Tag Archives: leisure

News

£2m restoration works completed at Manchester Opera House theatre

A £2m facelift for the façade of Manchester’s historic Opera House theatre has been completed.

Salford-based MC Construction was the principal contractor for the scheme.

The restoration project included extensive repairs to the render, brickwork, windows and ironmongery fixings, weatherproofing works, the replacement of rainwater goods and a full decoration of the main façade to ensure a more historically authentic exterior and to help safeguard the venue for future generations to enjoy.

Careful analysis of the existing paint layers stretching back over a century was undertaken, so that the colour scheme of the 15-bay façade and windows now better reflects how the venue would have looked when it opened in 1912.

The theatre remained open throughout the restoration project.

The scheme forms a significant part of a £4.5m capital investment this financial year across the Opera House and its sister venue in Manchester city centre, the Palace Theatre, which are both owned by ATG Entertainment.

The Opera House is a grade II listed building which was originally called The New Theatre. It has been through several iterations and was renamed the Opera House in 1920.

It is one of the largest theatres in England, with a seating capacity of 1,920. The venue plays host to high-profile concerts, plays, musicals, ballets and a Christmas pantomime.

Famous shows performed there over the years include Phantom of the Opera, Barnum and Oliver! plus a host of world premieres, such as Bat Out of Hell: The Musical and Take That‘s musical The Band. During its long history, it has also served as a bingo hall and a cinema.

Russ Forshaw, managing director of MC Construction, said: “Drawing on our extensive experience of successfully delivering projects at numerous listed buildings and other landmarks across the city, such as The Whitworth art gallery, Manchester Museum and the Imperial Chinese Arch in Chinatown, we are delighted to have undertaken this restoration scheme at the Opera House, which is less than a mile from our company headquarters.

“Once again, our team have produced the goods and left their mark on a cherished Manchester building. It was great to work with the ATG Entertainment, whose ongoing investment in its buildings ensures they can continue to delight audiences across the north west and beyond.”

Robin Hawkes, theatre director at the Opera House and Palace Theatre, said: “In tandem with the Palace, the Opera House has been a jewel in the heart of Manchester’s cultural fabric for many generations.

“I am delighted we’ve been able to restore and refresh the theatre’s beautiful Edwardian exterior, as part of a wider suite of works which will improve the experience of everybody visiting and using the two venues for years to come.”

Stefan Ziemelis, senior project manager at ATG Entertainment, added: “In addition to delivering essential repair works, this project has also been driven by the celebration of the intrinsic character and uniqueness that is woven into this heritage building.

“Working with our partners to breathe new life into the Opera House has been a rewarding experience, and it’s good to know that the work we have completed here will preserve and protect the theatre for future generations of theatre lovers.

“The façade restoration project has been carried out by MC Construction and its partners in a thoroughly professional manner with minimal disruption to our patrons, and we are delighted with the outcome.”

Other professionals involved in the Opera House restoration project included Motion Project Management, Osbornes Chartered Architects, quantity surveyors Marshall Kenny and design consultancy ORSA.

MC Construction is a family-owned business which employs more than 60 staff.

Founded in 1971, the company delivers complex construction projects throughout north west England with a focus on the commercial, education, heritage, hospitality, industrial, local authority, social housing and healthcare sectors.

Hospitality, HR, News

New HR managers’ research on attractiveness of hospitality professions released in Sommet Education Foundation launch

Sommet Education, a leading worldwide player in hospitality education boasting a community of 10,000 students and 60,000 influential alumni worldwide, has launched its Foundation, a significant milestone aimed at supporting employment challenges within the hospitality sector.

The Foundation will concentrate on tackling the sector’s employment challenges by focusing on two levers of action: offering scholarships for hospitality education to talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, and advocating for careers and professions in hospitality.

 

Empowering individuals from underserved communities to pursue rewarding careers in hospitality

The launch comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, with the travel and tourism sector projected to provide employment for 449 million people worldwide by 2034, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). By then, 12.2% of the global workforce will be powering this vibrant sector. Despite these promising figures, many destinations and hospitality employers continue to face recruitment challenges.

