Julian joins Lincolnshire Chamber to boost exports in the county’s south and east

Stuart Pearcey
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Julian joins Lincolnshire Chamber to boost exports in the county’s south and east

Julian Sigauke has joined the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce as its  International Trade Coach working with the International Trade team supporting businesses of all sizes within the South & East of Lincolnshire. 

He has been working within the Import and Export industry since 2009. He has represented popular brands, including PepsiCo Snacks,Heineken Lion match products and Kimberly Clarke. Before his appointment he has been supporting UK companies of all sizes looking to export to various African Markets. 

Julian joins the team at what’s seen as a pivotal moment of growth as the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce aims to develop and increase its International Trade offering, currently including Export Documentation, Chamber Customs, Peer to Peer Network, Training and Events, Advising and Consulting, and Translation Services.  

He said: “The opportunity to support local businesses and help them bring down costs to assist them in competing within the market is inspiring. I look forward to playing a key role in consulting with them and supporting their growth in international markets.” Simon Beardsley, Chief Executive of Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, said “With a thorough understanding of global markets and proven experience working within the industry and navigating complex international trade landscapes, Julian is a valuable addition to our organisation.” “I look forward to seeing his expertise enhance our capabilities and offerings, supporting more businesses across Lincolnshire to grow and develop.”

Multi-million-pound investment to support development in Calderdale to be discussed

Tess Egginton
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Multi-million-pound investment to support development in Calderdale to be discussed
A multi-million-pound investment to support development in south east Calderdale is to be discussed at a meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 12 February 2024. Members will consider proposals for significant investment to enable new sustainable growth opportunities in and around Brighouse, which will support the delivery of the Local Plan for Calderdale. New garden communities at Woodhouse in Rastrick and Thornhills in Brighouse, are a major part of the Local Plan for Calderdale which was adopted in March 2023. Together, these developments have potential capacity to provide around 3,000 new homes, two primary schools and a range of community facilities. The garden communities form part of a wider programme of transformation across south east Calderdale, which also includes the planned delivery of Clifton Business Park – the largest employment land allocation in the Local Plan. These strategic housing and employment sites together comprise a scale of development which is locally unprecedented. It requires equally ambitious infrastructure improvements and the report being discussed by Cabinet outlines the level of investment needed to successfully deliver the projects. Cabinet will be asked to agree to the proposed investment and recommend to Council that £52 million is allocated into the Council’s Capital programme to allow for the work required to unlock the potential of the land. This would be funded by borrowing and by future house builders, for infrastructure necessary for development schemes within the garden communities. The investment would also support elements of the A641 improvement scheme, being funded through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund. This looks to improve the infrastructure and connectivity on this key route through Brighouse, linking Huddersfield and Bradford and ensuring that communities in south east Calderdale have access to sustainable transport options. It also complements wider investment in Brighouse through the Government’s Town Deal, with over £19 million supporting projects which aim to transform Brighouse by encouraging more people to shop, spend time and spend money in the town. In addition, the garden communities are estimated to increase local spend by around £37 million each year, further benefitting local businesses. Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Active Travel and Housing, Cllr Scott Patient, said: “Supporting this major investment in south east Calderdale would help us to deliver on our growth ambitions and allow for much needed new, high-quality homes, employment sites and critical transport infrastructure in this strategically significant part of the borough. “The developments, as part of the Local Plan, will build a better Calderdale for everyone, opening up opportunities for new investment, helping to create new jobs and supporting thriving towns and places. This would be an investment to unlock the potential of the area and ensure we deliver against the Local Plan objectives and that the schemes are sustainable.”

Cultural sector generates £224m for Hull

Tess Egginton
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Cultural sector generates £224m for Hull
Hull has seen a £224.8 million boost since 2015 thanks to the creative and cultural sector. New research commissioned by the council evidences a 20 per cent increase in GVA in the culture and creative sector since 2015, with around 7,000 people now working in creative industries in the city. Results also show an £18 million wage equivalent from volunteering in 2022-23 alone from assessing the HEY! Volunteer programme, alongside £25.9 million well-being benefits for those participating in creative and cultural activities. The research has been conducted by KADA Research, specialists in economic development consultancy, who as part of this work have compiled a creative asset database for the city. The database includes any locations that support culture and creativity to take place, whether that be a venue or community centre. The report explores the findings and learnings from the database and the council are using it to consider how best to support cultural infrastructure moving forward. Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: “The results of this research are great news for the city and the future of culture and creativity as a major industry. “The asset database will become an extremely valuable tool, acting as a directory for future event planning in the city. “All of the information gathered from this in-depth research will help us to inform the new cultural strategy which is currently in development.” The research results will be used to move plans forward for a UNESCO Creative City of Music bid in 2025.

