All posts by NTSI Publishing Team

Business, Cardiff, Cardiff News, Estate Agent News

Thomas H Wood renews partnership with Radyr Lawn Tennis Club for second year

PROMINENT Cardiff estate agent Thomas H Wood has been announced as the lead partner of Radyr Lawn Tennis Club for the 2024/25 season.

 

This marks the second year that the family run sales and letting agent, with a showroom on Station Road in Radyr, will support its local club financially as well as providing prizes for fundraising events throughout the year.

 

Radyr Lawn Tennis Club was established in 1914 and aims to provide the local community with top-class tennis and social facilities which promotes and encourages participation in tennis for everyone.

 

The site is made up of 10 courts which includes a mix of Tiger Turf, artificial clay and hard tennis courts, along with two Pickleball courts. The Club has 500 members of all abilities including 11 doubles teams that compete in a host of Tennis Wales South Wales Leagues and 200 juniors who play in various matches and tournaments as well as non-competitive games.

 

Thomas H Wood was established in 1970 by Thomas Wood and is now managed by sons John and Paul. The company specialises in sales and letting in north Cardiff, including commercial and residential property, and also has a branch in Whitchurch.

 

Cliff Gardner, Radyr Lawn Tennis Club Chairman, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Thomas H Wood for continuing their support for us, especially being a local business themselves. Our mission is to create an energetic, progressive and sustainable tennis club to provide opportunities all year round, and without the generosity of our sponsors this would not be possible.”

 

Paul Wood, Director at Thomas H Wood, said: “Being a local business, supporting our local communities is of incredible importance to us, and so we are delighted to be returning to Radyr Lawn Tennis Club and continuing to support the work they do. After an already fantastic first year of our partnership, the club is set to enjoy another successful year, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store.”

Business, Cardiff, Sport, Transport

Veezu kicks off local football sponsorship

VEEZU, south Wales’ leading private hire operator, supported the Radyr Rangers Football Club at their Football Festival on 8 June.

As part of the Funded by Veezu programme, set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates by offering funding and grant opportunities, Veezu was a silver sponsor at the event, making a £500 donation.

The Radyr Rangers Football Club provides community football to Radyr, Morganstown and the surrounding area, and successfully provides football training for over 400 children and young people engaged in fun and healthy activities, aiming to provide a safe and fun environment for all.

Through this sponsorship, Veezu welcomes the Radyr Rangers to their community of local sponsorships, with its latest donation in south Wales being to Cash For Kids’ Holiday Hunger appeal.

Wyn Williams at Radyr Rangers FC said: “We are incredibly grateful to Veezu for their support and generosity in enabling our Football Festival to be such a success. It was a joy to see our community come together, with teams from all ages getting stuck in to a fun-filled day of football.”

Sally Krouma, Hyperlocal Marketing Manager at Veezu, said: “The Radyr Rangers held a fantastic event and it was wonderful to see the development of such a welcoming community for young people, and how important organisations like these are. We strive to support as many local community groups as possible in south Wales, and look forward to what the Radyr Rangers go on to do next.”

Business News, Driving, Driving Tech, Electric Vehicles, Transport, Transport Tech, Travel, UK

Veezu teams up with Seatfrog to end the anxiety with trains and taxis

The travel duo join forces to upgrade passengers’ journeys from home to destination.

 

Veezu, the UK’s largest and fastest-growing private hire taxi technology platform, and Seatfrog, the rail ticketing app revolutionising train travel are excited to announce a strategic partnership to end the anxiety with trains and taxis.

 

From today, Seatfrog’s cutting-edge technology will be connected to Veezu’s extensive vehicle network, taking passengers from their home straight to the best seats on trains and then directly into a Veezu car on arrival at the best price available.

 

The partnership will eliminate the headache many passengers face across the UK, waiting in endless taxi queues or missing taxis because their train is running late, by connecting train journeys and taxi network data for the first time. Passengers’ rides will automatically connect to their rail departure and arrival times, so they can step out of the train station straight into their waiting Veezu ride.

 

Veezu passengers will also be able to easily upgrade their train tickets to first class on the way to the station, from as little as £13 – with Seatfrog’s unique app features, where Brits have saved over £80 million on first class upgrades.

 

Nathan Bowles, CEO of Veezu, commented, “Partnering with Seatfrog is an exciting step towards redefining travel in key UK cities. Together, we’re going to make it easier than ever for passengers to enjoy an integrated journey and sit in the best seats on the train.”

 

Seatfrog’s CEO, Iain Griffin, added, “Journeys should be easy, but in the UK, we’re constantly reminded that we’re mere mortals every time we jump off a train to catch a taxi – long queues, no vehicles available, surge pricing, stress. No one has seamlessly connected taxis to train journeys, changing that is long overdue.”

