Category Archives: Regional News

Mental Health, News, Scotland, Sport

Perthshire Hotel Backing Rugby Charity after Teen Suicide Loss

– Rugby youth internationalist was set to work at hotel-

A Perthshire hotel will use the untimely loss of an inspirational rugby-mad teenager to raise money for youth mental health charity BraveMind during the duration of the Rugby World Cup.

Issy Phipps, who planned to work a summer at McKays in Perthshire, sadly took her own life earlier this year

Issy Phipps was a 17 year old with the world literally at her feet (and in her hands) when she tragically took her own life in April this year.

An England touch rugby internationalist and European gold medal winner, Issy was popular with peers, a talented musician and student and planned to embark on an elite rugby programme.

The news of her passing in Spring came as a shock to everyone who knew her, including McKays Hotel Bar and Restaurant owner Richard Drummond, who had known her personally since early childhood.

A shared love of fun meant Richard and Issy enjoyed a connection and Issy had discussed working a season at McKays in Highland Perthshire; something which, sadly, never came to pass.

Now, after learning about the work of mental health charity BraveMind, which works with rugby clubs and schools to promote young peoples’ wellbeing, Richard and the McKays staff are to undertake a range of initiatives to support the charity’s mission during the World Cup in France.

BraveMind, founded by ex rugby player Simon Trower, is also supported by Issy’s parents, who want to help teenagers like Issy to navigate mental health challenges and reach their potential.

Issy’s mother Sarah recently met the Princess of Wales at Maidenhead Rugby Club, gifting her a pair of earrings in Issy’s memory, which Kate promised to wear.

“I first met Issy when she was 7. She was full of life and very talented,” said Richard, who attended the funeral celebration of her life, fulfilling the request to wear a rugby top by adorning a Scotland shirt.

“Issy had talked about doing a summer season at McKays because she also had relatives in Scotland. We actually met for breakfast about 2 years ago and she talked about her plans for the future.

“When I got the message of her passing, I struggled to believe it. It is only when you know someone, personally, that you wonder why. It leaves you numb.

“You see a beautiful young girl, a talented rugby player and musician with her life ahead of her.”

Issy Phipps, seen here in her Maidenhead RFC top, played youth level rugby for England, winning a European trophy in France.

The decision to raise money and awareness came to Richard, himself a father of three daughters, after he learned about the work of BraveMind.

Spurred by the memory of Issy, and in recognition of the stresses young people can face in the hospitality trade, he is delighted McKays will support the charity, with staff already raising £500 before the World Cup has even kicked off at Stade de France.

“Obviously there is a personal connection but it is such a good cause. BraveMind is geared around rugby but it is about young people and I know, in our sector, the pressures young people feel are sometimes underestimated.”

Staff will wear BraveMind t-shirts during all televised Scotland matches in McKays and are set to donate taking from Quiz nights, a race night and charity Dinner.

They also intend to reach out to rugby clubs in Perthshire to spread awareness of BraveMind which counts ex-Scotland internationalists, Graeme Morrison and Rory Lawson, as ambassadors.

The charity’s founder Simon Trower said: “We are about educating, supporting and working with grass-roots clubs and organisations to change the culture in order to prevent tragedies from happening. By using rugby as a vehicle, we can start conversations and it is great to work with McKays, who we will also be doing some training with, in mental health first aid.”

 

Image credits: Heartland Media and PR, all rights reserved

Header image caption: McKays owner Richard Drummond and staff will raise money for BraveMind, in Issy’s memory, during the Rugby World Cup.

Business Mergers, Acquisitions & Partnerships, Business News, Cardiff, Cardiff News, Environment, Environment News, Marketing & PR, Marketing and PR, Marketing, PR and SEO, News from Wales, PR and SEO, Sport, Wales, Wales News

Welsh Business MSS Group Partners With Cardiff Rugby

RSK, a global leader in the delivery of sustainable solutions, and its Cardiff-based environmental services company MSS Group are partnering with Cardiff Rugby to use their expertise to help the club achieve its sustainability goals. And the partnership already has players like utility forward Josh Turnbull and flanker Ellis Jenkins talking about their own sustainability goals.

RSK and MSS Group, both principal partners and shirt sponsors, and another RSK environmental business, Nature Positive, will work with Cardiff Rugby to help the club evaluate and reduce its environmental impact by examining a range of factors including team and supporter travel to matches, recycling and food and beverage packaging, waste management along with examining sustainable energy options such solar power.

