Member News Subjects

The Grammar School at Leeds unveils exciting plans to transform its sixth form centre

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has announced plans to refurbish and upgrade its sixth form centre, creating a space to enhance independent learning, collaboration and student wellbeing. The project forms part of the school’s ongoing investment in its 140-acre campus, following the opening of The Cryer, GSAL’s performing arts centre, in 2025, and reflects…

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Details of York City FC National League Civic Celebration Parade

York is gearing up for a momentous celebration on Thursday 7 May, as York City Football Club marks its return to the English Football League (EFL) with a victory parade. Hundreds of fans are expected to line the streets of York on Thursday as the city comes together to celebrate York City FC’s victory parade….

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Joe Mellor pens new deal

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce captain Joe Mellor has put pen-to-paper on a new one-year deal to remain with the club until at least the end of the 2027 season. The influential 35-year-old arrived in the off-season to bolster the Bulls’ ranks ahead of its return to Betfred Super League and made an instant…

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New innovation partnership to accelerate growth of Shipley textile manufacturers

Marketing and business experts at Leeds Beckett University (LBU) are partnering with Shipley-based Specialised Covers to secure the long-term growth and sustainability of the family-owned bespoke protective textile cover manufacturers. The two-year project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, and is led by Dr Catherine…

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From refugee child to scholar – Andrews’ remarkable journey over last 30 years

A University of Bradford student has recalled being a child refugee sleeping next to dead bodies on board a ship while fleeing a war 30 years ago. Andrews Adjei became a refugee in his native Ghana aged six in 1996 after leaving Liberia during the First Liberian Civil War, which ran between 1989 and 1997….

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AI questions validity of famous Anne Boleyn sketch

This year marks the 490th anniversary of the death of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and one of the most controversial, and celebrated, figures in British history, not least because of her pivotal role as catalyst of the English Reformation. It was famously Anne Boleyn’s refusal to become Henry VIII’s mistress that prompted…

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AI can cost you money, warn experts

Investors in Yorkshire should be wary of taking financial advice solely from AI platforms, one of the county’s leading accountancy and advisory firms has warned. Experts from Azets, which has offices in Leeds, Bradford and York, have likened the practice to Googling health symptoms rather than going to see a doctor. With rising taxes and a…

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Bradford mum hosts charity ball in memory of her son

A Bradford mum is hosting a charity ball to raise money for children in hospital, in loving memory of her son, Axl. Claire Walker from Wibsey, has spent the past ten years fundraising for Bradford Hospitals Charity after losing her son Axl just days before his third birthday. “I just want to make a difference,”…

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Bradford students ‘over the moon’ after stellar USA trip

A group of 30 lucky Bradford College students returned to Earth with a bump after a trip of a lifetime to study science and engineering in the USA. The Level 2 and 3 Science and Computing students spent 13 days working at prestigious organisations, including NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and The Kennedy Space Centre…

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Upcoming Ebor lecture at York Minster to explore society’s treatment of refugees 

York Minster to welcome distinguished academic and refugee advocate Professor Alison Phipps for a powerful and timely Ebor lecture entitled “When Every Hope has Gone: Grief, Rage and Refuge in a Merciless Age”. In this deeply reflective lecture taking place on Wednesday 20 May, Professor Phipps will examine the theological and practical failures exposed by…

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AI-driven movement analysis could transform early detection of Parkinson’s

An artificial intelligence (AI) system which could accelerate the early detection and monitoring of Parkinson’s, using smart phone video recordings, is being developed by the University of Bradford. The project, led by Dr Ramzi Jaber, Researcher in Data Science for Applied AI at the University, and supported by clinicians at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust…

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York takes major step towards becoming an Inclusive Recovery City

Over 150 businesses, public, voluntary and community sectors gathered at the LNER Community Stadium today for a landmark briefing on York’s ambition to become an Inclusive Recovery City (IRC). The event marked a significant milestone in York’s commitment to tackling stigma around substance use and recovery, and to creating a city where people in recovery…

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One in three stroke survivors may be missing life‑saving medication, new research suggests

Action on Stroke Month (May): why medication could prevent a second stroke and why many don’t get it New research undertaken at University of Bradford is investigating why as many as one in three stroke survivors are missing out on life‑saving medication.  Stroke survivors who miss out on essential preventative medication increase their risk of suffering a second – often more disabling – stroke.  Stroke survivors are up to 15 times…

