All posts by Mark Baker

Performing arts group stages pandemic comeback with music grant support

A PERFORMING arts group staged a remarkable comeback with the support of a community funding organisation.

Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership and Transport for Wales (TfW) stepped in to help Maes-G ShowZone in Maesgeirchen, Bangor, when they needed a grant to help pay for new equipment during the pandemic.

Led by Steffie and Eirian Williams Roberts and Naomi Crane, the group was launched in September 2020 and immediately attracted more than 25 children from the local area.

Fast forward two years and they now have up to 50 young people attending their twice-weekly sessions at Eglwys y Groes church hall, testament to the hard work and determination of Eirian and the team.

“Maes-G Showzone originally started around 15 years ago on the housing estate, but sadly closed down when the funding dried up,” she said.

“My wife Steffie had attended the original ShowZone when she was younger and during the first few months of Covid-19 we sat at the kitchen table and discussed the possibility of reopening it, given the impact self-isolation and lockdown was having on children here.

“In that first year they were only with us for three months, we managed to perform a Christmas carol concert online but our big plans for a variety show at Pontio in Bangor were shelved, until we finally managed to do it last October to a reduced audience over two nights.”

Steffie added: “As restrictions started to ease, we began to see more parents getting on board and more children wanting to join; to the point we have an ever-growing waiting list.

“With the support of organisations like Conwy Valley and North West Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership we were able to purchase much-needed equipment.

“As for now, our members are hard at work rehearsing for their Christmas panto and in January will start rehearsals for our next Big Variety Show in July next year – we can’t thank our supporters enough.”

ShowZone strives to give access to the performing arts to all children by keeping their activities affordable and reducing costs for families.

“The funding and generosity of our community has made all the difference, when we see how much the children enjoy it, how much they’ve grown in confidence, it is the only payment we need as volunteers,” said Eirian.

“Our members are incredibly hardworking and have built a good reputation with all who have worked with them in the performance industry. They are a credit to not only the Maesgeirchen community but the wider community too.

“We aim to ensure that no child is left behind, and with more and more people wanting to join, the future of Maes-G Showzone looks bright.  However, we can’t keep the doors open without grant funding and the continued support of the community.”

Community Rail Officer Karen Williams congratulated the volunteers on their success and hopes they will have the opportunity to join forces again in the future.

She added: “This is a brilliant example of an organisation giving back to its community, uniting people of all ages and making a real difference.

“We are so glad to have been able to play a part in their development and wish them well with their upcoming shows.”

Partnership funding is available to community organisations located within a five-mile radius of a Transport for Wales (TfW) station along the Conwy Valley and North West Wales coastal lines (Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog, and Llandudno Junction to Holyhead).

Eligible applicants can submit a bid until mid-October, with up to £1000 available. There is also Greener Initiative Funding programme where groups within a one-mile radius of a TfW station in the above areas can apply for up to £500.

For more information, visit www.mantellgwynedd.com or call 01286 672626. Alternatively, follow them on social media at @mantellgwynedd.

Maes-G Showzone is on the lookout for sponsors. For more information and latest news and information from the group, visit www.maesgshowzone.com or the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MaesGShowzonepage.

Welsh food and drink firms encouraged to capitalise on major procurement opportunities

FOOD and drink companies in Wales can access free one-to-one support to capitalise on major procurement opportunities in the public sector.

As part of its innovative Larder Cymru project, Menter Môn is targeting up to 50 producers and processors from across the country and rolling out mentoring and guidance sessions for successful applicants.

Funded by Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), the scheme is focused on coordinating and strengthening relations within local supply chains to position regionally produced food and drink as a compelling proposal for large contracts nationwide.

Larder Cymru Project Manager Dafydd Jones said: “To complement this, interested parties can get in touch with us for one-to-one sessions where we can offer guidance and support on a range of issues, from procurement to marketing, supply chains and monitoring social value.

“These sessions will be crucial as we move forward as we will be able to explore how public sector opportunities benefit their organisation, gauge how much experience and expertise they have and establish key next steps, including an action plan, training and milestones.”