Drawing on Sommet Education’s long-standing commitment to developing hospitality talent, the Sommet Education Foundation will leverage its global network of hospitality schools (Glion Institute of Higher Education, Les Roches, École Ducasse, Invictus, and Indian School of Hospitality) to train and open doors to careers in this industry for individuals from diverse and socially disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Sommet Education Foundation will identify talents supported by a network of social partners, including UN agencies, governmental entities and NGOs. Talents will be selected in alignment with the framework of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number 4, focusing on inclusive education. Funding and support will be provided to educate and empower, particularly youth from impoverished backgrounds and women, while also creating lifelong learning opportunities and ensuring talents are gainfully employed within the sector.

 

Sommet Education Foundation patronage

“Joining the hospitality industry is more than a job guarantee; it is a promise of a rewarding and fulfilling career nurtured by human encounters, passion, cultural exchanges, and experiences,” said Anouck Weiss, Executive Vice-President at Sommet Education Foundation. “By offering scholarships leading to employment opportunities, we aim at offering life-changing opportunities to a new generation of talents and empowering them with the necessary skills to join the thriving hospitality industry.”

The Foundation can already count on Accor as a Founding Patron. The hospitality group has already committed to promoting talent development, fostering social equality, and bolstering economic growth through a first dedicated initiative in India. Steven Daines, Chief Talent & Culture Officer at Accor, said: “As a leading hospitality group, investing in people’s talent is a key priority. Hospitality is a sector that transcends territories and borders. This implies open-mindedness and connection to others. I am proud to be in a sector that promotes cross-border work experiences and multicultural environments”.

Echoing his views, Anne-Sophie Beraud, SVP Diversity & Inclusion & Social Care at Accor, added: “The success of our employees must not be determined by diplomas, origins or nationalities. We want to guarantee each of our talents the opportunity to reach their full potential by preventing inequalities and discrimination.”

Promoting hospitality professions: survey shows strong sector attractiveness and employer voluntarism to attract and retain new talents

 

To inform the Foundation’s roadmap and strategic direction, the Sommet Education Foundation engaged OpinionWay, a pioneering market research institute, to conduct a comprehensive European survey to identify the key factors that attract and retain talents in the hospitality industry. 1,300 young professionals and hospitality HR managers across Europe were interviewed, along with 20 key industry leaders (below) encompassing the broader spectrum of the sector, including hotels, restaurants, travel, tourism, independent, medium-sized and large hotel groups, and high-end retail.

Alain Ducasse, Chef and Founder, École Ducasse

Carole Pourchet, Director General, Majorian

Christelle Grisoni, CEO, Bertrand Hospitality

Christian Catiello, Manager Director Organization, Alpitour World

Christopher Jones, Director General, Brioche Dorée

Cyril Baron, General Manager, Caviar House & Prunier

Eric Frechon, Chef, Meilleur Ouvrier de France

Isabelle de Bardies, Director General – CEO Division, Angelina

Jade Frommer, Co-Founder and CEO, Ephemera

Katrin Melle, Regional Vice President DEI & Talent EAME, Hyatt

Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mandarin Oriental

Maribel Rodriguez, Senior Vice-President, WTTC

Marion Amacker, Associate Director, Morgan Philipps Executive Search

Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, UN Tourism

Nathalie Seiler Hayez, Managing Director, Swiss Deluxe Hotels

Philippe Héry, Managing Director, Hippopotamus

Pierre-Olivier Aguinalin, Chief HR Officer, Hublot (until February 2024)

Sabine Masseglia, Managing Director, St Barts Tourism

Steven Daines, Chief Talent & Culture Officer, Accor

Tigrane Seydoux, Co-Founder, Big Mamma

The research found that the service sector holds considerable appeal for 85% of young professionals across Europe. Three-quarters of young European professionals would be ready to join high-end hotels, restaurants and retail shops, praising the career opportunities, especially internationally, and the people-to-people connections. The survey confirms the overall challenge of the sector throughout Europe, with 59% of HR managers facing employment challenges. 78% state that Generation Z (18 to 28 years old) brings specific challenges around identification, recruitment and loyalty.