RSK Chief Executive Officer Alan Ryder said: “RSK is an enthusiastic supporter of sport, and like MSS, which has been supporting the club for more than a decade, we’re looking forward to working together to take our relationship beyond the rugby pitch. We know how passionate Cardiff Rugby is about its commitment to its community. Through the Cardiff Blue Community Foundation, it uses the power and values of sport to inspire, engage and improve opportunities for communities. The environmental impact of all we do, and the choices that we make, affect all of us and we hope to work with the club and the foundation to talk about how we can all make a difference every day.”

Cardiff players Josh Turnbull and Ellis Jenkins prioritise sustainability in their own lives and said they hope to learn more from RSK.

Josh said: “I’m quite environmentally conscious and I’m very aware of things like single-use plastic, staying away from that wherever possible, and teaching my kids good habits around recycling, reusing, and reducing waste. It’s something I’ve become more and more aware of with the increasing exposure of the climate crisis, how much plastic there is in the oceans and things like that. Ultimately, we want this planet to be here for a very long time after us for our kids, their kids and so on. The more sustainable and responsible we can be in all areas of life the longer we will have this planet.

“We’ve had an environmental committee and as a playing group, we are very aware of the challenges and are always driving to be more sustainable in our environment. I was at Glastonbury recently and it was quite an eye opener in terms of how much recycling there is available, the way tents are recycled and turned into flags, sculptures made from recycled products.”

He added: “RSK is clearly driving the standards of sustainability and as a club, we want to be part of that. If they can help us drive those standards, collaborate and work with other partners to be more sustainable, then that is brilliant.”

Ellis agreed, saying: “I have always been passionate about the environment and sustainability, so it is great to see the club continue their partnership with MSS Group, and now their parent company RSK, who is such a major player within that space.

“We already have many sponsors and suppliers who promote sustainability, whether someone like Octopus Energy or our waste management company, so it is great to bring all of this together and take it to a new level with RSK coming on board.

“Personally, I am also trying to make small changes like only buying locally sourced meat to ensure it is farmed responsibly and the food miles are as low as possible. I am really excited to see how this partnership develops in the coming years and how much difference we can all make. Having RSK on board will not only help make us more sustainable as a club but educate us in ways we can all improve our lifestyles to reduce our footprint on the planet.”

Jonathan James, MD at the MSS Group, added, “I am delighted that MSS and the RSK family are continuing our partnership with Cardiff Rugby. We know first-hand the positive influence that the team has on the Cardiff community and South Wales, and I am excited to see the wider effect our collaboration on this important sustainability project will have.”

Property, Property News, Scotland

Types Of Property For Sale In Glasgow

Are you considering buying property in Glasgow? If so, you’ll be pleased to know that the city offers many options to suit all preferences and budgets. From historic tenement flats to modern penthouses, there is something for everyone in this vibrant Scottish city.

Whether you’re looking for a piece of Glasgow’s architectural history or a contemporary urban oasis, there are so many types of property for sale in Glasgow. 

So, get your estate agent on call and let’s find your dream property in Glasgow today!

 

#1 Tenement Flats

If you’re looking for a charming and character-filled home in Glasgow, you’ll love the available tenement flats. These traditional Scottish apartments are known for their unique architectural features, such as high ceilings, ornate cornices, and large windows that flood the rooms with natural light.

The tenement buildings often boast beautiful stone facades and communal stairwells that have retained their original charm. One of the great advantages of living in a tenement flat is the sense of community that comes with it. 

Many buildings have shared gardens or courtyards where residents can socialise and children can play. Additionally, being part of a close-knit neighbourhood means local events and gatherings are often organised to unite everyone. It’s common to find friendly neighbours who have lived in the building for generations, creating a strong sense of belonging and security.

Tenement flats also offer excellent value for money compared to other types of properties in Glasgow. They typically offer more space than modern apartments at a lower price point, making them an attractive option for first-time buyers and families looking to upgrade their living arrangements. 

With many tenements refurbished over the years, you can find flats that perfectly balance preserving their historic charm and incorporating modern amenities.

If you’re searching for a home with character and community spirit in Glasgow, consider exploring the tenement flats available for sale. With their unique architecture, welcoming neighbourhoods, and affordable prices compared to other properties on the market, they offer an appealing option for those who appreciate history intertwined with contemporary comfort.