He added: “We are working with public sector purchasers, procurement officers and catering managers in a range of different organisations to understand their supply chain requirements and how we can bridge the gap for independent suppliers.

“We are also in discussions with wholesalers and looking at how small businesses can join forces to be included in tenders for bigger opportunities that would previously have been unavailable to them.

“The project’s overall aim is to strengthen support within the local supply chain to position locally produced food and drink so that it is a compelling proposal for large supply contracts.

“The project also looks at lowering the sector’s carbon footprint, increasing profitability for independent businesses in Wales and working towards a more supportive and sustainable arena for producers and the public sector.”

Menter Môn will continue to deliver community-driven, innovative projects that have a direct impact on communities in Wales, according to Dafydd.

“This is an example of an initiative that will have a huge effect on small businesses and independent suppliers in Wales while at the same time making a big impact nationally,” he said.

“By developing shorter supply chains, it will provide the opportunity for food producers and suppliers to go for bigger contracts, the produce will travel a shorter distance – providing environmental and financial benefits, notably given fuel price hikes – and this will in turn have a knock-on effect for employment and local industry.

“We add value by working with businesses, trainers and accreditors and referring the suppliers to the right people at the right time, ensuring communication channels are seamless and progress is made.

“If their products and services complement each other we can give them the best platform to secure contracts that will make a positive difference to local economies, the environment and communities across Wales for years to come.”

Larder Cymru attended the LACA – The School Food People Public Sector Catering expo held during the summer, where they were joined by leading food companies Henllan Bakery, Llaeth y Llan, Harlech Foodservice and Plas Farm, showcasing their produce to food buyers within the public sector ahead of further events later this year.

For more information, visit www.lardercymru.wales or email dafydd.jones@mentermon.com . Alternatively, follow @mentermon on social media.

Employment hub to host jobs events across Conwy as recruitment crisis deepens

A JOBS and training programme will hold a series of events to support people back into work and education post-pandemic.

Conwy Employment Hub is focused on helping to meet demand in multiple industries for new staff as the UK recruitment crisis deepens.

Weekly drop-in sessions and job clubs are to take place in Llandudno, Kinmel Bay, Colwyn Bay, Penmaenmawr, Llanfairfechan, Conwy, Pensarn, Llanddulas, Abergele and Llanrwst over the coming months.

Conwy’s Employability Practitioner Manager Trish Ellison said: “Across the region and beyond there are many sectors looking to recruit staff in a variety of different roles.

“These free sessions are an opportunity for people to sharpen their CVs and interview techniques, for our team of experts to offer support and advice, and to remove barriers to employment and highlight opportunities in a range of sectors.

“There is help available, whatever your age or circumstance, whether you’re struggling with poor health, childcare costs, transport, or there are other factors preventing you from accessing work – we are here to provide solutions.”

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service, echoed those words and added: “We have held events for employers this year including the successful job expo in Colwyn Bay during the Spring.

“We’re excited to be back out in the heart of our communities, supporting people to find or progress at work. Everyone is concerned about the cost of living increases and we are here to help bridge the gap to a new start, new career or training.

“We hope people will take advantage of these free sessions and get in touch – we are here for you at what is a very challenging time for so many families and industries. We are also planning to provide support for people worried about their finances over the coming months.”

For more information and a full list of venues and specific employment and training sessions, visit https://bit.ly/ConwyHubs, email ceh@conwy.gov.uk or call 01492 575578.

Visit Conwy Employment Hub – More information – Conwy County Borough Council for more on Conwy Employment Hub

Innovative farm drones to be manufactured after successful college trials

INNOVATORS plan to manufacture drones that will revolutionise sustainable farming in Wales after successful trials at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi.

The ‘Green Eagle’ drone was able to identify weeds and on-land issues before targeting them with pesticides, saving time, money and providing a carbon-neutral alternative to existing methods.

Led by Anglesey-based M-SParc in partnership with tenants AerialWorx and Fortytwoable – who built the AI (Artificial Intelligence) model – and BIC Innovation, the project was supported by Ambition North Wales.

Dewi Jones, Farm Manager at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, said: “I was delighted to see the progress made in producing and adapting the Green Eagle over the relatively short period of time we had working with the partners.