East Riding’s Under Sheriff joins Williamsons

Stuart Pearcey
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East Riding’s Under Sheriff joins Williamsons

Hugo Moore will work from the Hull and Bridlington branches of Williamsons Solicitors on estate administration, will drafting and Lasting Powers of Attorney.

The ‘fishing, rugby and wine lover’ lives in Beverley with his wife and two young daughters, is also the Under Sheriff for the East Riding of Yorkshire, supporting the work of High Sheriff Tina Cerutti by advising on various formalities associated with the Royal office. Mr Moore said that he was looking forward to contributing to the firm’s success. “I gain great satisfaction working in this area of law as I enjoy forming strong relationships with my clients and working for multiple generations of the same family.” Rebecca Bisby of Williamsons said: “We are thrilled that Hugo has joined our thriving department which is on course to becoming the most knowledgeable, trusted and well-respected private client service in the region. “He has an excellent reputation and makes a solid addition to our hard working and committed team.” Mr Moore qualified in 2006 after studying law at the University of Leeds followed by York College of Law. After initially working for a large firm in Leeds, he returned to the East Riding in 2010.

Sewell and Hull KR extend naming rights deal

Stuart Pearcey
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Sewell and Hull KR extend naming rights deal

Hull KR and Sewell Group have extended their agreement over the club’s stadium naming rights partnership until the end of the 2025 season.

The two-year deal sees the stadium referred to as Sewell Group Craven Park and continues the partnership cementing Sewell Group and Hull KR at the heart of the East Hull Community.

Hull KR Chief Executive Paul Lakin said: “Naturally we are delighted to extend the partnership for our prestigious stadium naming rights with the Sewell Group. Throughout the partnership so far, we have delivered so much wonderful activity for our community.

“From distributing free Rugby League balls to 700 youngsters in the City, supporting our Community Christmas Dinners to the free sticker collection towards the end of last season, plus lots more.

“What started as a commercial partnership, has of course progressed over time, working closer and closer with the Group. In same way that we were both formed over 140 years ago with strong East Hull roots, our kindred spirit continues, with both organisations growing rapidly over the last two years and become recognised regionally as leaders in our respective fields.

“For us of course, we have seen strong growth off the field, alongside a growing talent pool over now over 365 players across 14 teams, making us the most inclusive club in the City.

“Over the partnership, we have learned a lot from Sewell Group about their culture, and how they became a Times Top 100 place to work. We look forward to building on that, alongside all the Community activity and engagement rollout.” Sewel Group Finance Director Simon Davison,said: ‘We know the fantastic work Hull KR do in the local area to support the health and wellbeing of the community, so we are delighted to be able to support this relationship: “Extending our partnership is testament what we’ve developed over the last two years, and our collective commitment to support people and communities across the City. “For us, this is about much more than putting our logo on a stadium – we’re proud to have been based in East Hull since we were established and continue to be part of local life, enabling people to get involved in sport and supporting wider initiatives with various community partners linked to the club. This began several years ago with us sponsoring community sections in the ground, then the North Stand, and now the entire stadium.”

West Yorkshire Mayor approves £866m budget plans

Tess Egginton
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West Yorkshire Mayor approves £866m budget plans
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin has hailed the approval of region-wide spending plans for the coming year. The West Yorkshire Combined Authority officially approved its annual budget at a meeting yesterday morning, with a planned total spend of £866m over the next year. The bulk of the Combined Authority’s spending will be on transport, with long-term planning for Mass Transit continuing, as well as the funding of the £2 mayor’s fares capped bus tickets for everyone in the region. The budget also includes extra funding to help improve bus services, support cultural events such as Bradford 2025 and improve access to jobs and skills for people across the region. The Combined Authority is also investing in the region’s future, with infrastructure spending for the coming year totalling nearly £500m. The Mayor said: “Devolution is working for West Yorkshire and I am proud of the work we have done over the past year to drive economic growth, boost skills, and lay the groundwork for an accessible and reliable public transport network. “But we should be under no illusions about the financial challenges facing our local authority partners. We are supporting where we can but town halls must be properly funded by government to deliver frontline services, otherwise our potential will be held back. “This balanced and fair budget that we have agreed today will deliver on our long-term plan and lasting change for the people of West Yorkshire as we create a region that works for all.”

