sheffield – from five staff to twenty-three – has been particularly exciting to see. And this impressive new space gives us the potential to grow that office to 75 colleagues or more. “We have already begun reaping the rewards of having a workforce that better reflects the UK’s population. Of course, better is not enough and we have ambitious plans to deepen our vital connections with readers, writers and booksellers in communities beyond London. The move to bigger premises in Sheffield plays a significant part in that.” David Shelley, CEO of Hachette UK, said: “I’m so proud of our national offices, and excited about the major expansion in Sheffield. Since 2021 the national offices have provided a gateway into creative talent – authors, illustrators, translators, publishing professionals – around the UK. “We’re 100% committed to the growth and development of these hubs over the coming years, and we really look forward to continuing and developing our work with bookshops, libraries, arts organisations, and charities in all five cities. “Opening offices around the country has been a crucial and transformative venture for us in our mission to publish for as wide a readership as possible, and we’re ambitious to increase our footprint outside London further in the years to come.”

Manufacturing output falls at fastest pace since September 2020

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Manufacturing output falls at fastest pace since September 2020

Manufacturers reported the sharpest fall in output volumes since September 2020, according to the CBI’s latest Industrial Trends Survey.

Motor vehicles & transport equipment, mechanical engineering, paper, printing & media, and chemicals sub-sectors drove the decline in output over the three months to August. Looking ahead, output volumes are expected to stabilise in the next three months.

Firms anticipate that price pressures will continue to ease going forward, with expectations for selling price inflation over the next three months at their softest since February 2021.  

The survey, based on the responses of 277 manufacturing firms, found:

  • Output volumes fell in the three months to August (weighted balance of -19%, from +3% in the three months to July), marking the sharpest decline since September 2020. Output is expected to be broadly stable in the three months to November (-3%).
    • Output fell in 15 out of 17 sub-sectors in the three months to August, driven by the motor vehicles & transport equipment, mechanical engineering, paper, printing & media, and chemicals sub-sectors. 
  • Total order books were reported as below “normal” in August and to a greater extent than in July (-15% from -9%). However, this outturn was broadly in line with the long-run average (-13%). Export order books were seen as below “normal,” having deteriorated from last month (-18% from -11%). This was also on a par with the long-run average (-18%).
  • Expectations for average selling price inflation were at their softest since February 2021 (+8%, from +18% in July; long-run average of +7%). Expectations for selling price inflation have eased for eight consecutive months, having fallen sharply from the multi-decade high seen in 2022 (+80% in March 2022).
  • Stocks of finished goods were seen as more than “adequate” in August (+7% from 0% in July; long-run average of +12%).

Martin Sartorius, CBI principal economist, said: “With output volumes contracting at their fastest pace since the COVID-19 pandemic and order books deteriorating, this survey makes for gloomy reading for manufacturers. However, easing price pressures will bring some relief to many manufacturing firms and the broader economy.  

“The weak outlook for manufacturing activity underlines the need to double-down on delivering sustainable growth. With fierce levels of international competition, the race is on for the UK Government to offer targeted incentives to attract green investment and support firms’ decarbonisation efforts.”  

Pace appoints new head of social

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Pace appoints new head of social
Creative communications agency Pace is strengthening its leadership team with the appointment of a new head of social media. Conor Glavin is the latest new team member to join the Hull-based company. Conor previously worked at global social media agency Social Chain where his clients included audio brand Beats by Dre, video game company Logitech G and Jameson Irish Whiskey. He said: “I’m excited to be part of the team. Pace has a great reputation and I’m looking forward to building on Pace’s social strengths and developing further creative opportunities to share clients’ stories.” He also has extensive communications and social media experience – both in-house and agency-based – from previous roles. Anita Pace, MD, said: “It’s great to welcome Conor to Pace as we continue to go from strength to strength. His insight and experience of social media, together with his genuine enthusiasm for amplifying clients’ stories, will be invaluable for our clients and the Pace team as a whole.” Conor’s appointment follows further growth of Pace’s senior team with the arrival of Calvin Innes as creative director earlier this year and the merger with fellow Hull-based agency Blab in September. Pace’s clients include sustainable cleaning brand Bio-D, Yorkshire housing developer Beal Homes, luxury holiday home manufacturer Victory Leisure Homes, international waste plastic road company MacRebur, global health, hygiene and nutrition manufacturer Reckitt and global skincare brand 7th Heaven.