“It is now an advanced piece of equipment that can perform what was envisaged at the start of the project, which shows just what can be achieved when forward-thinking people from different backgrounds and disciplines work on new ideas and concepts that come together to form a new product.”

He added: “The current and future potential applications for the Green Eagle in agriculture are wide and varied and I wish the companies well in taking their achievements and ideas forward into what will undoubtedly be a world that will demand a productive and sustainable farming industry fit for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.”

M-SParc revealed proposals are in place to move to phase three following the success of the trials.

A spokesperson said: “This was a fantastic example of tenant collaboration and Fortytwoable and BIC Innovation are now working on a commercialisation plan in light of Fortytwoable identifying a new commercial opportunity as a direct result of this project.”

Dyfed Morgan, Life Cycle Assessment Officer and Sustainability Champion at M-SParc, added: “As part of our work we carried out a Life Cycle Assessment to investigate the environmental impacts and footprint associated with all stages of the project.

“The result of our assessment showed embodied carbon emitted for the drones is 131 times lower across their life cycle than a traditional tractor to carry out the same work, reinforcing the merits of this project from a carbon footprint perspective.”

Robyn Lovelock, manager of the North Wales Growth Deal’s agri-food and tourism programme, said: “The Green Eagle was one of three fantastic Agri-initiatives we were delighted to deliver with Coleg Cambria through the Welsh Government’s Whole System Business Research Innovation for Decarbonisation Challenge.

“Based at Llysfasi, these new systems will be further developed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the agriculture sector and provide much-needed support for the transition to decarbonisation.

“We look forward to seeing how these projects develop in the future and feel confident how they will help the agricultural sector in the region.”

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for more news and information from Coleg Cambria.

For more news and information from M-SParc, visit www.m-sparc.com.

Businesses and football club unveil new sponsorship deal and hospice goals

PETPLACE, LVL5 Gyms and Kinmel Bay FC have united to net support for a leading children’s hospice.

The North Wales pet retailer and recently launched fitness company are new kit sponsors for the FAW platinum-accredited club, which has more than 100 players across its junior, men’s and ladies’ sides.

And the three organisations will be holding events and fundraising activities throughout the season for Ty Gobaith and Hope House Hospices, including a sports and memorabilia auction next summer.

Sion Pritchard, owner of Snowdon Holdings group – which includes PetPlace and LVL5 Gyms Ltd – says the partnership will be focused on Kinmel Bay FC’s work in the community and supporting the players health and wellbeing journey as they aim for promotion from the North Wales Coast East Football League.

Rich Blake, a director of LVL5, personal trainer and Workplace Resilience and Wellbeing Master Practitioner (WRAW MP), will also be on hand to deliver advice and guidance on exercise, nutrition and healthy living.

“We opened our Kinmel Bay headquarters just over a year ago and already feel a strong connection to the people and businesses here,” said Sion.

“The work the club has done in this area is amazing, for children and adults of all ages, so we want to help them at grassroots level with their continued growth on and off the pitch.

“Through LVL5 we will also be able to assist with data monitoring and analysis, which I’m sure will all play a part in enhancing the players’ performances in training and on match days.

“And together we will continue to support Hope House Hospices through fundraising and events.”

Leon Field, Joint Manager of Kinmel Bay FC, added: “We thank PetPlace and LVL5 for their support and are excited about this new partnership.

“The kit looks fantastic and will certainly turn a few heads this season.

“We are also delighted to be championing Hope House and will do all we can to support what is an incredible local cause.”

The new strip was unveiled at PetPlace’s headquarters on Tir Llwyd Enterprise Park, where players and coaching staff were joined by Bev Bradley, Corporate Area Fundraiser for the charity.

She said: “We are so grateful and would like to thank Sion, Leon and everyone involved with both organisations for this commitment.

“As a Silver Business Champion, PetPlace has done so much for the hospice, and we are sure with the football club on board as well we can do even more to continue providing first-class, vital respite care for children across the region.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email hello@farmandpetplace.Co.uk.

For more news and information from Kinmel Bay FC, including upcoming fixtures and training sessions, visit www.kinmelbayfc.com or follow them on social media www.facebook.com/KinmelBayFC.