 

For more information about the collaboration between Veezu and Seatfrog visit https://www.veezu.co.uk/partners/seatfrog  and www.seatfrog.com/veezu.

Accounts and Accountancy, Business, Economy & Jobs News, Finance News

Leverage Expertise of Accountants to Drive Economic Growth

Reform needed across multiple areas of the UK business ecosystem, led by experts, to drive stable and sustained growth.

 

In ‘Accounting for a better world: An ACCA policy prospectus for the UK’, ACCA sets out clear goals and aims which will help the UK strengthen its position on sustainable business, global trade, AI, and talent retention. Key areas for policy reform are also addressed, including improvements to tax systems, audit, corporate governance, and the public sector.

Highlighting the importance of trusted, forward-thinking regulations and institutions to capitalising on the UK’s growth potential, ACCA calls for urgent reform to the corporate governance landscape, including kickstarting the stalled audit reform process, as well as restoring trust in HMRC.

ACCA lays out a plan covering the following five areas:

  1. Creating a thriving economy in a changing world by supporting business and expanding international trade
  2. Promoting a sustainable and just transition to a new way of doing business that delivers a better world through adoption of international standards
  3. Creating a framework for growth, nurturing a transparent and trustworthy business ecosystem by reforming corporate governance, audit, tax, and public services
  4. Promoting the ethical and responsible use of AI in a safe and transparent environment by developing world leading government legislation
  5. Supporting the development of an ethically motivated, expertly trained, educated accountancy profession to deliver robust business practice and a robust economy

ACCA also supports addressing ongoing late payment issues, mutual recognition of professional qualifications between countries, the introduction of a Skills Tax Credit Pilot, simplification of the UK tax system, and adopting the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) into UK law.

 

Helen Brand, chief executive, ACCA, said: “There is much we can accomplish together when the UK seeks to champion business in an era which is changing forever how businesses operate; how they judge success, and how they measure long-term value. Accountants work in strategically important high-value roles, bringing a breadth of vision and expertise to government, financial institutions, businesses, the public sector and public practice.

“The future of thriving international trade; of sustainable economic growth which benefits all; and of harmonious commercial relations between the UK and rest of world, depends entirely on the strength of a healthy finance profession – with dedicated people who are devoted to the public good. ACCA’s contribution will continue to give the UK – and the world – the accountancy profession it needs.”

Lloyd Powell, Head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, said: “In order to grow and thrive, the UK must look at effective ways of working and doing business that will lead to greater prosperity for the country. The five points set out by ACCA are designed to give a holistic approach to the way in which accountants can assist in improving UK business. As such a diverse profession with a highly strategic skillset, accountants are often well placed to help businesses achieve these aims and can provide valuable analytical and data-driven insights to guide from the ground up – in businesses, accountancy practices, and in influencing wider policy.”

Calling on UK policymakers such as MPs, government officials and agencies, as well as business advisers, financial institutions, public sector bodies and accountancy practices, ACCA lays out a firm foundation for the UK economy.

The full policy prospectus can be found here which expands on each of the five points in more detail.

Visit ACCA’s website for more information.

Art, Business, Cardiff, Diversity & Inclusion, Events, Food and Drink, Hospitality

Live art and LGBTQ+ portraits for Pride at The Red Dragon Centre

CARDIFF Bay’s leading entertainment venue, The Red Dragon Centre, has teamed up with Welsh artist Nathan Wyburn to mark Pride month with a unique art installation and charity auction.

Nathan is a proud spokesperson for LGBTQ+ equality and often uses his art to reflect this. Specialising in creating pieces out of non-traditional mediums, Nathan was a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent in 2011, and has also appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, This Morning and Good Morning America.

The showcase will be displayed from 31 May – 30 June, and will feature influential figures such as Cara Delevingne, Kit Connor and Elliott Page. Joining the lineup will be The Red Dragon Centre’s resident Capital Drive presenters, Josh and Kally, whose portraits will be made up of photographs sent in by listeners to celebrate 25 years of Pride in Wales.

The Welsh artist will also be appearing at the Centre for pop-up live art shows where he will create some iconic LGBTQ+ celebrities at the Centre, with ten portraits of his existing artwork being displayed in the Centre’s showcase.

An online auction will take place at the close of the showcase for Nathan’s portraits of George Michael made out of WHAM bars, and Ncuti Gatwa in a Doctor Who collage. The winning bids will be donated to Pride Cymru.