Transformation of historic Halifax Borough Market moves a step closer

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Transformation of historic Halifax Borough Market moves a step closer
The transformation of the historic Halifax Borough Market has moved a step closer, after the multi-million-pound revitalisation project reached significant milestones. Calderdale Council is investing nearly £4.5 million into a thriving future for the market hall as a focal point for shopping, business and leisure in Halifax, after it successfully secured £11.7 million from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund for improvements across the town centre. Work on the Grade II* listed Borough Market, which opened in 1896, will include:
  • Restoration of the historic façade and repairs to the roof, which is an important heritage feature.
  • Improved entrances and routes inside the market to make it easier to explore and to help people enjoy the market’s many features and stalls, and to better link the top and bottom ends of the town centre.
  • Improved areas for events outside of market trading hours, including pop-up units and refurbished toilet facilities.
In the latest milestone, the Council has submitted the listed building consent application for improvements to the market arcade doors, to complement the new automatic sliding doors in the other entrances. The original swinging doors are still in place in the market arcade entrance, so listed building consent is being sought to make them fit for modern use and easier to open, whilst recognising their historical significance as a key part of the market’s heritage and identity. Subject to listed building consent, the outer two historic doors will be repaired and preserved to protect their original features and reveal previously hidden details. It is also proposed to renew the arched glazed wall that the doors sit within, and the whole entrance will be painted to reflect the roof’s new colour scheme. The application for market arcade comes after planning permission and listed building consent were recently granted for work to revamp the Albion Street entrance to the market. This will include renewing the shopfronts and creating a distinctive new steel and glass canopy above the entrance, new signs and retractable awnings, which will make the market stand out more at this side of the town centre. The Council has submitted a request for listed building consent for the area around the market hall’s clock, for work to make the most of the striking original clock in the middle of the market and to create an area for meeting, entertainment and information. The fruit and veg retailer currently based there will be relocating from the clock tower to a new purpose-built stall. The major reroofing project is well underway. All the glass is being replaced to make the market hall feel lighter and brighter. New double glazing and roof insulation will help to keep heat inside the building, increasing the building’s energy efficiency and contributing to the Council’s climate action priority and net zero carbon target. The roof’s steel structures are being fully redecorated with a blue, green and cream colour scheme, which Historic England approved as there was evidence that the same colours had been used historically in the market. New, high-speed WiFi networks have been installed for customers and traders, and work is ongoing to refurbish the public and trader toilets, to create clear signage for the whole building, and to develop the Albany Arcade space for daytime and evening events. Cllr Silvia Dacre, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “The distinctive Victorian Halifax Borough Market is a much-loved part of the town and our local heritage. We are investing to make sure it stays at the heart of the community for years to come, with new facilities that will help secure the market’s future by encouraging more people to visit and trade there, and helping to tackle climate change.” Cllr Sarah Courtney, Cabinet Member for Towns, Tourism and Voluntary Sector, added: “Revitalising the Borough Market supports our priority for thriving towns and places. Alongside the other exciting regeneration projects across Halifax, including the Future High Streets investment into the Victoria Theatre, George Square and the historic alleyways, it will encourage people to explore and stay longer, boosting their experience, local businesses and cultural assets.” The market transformation, along with the range of other planned projects, is thanks to the £18 million awarded to the Council in December 2020 from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, to support town centre improvements in Halifax (£11.7 million) and Elland (£6.3 million).

Leeds catering group gobbles up Nottingham firm

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Leeds catering group gobbles up Nottingham firm
Nottingham-based Walker Catering has been acquired by Leeds-headquartered catering group, Northern Catering Equipment Group. Walker Catering was established in 1990, offering catering supply services to customers in Nottingham, the East Midlands and across the UK. Hilton Smythe advised Walker Catering on their successful sale. Prior to acquisition, it had 250 active clients, a 90% repeat business record, and approximately £240k cash in the business. In addition to Walker Catering, NCE Group operates three other businesses in Leeds and Swansea and has been shortlisted for several industry awards. Mo Romanowicz, Managing Director of NCE Group, said: “We’re delighted to have invested in Walker Catering. It has not only brought additional revenue, but also experienced and capable staff who will help us go from strength to strength. “The team at Hilton Smythe has been invaluable in terms of providing a clear action plan and supporting us every step of the way with clear communication. We’re already discussing further opportunities for growth through acquisition for our next stage of development.” Jacob Lord, senior deal executive at Hilton Smythe, said: “NCE Group has a clear growth strategy through acquisition, and the addition of Walker Catering to its portfolio supports its long-term aims and objectives. “From our first meeting to completion, Hilton Smythe has been working hand in glove with NCE Group to ensure that Mo and the team were kept up to date with any developments and that the deal ran smoothly.”