Visit www.hopehouse.org.uk for more on Hope House Hospices.

Welsh businesses urged to attend event and chase £124bn nuclear procurement bonanza

BUSINESSES can capitalise on future decommissioning opportunities within the nuclear industry at an event powered by leading names in the sector.

Organised by Menter Mon and hosted by Enterprise Hub at M-SParc in Gaerwen, Anglesey, the event takes place on April 7 from 3pm to 6pm.

Speakers will explain and discuss nuclear decommissioning business opportunities at Trawsfynydd in Gwynedd and Wylfa on Anglesey, in addition to the skills development needed to maximise local and regional business benefit.

Changes to the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority’s (NDA) Strategy will see decommissioning work accelerate in the coming years, particularly at Trawsfynydd.

The Welsh Government and Menter Mon want to raise the profile of these opportunities to businesses across North Wales and the whole of the country.

They want to hear from engineers, civil engineers, tradespeople and anyone with a company that could be of value to the nuclear decommissioning supply chain going forward, with reports suggesting the cost of cleaning up Britain’s 17 historical nuclear sites might last around 120 years and be worth an estimated £124 billion in procurements.

Bethan Fraser-Williams, Menter Mon Projects Director, said: “The decommissioning of both sites will lead to many long-term, sustainable roles for years to come.

“At both Trawsfynydd and Wylfa there will employment opportunities but also the chance to develop skills, in partnership with the private and public sectors, as well as developing business collaboration.

“We hope people will engage and attend the event and get in touch to find out more because there will be significant contracts on offer that could be pivotal from an economic and environmental perspective for this and future generations, and it will also be an excellent networking session.”

Among those presenting on the day will be Dafydd Gruffydd, Managing Director of Menter Mon; Paul Walsh, Head of Procurement at Magnox; Rhianwen Edwards, Director of Commercial and Work-Based Learning, Grwp Llandrillo Menai; Harvey Johnson, Nuclear Decommissioning Manager, Assystem, and DNA Ltd Director, Gareth Davies.

Anglesey-based industrial manufacturer Mona Lifting will also be sharing their experiences of working in the nuclear decommissioning sector.

Director Steve Jones urged other companies to explore the wide range of prospects open to them, adding: “As a multi-discipline organisation, we have worked UK-wide and internationally in the nuclear energy sector and taken on projects of all sizes that demand our experience and expertise.

“For SMEs in North Wales, and independent contractors, whether it be in civil engineering, waste management, design or many other industries, there will be work for you to bid for.

“This event will shine a light on what is a critical time for the nuclear industry and give companies across North Wales and beyond a platform to secure their futures while having a positive impact on the economy.”

To register for free, visit IN PERSON – Cyfleoedd Dadgomisynu Nuclear Decommissioning Opportunities Tickets, Thu 7 Apr 2022 at 15:00 | Eventbrite.

If you’re interested in hearing more about the potential opportunities for your business in the nuclear sector in North Wales, email post@hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070.

Accountancy firm unveils new offices and growth plans after pandemic rise in demand

AN ACCLAIMED accountancy firm made a statement by opening new offices and taking on staff ahead of further expansion this summer.

Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants has unveiled premises in Uxbridge Square, Menai Bridge, adding to its presence in St Asaph, Penmaenmawr and Ruthin.

Director Aled Roberts says they, like so many organisations, faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic but are emerging in a stronger position than ever before thanks to the loyalty of clients, their hard-working staff, and partnerships across North Wales and beyond.

The workforce looks set to grow to more than 30-strong before the end of the year and he is confident the foundations they have laid – notably in recruitment – will stand them in good stead going forward.

“As green shoots start to appear UK-wide we ourselves have seen a steady period of growth which culminated in us making the decision to look at our footprint and how we can better serve clients across the region,” said Aled.

“The most important aspect of this was finding the right people who fit in with our ethos and culture, and looking at long-term, sustainable opportunities.

“The Ruthin branch was opened during the pandemic and has already been a success, showing our commitment and confidence in the direction we are taking.

