News
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Maidenhead: Leading law firm strengthens Real Estate team with two new Partners
Gardner Leader, a leading regional law firm, has expanded its Real Estate team with the appointment of Partners Charlotte Botham and Belinda Sinnott, as the firm continues to respond to growing demand for specialist real estate expertise across the Thames Valley and South East. The region’s…
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Thorndown Reveals the Comforting Colours Shaping Autumn Design
IMAGE CREDIT: Lol Johnson Photography Rich, enveloping tones inspired by nature are set to be a defining influence across interior and exterior design this autumn. According to eco paint brand Thorndown, the seasonal shift towards colder, darker months is encouraging homeowners to embrace comforting…
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Meet niva – the plant pot designed for modern gardens
Embargo: 1st of September 2026 For many gardeners, creating a vibrant, stylish outdoor space is the goal but achieving that look is becoming increasingly expensive. With rising costs, even simple updates like new plant pots can feel more like a luxury than an easy seasonal refresh. That’s where…
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Media firms partner with Telford College in exciting new scheme
Telford College has joined forces with media companies to create a groundbreaking scheme aimed at plugging skills gaps and creating opportunities for students across the region. The innovative project has seen the college meet with firms in PR, journalism, audio and video production and other areas…
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Newhaven Enterprise Zone delivers £62k funding for pub and restaurant
A pizza restaurant and micropub are revitalising the high street after Newhaven Enterprise Zone (NEZ) granted them almost £62,000 of funding to help them open. Pat's Pizza received more than £20,000 while Newhaven Tap benefited from a more than £40k boost. These new openings build on the town's…
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Weston Park scoops medal at world gin awards
A stately home on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border is toasting success after scooping an international gin medal – just three years after distilling its first bottle. Weston Park’s Walled Garden Rhubarb Gin was awarded bronze in the England Country Flavoured Gin category at the prestigious…
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Show bungalow set to open at Newport’s £20 million retirement village
A new £20m retirement village in Newport has reached a major milestone with the opening of its first show home. Sundew Court, which is being developed by Integrated Retirement Community (IRC) specialist, Untold Living, is set to open to residents later this year. The village offers a purpose-built…
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Successful start to exciting Foundry initiative for young business leaders
A host of young professionals have come together for the launch of a bold new initiative - aimed at nurturing the next generation of business leaders in the Black Country. Created by the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, The Foundry, designed for individuals and business owners aged 35 and under…
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Ditch the Airport Queues This Summer – Why Camping in the Woods Could Be the Ultimate Staycation
Delayed flights, passport panics, baggage restrictions, traffic to the airport and the ever-growing cost of travelling abroad – it's no wonder more Brits are looking closer to home for their summer adventures. For those wanting to escape without the stress, one type of staycation is quietly…
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Beach House Art Captures Mediterranean Calm in New Fine Art Print Range
Homeowners are looking to southern Europe for interiors inspiration, according to new research from coastal-inspired art studio Beach House Art. Using data from Pinterest, Beach House Art found searches for ‘Mediterranean Interior’ have climbed by 50 per cent in the past month and 40 per cent…
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Singapore unveils 250-hectare Greater Sentosa transformation to the public
‘Your Island. Reimagined.’ exhibition reveals landscape-led plans for new nature experiences, reimagined beaches and island connections New details of Singapore’s ambitious plans to transform Sentosa and Pulau Brani into a more connected, nature-rich island destination have been unveiled, as a…
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Three new appointments support SafeSite Facilities' expansion
SafeSite Facilities has strengthened its transport and business development teams with three new appointments as the company continues to expand its operations across the UK. Steve Hyam joins as transport manager, Karen Alabaster as a business development executive and Martin Penn as senior…
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Keep Summer Harvests Thriving with Nemasys Fruit and Veg Protection
Summer is one of the most exciting and rewarding times in the garden. After weeks or even months of care, fruit and vegetables begin to ripen, beds are full of colour, and the promise of fresh, homegrown produce becomes a reality. However, while plants are thriving in the warm conditions, pests are…
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Students tour £10 million transport hub’s construction site
Students from Kingstone High School in Hereford were given an insight into construction of the town’s new £10 million transport hub. The Year 10 students saw first-hand the transformative project being delivered by Telford construction firm McPhillips on behalf of Herefordshire Council. As…
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Prune Power: California Prune Board tackles misconceptions about dried fruit
The California Prune Board is seeking to dispel common misconceptions and share some surprising truths about prunes, as it ramps up global efforts to spotlight their role as a nutritious, everyday snack. High in fibre, prunes have long been perceived as a remedy for digestive issues. For some…
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PTSD Resolution Is Finalist for the Soldiering on Awards 2026
PTSD Resolution, the national charity providing specialist trauma therapy for veterans, reservists and their families, is named as a finalist for the Soldiering On Awards 2026 in the Health Care and Rehabilitation Award category. Founded in 2009, the charity has treated more than 5,000 veterans…
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How to care for your houseplants in a heatwave: the essential dos and don’ts
As temperatures rise and homes begin to trap the summer heat, houseplants can quickly go from thriving to struggling. While many of us welcome the sunshine, indoor plants – particularly those that prefer cooler or more humid environments - can suffer in hot, dry conditions. According to Angharad…