 

#2 Victorian and Edwardian Townhouses

Victorian and Edwardian townhouses in Glasgow are highly sought after due to their historic charm and elegant architecture. These stunning properties represent a bygone era with ornate details, grand entrances, and spacious layouts. The Victorian and Edwardian townhouses often feature high ceilings, large windows, and intricate mouldings that add a touch of sophistication to any home.

One of the main attractions of these townhouses is their unique character. Each property has its story, with many meticulously restored to maintain their original features while incorporating modern amenities. From the moment you step through the front door, you are transported back in time as you admire the beautiful staircase or the intricately carved fireplace mantels. The attention to detail in these homes is truly remarkable.

Living in a Victorian or Edwardian townhouse offers a sense of prestige and exclusivity. These properties are typically located in desirable neighbourhoods that offer convenient access to amenities such as parks, schools, shops, and restaurants. Whether looking for a family home or an investment property, these townhouses provide style and substance.

With their timeless appeal and rich history, it’s no wonder they continue to be highly sought after by those looking for a piece of Glasgow’s architectural heritage.

 

#3 Modern Flats and Stylish Penthouses

When finding a stylish and contemporary living space in Glasgow, you’ll be delighted by the modern flats and chic penthouses available. These properties offer a sleek, sophisticated design perfect for those who appreciate a more minimalist aesthetic.

With open floor plans, floor-to-ceiling windows, and high-end finishes, these modern flats provide abundant natural light and a sense of spaciousness. Whether you’re looking for a one-bedroom apartment or a larger penthouse with multiple bedrooms, there are plenty of options.

In addition to their modern design, these flats and penthouses offer a range of amenities that enhance the overall living experience. Many buildings include secure entry systems, concierge services, private parking, and communal gardens or terraces. Some even have on-site gyms or swimming pools for residents to enjoy.

The locations of these properties are also highly desirable, with many situated in trendy neighbourhoods close to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. So, if you’re searching for a contemporary home in Glasgow that combines style with convenience, look no further than the modern flats and stylish penthouses available in this vibrant city.

 

#4 Terraced Houses

Looking for a charming home that exudes character and warmth? Terraced houses in Glasgow offer the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, making them an ideal choice for those seeking an inviting and cosy living space.

From their picturesque exteriors with quaint front gardens to their spacious interiors filled with natural light, terraced houses in Glasgow provide a sense of comfort and tranquillity that is hard to resist. Here are five reasons why terraced houses in Glasgow are so appealing:

 

  • Historical Charm: With their beautiful Victorian or Georgian architecture, terraced houses carry a sense of history and heritage. Each house has its unique story to tell, adding to the overall charm of the neighbourhood.
  • Community Spirit: Living in a terraced house often means being part of a close-knit community. You’ll have neighbours next door, creating a sense of belonging and security.
  • Outdoor Space: Many terraced houses have private backyards or gardens, providing your little sanctuary to relax, entertain guests, or indulge in gardening.
  • Central Locations: Terraced houses are typically found in central areas of Glasgow, offering easy access to amenities such as shops, restaurants, parks, and public transport links.
  • Versatility: Whether you’re looking for a cosy one-bedroom home or need more space for your growing family, terraced houses come in various sizes and layouts to suit different needs.

 

With their undeniable appeal and unique character, it’s no wonder that terraced houses continue to be highly sought after by property buyers in Glasgow. Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience by exploring the wide range of terraced houses available today.

 

#5 Art Nouveau Homes

Step into a world of elegance and artistic flair with Glasgow’s charming Art Nouveau homes. These architectural gems are a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of the early 20th century. With their intricate detailing, curved lines, and decorative motifs inspired by nature, Art Nouveau homes offer a unique blend of beauty and functionality.

Inside these homes, you’ll find spacious rooms flooded with natural light, thanks to large windows that showcase the surrounding landscape. The high ceilings create an airy atmosphere, while ornate fireplaces add a touch of grandeur. Every corner has exquisite features like stained glass windows, mosaic tiles, and carved woodwork.

Though they may be more difficult to find, owning an Art Nouveau home in Glasgow means embracing a lifestyle that celebrates history and artistry. You’ll be surrounded by beauty at every turn, from the intricate ironwork on the exterior to the carefully preserved original features inside.