“And we are sure that will be replicated in Menai Bridge, where we have a team in place – including Welsh speaking staff – who can’t wait to get started.”

Fellow directors Jeremy Salisbury and Jason Matischok reinforced those comments; for Salisbury’s the client comes first, but they are also keen to see the next generation of chartered accountants begin their journey into the sector.

“It is vital this industry attracts young, talented people who can take chartered accountancy into a new era,” said Jason.

“We are at the forefront of that and ensure those joining us progress with our support, are encouraged to develop and made to feel part of this company’s growth, because they are a huge part of it and at the heart of all decisions.”

Jeremy added: “The pandemic has raised many challenges and probably accelerated digitalisation and some of the technological strides and innovations unveiled in lockdown when the only option was to operate and communicate virtually.

“We embraced that and new software systems which have allowed us to serve our clients nationally and locally even more efficiently. This included state-of-the-art video conferencing facilities which gives them the option of discussing matters with us online if they would prefer.

“However, many still prefer face to face support, so there was a big demand for us to look at new locations where we have seen a lot of success, which is why we opened an office in Ruthin and have plans to expand further later this year.

“We are happy to do that and believe with continued expansion and the talent we have here we are well placed to capitalise on our position as one of the most forward-thinking, community-driven and long-standing accountancy firms in Wales and the North West, as we have been for more than three decades.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.

Clock tower construction work to begin in New Year following grant windfall

CONSTRUCTION work will begin on an iconic North Wales landmark in the New Year.

Enbarr Foundation director Vicki Roskams and fellow ‘Guardians’ of the John Summers Clock Tower in Deeside are hoping more people join their “revolution” in 2022 and help bring the dilapidated building back to life.

More than £600,000 in grants and financial support was secured over the last 12 months from organisations including Welsh Government, Transport for Wales, the National Lottery, the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), Comic Relief, Architectural Heritage, CADW, Parc Adfer and Flintshire County Council.

And the many kind donors and hundreds of people who volunteer every week will be rewarded with a belated Christmas party on January 15 – subject to Covid-19 restrictions – thanks to IKEA and the National Lottery Community Fund, which have joined forces to support thriving and sustainable projects across the UK.

Reflecting on a year in which significant progress was made on and off site, Vicki said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has got behind us, especially those who are here every week carrying out general maintenance and improvement works, planting trees and helping with the renovations.

“The backing we’ve had, especially from local businesses donating time, machinery and materials – notably Tata Steel, Delta Rock, Ardagh Group, GTM Heavy Machinery, Thomas Roofing and Kimberly-Clark – has been incredible; we could not do it without you, and there are so many more.”

She added: “We’ve made huge strides and there has been a lot of change, so that is very good news when you consider the challenges all industries have faced during the pandemic, and the restrictions placed upon us.

“From January, with the grants and funding received, we can start the construction phase of the development and bring all of this effort to fruition.

“We are so excited to begin this next chapter and hope even more people will join our revolution; to finally see this much-loved place back in use.”

The John Summer Clock Tower building opened in 1907 and was home to the general office of Shotton Steelworks – now Tata Steel – on the banks of the River Dee, before closing in 2009 and falling into serious disrepair after being sold by the company.

With widespread plans to open a community hub, heritage skills and training centre, live events venue and much more, the Guardians are well on their way to realising their vision.

A fun day during the summer raised thousands towards that dream, and Vicki said 2022 will be even more action-packed.

“It is going to be bigger, brighter and even more positive, I’m sure of it,” she said.

“The foundations have been laid and now it’s time to see bigger steps taken towards our end goal.

“To secure the future of this site, and make it a vital asset for Deeside and beyond to enhance the lives of thousands of people through training, support, skills, and unity for generations to come – we will do it!”

For more information or to get involved, follow Guardians of the Clocktower on Facebook or visit the website: www.savetheclocktower.co.uk.

Inspiring mum rises through the academic ranks despite battling serious illness

WHEN Lyn Young puts her mind to something, nothing stands in the way.

The Connah’s Quay mum-of-four left her job as a nail technician five years ago to pursue a career in hairdressing.