Administrators appointed at Doncaster manufacturer

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Administrators appointed at Doncaster manufacturer
A Doncaster-based manufacturer and supplier of carbon cathode blocks has fallen into administration, following increasing financial difficulties. Chris Petts and Philip Stephenson of Grant Thornton UK LLP were appointed Joint Administrators of Bawtry Carbon Limited on 31 January 2024. The company is a 100% exporter servicing a global customer base through manufacturing and supplying carbon cathodes and ramming pastes used by aluminium smelting companies. The company’s production facility is based in Doncaster and is one of a small number of suppliers within the EU to provide cathodes used in the production of aluminium. The company has suffered significant financial challenges in recent years through exposure to unfavourable economic conditions resulting from COVID-19, the conflict in Ukraine, and raw material and energy cost inflations. All these, in turn, have created internal pressure on the company’s cash flow. In response to these challenges, the directors sought to undertake a review of operations and explored options for the sale of the business and assets. However, due to continued strain on cash flows during this process, the sale was unsuccessful, and the directors resolved to place the company into administration. The administrators are exploring options on next steps, working closely with clients and creditors to preserve and maximise value in the work in progress. Joint Administrator Chris Petts said: “Despite the company’s niche manufacturing presence within the EU and strong customer relationships, the severe impact of recent external pressures combined with the credit failure of a key customer meant that it was not in a financial position to continue trading. “We have had to make the difficult decision to wind down operations whilst the next options are explored, regrettably meaning the majority of the 105 workforce have been made redundant. “Our immediate priority is to provide support to all the employees impacted by the administration and are providing support for affected staff in making applications to the Redundancy Payments Service. We will continue to update all stakeholders regularly while this process unfolds.” Bawtry Carbon had been backed by Enact, a private equity fund, since 2019. Chris Cormack, partner in Enact, Bawtry’s majority shareholder, said: “We are naturally disappointed not to have led an ultimately successful turnaround of Bawtry Carbon, which we backed through a MBO in 2019. “Over the last four years and through our period of investment, we have been very supportive of the business, committing significant capital on acquisition of the business in 2019, and injecting further capital in 2023. “However, the macroeconomic events of COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine have been felt throughout the Aluminium smelting industry both by the company and its customer base. The credit downgrade of its largest customer has ultimately made it impossible to continue as a going concern.”

Andrew Jackson boosts contentious probate team with senior appointment

Tess Egginton
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Andrew Jackson boosts contentious probate team with senior appointment
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has welcomed Mandy Anfield, who joins the firm’s contentious probate team as a consultant. With many years’ experience, Mandy has helped many clients across a range of property disputes and contested probate claims throughout her career, with particular expertise in handling disputed wills and inheritance act claims. Well known across the Hull and East Yorkshire region, Mandy acts for both claimants and defendants in disputes ranging from challenges to the validity of a will, to claims for financial provision by beneficiaries or individuals omitted from a will. She is also skilled in sensitively handling disputes between beneficiaries, executors and trustees. Mandy Anfield said: “I have always been aware of the strength and experience of Andrew Jackson’s wider litigation team and I’m really looking forward to helping to build our existing reputation and continuing to provide an exceptional service and advice to the clients we work with.” Commercial Litigation partner Hugh Smith added: “Mandy’s proactive, client focused and tenacious approach means that she is highly regarded by her clients, so we are delighted that she has joined us, strengthening further our services as we can continue to provide the highest standards in service and value for our clients.”