As you wander through your new home, imagine the stories it holds and feel inspired by its timeless charm. These houses are not just places to live but works of art in themselves – owning one is like owning a piece of history that will continue to captivate for years to come.

 

Explore More Types Of Property For Sale In Glasgow, 

So there you have it – a brief overview of the different types of properties available for sale in Glasgow. 

Whether you’re looking for a traditional tenement flat with its charming character, a grand Victorian or Edwardian townhouse that oozes elegance and history, a modern flat with all the sleek finishes and amenities, or a cosy terraced house perfect for starting a family, Glasgow has something to offer everyone.

No matter which type of property catches your eye, buying in Glasgow ensures that rich culture, vibrant neighbourhoods, and friendly communities surround you. So why wait? Start exploring the types of property for sale in Glasgow today and find your dream home in this beautiful city.

 

News, North of England, Technology

Connectus Group Announces Three New Staff Appointments

ONE of the region’s fastest growing tech firms has appointed three new members of staff to its team. Connectus say the appointments will further strengthen their operations which now sees them serving more than 450 customers across the North of England and Midlands.

The appointments see Sarah Williams join as a Project Support Administrator based at Connectus’ Salford Community Stadium Office in Salford.

She’s joined by Saif Raja, who will operate as a Finance and Administration Assistance based at Connectus’ Doncaster office at Gateway East.

Sarah and Saif are also joined by Callum Casey who will join the engineering team in his final year of an IT apprenticeship based at Salford Community Stadium offering first line support to customers.

Commenting, Roy Shelton, the CEO of Connectus , said: “All three appointments have been made to strengthen our back-office team so ensure we maintain our customer centric approach which underpins our growth over the past few years with a view to maintaining our 99.47% average customer satisfaction over the past 12 months.

“These three appointments now mean we have generated six new FT positions over the past 12 months supporting our growing customer base which is now +450 businesses across the North of England and Midlands and provides further resources to enable our next phase of growth.”

 

Food & Drink, News, Scotland

Stirling Distillery Recognised as Tripadvisor 2023 Travellers’ Choice Award Winner

Stirling Distillery has today announced the latest recognition for their award-winning distillery, earning a coveted 2023 Travellers’ Choice Award from online travel website Tripadvisor.

The award supports the distillery’s goal to be recognised as a top tourism destination in the city and marks the second success for their visitor experiences in 2023, having recently picked up Visitor Attraction of the Year at the annual Stirling Business Awards.

Travellers’ Choice Awards celebrate businesses that have consistently received great visitor reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, with the distillery earning over 700 five-star reviews since opening its doors back in 2019.

Situated in the heart of Stirling on the city’s castle rock, and housed within a renovated building which is said to be the location used by King James VI to stable his horses, the historic distillery produces a range of award-winning gins and whiskies alongside the industry-leading visitor experiences.

Distillery Manager Elle McCann shared her pride in the growth of the attraction over the last 12 months:

“Everyone at the distillery has worked incredibly hard since we opened to continuously develop and grow our experiences into an industry-leading product for visitors to Stirling. 

“With the number of guests we’ve welcomed doubling in 2023, this award is a testament to our team of passionate tour guides who work hard to tell the rich history and folklore of Stirling and give guests a truly unique taste of our city.”

 

John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor, offered his congratulations to all award winners:

“Congratulations to the 2023 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice winners. The travel resurgence we’ve seen throughout the past year has even further heightened the competition. Earning a Travelers’ Choice Award demonstrates that you have provided great experiences to those who matter most: your guests.”

“With changing expectations, continued labour shortages, and rising costs, this is no easy feat, and I am continually impressed with the hospitality industry’s resilience and ability to adapt. Cheers to another successful year!”

Check out all the reviews, and discover more about Stirling Distillery here: https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attractions-g191266-Activities-a_sort.TRAVELER__5F__RANKED-Stirling_Scotland.html

 

About Stirling Distillery

Stirling Distillery, established in 2015, is steeped in Scottish history. Located in the shadow of Stirling Castle, central Scotland, it is the city’s first legal distillery. Offering a range of award-winning gins and whiskies celebrating Stirling’s rich history, the distillery is open daily for gin experiences, tastings and a weekly gin school.

Spirit from the heart of Scotland.

Business Expansion, International News, News

Why An Employer Of Record Is Key To Helping Businesses To Expand Overseas

MANY growing and ambitious businesses will strive for global expansion at some point in their growth trajectory.