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The garden is the new entertaining room, and it's about more than just dining
Outdoor entertaining is evolving. While good food remains at the heart of any gathering, homeowners are increasingly placing just as much importance on the overall experience, transforming gardens into inviting spaces designed for relaxing, socialising and creating lasting memories. From coordinated…
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Nottingham Urged To Come Together For The Final Splendour
This July will be the final ever Splendour, it has been announced today. After 18 years at the heart of Nottingham summers, organisers of the much loved festival in Wollaton Park have revealed this July will be its final outing. A special 2 for 1 offer has been released today, giving the…
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Summer Deals at Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland
Exquisite Northumberland castle hotel, Langley Castle, has special offers running this summer for guests and afternoon tea lovers who are in the area. All are ideal for anyone wanting to experience life like a knight or medieval lady, in an authentic and aesthetically stunning castle, built in…
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McPhillips recognised by Ministry of Defence for commitment to veterans
Shropshire contractor McPhillips has been recognised by the Ministry of Defence for its sustained commitment to supporting the armed forces community. The Telford-based civil engineer and construction company is one of 331 in the UK to receive a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award…
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£20,000 appeal launched to get children out of the classroom
A leading outdoor education charity has launched a £20,000 appeal to ensure more school children get the chance to go on school trips. Research suggests that nearly half of all children in the UK are currently missing out on school trips due to cost – a situation the Field Studies Council says…
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AMufacture responds to Defence Investment Plan
The UK’s leading additive manufacturing contract manufacturer has warned the UK could not squander the defence dividend in the same way it had wasted the peace dividend. Craig Pyser – chief executive of 3D printing specialist AMufacture – said the Defence Investment Plan (DIP) was “a…
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BCIS reveals updated five-year maintenance, cleaning and energy forecast
Maintenance costs, as measured by the BCIS All-in Maintenance Cost Indices, are set to rise by 15.7% over the five years to 1Q2031, according to the latest forecast data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). Cleaning costs are expected to rise by 29.1% over the same period, driven…
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Packaging specialists join forces to create PackReady
Compliance specialist Valpak by Reconomy and innovation expert ThePackHub have teamed up to launch PackReady – a new service that provides advice on current and upcoming legislation, innovative design changes and data-driven solutions. The partnership combines regulatory expertise and data-led…
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California Prune Board welcomes EU 0% tariff announcement
The California Prune Board has welcomed the EU/U.S. tariff agreement announcement, which is set to improve market access for selected American agricultural and fishery goods - including prunes and prune juice - from today (1st July 2026). It follows the Council of the European Union’s formal…
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Steak and Chips – a Wood-fired Oven Treat for Any England World Cup Match
The nation watches with baited breath for England football games, with all hungry for more 1966-style success. But what could feed the hunger of all those footie fan friends who gather around your wood-fired oven from Valoriani? What English fare could you serve up, to really fit the bill? Well…
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Seven Stunning Finishes Define Porcelain Superstore’s New Galaxy Tile Range
Independent interiors retailer Porcelain Superstore has launched a new stone-effect tile collection designed to bring depth, drama and a touch of celestial style to the home. Introducing Galaxy. Available in seven finishes, Galaxy combines the beauty of natural stone with the practicality of…
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Automation specialist Transicon welcomes DIP but calls for SME support
West Midlands engineering firm Transicon has welcomed the Government’s increased defence spending pledge – but called for major changes around access for SMEs. The long-awaited Defence Investment Plan has now finally been published – with a further £13.5bn of investment to drive innovation…
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Seedball helps retailers meet growing demand for sustainable, wildlife-friendly gardening
As consumer demand for sustainable gardening products continues to rise, Seedball, is helping garden centres and horticultural retailers capitalise on the growing interest in biodiversity and wildlife-friendly gardening with an easy-to-stock, easy-to-shop product range. Specialising in seed balls…
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Care Providers Urged To Look Beyond Compliance As Oliver McGowan Training Moves From Rollout To Impact
The Health & Safety Group is urging care providers to look beyond compliance when delivering The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism, after seeing growing demand for the course. The call comes as the sector approaches the 10th anniversary of Oliver McGowan’s death…
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Shropshire manufacturing giants join forces with Telford College to build new food and drink apprenticeship
Three of Shropshire's biggest food and drink manufacturers are partnering with Telford College to design a brand new engineering apprenticeship. Kraft Heinz, Avara Foods and Pickstock are joining forces with the college to develop the new qualification aimed at delivering the skills the sector needs…
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14forty clinches major long-term extension with Wavin
Integrated FM specialist 14forty has secured a new three-year contract extension with Wavin - the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of plastic drainage and piping solutions. The announcement takes 14forty’s relationship with one of their longest-held clients to 12 years in total and was won…
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Gumbo – The Perfect One-Pot Pizza Oven Dish for USA’s World Cup Footie Games