Another tenant secured for second phase of PLP Bessemer Park

Tess Egginton
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Another tenant secured for second phase of PLP Bessemer Park
PLP has secured another tenant at the second phase of PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield. Dormole Limited have pre let Unit 4, which is a new 137,000 sq ft state of the art logistics and industrial facility and will practically complete in February. This letting now represents over a third of Phase 2 being let prior to construction completion. This builds upon the success of Phase 1, which saw 100% of the development leased prior to practical completion. There are now only two units remaining, 97,000 sq ft and 294,000 sq ft, which will complete shortly and are available to lease. Richard Morton, Group Operations Director, said: “With immediate access to the M1 and accessibility to the UK at large from a central position (Sheffield), and with the PLP Bessemer Park development sharing our business values in ‘high quality’ and ‘environmental consideration’, it is the ideal development and location for the business’s future.” Hugh Chesterton, Development Director at PLP, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Dormole to PLP Bessemer Park. This new leasing is another stamp of approval for Sheffield’s premier industrial and logistics location.” Knight Frank, Moriarty & Co and CBRE are the appointed leasing agents for the development. Dormole were represented by Blue Tile Property Consultants.

Investment in health tech research and training by Google unveiled for South Yorkshire

Tess Egginton
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Investment in health tech research and training by Google unveiled for South Yorkshire
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are working with Google to invest in groundbreaking research, apprenticeships and digital skills training across the South Yorkshire region. These academic, medical, and local government institutions have come together to form the South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub, a digital innovation centre that will use this investment to help tackle the health inequalities in the region and drive economic growth. As part of this, the South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub will work with Google on a series of pioneering research opportunities. The first of these – the PUMAS study – aims to understand whether Pixel smartphone sensors that detect light, radar, and electrical signals from the heart could aid the detection of common conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol and chronic kidney disease. Early detection of these conditions could help people to make informed lifestyle choices which could slow down, and even in some cases prevent their progression. The first of its kind study, which looks at how digital technologies could transform the way that people interact with their health, has the potential to save lives, improve health outcomes and alleviate NHS pressures. Google will also provide 500 Fitbits for a separate study on post-surgical rehabilitation. Tim Chico, Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Sheffield and Director of South Yorkshire’s Digital Health Hub, said: “We launched this health hub because we know that the more information we have about patients’ health as early as possible, the more opportunities we will have to make a difference. “With partners like Google, we are able to look at how we harness technology to support that information gathering to support patients and medical professionals to make decisions together earlier leading to better outcomes. Bringing together patients, healthcare professionals, researchers and companies creates a community of practice – it’s the future.” The research will take place through the South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub, a £4m partnership led by the two universities alongside partners in health and business, to drive the development of innovative digital technologies to improve the way diseases are diagnosed and treated. The Hub is hosted at Sheffield Hallam’s world-leading Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC), which is dedicated to improving health and wellbeing through innovations that help people move. Steve Haake MBE, Professor of Sports Engineering at Sheffield Hallam University and Deputy Director of the Digital Health Hub, said: “Our vision is to develop digital health tools that incorporate information from daily life to help patients and healthcare professionals make the right decisions at the right time. “I am delighted to be working collaboratively across the region and with industry partners like Google whose expertise and support will be invaluable to the success of the Digital Health Hub and its ability to improve people’s health outcomes across South Yorkshire.” To ensure that the region is equipped with the digital skills needed to harness these new technologies and unlock growth opportunities, The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University will also have access to 500 Google Career Certificate scholarships for their students and people working or aspiring to work in digital health across the region. These scholarships will cover the cost of Google Career Certificates, training which provides learners with job ready, entry level qualifications in subjects such as cybersecurity, data analytics, project management, user experience and IT support. The three-year long partnership will see the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority work with Google to fund 30 digital apprenticeships for small businesses in South Yorkshire. The funding will be made available to local businesses for both upskilling existing employees and supporting new apprentices. This will enable businesses across South Yorkshire to retain and develop employees as well as expand, creating high-impact job opportunities in the region. VP & Managing Director for Google UK and Ireland, Debbie Weinstein, added: “We’re proud to be supporting South Yorkshire’s academic, medical and local government institutions as they explore how technology could improve quality of life, alleviate NHS pressures and drive economic growth. “Technology has the power to transform the nation’s health and we recognize the need for an approach that unlocks both the innovative tools and the skills needed to implement these solutions. That’s why we’re excited to have this opportunity to invest in this cross-sector collaboration which we hope will drive lasting change and serve as a proof of concept for other regions across the UK.”
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