Whitby distiller paves way to prime Abbey location

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Whitby distiller paves way to prime Abbey location
The dream of a Yorkshire gin-maker to move into brand-new premises in the shadow of Whitby Abbey is now becoming a reality. Work is beginning this autumn on Whitby Distillery’s £1.8 million project to renovate two derelict barns on Abbey Lands on the south-west corner of the Abbey grounds. The build programme, which has been partly funded by the Whitby Distillers Founders Club, is scheduled to be completed by the end of next year. It will feature a unique pathway, engraved with the names of friends and supporters of the distillery. Whitby Distillery, makers of Whitby Gin, was founded in 2017 by Jessica Slater and Luke Pentith who have grown their business from a passion project to one whose gin stocked in more than 500 outlets across the UK. The move will enable the distillery to become one of the most iconic distillery visitor experiences in England, providing high-quality leisure and function space for the local community to enjoy. Luke Pentith said: “This move is a gamechanger for us. Whilst we have been very happy in our current premises in Botany Way in Whitby, our new home will take Whitby Distillery to the next level, stepping up production and giving visitors the opportunity to see us distilling and bottling through the week with our tour experiences. “It is an honour and a privilege to be restoring these derelict buildings on such a world-famous site. For us, this is all about launching an amazing adventure on the atmospheric North Sea coastline, with tremendous knock-on effects for the local economy.” Jessica said: “Our new distillery is a serious commitment to Whitby. We are making a significant investment into the local community and the future of the town. In the longer term, we anticipate up to 25 employees. “As well as the distillery, our plans include a visitor centre, which will showcase our production process and our various spirits, as well as paying homage to the amazing cultural heritage of Whitby and providing an educational and corporate business space. “Whitby Distillery aims to offer an educational and enchanting visitor experience which can be accessed all year round, as an out-of-season and wet weather destination. The visitor experience venue and exhibition/hire space build on the strong links Whitby distillery has with the adjacent English Heritage attraction.” “The site has these incredible views of the Abbey, the town, the moors and the sea and no-one gets to see it as the area is closed off at the moment. We want to use the area for people to be able to take tours and also host small events up there,” she added. Luke added: “The renovation work is partly be funded by Whitby Distillery’s Founders Club, which gives members to chance to become part of the Whitby Distillery success story. “We have chosen to work with Native Architects who are the experts when it comes to sustainable redevelopment of heritage buildings. They value the qualities of traditionally crafted buildings but adapt and convert in a way that sets the reduction of CO2 emissions as a priority. “Whitby Distillery is designed to be an inspirational building that has minimal environmental impact. We are taking a ‘fabric first’ approach to refurbishment to improve the energy efficiency. Wastewater from the distilling process will be used where possible to irrigate plants and the vegetated roof. “The heat extracted from this water will be used to warm the building. Green roofs will be planted with wildflowers to nurture the natural plants and wildlife. Hidden roof solar PV panels will generate electricity on site. Building materials can have high carbon footprints so materials have been selected that have low levels of embodied carbon.”

Rotherham firm to enter administration

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Rotherham firm to enter administration
The directors of Consumer Choices Limited have filed a Notice of Intention to appoint Gareth Harris and Lee Lockwood of RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP as joint administrators. Consumer Choices was established as a stand-alone entity in 2020 when it was spun out of Origin Broadband, where it had helped that business acquire digital leads and through outbound calls convert those leads to customers. For the last three years it has continued to provide those services to a range of blue chip broadband suppliers. It operated from an office in Rotherham, but had a large number of home workers, and an outsourced operation in South Africa, employing 99 staff directly. The decision to appoint administrators was made by directors after a material deterioration in market conditions which left the company unviable. Unfortunately, there was insufficient time to seek a buyer for the business and it has therefore been closed down; and almost all employees will be made redundant once the administrators are formally appointed. RSM was advised by Matthew Brown and Niall Crossley at Gateley LLP. Gareth Harris, partner at RSM and joint administrator, said: “This has been a very fast-moving situation but due to circumstances outside their control, and without a viable solution the directors have had no choice but to shut the business down at short notice. “Employees have been paid up to 4 August, but sadly all of them will have to be made redundant once the company is formally placed into administration.”