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First rating from Housing Regulator welcomed as Council reaffirms commitment to tenants

City of York Council has welcomed its first report from the Regulator of Social Housing following an inspection held earlier this year. This is the first time the Council has been inspected by the Regulator which is assessing how social landlords deliver national standards. As a unitary authority, York was inspected in February 2026 against…

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Independent financial services firm focuses on Scotland for growth

An independent financial services company has launched a recruitment drive in Scotland as it continues to grow its client base. The drive forms part of T L Dallas Independent Financial Services Limited’s wider strategy to build on its long-standing connections north of the border. Director, Jane Maclauchlan, who has worked for the firm for 19 years,…

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Aspire completes third acquisition in two years with Scotland-based NVT group deal

Aspire Technology Solutions, one of the UK’s leading providers of managed IT, cyber security, and modern workplace solutions, has completed the acquisition of managed service provider NVT Group, headquartered in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. The deal marks the company’s third acquisition in two years, reinforcing its strategic expansion across the UK, with a strengthened market position…

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Millions invested in Bradford Communities amid growing need

Independent grant maker GiveBradford has helped more than 16,000 people in communities across Bradford since 2023, as it continues its work alongside hundreds of community organisations in a collective mission to tackle poverty and inequality. Working with business partners in Bradford, such as JCT600, The Bartlett Group and Schofield Sweeney, has helped generate vital funds…

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Are locally led initiatives more effective than top-down Government schemes?

A new national compendium published by the Key Cities Innovation Network (KCIN) highlights how cities and universities across the UK are rethinking innovation ecosystems to support more inclusive and sustainable regional growth.  The University of Bradford is among ten contributors to Innovation Ecosystems, the first i‑PLACE Compendium, which brings together peer‑reviewed research and real‑world case studies exploring how…

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National student nursing partnership award win for second year

The University of Bradford has won the Student Nursing Times Awards’ Partnership of the Year category for a second successive year. This year’s award recognises the University’s Student Supported Services Model, a collaboration with the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, developing student supported services that expand placements, support staff, and enhance patient care. Vikki Carter, the University’s…

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Spring floral spectacle: rhododendrons bloom at Castle Howard and the Arboretum

Castle Howard’s Ray Wood, a 25-acre ornamental woodland in the Gardens, boasts a collection of nearly 800 rhododendron species from around the world. It is a fantastic location for spring-flower lovers to see rhododendrons and azaleas in April and May. The plant collection in Ray Wood, including the rhododendrons and azaleas, is of national importance….

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Property Investment – The Why, the Do’s and Don’ts

With increasing tax pressures on landlords holding property in their personal name, evolving regulation through the Renters’ Rights Act, the expansion of selective licensing, and the potential for stricter EPC requirements, many investors are reassessing whether property still represents a worthwhile investment. The short answer is yes, but only if you approach it the right…

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LCB to receive over £919k in Government funding for renovations

Leeds College of Building (LCB) is one of 18 colleges in Yorkshire and the Humber set to benefit from government funding for essential estates and building improvements. In a recent announcement, it was confirmed that LCB will receive £919,871 from the FE College Condition Allocation (FECCA) fund. This latest £30 million package from the Government…

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Family fun with Shaun the Sheep and White Rose this May

A new Shaun the Sheep augmented reality trail will visit White Rose Shopping Centre next month, alongside a line-up of fun half-term activities. Families are invited to embark on a free adventure with the Shaun the Sheep: Fun with the Flock augmented reality trail at the city shopping destination, bringing the much-loved Shaun the Sheep character…

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Bluey set to bring half term fun to the Merrion Centre

Families invited to enjoy free interactive story time sessions this May half term The Merrion Centre is excited to announce another fantastic free family event, as Bluey arrives for a series of live story time sessions this May half term. Taking place on Wednesday 27th May 2026 in The Green area on the main mall,…

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Compliance shake-up by HMRC: which advisers will be caught out?