“Jambalaya, crawfish pie, filé gumbo”, sang The Carpenters and there’s not much more traditionally American than the southern delight that is filé gumbo. This stew-type soup, originating in Louisiana, brings together three main cuisines – European, Native American and West African, with…
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MaxContact is named one of the UK's most thriving companies to work for
MaxContact, the Manchester-based customer engagement software provider, has been named one of the UK's most thriving companies to work for in the 2026 Culture 100 Awards, earning national recognition for its people-first culture. The accolade places MaxContact among an elite group of 100 UK-based…
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Scope 3 without the headache: supplier data, carbon footprints and cradle-to-gate emissions
By Timothy Holman Scope 3 emissions are often the largest part of an organisation’s footprint, and they are usually the hardest to measure well. This article focuses on Category 1: purchased goods and services. Complex supply chains, inconsistent data, and varying supplier maturity make purchased…
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Charles Bentley expands Acacia collections with stylish new pieces for outdoor entertaining
As homeowners look to make the most of their outdoor spaces, Charles Bentley has expanded its popular Acacia furniture collection with a selection of new dining and lounging pieces designed to bring style, comfort and flexibility to garden living. Crafted from FSC-certified wood, the new additions…
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BCIS reveals updated five-year construction industry forecast
Building costs are forecast to increase by 13.1% over the next five years, while tender prices are expected to rise by 15.5% over the same period, according to the latest construction forecast data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). Total new work output is forecast to contract by…
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McPhillips machine driver retires after 50 years
A machine driver from Telford has retired after an incredible 50-year career with award winning construction firm McPhillips. Mark Busby, aged 66, joined the company as a labourer in March 1975 when he was just 16-years-old. Now after five decades of unbroken service, Mark, known to his colleagues…
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Work begins on bespoke home for South East's first 3D metal printer
Sussex contractor Pilbeam Construction has started work to refurbish a building at the University of Sussex to upgrade the mechanical workshop capabilities, including installing the South East's only state-of-the-art 3D metal printer. The printer will soon be moved into the newly named Firle…
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Mer powers eHGVs for Wren Kitchens with bespoke depot charging installation
Consett UK, 29 June 2026: Mer Fleet Services, the specialist fleet electrification business, has completed a bespoke EV charging installation for Wren Kitchens and Bedrooms at its Barton upon Humber depot in North Lincolnshire, supporting the retailer's programme of initiatives to achieve Net Zero
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How the right gloves simplify summer garden care
Summer is when the garden demands the most attention. Plants are growing quickly, weeds are establishing fast, and regular maintenance becomes a weekly job rather than an occasional one. Having the right pair of gloves makes those tasks easier, more comfortable and far more effective. As specialists…
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Grow together– greenhouses for budding gardeners
Make this autumn the season that your little ones catch the gardening bug. Town & Country’s new greenhouse collection is perfect for giving children their own space to sow, plant, and care for their very own crops – all while keeping plants protected and thriving well throughout autumn. From…
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Beyond branded pens: Seedball helps businesses rethink corporate gifting
From plastic pens and keyrings to notebooks and mugs, traditional corporate gifts have long been used by businesses to build relationships and reward employees. However, as sustainability continues to rise up the corporate agenda, many organisations are moving away from disposable giveaways that can…
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SNACK SMART: KALLØ LAUNCHES NEW POPPED CORN CAKES, THE ULTIMATE GUILT-FREE SOFA TREAT
Kallø, the natural food company, is set to launch its big flavour Popped Corn Cake range that makes light work of healthier snacking. Inspired by traditional bags of cinema popcorn, Kallø Popped Corn Cakes (RRP, £2.75) will initially launch in six indulgent flavours: Cinnamon, Caramel, Buttery…
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Geopolitical tensions ease as tender prices rise in 2Q2026
Tender prices increased by an estimated 1.0% between 1Q2026 and 2Q2026, according to the latest data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). The increase resulted in 3.2% annual growth in the BCIS All-in Tender Price Index (TPI). The estimate reflects the consensus view of the BCIS TPI…
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No Sand. No Seagulls. No Sweat. Why Woodlands Win in a Heatwave
As temperatures climb across the UK, many people will be looking for ways to escape the heat. While beaches, parks and pub gardens are often the first choice, Britain's woodlands could be one of the most comfortable places to spend a hot summer's day. According to experts at Woodlands.co.uk, forests…
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Restore Information Management cuts mileage and CO2 with AI-powered fleet optimisation
Restore Information Management has reduced mileage and CO2 emissions by 25% at four of its sites after introducing AI-powered route optimisation technology to improve the efficiency of its national fleet. The UK's largest independent provider of information management services has partnered with…
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Historic Garden Reveals the Back Story to its ‘Jungle Book’ Years
Ahead of showcasing one of the great works of late Victorian literature in musical and theatrical performance form, Levens Hall and Gardens has delved into the history books to discover what was happening in its gardens at the time of that work’s publication. The work in question is The Jungle…
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Civil engineering tender prices rose in 2Q2026, BCIS panel finds
Civil engineering tender prices increased by an estimated 2% between 1Q2026 and 2Q2026, according to the latest meeting of the BCIS Civil Engineering TPI Panel. The panel, comprised of cost consultants from firms involved in multiple civil engineering tenders in the UK, advises on the latest…