Nathan said: “I am delighted to be teaming up with The Red Dragon Centre’s Pride celebrations, and getting the chance to showcase some of most beloved LGBTQ+ figures out there. Co-in siding with the 25th anniversary of Pride in Wales makes this all the more special, and shows how important it is to continue to celebrate Pride month, and strive towards promoting LGBTQ+ equality in Wales, and beyond.”

Emma Constantinou, Marketing Manager at The Red Dragon Centre, said: “Pride is a wonderful and important month, and we feel very fortunate to be able to host our own celebrations at The Red Dragon Centre for another year. We are very grateful to Nathan for his support and generosity of offering his work to the auction, we hope visitors enjoy spotting their favourite figures at the showcase inside the Centre.

“This month is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the LGBT+ community with our showcase, and two lucky bidders can walk away with a unique portrait from Nathan, knowing that all money raised will be going straight to charity.”

The Red Dragon Centre is home to a multitude of interactive, lifestyle and food and drink venues including Odeon Cinema, the home of Wales’ only IMAX screen, and the Hollywood Bowl which have been key Centre attractions since the beginning.

The Centre hosts a range of additional brands that make up an intrinsic part of the entertainment and dining experience, including Grosvenor Casino, Five Guys, Spice Route, Volcano, EasyThali and Zaika.

The Centre is also the site of the Capital FM South Wales studio, which was formerly Red Dragon FM, as well as Heart FM. Today, you’ll find the likes of Josh and Kally broadcasting their Capital Drive Show live from there every weekday.

Accountancy, Accountancy & Accounts, Accounts and Accountancy, Business News, Cardiff, Leadership

Kilsby Williams announces major Partner promotions

Tax and accountancy specialist Kilsby Williams has announced a major enhancement of its leadership team, doubling its partner group to 11 with six new internal promotions to partner.

Lucy Creese, Stuart Evans, Dafydd Ford, Rob Meredith and Kaye Morris have been promoted from within the firm’s fast growing Tax, Growth and Transactions departments, while Huw Sheppard from the Audit, Accountancy and Payroll teams completes the leadership group.

Simon Tee, managing partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for our business and we are proud that we are able to expand our leadership team with six outstanding internal promotions. We have been growing at a fantastic rate over the last few years and the capabilities and ideas our new partners bring will ensure we can continue to do so in the future.”

The announcement coincides with an exciting new brand identity and website.

The brand refresh has seen the firm retain the respected Kilsby Williams name and diamond logo, supported by a fresh colour palette and updated design across its new website with improved functionality, and at its Newport headquarters.

The website’s significant functionality overhaul now offers existing and prospective clients a seamless experience, showcasing the firm’s tax and accountancy expertise, case studies and thought leadership in a more user-friendly way. The new site allows the firm to better interact with its client base of entrepreneurs, local fast growth businesses, and national and international groups.

Simon Tee added: “With the continued use of the Kilsby Williams name, there is a classic feel to the new branding, representing the firm’s determination to stay true to its history and culture. These have been the bedrock of the firm’s success and made us a recognisable, trusted partner to our varied client portfolio for over 30 years.

“Whilst retaining our heritage, we have also developed a modern, forward-thinking new look that fully embraces the firm’s current evolution and growth as the largest independent firm in the region and improves our clients’ experience.”

Established in 1991, Kilsby Williams works with clients locally in south Wales, extending across the UK and globally. Their clients range from sole traders to international quoted groups.

Appointments, Business, Business News, Insurance, Jobs

Howden makes experienced appointment in south Wales as Welsh operation continues to grow

HOWDEN, the global insurance group, has welcomed Chris Harvey to its south Wales team in line with its continued growth.

Chris joins the team as commercial account executive, having previously worked in commercial insurance roles at Towergate and Jelf. Most recently, he was a director and shareholder at a Rhondda-based, rapidly expanding family-owned business.

In his new role, Chris will use his wealth of experience to assist commercial and corporate clients with all aspects of their insurances.

On his appointment, Chris said: “I am thrilled to have joined the Howden team in south Wales, at what is a very exciting time for the business’ Welsh presence. I was drawn to Howden due to its customer centricity.

“We are not restricted by having to place business with certain insurers, and every day is about going above and beyond to achieve the best result for our clients. Howden is very focused on looking after both its employees and clients, which is an important factor to me.

“My main goal is to help as many businesses in Wales as possible, with honest and friendly advice that makes their lives easier.”

Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director, said: “Chris is already an invaluable addition to our Welsh team, and has shown exceptional skill at this important time in our growth journey.

“Chris’ board-level experience within a fast-growing business puts him in a great position to help our clients, and we are delighted to have him on board as we continue to build a solid community in south and west Wales.”