Reward expands Leeds headquarters in major office move

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Reward expands Leeds headquarters in major office move

Following 12 years of continuous growth and in preparation to support future expansion plans, alternative finance lender Reward Finance Group has moved its national headquarters to new Grade A office space in the heart of Leeds’ business district.

Previously housed in Central House, Reward has relocated to the recently refurbished 12 King Street, where the team in Leeds now occupies 4,000 sq ft on the 1st floor. The landmark building underwent an £11m investment last year, to introduce a futuristic workspace with enhanced features such as a cycle spa, roof terraces and a sky lounge.

Reward’s group managing director, Nick Smith said: “We had a tremendous journey in our latest Leeds office for more than eight years. At Reward, we’re always looking towards the future, so this move is a major milestone in our expansion plans. The transition into state-of-the-art offices represents 12 years of continuous growth in Leeds and it sets the stage for our plans to further expand the team in the coming months.

“We outgrew our previous space due to rapid business growth across the UK, therefore the new office ticks every box. We also place a high priority on the wellbeing of all our teams, so the availability of breakout spaces, improved facilities and enhanced sustainability credentials allows us to provide the ideal environment for all our staff.

“Ben Johnson did a fantastic job with the interior design and fit out of the new space, we’re delighted to call 12 King Street our new Leeds home and very much looking forward to the next chapter for our business.”

Clarion adds to growing property litigation team

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Clarion adds to growing property litigation team

Kate Joss, Jessica Wager and Emily Brownsword are the latest recruits to join the seven-strong dedicated property litigation team within Clarion’s expanding real estate practice. All three join Clarion from international law firms.

Kate joins as a senior associate and has substantial experience of dealing with complex commercial and residential property disputes for a wide range of clients, including public sector clients, developers, social housing providers, portfolio managers and individuals.

Associate Jess has acted for a wide range of private and public sector landlords and tenants, advising on matters related to commercial and residential property including lease renewals, dilapidations, termination and possession, breach of covenant and rent/service charge arrears.

As a paralegal in the team, Emily will assist with a broad range of contentious matters covering all aspects of estate management.

The team has already seen expansion this year with the appointments of experienced legal director Lisa Stratford as well as Emily Hartley as a paralegal.

“Since founding the property litigation team six years ago, we’ve seen tremendous demand for our services and have established a reputation as one of the leading specialist teams in the region. We have experienced significant growth in the last year and are seeing that reflected in the quality of work a bigger team allows us to undertake,” says Sophie Morley, partner and head of the property litigation team. “We’re seeing an increasing number of referrals from all sorts of different types of work from clients ranging from national retailers to local authorities and residential and commercial developers. 

“It’s fantastic to further boost the team with new talent as our workload increases alongside the continued growth of Clarion’s real estate practice. Kate and Jess bring a wealth of experience in all areas of property litigation, and Emily (Brownsword) provides further resource as our workload continues to increase. All of our new team members share Clarion’s values and have been attracted by the type of challenging national work we undertake.”

Kate says: “I am excited to be part of Clarion’s growth. I am looking forward to adding to the expertise of an already experienced and influential team with an outstanding reputation in the region.” 

Jess Wager adds: “Clarion’s exceptional reputation for client service and its expertise has always stood out to me and I am pleased to be joining such a talented team, particularly given the continued growth and expansion of the firm. I’m really looking forward to forging strong relationships with our clients whilst working alongside such a well-respected, experienced team.”

Emily Brownsword adds: “I am excited to be working with such an ambitious and fast-growing specialist property litigation practice. It’s a fantastic opportunity to expand my legal knowledge and experience.”

Dacres appoints new office principal in York

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Dacres appoints new office principal in York

An experienced property professional has joined Yorkshire estate agent, Dacre, Son & Hartley’s York office.

Claire Tiplady has been appointed as office principal. She has worked as a sales negotiator and sales manager at two leading Yorkshire firms over the last 13 years.

Claire said: “I was keen to join Dacres as it’s such a respected company with a great team. The office opened just over a year ago in York and the firm has made good inroads into the market, but I plan to grow the market share and bring a wide range of city centre properties onto the market, as well as those from the surrounding villages.

“With 42 estate agents operating in York, competition is fierce, but Dacres really does stand out from the crowd as one of the best, with a long history and offices across North and West Yorkshire.