Government requires local tax advisers to mandatorily register from May if submitting documents to HMRC on behalf of clients. Conveyancing solicitors and payroll teams in Yorkshire are among local professional advisers who may find themselves on the wrong side of the law from May – with penalties of up to £10,000 for compliance breaches. They…

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Es Devlin responds to Vanbrugh with new artwork for Castle Howard

Internationally renowned artist and designer Es Devlin will present Library of the Four Winds this summer, a new public sculpture in the Temple of the Four Winds at Castle Howard. The work will be on show from 13 June – 27 September and is conceived to mark the tricentenary of Sir John Vanbrugh (1664-1726), the…

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A sweet new arrival: White Rose to welcome Rassam’s Creamery

White Rose Shopping Centre is set to welcome Rassam’s Creamery, the award-winning dessert brand known for its bold flavours, immersive experiences, and show-stopping creations. Opening this summer, the new White Rose location will be Rassam’s largest and most impressive site to date, bringing a whole new level of excitement to South Leeds. Rassam’s Creamery is…

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Bradford workwear supplier launches 7-step enterprise ordering platform for local businesses

Revolutionary system streamlines uniform procurement with professional 7-step ordering process Bradford-based uniform supplier BR Apparel has announced the launch of an innovative enterprise ordering platform that transforms uniform management for local businesses with significant workwear requirements. The new system provides companies spending £5,000+ annually on uniforms with a comprehensive 7-step ordering process through their own…

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Yorkshire engineering firm celebrates success with project extension at Europe’s deepest mineshaft

Leading mechanical and electrical engineering firm, Salko UK, has successfully secured a year long contract extension with Redpath Deilmann to continue providing mechanical labour at Woodsmith Mine – Europe’s deepest mineshaft once completed. The contract extension will see a dedicated team completing the mechanical labour, reinforcing Salko UK’s long term involvement in one of the UK’s…

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Azets makes hat-trick of top promotions

Azets, a UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm, has strengthened its senior team in Yorkshire with a trio of high-level promotions. In its Leeds office, Ant Hamilton has become a partner in Accounts and Business Advisory Services (ABAS) and Alex Sidebottom has stepped up to associate director in audit. Becky Dawson has been…

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First look at Bradford College’s new £19.3m Motor Vehicle & Engineering building

Scaffolding has come down on the new Bradford College Junction Mills building on Thornton Road, set to open in September this year. Junction Mills will offer students skills in new technologies, such as modern automotive and digital engineering, electric/hybrid vehicles, and advanced manufacturing. The building will be vital in supporting the growth of technology and…

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Do you budget for Microsoft 365 or just hope nothing breaks?

Microsoft 365 quickly becomes business‑critical. Teams, approvals, workflows, automations, before long, people rely on them every day to get work done. Licences are planned and solutions are delivered. However, what often isn’t planned is what happens after go‑live. Keeping things running Improving what’s clunky Adapting as Microsoft changes Instead, support tends to be reactive. Something…

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Entries open for Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards as new generation reshapes sector’s image

Entries have opened for this year’s Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards, with manufacturing and engineering employers across West Yorkshire being encouraged to put forward their most promising young talent at a time when a new generation is helping to redefine the industry’s image. Now in their fifth year, the awards, which take place in June, recognise…

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Higher labour costs dominate business impact concerns in latest Azets Barometer

Smaller businesses are struggling more than larger companies amid relentless economic challenges and higher labour costs, according to Yorkshire accountants Azets. A business sentiment survey by Azets, the top 10 UK accountancy and business advisory firm with offices in Leeds, Bradford and York, laid bare the issues facing SMEs, which make up the vast majority…

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West Yorkshire consultancy marks growth with move to Salts Mill

A West Yorkshire technology consultancy is building on more than a decade of growth following its move to Salts Mill in Saltaire, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. True9 Limited, founded in 2014 by Chris Richardson and Martin Taylor, has relocated from Croft Myl in Halifax and is now based at the historic Salts…

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Middlethorpe Hall & Spa partners with St Leonard’s Hospice to offer complimentary treatments and fundraising support

Middlethorpe Hall & Spa is proud to be collaborating with St Leonard’s Hospice this May, offering a series of complimentary wellbeing treatments for residents, out-patients, staff and carers, alongside a month of dedicated fundraising activity. Throughout May, Spa Managers Lisa and Helen will visit the hospice every Thursday morning (7th, 14th, 21st and 28th May, from…

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Transforming a Buy-to-Let property in Pudsey, Leeds