To succeed you will need to expand into new markets, grow your business presence, increase margins, and enhance your overall business operations.

And one of the key solutions that employers can add to their arsenal is the use of an Employer of Record (EoR), which helps to simplify hiring and paying an employee in a new state or country.

By using an EoR, businesses can free up time and resources and shield themselves from compliance and legal risk.

One of the leading experts in this field is Steve Malley, Global Director of EoR at HSP Group.

Here, Malley explains why an EoR should be an essential part of any global expansion strategy – and sets out how the HSP group helps its clients to utilize its benefits.

 

What is an EOR?

An EoR is a third-party organization that acts as the full legal employer of an employee while they do work for another company. An EoR assumes employment responsibilities, legal risks, and compliance responsibilities. It hires employees, executes payroll, administrates benefits and manages other HR functions on your behalf.

An EoR can greatly simplify hiring and paying an employee in a new state or location. By using an EoR, businesses can free up time and resources and shield themselves from compliance and legal risks.

 

Why is it important?

Serving as a swift-to-implement and risk-mitigating strategy, EoR facilitates businesses in accessing a new talent pool across different countries or regions, eliminating the necessity for establishing a complete legal entity. When executed accurately, this approach carries no potential for contravening local employment or tax regulations.

Navigating unfamiliar employment and tax laws in foreign jurisdictions can expose businesses to substantial risks. However, EoR acts as a protective shield, ensuring full compliance with local regulations. With EoR, companies can confidently operate within the legal framework, minimizing the potential for costly penalties or legal entanglements.

It’s also worth mentioning that especially for start-up businesses, EoR solutions allow businesses to set up in different markets with a leaner financial footprint.

Right off the bat, there’s so many benefits to EoR, but you must make sure you have the right provider onboard to help you achieve these.

 

What to consider when picking an EOR provider:

The industry has been inundated with service providers that have been coming to market with their own version of the truth, and so decision makers are flooded with information.

Whilst this can be a great thing, allowing you to evaluate all these opinions, such as some people advising on whether it should be direct or non-direct EoR, or lengths of time to employ people in certain countries, it can overcomplicate the process.

Therefore, business owners should aim to find an experienced provider that can not only ensure the minimum requirements such as compliance, but also simplify the process.

Businesses should also consider the transparency of the provider, its knowledge and expertise of different markets, its global mobility, and workforce solutions.

 

How HSP has created a model to effectively deliver EOR solutions:

HSP has four main offerings as part of our overall EoR solutions:

HSP EoR Offerings
EoR Evaluation – a HSP consulting project to help a customer evaluate if EoR is the right or the wrong answer for them, given their objectives and other available solutions in the market.
Solutioned EoR – HSP ‘white-labeling’ 1 of 3 EoR partners that have been selected through a lengthy RFP exercise.  We will have personas for buyers and EoR providers to better align which EoR provider the work is sourced with based on the buyer profile.
Supported EoR – a ‘managed service’ HSP offering, whereby we sit between the end customer and the EoR provider to ensure the customer has a fully optimized experience.
EoR Graduate – HSP assists a customer with establishing/running their own infrastructure and moving away from the EoR model.  This likely includes some version of setting up an entity, managing registrations, assisting with setting up a bank account, managing payroll, and statutory accounting and tax.

 

To find out more about HSP Group and how it can assist with global expansion, particularly through the use of EoR solutions, visit the website today at https://www.hsp.com/eor

Food & Drink, Manchester, News, North of England

Hydes appoints Experienced General Manager for Wirral Premium Dining Pub

A leading North West brewery and pub retailer has appointed an experienced general manager to run its newly acquired premium dining pub in Heswall, on the Wirral.

Salford-based Hydes brewery has appointed Roy Wilson to head up the team at The Harry Beswick which is due to open this Autumn. The new pub restaurant will create up to 40 new jobs.

With almost a decade of experience with Hydes at some of its most successful premium dining pubs, Roy previously managed The Hornsmill in Helsby, near Chester since 2018. Prior to this, he was at The Jolly Thresher in Lymm.

Hydes acquired the building in Heswall on Telegraph Road earlier this year, which will see the conversion of the town’s former police station into a premium dining and drinking establishment. The Harry Beswick is named in honour of the original architect of the building.