 

Hospitality’s unique promise fuels optimism in the sector

Professionals within the sector are resolutely convinced of the depth and appeal of their respective fields, the survey found, with an overwhelming 86% expressing confidence in the sector’s allure. Moreover, they exhibit unwavering faith in their ability to sustain employee commitment, rating it at an impressive 7.5 out of 10.

This sector offers pathways for individuals to advance socially and professionally, regardless of their educational background. It stands out as one of the few industries where individuals can achieve rapid success and take on greater responsibilities over time, effectively climbing the social ladder. This unique promise of upward mobility makes it particularly appealing to many. Furthermore, employers place a premium on motivation, soft skills and service-oriented personalities, prioritising these qualities over formal diplomas and are ready to invest in their talents. The overwhelming majority – 93% of HR managers – emphasise the centrality of training in fostering talent excellence, development and long-term loyalty.

On this subject, Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive at Mandarin Oriental, shared: “Architects design the buildings of tomorrow. I would like people coming out of hospitality schools to be able to design the experience of tomorrow.”

Appointments, Logistics, News

New CEO for Kinaxia Logistics

Michael Conroy, a former chief executive of Palletforce, has been appointed as the new CEO of Kinaxia Logistics, succeeding Simon Hobbs who has left after four years to pursue new opportunities.

Simon said of his time at Kinaxia: “We achieved a great deal despite the challenges we faced, and have brought a great business closer together. Kinaxia is now recognised in the UK market as a fresh and capable logistics provider and is well-positioned for its next phase of growth.”

Michael has been recruited to spearhead the next phase of development for Kinaxia, a top 15 UK logistics business with annual turnover of more than £220m.

He led Palletforce through its most significant period of expansion, taking the express freight distribution network’s turnover from £20m to £200m during a 13-year tenure as CEO.

Michael oversaw a £100m strategic investment across the Palletforce business, including the creation of its SuperHub, pioneered award-winning technology and innovation, led the collaboration of over 100 top UK regional hauliers, and was integral in the creation of EV Cargo UK in 2018.

That was followed by a period as CEO of Networks for Culina Group, where he led its digital transformation and achieved significant value creation and financial improvement by focusing on cost reduction, enhanced productivity, and successfully capturing commercial opportunities.

Kinaxia Chairman Graham Norfolk said: “We are delighted to have Michael on board. He is a respected industry figure, with vast experience in senior positions in the UK logistics industry. The board looks forward to working with him as Kinaxia moves into its next stage of development.”

Michael’s remit at Kinaxia will be to lead the group through this next stage of development, with a focus on unlocking further growth potential through scale and technology while simplifying and harmonising company processes, inspiring an inclusive workforce, driving sustainable initiatives and continuing to deliver customer excellence.

He said: “I’m extremely motivated to take up this new position and, despite the expectation of challenging market conditions continuing in 2024, I believe Kinaxia is in a strong position to capitalise on opportunities that exist.

“The business has a unique customer proposition, offering the benefits of a fully-owned and controlled national logistics network, with services delivered directly to customers by our local experts.

“This enables us to develop deep relationships with our existing customers, focus on providing sector-leading service excellence, and win market share from our competitors.”

He added: “Current market dynamics, together with the fragmented nature of the industry, offer a significant opportunity to unlock growth potential.

“We will have an increased focus on leveraging data and technology to reduce waste and improve productivity and efficiency, while also creating value for our customers by developing digital and data-focused solutions that enhance service, provide a competitive advantage and deliver sustainable growth.

“One of our greatest strengths is the talent, expertise and skills which flow throughout Kinaxia. Great people make great businesses, and empowering our workforce by nurturing talent and developing skills will see our people invested in the ethos of ‘one Kinaxia’ and the quality values the brand stands for.”