Lyn joined a Level 1 Diploma in Hairdressing at Coleg Cambria Deeside before quickly progressing to Levels 2 and 3.

The 46 year-old then achieved a HND Distinction in Hair and Beauty Management and advanced to a one-year PGCE teaching qualification with the dream of becoming a lecturer in the subject.

Despite being struck down with Chron’s Disease – an inflammatory bowel condition – at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, and having the long-term illness Fibromyalgia, Lyn completed her studies during the Spring.

Now working as a teaching assistant for children with additional learning needs (ALN), she encourages others to follow her lead and says you’re never too old to try and better yourself.

“I decided on a complete change in direction in 2016, I needed a fresh start and my children inspired me to return to education,” said Lyn.

“When I joined Coleg Cambria I was made to feel welcome straight away; my confidence rose and I quickly moved from Level 1 to Level 3 and then the HND, which I secured with a Distinction.

“Teaching is something that was of interest to me and I’m so glad I studied for the PGCE at the college. I had some incredible lecturers who already knew me and planted the seed for me to continue, so it was a no-brainer for me to stay at Deeside in surroundings I was familiar with.”

She added: “Going away to university was not an option for me, but at Deeside I could achieve a higher education on my doorstep. The facilities are unparalleled and so was the standard of lectures, online and in person.

“While I am not lecturing in hair and beauty at present the PGCE has opened up other avenues for me and I am absolutely loving my new role. Every day is different, and when I was diagnosed with Chron’s Disease it showed me you can’t sit back and feel sorry for yourself, you have to push on and move forward.

“Whatever obstacles and challenges came my way I was able to overcome them with the support of my family and the staff at Cambria. I can’t thank them enough and am excited to see what the future holds.”

Emma Hurst, Dean of HE and an Assistant Principal at Coleg Cambria, congratulated Lyn on her dedication and perseverance.

“For Lyn to have progressed so quickly from a Level 1 to a PGCE despite the pandemic and personal challenges she has had to face is quite amazing,” said Emma.

“Our University Centre and higher education offering is becoming more and more attractive to prospective students and interest is growing all the time, especially among those who want to study close to home in first class facilities.

“We can offer that and more, and Lyn is a fantastic example of what you can achieve when you put your mind to it – congratulations again.”

For more information on the University Centre, fees and finance and degree-level courses available at Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk/higher-education and follow @colegcambria on social media.

You can also find out more at the upcoming open events. Details and booking information here: www.cambria.ac.uk/opendays

North Wales college lays foundation for growth with new construction partnership

A NEW construction and education alliance aims to improve quality and help meet demand for skilled workers in the building sector.

Coleg Cambria has entered into a training partnership with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the world’s largest and most influential body for management and leadership in the construction arena.

The CIOB has been working with Cambria to raise the profile of the institute among students and employers and will be holding CPD (Continuing Professional Development) events at its Wrexham Bersham Road site in the future.

The college has also applied to become a CIOB Accredited Centre for its Level 6 Degree programme – the BSc (Hons) Construction Management in Housebuilding – with the first cohort set to graduate next summer.

Gemma Booth, a Member of the CIOB (MCIOB) recently moved from construction into education with Cambria.

She will be integrating the importance of the organisation and the value of a career in the sector into modules, with a focus on continuing academic learning and work experience.

“As a training partner of the CIOB, Coleg Cambria plans to develop the qualifications and skills of the existing workforce through the appropriate routes to Chartered Membership, promote a qualifications culture throughout the construction and built environment sectors – supported by industry – and encourage lifelong learning,” said Gemma.

“Being a partner of the CIOB enables us to do that while raising both their profile and that of the college among leaders and workers in the sector.”

Karl Jackson, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology and Site Lead at Bersham Road, added: “We are pleased to be in partnership with the CIOB and know how much value that will bring to our students and staff.

“More and more skilled and trained construction workers are going to be needed across the country in the years ahead and we will be well-placed to help meet that demand.”

During the summer, the CIOB responded to figures which revealed momentum in construction was growing following the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Construction output hit a 24-year high in June thanks to an increase in new work, delayed projects recommencing and a general rise in confidence.

For more news and information from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.