Cardiff, Construction, Construction News

Dudley’s Aluminium secures pioneering education campus project

WELSH fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium has secured a new project for a joint education campus in Fairwater.

Dudley’s is working in collaboration with ISG Construction Ltd on the multimillion-pound project which will facilitate the construction of three new build schools for Cantonian High School, Riverbank School and Woodlands High School, all situated on a single site.

The development will be Net Zero Carbon in line with Welsh Government standards and will set the standard for future Cardiff school projects. Each of the three schools will be highly energy efficient buildings powered by renewable energy sources.

The fabricator will install Metal Technology System doors, windows and capped curtain walling on the build.

Neil Jones, Contracts Director at Dudley’s Aluminium, said: “We are delighted to be taking on such an important project that will have such a positive impact on the local community, and to be working with ISG once again. The development of these schools will provide incredible benefits for its pupils, creating a positive environment for children to learn, develop and achieve their potential, and it is an honour to be involved.”

Since 1993, Dudley’s Aluminium has offered clients full in-house design and production facilities, completing many successful and prestigious projects within the education, health, commercial, retail, residential and defence sectors throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

Dudley’s reputation for quality has been recognised with several industry-related accreditations. The company is CHAS accredited, Constructionline registered and BM Trada certified to manufacture enhanced security products to align with PAS24:2016 and BS 4873.

Midlands, Transport, Transport Tech, Travel

Veezu crosses the finish line into partnership with Wolverhampton Racecourse

VEEZU, the Midlands’ leading private hire operator, is bolstering its partnership with Wolverhampton Racecourse as official ride partner and sponsor.

 

Upgrading its existing partnership, Veezu will be making travel even easier for hotel and racecourse visitors. For ease of booking, guests can request their Veezu vehicle from the grounds, through the pre-existing ride booker device located in the hotel’s reception. With the introduction of a new pick-up point, located outside of Holiday Inn Wolverhampton – Racecourse’s entrance, guests will now have instant and convenient access to their ride.

 

In addition to providing reliable transport, Veezu has sponsored the course’s finishing posts, with signage having launched last month.

 

Formerly known as Go Carz, this sponsorship is one of many that Veezu’s Midlands branch has made since rebranding, as it extends its links in the local community.

 

Graham Hoof, Regional Operations Director at Veezu, said: “We are very excited to extend our partnership with Wolverhampton Racecourse and support the many fantastic events and experiences hosted at the grounds throughout the year. This partnership is one of many that brings us closer to our goal of providing safe, reliable and convenient transport to passengers across the Midlands, and we look forward to further easing travel for Midlands locals and visitors.”

 

David Ideson, Executive Director at Wolverhampton Racecourse, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Veezu as official ride partner and sponsor. This partnership will ensure that all guests can have the best experience possible, and not have to worry about their race day travel. The team at Veezu have been wonderful to work with already and I look forward to our future events with them.”

Business, Driving, Events, Leeds

Travel to and from Slam Dunk Festival with Veezu

VEEZU, Leeds’ leading private hire operator, is the official ride partner for the Slam Dunk Festival North this bank holiday weekend.

Formerly known as Amber Cars, Veezu will provide festival goers with safe and reliable travel to and from the festival at Temple Newsam Park. Veezu driver-partners will be based at the dedicated Veezu area at Slam Dunk North which will have a booking hub for passengers to secure a ride instantly.

Jasmine Hussain at Slam Dunk Festival said: “We are delighted to be working with Veezu for the Slam Dunk Festival this weekend. For many festival goers, travel is the last thing on their mind and the question of how to get home can lead to dangerous decisions. With the dedicated booking office and pick up area, guests can rest assured that they can get home safely after what is set to be a weekend to remember.”

Donna Coombs, Hyperlocal Marketing Manager at Veezu, said: “We’re very excited to be working with Slam Dunk Festival this year as official ride partner. We will be on hand to help festival goers get home safely after a fun-filled day of music and hopefully sunshine this bank holiday.

“There will be a dedicated Veezu booking office on site for those who have not pre-booked their ride home, and those that have booked through our app can find their ride easily at our dedicated pick-up point. Our mission is to provide safe and convenient travel to as many passengers as possible, and with the excitement of a festival, transport can often go forgotten. With our dedicated booking office, we hope that festival goers can relax and enjoy their weekend, knowing that they can get home safely.”

The Slam Dunk Festival North is an annual rock music festival in Leeds and this year will be taking place on Sunday 26 May. This year’s lineup includes headliners I Prevail and You Me at Six, playing their final UK festival performance.

To pre book your ride with the Veezu app click here.