Kinaxia, which has its headquarters in Macclesfield, Cheshire, employs more than 2,000 staff nationwide with a fleet of over 1,000 vehicles transporting goods for the retail, leisure, food and drink and manufacturing sectors.

The group has 2.7 million sq ft of warehouse facilities nationwide, offering contract packing, e-fulfilment, returns management, storage services and a complete distribution service.

News

Energy boss reinforces call for safe solar on all new-builds and housing developments

AN ENERGY boss has reinforced calls to install solar panels on all new-builds and housing developments in Wales.

And Gareth Jones, Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders for Wales, insists safety must be top priority following a series of incidents in past months, notably a solar panel battery fire on Anglesey.

Gareth, Managing Director of award-winning Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph, Mochdre, Llandudno and Deeside – backed the National Infrastructure Commission for Wales’s (NICW) plea for a review of national building regulations.

They say there must be change if 100% of electricity is to be supplied by renewable energy by 2035.

“It makes total sense for new buildings – especially larger structures that use a lot of energy – to be fitted with solar panels, it is the most cost-effective approach and of course vital for the future of our planet,” said Gareth.

“But it must be done with health and safety in mind given the high number of installers joining the sector that do not have the proper experience and accreditation.

“Installing them in a loft space for example, where temperatures soar in the summer, or the examples we’ve seen of people haphazardly placing panels on roofs without using scaffolding or safety harnesses.

“This problem needs to be fixed, especially as the industry is moving more and more towards renewables – standards need to be kept high to meet that demand.”

New data from the MCS revealed in the first six months of 2023, more than 120,000 certified solar panels, heat pumps and other renewable technologies were installed in UK homes, the highest number ever.

And with the NICW urging Welsh Government to present a plan for energy leading up to 2050, Gareth said much needs to be done immediately to combat issues swirling around the energy arena.

“I have lived and breathed this industry for the last 15 years, so from a health and safety perspective, and a financial and environmental perspective, it is crucial both governments get it right,” he said.

Reflecting on recent incidents, Gareth added: “Solar and battery systems are not fit and forget systems, despite some companies selling them like that.

“They need inspecting regularly by a competent person. If you have a system in a loft right now, get a hard-wired smoke alarm fitted immediately and ensure you have a reputable organisation scheduled for regular maintenance and inspection.

“As a sector we must safeguard the future of our customers, both now and long-term by adopting safely installed renewable energy across the country.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

 

News

‘Community benefit society’ calls for long-term deal after improving thousands of lives through health and exercise

AURA WALES has improved and enhanced the lives of hundreds of thousands of people across Flintshire and beyond over the last five years.

As the employee-owned community benefit society unveiled its vision for the future, staff and board members met to celebrate its achievements in delivering services that have benefited the health and wellbeing of visitors across the region.

Employing more than 250 staff and pumping millions of pounds into the local economy, Aura revealed social impact data relating to its mission of improving lives through health and exercise.

And its strong financial performance means it can continue to reinvest any surplus generated into its leisure and library facilities and services to improve the customer experience and sustain and enhance its offer for the future.

The organisation has made a huge impact county-wide, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation and via its Sports Development Team, working with youths in Holywell and Mostyn, generated £13.16 of social value for every £1 spent.

Addressing the Aura Wales AGM at Deeside Leisure Centre, where more than 150 employees were in attendance, chair Sara Mogel OBE said their post-pandemic results were an “amazing outcome”.

“As a Community Benefit Society, we are always looking for areas where we can add value and enhance the lives of the people of Flintshire; despite other pressures, last year was no exception,” said Mrs Mogel, who also recorded her gratitude to Flintshire County Council for its collaborative approach and support provided during the challenges of recent years.

“We are working in partnership with all town and community councils to ensure safe, high-quality play areas for Flintshire children – and in doing so have enabled more than £1.5million to be invested in over 120 improvement schemes over the past five years.