The £1.3million acquisition of the Harry Beswick building is Hydes’ first property acquisition in over five years. The building has been empty for several years and is currently undergoing a £2.3m transformation. It was originally built in 1911 and was the town’s police station for over a century.

New general manager Roy Wilson, commented: “I know Heswall very well so the chance to establish and run The Harry Beswick from scratch is a major opportunity for me in terms of furthering my career with Hydes. Operating The Hornsmill for the past five years has been a great experience and to turn it into the successful operation that it has become, under the most challenging conditions the hospitality industry has ever faced, has been extremely rewarding. I’m hoping to replicate the success I had there to ensure that The Harry Beswick is equally successful. 

“The location and the building are both outstanding. This coupled with a £2 million-plus investment from Hydes will ensure its reputation for providing customers with a premium dining and drinking experience will fit in very well with the vibrant bar, restaurant and social scene in Heswall. I’m also keen to ensure that such a magnificent building will now continue in such a positive way, bringing jobs and further prosperity to the area. Thanks to Hydes, The Harry Beswick will once again become an important local community hub.”

Hydes operates nearly 50 pubs ranging from Lancaster in the North to Stoke-on Trent in the Midlands and across to North Wales including a wide selection of premium dining destination outlets, craft style bars and traditional community pubs. Hydes currently operates one other establishment on the Wirral, the Boat House in nearby Neston.

Managing director of Hydes Brewery, Adam Mayers said: “Roy is a first-class manager and has done an outstanding job at The Hornsmill over the past five years. His experience and commitment is second to none and he possesses all the key customer service attributes that Hydes looks for in its employees. His skill in building dedicated, committed teams will undoubtedly help The Harry Beswick to hit the ground running when it opens and I have no doubts that, along with the team he assembles, a loyal customer base will be very quickly established.

“We are working hard to make sure The Harry Beswick will deliver a great experience for customers  with a quality, contemporary new design scheme and feel, combined with a premium dining and drinking experience and Hydes’ standards of customer service.”

The acquisition of the premises forms part of an ongoing multi-million pound investment programme across the Hydes’ estate over the next few years. Last year, Hydes committed over £4.5m to refurbishments of pubs across its estate and it intends to increase that investment substantially throughout 2023.

Adam Mayers continued: “After being left for years, it’s great to see such an iconic building being revitalised, fully retaining its significant heritage and history, which is very important to us and our customers. Now that we have Roy in place as general manager, we’re looking forward with great excitement to building an outstanding team of kitchen, bar and serving staff in readiness for The Harry Beswick opening its doors for the first time later this year.”

Hydes, with its brewery in Media City, Salford, was formed in 1863 and supplies beers to wholesalers, pub companies and other brewers throughout the UK and a pub retailing estate of nearly 50 pubs across the North West of England and North Wales.

 

—

Anyone interested in joining the Hydes team at The Harry Beswick should register their interest by calling 07917 575256. Positions of various levels of experience are available across all areas ranging from kitchen and bar to service and front of house.

Pictured: Roy Wilson, new general manager of The Harry Beswick, in Heswall, on the Wirral.

Appointments, News, Wales News

Zip World Announces Appointment of New CEO

  • Zip World has appointed Andrew Hudson as its new Chief Executive Officer.
  • Since joining the company in 2018, Andrew has helped the business more than double in size from three to seven sites, including a hotel acquisition as part of its new accommodation strategy.
  • The new CEO plans to build on the company’s success by expanding its footprint across the UK and overseas.

Wales-based adventure company Zip World has appointed its Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Hudson, as its new CEO.

Andrew starts the role with immediate effect and will focus on continuing the company’s rapid growth as it plans to expand its portfolio of sites and experiences across the UK and overseas.

Since joining Zip World in 2018, Andrew has been responsible for all commercial activity and has played an instrumental role in driving transformational change across the business.

This includes building on the company’s differentiated and innovative experiences within the active leisure sector, adding two further locations to its estate including Lake District based TreeTop Trek, and securing allocated funding as part of the North Wales Growth Deal.

Over the last five years, the business has more than doubled in size, increasing its number of sites to seven, and is on track to attract a total of two million visitors by the end of 2025.

The expansion has seen the company launch its first site outside of North Wales, transforming the iconic Tower Colliery coal mine in Rhigos into Zip World Tower, as well as expanding its offering into accommodation with the acquisition of a hotel.