“The firm sells everything from modern city centre apartments through to grand historic homes in York’s rural suburbs. My plan is to continue building up stock levels and appeal to all those buyers keen to live in the heart of York or within easy reach of this incredibly popular city.”

Patrick McCutcheon, head of residential at Dacre, Son & Hartley, said: “Claire is well known and respected in the marketplace and it’s a real coup to have her join our York team. We are hugely committed to the city and plan to expand and recruit further as we grow the business in York.”

Lupton Fawcett appoints new associate to employment team

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Lupton Fawcett appoints new associate to employment team
Law firm Lupton Fawcett LLP has expanded its employment team with the appointment of a new associate. Liam Kenealy’s background includes more than 15 years with law firms across Sheffield, Yorkshire and North Derbyshire. His employment law experience ranges from clients with 10,000+ staff to micro businesses across all areas of employment law, and he has also acted for individuals involved in employment disputes with their employer. He joins Lupton Fawcett’s well-established team of 10 employment specialists, bringing the number based in the firm’s Sheffield office to four. The team provides legal advice and strategies across all aspects of employment law, from day-to-day HR advice provided through its fixed-fee retainer service, Augment, to support with acquisitions and business organisations, discrimination and whistleblowing cases and employment tribunals and litigation. Andrew Gilchrist, partner and head of employment, said: “I am delighted to welcome Liam to Lupton Fawcett. His expertise in the sector will be of great benefit to our award-winning employment team as well as to our clients, who include some of the region’s best-known businesses.” Liam said: “I was looking for a new role with an established firm known for its employment offering and Lupton Fawcett ticks both boxes. “The employment team is a great size with plenty of experienced individuals so I’m looking forward to the opportunities to learn from them and share my knowledge too. “Lupton Fawcett also has a really good calibre of clients across the whole of Yorkshire and beyond and I was impressed by its commitment to customer service.”

Mortgage network to be snapped up in £12.9m deal

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Mortgage network to be snapped up in £12.9m deal
LSL, a provider of financial services, surveying and valuation and estate agency services, has agreed to acquire TenetLime Limited from Tenet Limited, a subsidiary of Leeds-based Tenet Group, subject to FCA approval. TenetLime operates a network providing services to 231 mortgage and protection advisers, operating within 133 appointed representative firms. Its advisers arranged c.£3.9bn of mortgages in 2022. The transaction also includes consideration for the recruitment by TenetLime of 47 mortgage and protection advisers operating within 24 appointed representative firms, that are currently members of TenetConnect Ltd and TenetConnect Services Ltd, that are expected to transfer to TenetLime prior to completion. The consideration payable is expected to be up to £12.9m. David Stewart, Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “I’m delighted we have been able to complete this transaction and I look forward to welcoming TenetLime’s advisers to our PRIMIS Network. “The increase in membership will help us to further invest in our service offering to member firms as well as delivering scale economics to support further growth. “The acquisition also underpins our leading position in the mortgage and protection network market and is fully aligned with our Group strategy to develop our Financial Services Network business.”

Closure of Young’s Seafood factory in Grimsby confirmed

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Closure of Young’s Seafood factory in Grimsby confirmed
Over 200 jobs are set to be lost after Young’s Seafood confirmed the closure of a Grimsby factory. Plans were revealed in June to stop production at its Marsden Road site and move what remains to its other Grimsby factory on Humberstone Road and a Scottish site. At the time the owner of Young’s, Sofina Foods Europe, said the factory was “no longer financially sustainable,” according to BBC reports. Staff and unions were set to be consulted before a formal decision on the closure. Now, however, the business has said it has been unable to find a viable solution. Production at the site will be scaled back and cease in late October 2023. Some new roles are expected to be created at the Humberstone Road site in Grimsby and in Scotland at Fraserburgh.