“We have helped to redevelop Mold Museum, managed a national project promoting good mental health and well-being through our libraries, continued the highly regarded and successful Fit, Fed and Read schemes – attended by more than 5,000 families and young people this summer – and have reduced energy consumption in our leisure facilities.”

She added: “Our leisure services have seen an uptake in membership and last year alone more than 2,500 children learned to swim with Aura every week, which is amazing.

“Numbers are not just returning to the pre pandemic levels but exceeding them, and as an important employer in Flintshire – 90% of our staff live in the county – we are proud to have maintained services while they are being cut in other counties.

“It is because of how valued we are by our community that I, and the Board, are working hard with our partners to secure a long-term contract so we can access even more external funding, work in partnership with even more organisations and invest even more in our people, our services and our facilities.”

Those words were echoed by Aura’s Business Improvement and Performance Manager Paul Jones, who thanked stakeholders and the public for their support.

“We have had fantastic backing over the years and for that we are very grateful, but moving forward from a strategic perspective having a longer-term contract in place would allow us to make even more sustainable, lasting investments to benefit our service users in Flintshire,” he said.

“And it’s not just this county, the ice arena and other facilities are used by people from all over North Wales, the North West and even further afield, bringing tourism to the area and having a major effect on the local economy.

“The traditional image of leisure centres and libraries has completely changed, they are now health and wellbeing hubs, focal points for social and cultural support and development, and we have very much been at the forefront of that, something our strategic vision recognises and seeks to reinforce.”

Aura’s CEO Mike Welch added: “The work of our incredible team has been reflected in these results post-pandemic.

“We will be in discussions over the coming months about the future – which is looking bright – and again would like to thank everyone who has used Aura since its inception. We will continue to deliver a first-class service for the people of Flintshire for many years to come.”

For more news and information from Aura Wales, visit the website www.aura.wales and follow them on social media at @aura_wales.

News

Solar boss urges businesses to switch to renewable energy or risk closure

A LEADING voice in the solar sector urged businesses to switch to renewable energy now or risk closure due to soaring costs.

Across the UK, the combined triple threat of rising gas and electricity bills, supply chain issues and a decrease in consumer spending is hitting the private sector hard.

With no sign of a U-turn in sight, Gareth Jones, Managing Director of Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the Carbon Zero Group based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph, Mochdre, Llandudno and Deeside – warned business owners they need to move to solar power and sustainable alternatives before it’s too late.

A report by Experian revealed up to a third of SMEs in the UK will be unable to absorb the continuing rise in costs, and Gareth believes for their long-term survival, people can no longer “bury their heads in the sand”.

Elsewhere, the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) revealed in the last year, more than 367,300 businesses in the UK have been forced to shut down.

“This number is staggering but what we don’t know is how many of them closed due to increased costs mainly down to energy price increases. My guess is quite a high number,” said Gareth.

Current Vice President of the Federation of Master Builders for Wales and Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales and Mersey Dee Business Council, he added: “It is vital companies make a switch to renewable energy now, rather than waiting and waiting to see if the price of gas and electricity will fall, because even if it does, long-term that’s not the solution.

“From a financial and environmental perspective, moving away from traditional fuel and energy is the right path because we have already seen so many firms make difficult decisions and even close because the cost-of-living crisis has had such a rapid and detrimental impact, with gas and electricity bills one of the key factors.

“Obviously for any business these bills are going up and up, and larger organisations such as manufacturers with multiple sites or a huge premises are going to be hit hard.

“This is the time to get serious, because for some they will likely need planning permission, they’ll need more solar panels and a bigger system, and that takes time, it doesn’t happen overnight.

“Some large projects can take up to 12 months to get to installation phase. However, smaller commercial projects can be installed within three months depending on our workload, and we have to factor in potential shortages of equipment during peak times – the sooner solar panels are installed, the sooner you make savings.”

Gareth believes any business owner that’s not thinking long term and at lowering their carbon footprint needs a reality check.

“We are meeting with dozens of businesses owners a week, helping them navigate these tough times,” he said.