In addition to leading the company’s expansion, Andrew will oversee its “responsible adventure” mission, including implementing more sustainable operations linked to visitor experiences and ensuring key business decisions and investments enact positive change in the communities in which it operates.

 

Andrew Hudson, Chief Executive Officer at Zip World, said:

“Zip World has become one of the most aspirational brands in the marketplace over the past decade, creating a multitude of world-class experiences that have helped to preserve and enhance the unique qualities of local areas in post-industrial locations.

“Since joining the company, I have been fortunate enough to lead a talented team to establish a clear vision and marketing strategy for the brand that has played a crucial role in driving sustainable growth.

“I am particularly proud of the company’s resilience during the pandemic and exponential growth since then, having launched six new experiences and doubling visitor numbers since pre-pandemic levels.

 

Last month, Andrew led the project team which secured allocated matched funding as part of the North Wales Growth Deal to help them realise their vision as a leading responsible tourism destination.

The North Wales Growth Deal is a £1billion investment to the region, £240million of which has been funded by both Welsh and UK Governments.

The funding is estimated to boost the North Wales economy by an additional £6.8 million per year and will help to launch a new inclusive cable car, provide sustainable transport links between its sites and rural communities through a new electric bus network, as well as all-year-round employment opportunities to support regional wealth.

 

Sean Taylor, Founder of Zip World, said:

 “This appointment marks a new era for Zip World and I’m incredibly excited for the company’s future. We have experienced huge growth since the opening of our first site in 2013, and Andrew’s contribution, loyalty and dedication to the business have been transformative.

“His leadership skills, extensive experience and laser focus on strategic decision making based on consumer insights have meant that we’ve been able to establish an innovative and unique business that is truly a leader in its category.

“Our goal is to create unforgettable experiences for our customers, and I have no doubt that Andrew will continue to strengthen Zip World’s reputation as the UK’s leading active leisure brand while driving forward responsible and sustainable change.”

 

Zip World launched its first flagship adventure, Velocity, in 2013 with eight team members and now employs over 800 people at peak trading, with over 90% of its staff coming from local communities close to its sites.

The company has 29 experiences across its seven sites in Wales and England and has recently launched its own branded accommodation offering.

 

Awards, Healthcare, News, Northamptonshire, Northants, Nursing

Northampton nurses celebrate being first UK hospital to be reaccredited with prestigious international nursing quality standard

Dame Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for England, visited Northampton General Hospital today to congratulate its nursing teams on achieving an international quality standard.

The hospital has achieved the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Pathway to Excellence reaccreditation after becoming the first hospital in England to achieve the standard in 2018.

Dame Ruth May said: “I am delighted that Northampton General Hospital has achieved Pathway to Excellence® redesignation. It is an incredible achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of all nursing colleagues at the Trust.

“This recognition demonstrates a strong commitment to championing nursing excellence. Through this, we can empower nursing professionals and, most importantly, support them to deliver high quality patient care.”

 

NGH Chief Executive Heidi Smoult said: “I am delighted that our nursing and nursing associate teams are the first in the UK to achieve Pathway to Excellence® redesignation, a huge achievement.

“It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional patient care, a positive work environment for nurses and nursing associates, and for delivering excellence in nursing practice.

“I am so proud of the teams, who have created a culture and environment across our hospital where our people are empowered to thrive and flourish.”

 

As part of the Pathway to Excellence® programme, over the last five years the nursing teams at the hospital have worked on implementing positive changes to patient care and the working environment, including:

 

  • Improving end-of-life care for patients and their families – This was a project led by the hospital’s Deputy Lead Nurse for Palliative Care, Kerry Messam, which involved looking at all aspects of end-of-life-care and making improvements including dedicated end-of-life Swan Rooms (this led to a Chief Nursing Officer Silver Award and to Kerry being invited to meet the Prime Minister at a Downing Street reception on NHS75 July 5.)
  • Pastoral support for overseas nurses joining NGH – In May the hospital achieved the NHS Pastoral Care Quality Award for International Nurses to recognise its commitment to providing exceptional support for staff moving to work in the UK from overseas including language support, cultural awareness training, and access to support networks and resources.
  • Established 40 Shared Decision-Making Councils across the organisation which enable front-line nurses to be involved in the making of decisions which affect patient care and their working lives.
  • Establishing a nurse-led violence and aggression reduction group – which works to offer support to all members of staff who experience upsetting incidents and helps develop ways to reduce the risks of violence and aggression
  • Fully supported the pioneering Professional Nurse Advocate role set up to support nurses in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. NGH now has recruited 35 PNAs who listen, understand and support nurses in ways that improve their wellbeing, encourage nurses to stay in the NHS, and help them to improve patient care.
Dame Ruth May and Staff Nurse Fummi Yakubu cutting the celebratory cake

NGH’s Director of Nursing, Nerea Odongo, said: “Over the past five years our nursing teams have continued to go from strength-to-strength and our reaccreditation for Pathway to Excellence is evidence of this.