£2.7m training centre to increase safety for rail workers

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£2.7m training centre to increase safety for rail workers
The first purpose-built rail safety centre of its kind in the North of England, has been officially opened by the Minister for Rail Huw Merriman MP in Huddersfield, as part of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). Everyone working on the major rail upgrade between Manchester and York will undertake a one-day interactive training programme, which uses actors to place participants at the heart of a hard-hitting narrative, witnessing the actions, decisions and events which could lead to a fatal incident on the rail tracks. Attendees at the TRUST centre participate in a series of interactive, facilitated workshops and engage with the characters in real-world scenarios, including in their home, a police interview and work canteen, learning the communications skills they can put into practice to improve safety in the workplace. They are then encouraged to apply these as they are transported back into the story. Training at the TRUST centre will appeal to all three sensory learning styles: visual, auditory and kinaesthetic. High-quality production values and industry-leading technology are said to deliver a powerful, immersive experience shown to strengthen learning, memory and positively impact on subsequent behaviour. Rail Minister, Huw Merriman said: “This is a major milestone for the Transpennine Route Upgrade. Not only is the programme creating greener and more reliable services across the North, but it’s now taking vital steps to create a well-trained and highly skilled workforce. “Safety remains at the heart of our railways and this centre will ensure it’s in the mind of every member of staff working on the project too.” Neil Holm, Managing Director of Transpennine Route Upgrade, said: “The opening of the ground-breaking TRUST centre embodies the ethos that safety sits at the heart of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade. “We want to ensure that everybody gets home safe every day. As we work to bring cleaner, faster and better journeys between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York, the safety of our teams has never been more important. “TRUST centre training will be undertaken by everyone working on our programme, both working in offices and on the frontline. It’s important that colleagues from planning, design, delivery and all of our functions understand how the decisions we all make are crucial when it comes to safety. Taking an immersive approach allows workers to absorb and remember their training more clearly and for longer.” Councillor Cathy Scott, Acting Leader of Kirklees Council, says: “One of the great assets for our economy here in Kirklees is our connectivity, and the Transpennine Route Upgrade will massively enhance this. “But as well as providing a boost to our economy in the future, this huge project is providing work and opportunities for local people right now – and that’s only set to increase as work on the TRU ramps up over the coming years. “Investment like this is about long-term benefit, but long before we reach the end point of the upgrade we’ll see economic benefits and a skilled workforce for Kirklees. “It’s fantastic to see that those delivering the TRU are being trained and upskilled using the latest technologies and, frankly, great creativity – and that the Minister of State for Transport is showing such a keen interest in this work, how it will affect our local area and local people.”

Leeds travel specialist continues to grow at Unity Business Centre

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Leeds travel specialist continues to grow at Unity Business Centre

A Leeds travel agency specialising in tailored group trips to the Caribbean has celebrated five years in business by moving into larger premises at Unity Business Centre in Chapeltown.   

Phun in the Sun was set up by its Chief Executive Jackie Walker in 2018 from a desk in the centre’s newly established incubator for start-ups and home-based enterprises seeking to expand. 

Since then, the business has gone from strength and now has a staff of four.

Next month, Phun in the Sun and the St Kitts and Nevis Association will co-host a meet and greet reception at Unity Business Centre for Her Excellency Dr Christine Walwyn, the Diaspora Ambassador for St Kitts and Nevis, following her recent appointment by the dual-island nation’s Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew.

Unity Business Centre is one of three facilities managed by Unity Enterprise – the not-for-profit subsidiary of BME housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise – which currently provides 142 affordable business units for more than 80 diverse businesses close to Leeds city centre.

Adrian Green, Unity Enterprise manager, said he was delighted to see Phun in the Sun flourish over the past five years. 

He said: “It feels like just yesterday when Jackie started her adventure with us, taking up a hot desk in our building. From the very beginning, her positive spirit and passion for creating unforgettable experiences for her customers and her unwavering commitment to achieve her dreams were clear.  

“As her company expanded, so did her needs, and it did not take long for her to move from that hot desk to her own small office space within our premises. Jackie has continued to chase her dreams one step at a time.  

“She has now expanded even further, moving into a larger office space to accommodate her ever-growing team and clientele. We could not be prouder of her accomplishments.”

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “Jackie’s journey demonstrates the spirit of entrepreneurship – the willingness to take risks, the courage to dream big and the tenacity to overcome obstacles.

“She has shown us all that with a sharp vision and unwavering determination, no goal is unachievable. 

“We are incredibly proud to have supported her business aspirations and look forward to working with her even more closely in the years ahead.”

Jackie Walker said: “I am excited to be expanding and to be able to do so at Unity Business Centre where Phun in the Sun has its roots.

“Adrian and his team have supported me in every possible way right from the beginning.  

“It is wonderful that our shared success story will continue – bigger and better than ever before.” 