“We are not saying this to worry people, we see the repercussions every day and are here for them. There is assistance out there, so pick up the phone. We need to come together and avoid any more businesses disappearing because in this volatile market, the problem is not going to go away.”

Carbon Zero Renewables is forging new partnerships in different industries – notably retail, tourism, and hospitality – and Gareth says more and more people are seeing the benefits ahead of the summer months.

“Whatever the business, energy is a big part of it, and this is the time to make key decisions, before the colder autumn and winter period,” he added.

“Solar panels are reliable – it doesn’t have to be a bright sunny, day for them to work – and we can forecast quite easily how much it’s going to generate and save per year, whatever the geographical location, giving customers peace of mind.

“Ultimately, for holiday parks, big retail units, business estates and buildings of that size it could save tens of thousands over a period of years, so we hope people will start to make the move, for their bottom line and for the environment. The systems we are installing are the latest technology and the also some of the safest on the market.”

One company to have taken that advice is Palins Holiday Park in Kinmel Bay, whose park manager Louis Ellis said: “We are moving to become a greener and more energy efficient site so installing solar panels was the natural next step as we look to continue lowering our carbon footprint and energy costs and becoming an even more sustainable business.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

News

Energy boss warns of cowboy solar installers as business surges across Wales

CONSUMERS must ensure they are not in the dark when buying solar panels and energy products following a rise in cowboy installers.

Gareth Jones, Vice President for the Federation of Master Builders Wales and Managing Director of Carbon Zero Renewables, is concerned unlicensed and inexperienced companies and individuals are entering the market and capitalising on a boom in green energy due to the increasing cost of gas and electricity.

Carbon Zero Renewables – which has sites in Deeside, Mochdre, St Asaph and a new Old Colwyn headquarters – has experienced a surge in business and taken on staff to meet demand, but Gareth is more focused on shining a light on the possible pitfalls facing homeowners.

“The industry has seen a rise in the number of installers popping up out of nowhere and disappearing again, which, if there is an issue with the panels, leaves the customer with nowhere else to go,” he said.

“We are also hearing of more and more people buying solar panels online and trying to install them themselves, which is a bad idea as insurance companies recommend all installations are done by qualified and certified experts.

“The long-term benefits of renewable energy are positive from an economic and environmental perspective, so people are better doing things the correct way with a credible supplier the first time, so they don’t have to do it again at extra cost.”

A Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council’s new Net Zero North Wales network, Gareth added: “The number of calls we’ve had from homeowners wanting advice because they haven’t been given the correct guidance and the installer isn’t around anymore, is quite frightening.

“This happened in 2015 when there was a similar problem, an influx of new suppliers flooded the market, sold the cheapest products, made some money, and disappeared.

“Given the cost-of-living crisis people cannot afford to be duped, they must do their research and due diligence because this isn’t like buying a toaster, it’s a big investment that if done right can save money and lower your carbon footprint.”

Gareth also revealed – following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request – that fire crews battled an average of 10 solar panel-related fires each month this year across the UK.

“It is so important people have the safest equipment installed or the very least fitted by an accredited company. The average solar panel claim can cost around £8,000 and one claim in 2020 caused £1.5million of damage and made 30 people temporarily homeless at a block of flats in Kent.

“Consumers needs to do their homework and the cheapest quotation isn’t always the best. Sometimes itis cheap for a reason so people must make sure they are getting like-for-like quotes.

“You need to know what you are buying and what the warranties are, this is really important. If it goes wrong who is the warranty with?”

Gareth concluded it is also crucial customers know the difference between a 10-year guarantee and a 10-year warranty; the guarantee is done by a third party – such as an insurance company – and the warranty by the company, but if the company no longer exists where do you turn?

He added: “There is a lot of ill advice out there, and let’s be honest, how many people check what panels are on their roof, or know what happens if one breaks?

“One size does not fit all when it comes to renewable energy, every property is different, so every system needs to be as well – if anyone has any concerns please get in touch because it’s time we came together and resolved this issue at a time when so many families are already struggling.”