Across West Yorkshire, many buy-to-let opportunities are not defined by the condition a property is purchased in, but by the potential it offers once improved. A recent project in Pudsey, Leeds highlights how a considered approach to property sourcing, renovation and interior design can enhance both rental appeal and overall property performance. The property was…

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Bradford Bulls announce Embrace live performance at Bartercard Odsal Stadium

Multi-platinum Yorkshire legends headline pre-match show on Sunday 14th June ahead of Leigh Leopards clash The Bradford Bulls are proud to announce that acclaimed Yorkshire rock band Embrace will be performing a live 60-minute pre-match set at Bartercard Odsal Stadium on Sunday 14th June, ahead of the Bulls’ Super League fixture against the Leigh Leopards….

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National Offer Day for primary schools- York children allocated their Reception school place for September

A total of 94.3% of children who applied for a Reception place at a primary school in York this September were allocated their first choice on National Offer Day [Thursday 16 April]. All the children who applied for a Year 3 place in a junior school were allocated their first choice. Parents who applied online…

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York parents and carers to receive support to help get their child school-ready

York parents and carers with children starting school in September will receive specialist information to help them get their child school-ready this month. Around 1,700 households will receive two information booklets – one focussing on how parents can get children toilet trained before starting school – and another with helpful tips to make sure children…

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Health T Level Placement Awards

Our Health T Level students received some exceptional feedback and results at the recent Placement Awards at St James’ Hospital recently. Notre Dame students secured a clean sweep of all award categories ahead of Leeds City College, who we partner with through the Leeds Health and Care Academy for T Level Health placement opportunities. The…

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Understanding property opportunities across West and North Yorkshire

West and North Yorkshire continue to attract interest from property buyers, developers, and business owners, supported by strong regional demand, ongoing regeneration, and a diverse mix of city centres, suburbs and surrounding towns. While Leeds is often seen as the focal point, the wider region, including Bradford, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Harrogate and York, presents a range…

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Azets joins trailblazing flood defence project

A UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm in Leeds has thrown its weight behind a trailblazing new community initiative to protect the city from floods. Azets, which has offices in King Street, is a business partner of the Aire Resilience Company (ARC) and has taken on the role of inaugural finance partner. It…

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Star Coaches run with the Bulls in 2026

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce a brand-new partnership with Star Coaches, who will supply the club with a new full specification sports team coach for travel across Super League in 2026. In addition, Star Coaches sponsor Match Highlights on BullsTV, bringing fans closer to the action throughout the 2026 season. The new agreement ensures the Bulls will travel in…

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York supply specialists secure seven-figure public sector contract with Bolton Council

Following a competitive tendering process, York-based supply specialist, PPS, has been awarded a seven-figure contract with Bolton Council for the supply and delivery of chemicals and consumable goods for services across schools. The three-year agreement will see PPS responsible for supplying a comprehensive range of cleaning and hygiene products to approximately 90 schools across the…

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How do we better connect people with opportunities in tech?

Join education providers and training innovators from across Leeds as they explore the evolving tech skills pipeline, from traditional degrees to alternative routes like bootcamps, apprenticeships, and tailored training programmes. Chaired by Kirsten Brumfitt, Chief People Officer at PEXA UK, this event will offer expert insights along with a panel discussion to unpack how different education models are helping to open up access to tech…

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Building a Brighter Future: Embedding Inclusivity in Yorkshire Schools

In the heart of our region, a transformative movement is taking shape. As the Institute for Equity, University Centre (IEUC), we understand that the strength of our future workforce begins in the classroom. To ensure our students continue to thrive in an increasingly globalised world, our schools must be environments where every student and staff…

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Fashion Retailer schuh Steps into Trinity Leeds

Fashion footwear retailer schuh has announced it will debut its new store at Trinity Leeds on Friday 17th April – with giveaways, competitions and free coffee for visitors on opening day.  To celebrate the launch, Vinyl Grounds will be offering complimentary barista-made coffee, and customers who purchase from BIRKENSTOCK will get an exclusive anklet with a choice of a charm from Nelle Studios. Customers can also be in with a chance of winning a pair of BIRKENSTOCK when signing up or checking in to THE SCHUH CLUB loyalty programme. The store will showcase the…

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