Reckitt agrees sponsorship deal with ice hockey team Hull Seahawks

Stuart Pearcey
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Reckitt agrees sponsorship deal with ice hockey team Hull Seahawks

The Hull Seahawks have unveiled the locally based global health and nutrition company Reckitt as title sponsors for next season.

Reckitt, home to some of the world’s most recognised and trusted consumer brands, has partnered with the Championship National Ice Hockey League team on a one-year deal that will see the company take naming rights of the team – the Hull Reckitt Seahawks. Dr Bruce Charlesworth, Reckitt Chief Medical Officer and Hull Campus Lead said: “Ice hockey is growing in popularity, and, like Reckitt, our local team has a strong Hull heritage – ours being the Reckitt family and theirs the early Humberside Seahawks days. “We are very excited about the upcoming season and our new relationship. Ice hockey is a fast-paced game that’s great to watch and play at all levels, with a grass roots foundation that’s linked to healthy living and exercise. We believe this is a partnership that supports the city, helps a community venue, raises the profile of Reckitt, and provides a staff benefit.” Joe Lamplough and Matty Davies Hull Seahawks Directors said: “This opportunity allows the Hull Seahawks to expand the club and local community in a very exciting manner. “We’re very much looking forward to working together in expanding the Reckitt name as much as possible within the club as a lot of people are unaware of the global impact Reckitt has. We’re looking forward to welcoming Reckitt employees to our home games to enjoy and soak in the unique atmosphere at the Hull Ice Arena on a match night, trust us when we say there will be some very entertaining games next season.

Groundbreaking ceremony kicks off Western Growth Corridor project in Lincoln

Stuart Pearcey
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Groundbreaking ceremony kicks off Western Growth Corridor project in Lincoln

An official start has been made on Lincoln’s new Western Growth Corridor with representatives from the City of Lincoln Council, Lindum Western Growth Community Ltd, Lincoln City Council’s Civic Party, Homes England, and contractors celebrating a groundbreaking ceremony.

The Western Growth Corridor development, on land owned by City of Lincoln Council and Lindum Western Growth Community Ltd, received planning permission in January 2022, with detailed consent for access points on Skellingthorpe Road and Tritton Road. The first phase of the Western Growth Corridor new housing development, which will be accessed from Skellingthorpe Road will start early next year with the delivery of the first phase of homes. Cllr Naomi Tweddle, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council said: “It is fantastic to see the start of works on this long-awaited development in the city and to see years of hard work finally moving into the construction phase. “Western Growth Corridor is a key priority within the City of Lincoln Council’s overall vision for the city and these works will open up the development site for future development and investment creating opportunities for housing growth and contributing directly and indirectly to the economic growth of the city over the next 20 years.” The construction works currently under way will provide the first access into the development with a new signalised traffic road junction on the corner of Skellingthorpe Road and Birchwood Avenue. The works are expected to last a year. Traffic management plans have been introduced along Skellingthorpe Road and Birchwood Avenue to maintain and control the flow of traffic and to ensure the safety of the public and those working on the scheme.
 

Yorkshire estate agent helps homeless charity

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire estate agent helps homeless charity

Yorkshire estate agent, Dacre, Son & Hartley has helped a charity that works with homeless people in Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield by collecting and donating food items.

The donation has enabled Homeless Hampers to give 40 additional food parcels out and the firm, which has 20 offices across North and West Yorkshire, also donated refillable water bottles for the homeless community.

Homeless Hampers aims to help and provide essentials and necessities to the homeless and less fortunate community and challenges the public’s perception of the homeless by promoting positive engagement with some of the most vulnerable people in the region. The charity provides essentials in the form of hampers to those who are in shelters or on the streets and boosts engagement with those in need.

Dacre, Son & Hartley’s personnel director, Rebecca Reeves, said: “We are always keen to work with local charities in our area and help wherever we can. The team at Homeless Hampers are an amazing group of people who volunteer their time and energy to get out onto the streets with their food parcels and they make a real difference to many people’s lives and we plan to continue supporting them in the future.”

Tina Suryavansi, from Homeless Hampers, said: “It makes a difference when companies like Dacres collect and donate food, as it means we can pull together even more food parcels than usual.

“We already have various companies that support us regularly, whether that be donating food and drink, offering drop-off points, or allowing us to store our donations in a secure place – but we are always keen to find more!

“Individuals can also help by attending the weekly outreaches or organising collections, and we are also always looking for people who are willing to spend time with our service users, filling in forms for example.”

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