For support, guidance, and more information on renewable energy options, visit the website www.carbonzerorenewables.co.uk or call 08450 34 35 40.

Entertainment, News, North of England

Largest maze in North West promises heaps of family fun this summer

The Bolesworth estate, near Tattenhall in Cheshire is inviting local families to enjoy its summer splendour with sunflower picking and the largest maize-maze in the North West.

Children will have the chance to become explorers for the day as they adventure through the dense maze, then find the biggest and best sunflowers to take home as a souvenir.

The six-acre maze promise some of the best Instagram moments with a stunning backdrop of the magnificent Bolesworth Castle.

With nine varieties of sunflowers available to pick, visitors really will be spoilt for choice!

Picnic spots, arts crafts and refreshments, including Cheshire’s finest ice cream are all available – adding to the atmosphere of any trip.

Unlike many mazes across the country which have had to be cancelled or postponed, the Picking Patch team at Bolesworth have said that they have been very lucky with the recent growth spurt of both maize and sunflowers.

Nina Barbour, managing director at Bolesworth said: “The weather was definitely on our side as the rain came at the very last moment to help the beautiful flowers grow. A lot of hard work has gone into making the maze perfect and we can’t wait to see excited, happy faces as they spend the day navigating, exploring and having fun.”

The maze was planted in mid-May and has since grown into a wildlife hot-spot attracting lots of bees, wild birds and deer. Over winter, the maze and sunflowers will be left to provide food and shelter for deer and birds.

Bolesworth’s maize-maze and sunflower picking patch will open at 9.30am on Saturday the 20th of August, and run right through to the last entry slot at 1.30pm on Sunday the 4th of September. 

Free parking is provided on site and equipment such as secateurs, gloves and a bag are provided to help everyone to pick flowers like a pro.

Located just eight miles south of Chester off the A41, Bolesworth is renowned for hosting international equestrian as well as family events guaranteed to surprise, excite and thrill.

A series of events are lined up over the next couple of months, including a spooktacular maze with pumpkin picking, Gandeys Halloween Circus extravaganza, and an electrifying fireworks display and night show to end the Bolesworth Autumn season. Then it’s over to Christmas at Bolesworth.

Entertainment, Events, News, North of England

Peel L&P Invokes the past for ‘Hulton Park Happenings’

The Hulton family, the first owners of Bolton’s historic Hulton Park estate, may have gone, but their strong sense of community support and pride is being re-awakened this summer with a special programme of events curated by Peel L&P.

Hulton Park will throw wide its gates this Summer for Hulton Park Happenings, a community focused event series which will open up the Park for a special weekend featuring everything from historical guided park walks and outdoor cinema screenings to a family PlayFest, maypole dancing and even disco yoga.

The announcement of more Hulton Park Happenings follows this month’s hugely popular Community Archaeological Dig, which saw more than 400 people from all ages and walks of life join experts from the University of Salford to excavate the site of the former Hulton Hall.

The next happening in the line-up will be a late summer Garden Party which will take place on 3rd and 4th September, 11.30am – 6pm, inspired by the Hulton families own garden parties in the 18-1900s. Taking direct influence from the Hulton’s 1905 garden party, which featured The Wingates Temperance Band, the 2022 event will feature the modern-day Wingates Brass band. They will entertain guests and those taking part in the traditional Garden Games – featuring an egg and spoon race, quoits and a Tug of War competition – recreating events which were a feature of the Hulton family’s own garden party 117 years ago.

Peel L&P’s long-term vision for the circa 900-acre Hulton Park includes restoring parts of the estate back to its former glory, including the pleasure grounds – where the Happenings will take place. Peel L&P is also planning on restoring the historic walled kitchen garden and serpentine lake and creating new walking and cycling routes through the Park for the public to enjoy.

 

Emma Green, Project Manager for the Hulton Park Happenings at landowners Peel L&P says the events planned for the Garden Party weekend have been inspired by the estate’s long history as a cornerstone of the local community.