“This recognition highlights our commitment to providing exceptional care to our patients and creating a workplace that empowers our nursing professionals.

“We are incredibly proud of our nursing staff and their unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding healthcare services.”

 

Pathway to Excellence® assesses healthcare organisations based on nursing practice standards, nurse satisfaction, patient outcomes, and the overall work environment for nurses.

As part of reaccreditation all of the hospital’s nurses and nursing associates were asked a series of questions. NGH passed the survey with flying colours achieving rates significantly higher than the set standards. (see editor’s notes)

During Dame May’s visit the hospital was able to showcase some of its ongoing work in nursing leadership, safety, quality, shared decision-making, wellbeing, and professional development.

 

At the event Dame May told staff: “I am in awe of the way you have all worked together to achieve redesignation. I plan to take some of the learning showcased here today to the national level.”

 

 

Events, Leisure, Lifestyle & Travel, North of England

So you think you know Blackpool? Think again

Hannah Mooney, Sales Manager at Hampton by Hilton Blackpool says that there is more to Blackpool than people think as the town becomes increasingly recognised as a top events destination

As the Sales Manager of the Hampton by Hilton in Blackpool, partners of MeetBlackpool, the town’s conference and exhibition arm, I am thrilled to celebrate our 5-year anniversary in 2023. This milestone gives us an opportunity to showcase the transformation taking place in Blackpool and its emergence as a top conference destination. I am keen to delve into the lesser-known aspects of Blackpool, the investments fuelling its growth, and how our hotel’s expansion has contributed to the local economy while prioritising sustainability.

 

Unveiling the corporate side of Blackpool

A cultural shift has taken place in Blackpool, often associated with leisure and entertainment,  which now focuses on the town’s impressive corporate events offering. With its striking coastline, excellent transport links, and a range of modern conference facilities, Blackpool offers a unique setting that combines business with pleasure. Corporate event managers will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of venues, from historic theatres to state-of-the-art conference centres, which can cater to a variety of needs and budgets.

 

Investment in Blackpool’s future

Blackpool’s new perception as a business events destination is fuelled by significant investments across various sectors. The town’s local government, along with private investors, has been dedicated to rejuvenating Blackpool’s infrastructure, public spaces, and iconic landmarks. These improvements ensure a seamless experience for corporate guests, creating an environment that is both visually appealing and conducive to successful business interactions.

 

Hampton by Hilton’s role in economic growth

The extension of our Hampton by Hilton hotel will play a role in Blackpool’s economic growth. We are proud to have created additional jobs within the local community, as our recruitment strategy focuses on hiring talent from within the area. By providing employment opportunities to the residents of Blackpool, we contribute to the overall prosperity of the town and strengthen the sense of community.

On top of this, and crucially as the town expands its event offering, the extra bedspace we now offer has increased the appeal for corporate event managers and agencies alike.

 

Sustainability: our commitment to a greener future

At Hampton by Hilton Blackpool, we understand the importance of sustainable practices and their impact on the environment. Our hotel has implemented various measures to minimise our ecological footprint while ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of our corporate guests. From energy-efficient lighting and water conservation initiatives to waste reduction and recycling programs, we strive to be a responsible steward of the environment.

 

Collaboration and networking opportunities

Blackpool’s growth as a conference destination also offers ample opportunities for collaboration and networking. The town hosts a range of industry-specific events and trade shows, attracting professionals from various sectors. Corporate event managers can leverage these occasions to forge new partnerships, gain insights from industry experts, and establish their organisations as industry leaders.

 

Blackpool is no longer seen solely as a leisure-oriented destination; it has emerged as a hidden gem for corporate events. With investments driving its transformation, Blackpool offers a unique blend of business opportunities and stunning coastal scenery. Corporate event managers can now explore the potential of Blackpool and its vibrant conference scene, making it a top choice for their next successful event.