“Hulton Park Happenings is a celebration of place, culture and having fun. Hulton Park has such a fascinating history and by delving into local historical records and using the expert knowledge of our Peel Group archivist, we have established a detailed picture of the Hulton family and the Estate, which we have used to inspire our thinking and creativity for our Hulton Park Happenings event series.

“It is important we celebrate and learn from local history but also make our happenings as fun and inclusive for our new neighbours as possible. We hope these events will re-connect the community with the Estate, which has been closed to them for many decades. With such a vibrant and diverse line up of activities and partnerships, there will be something for everyone. It really is all happening at Hulton Park!”

 

Hulton Park Happenings Garden Party will welcome a special collaboration with Parentfolk, the community and family space curators who have previously collaborated with CBBC, Camp Bestival Shropshire, BRIO, NEXT, LUSH and Wonderbly to create memorable family content and experiences.

Parentfolk are renowned for creating alternative family socials, completely different to regular family events, designed for ‘folk raising folk.’ They are set to deliver a beautifully curated and inviting play space, PlayFest, where kids play meet’s micro festival, with different activations from music, to play and make and do, to performances.

 

Nic Spindler, Founder, Parentfolk said: ‘We’re delighted to be teaming up with Peel L&P for an exciting weekend of culture, heritage, and family cool at the Hulton Park Happenings Garden Party. Having visited this beautiful and historical location we’re looking forward to being part of this community focused inclusive weekend, and we have had so much fun planning our signature PlayFest social space for families.

“Our event spaces always focus on opportunities for families to make memories together so expect some kids vs parents games, family style silent disco adventures, vibrant craft workshops, bake space, face art and glitter bar, plus comedy performances, storytelling, and lots of great music! We’re bringing some ParentFolk pals along with us too, so there’ll be fun activations from brands such as Harvey Nichols Kids too. We’re looking forward to this special Garden Party Weekend at Hulton Park Happenings, and can’t wait to bring an engaging line up for kids and their grown-ups.”

 

After a weekend packed full of activities, the Garden Party will close with a live ‘Sofa Cinema Club’ podcast recording and outdoor film screening. The hit podcast produced by Audio Always, is hosted by Coronation Street Stars, Colson Smith, Ben Price and Jack P. Shepherd. Garden Party goers will be invited to settle down, snuggle up, and set aside the rest of the late afternoon to immerse themselves in the film and relax. The film being screened is to be revealed soon.

Entertainment, News, North of England

Grease Is The Word At Bolesworth

Bolesworth Events is hosting a special showing of the pop-culture phenomenon movie Grease next Friday, the 19th of August.

This open-air big-screen movie night is being brought to the world-class Cheshire venue thanks to popular demand, and to celebrate the life of star Dame Olivia Newton-John, who sadly passed away earlier this week.

The block-buster movie, which needs little by way of introduction, is one of the most successful musical romantic comedies of all time. It’s a timeless family-pleaser and has a cheerfully corny clean-cut approach. It follows the journey of wholesome exchange student Sandy Olsson meeting leather-clad ‘greaser’ Danny Zuko, before falling in love and ultimately donning black shiny spandex leggings an performing the classic ‘You’re the one that I want’ … The film also stars John Travolta, Stockard Channing, Eve Arden and Frankie Avalon.

To keep the good-feel party vibe flowing, DJ Mylez will be playing the decks from 6pm, before and after the movie, right up until midnight on both Friday and Saturday nights.

Tickets, which are anticipated to sell out quickly, are priced at £16.50 per adult, £7.70 child (12 and under), with great-value food and drink packages available from just £19.50 per adult.

Gates open at 6pm, allowing everyone to grab refreshments, take their places and get settled in the huge Bolesworth arena, prior to the start of the film at 7.30pm.

Other brilliant movies such as The Greatest Showroom, Encanto, Mama Mia!, Encanto and Bohemian Rapsody will be screened over the weekend.

Located just eight miles south of Chester off the A41, Bolesworth is renowned for hosting international equestrian as well as family events guaranteed to surprise, excite and thrill.