Member News Subjects

Egg‑stra special Easter for patients at Bradford Teaching Hospitals

A record 3,000+ Easter eggs and toys have been delivered to patients across Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, thanks to a major community effort. The donations were organised by Bradford Hospitals Charity, with local people, schools and businesses coming together to make sure patients visiting or spending Easter in hospital didn’t miss out. Staff and volunteers handed…

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New strategy and delivery partner will deliver much-needed homes and facilities

City of York Council will consider creating a new strategy, and securing a new strategic delivery partner to deliver high quality Council buildings including homes for social rent or housing for older people. This new Delivery Strategy has been developed to support the Council’s Housing Delivery Programme (HDP) of building homes for shared ownership and…

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Excitement builds as the LEGO Group announces April launch date at Trinity Leeds

Excitement is building as the LEGO Group announces its new store will open at Trinity Leeds on Thursday, 23rd April. The 456sq m store will give shoppers the chance to fully immerse themselves in the world of LEGO building – with specially-designed, Yorkshire-inspired LEGO models available to see and pose with on launch day. The new…

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LCB reaches regional apprenticeship awards finals with 13 shortlistings

Leeds College of Building (LCB) is a finalist for 13 awards across ten categories at this year’s West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. The annual awards event celebrates outstanding apprentices, employers, and training providers across fields such as engineering, law, and construction. This year will mark the fourth edition of the awards, first set up in 2022…

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Leeds Beckett Cyber Security degree fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre

Leeds Beckett University has announced that its BSc (Hons) Cyber Security degree is now fully certified by the National Cyber Security Centre, a part of GCHQ. The certification places Leeds Beckett among a small group of UK universities to hold full certification for an undergraduate cyber security degree, recognising the quality and rigour of the…

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Major event launched for businesses over payroll and HR crackdown

Businesses in Yorkshire are being urged to attend a free ‘strategic survival summit’ to help them deal with the most significant payroll and HR shake-up in a generation. Azets, a UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm in King Street, Leeds, has joined forces with Leeds Business Growth Service and The Knowledge Exchange (TKE)…

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The Smarter Way to Support and Improve Microsoft 365

“Structured support and continuous improvement for the solutions you rely on” Most businesses don’t set out to build complex Microsoft 365 environments. It starts with a few flows. A SharePoint site. A Teams‑based process that works well… until it doesn’t. Over time, Microsoft 365 ends up supporting important day‑to‑day business processes but keeping everything running…

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Strengthening Yorkshire’s Business Backbone: The Power of Inclusive Growth

Across Yorkshire, our businesses are the lifeblood of the community. But to stay competitive in a global market, we must move beyond traditional models. True growth isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about the people behind it. That is why the Institute for Equity, University Centre is proud to champion a more inclusive future…

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Accu components power round-the world sailor in support of young adult cancer charity

Huddersfield-based precision engineering component company Accu is celebrating the success of Northumbrian adventurer and sailor Adam Waugh, who recently completed a 28,000-nautical-mile journey across some of the world’s most formidable oceans in a 19-foot yacht he built in his garden shed. Every nut, bolt and screw holding Little Wren together was supplied by Accu, whose…

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New Carers Strategy sets out York’s shared commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers in the city

A new citywide strategy, setting out a shared vision for improving the lives of unpaid carers, will be considered by City of York Council’s executive later this month (14 April). The draft strategy has been developed through extensive engagement with local carers, carers’ groups and partner organisations. It focuses on four key areas of work:…

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April powers: abolition of tax relief for household expenses for 300,000 people

Employers may be expected to plug the shortfall of up to £124 a year, adding to rising business costs  Impacts employees who incur homeworking costs that are not reimbursed by their employer Measure, from Monday, April 6, will particularly affect remote staff if their employer doesn’t have a workplace Around 300,000 people working from home…

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AAB appoints Jon Grainger as Chief Operating Officer 

Professional services firm, AAB, has announced the appointment of Jon Grainger as the company’s Chief Operating Officer. Jonathon will lead AAB’s technology, operations and integration teams, driving the next phase of operational excellence and enabling the firm to embed end-to-end automation capability throughout its business operations. Jon joins AAB at a time of accelerated innovation across the…

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Residents struggling with heating costs urged to apply for financial assistance from the York Crisis and Resilience Fund

City of York Council is encouraging residents who are having trouble affording their heating bills to apply for support through the new Crisis and Resilience Fund, which is replacing the Household Support Fund. The fund is designed to provide swift, practical financial help for residents experiencing hardship, particularly during periods of high energy demand, including…

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Keane celebrates shortlisting at 2026 Prolific North Champions Awards

Recognition highlights impactful B2C campaign for Wilfreda Beehive Keane is proud to announce its shortlisting in the B2C Marketing Campaign of the Year category at the prestigious 2026 Prolific North Champions Awards, marking a significant milestone for the agency and its growing portfolio of high-impact work. The Prolific North Champions Awards celebrate excellence across the…

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Prestige Gifting celebrates another successful ‘Peak’ period

Prestige Gifts has once again mastered its ‘Peak’ period. Each year, the business faces three major challenges: Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Christmas. With the first two behind us, all focus is now on Christmas. Success relies on meticulous planning. Predicting the number of flower stems needed 12 months in advance is critical—too few bouquets…

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Manningham Housing Association in running for four awards

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has been shortlisted for four Northern Housing Awards, including ‘Landlord of the Year’ which it won last year. The BME organisation – which manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley – is also a finalist for ‘Best Affordable Housing Development (Up to £10 million)’ for…

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Castle Howard opens dedicated shop stocking seasonal Jellycat collection

The seasonal shop, exclusively stocking the popular soft toy brand, has opened in the stately home’s Stable Courtyard Castle Howard has opened a new space stocking the beloved Jellycat soft toys, just in time for the Easter holidays. The beloved brand, known for their soft, charming and amusing toys, will be displaying their Spring and…

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Research partnership secures bright future for Guiseley bakery with new products, branding and growth

A research-led partnership between Leeds Beckett University (LBU) and Haighs Bakery in Guiseley has brought together marketing students and academics to launch new product ranges, branding and social media accounts, and a unique Master Baker Experience, helping to secure the long-term growth and sustainability of the Leeds family bakery. The project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded…

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Chadwick Lawrence expands into the North East with new Darlington office

Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has opened a new office in Darlington, marking a significant step in the firm’s expansion into the North East. The firm’s ninth office, based in Business Central – just a two-minute walk from Darlington train station – will provide commercial, practical, and supportive legal advice to businesses and individuals across County Durham,…

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Highways maintenance plan dedicates £16.5m across York

York’s annual maintenance plan for our roads and streets has been published today (31 March), which will result in a 50% increase in investment in highways, pathways, lighting, drainage and more. This will see significantly more invested in York’s roads than in previous years and the wide-ranging plan commits to highway repair schemes in villages…

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Public consultation on proposed rail upgrades between Standedge and Gledholt (Huddersfield) extended

The public consultation on proposed rail upgrades between Standedge and Gledholt has been extended, giving communities in and around Huddersfield more time to share their views. The consultation, which opened on Monday 16 February 2026, has been extended until Friday 24 April 2026. The extension provides a further opportunity for residents, businesses and stakeholders to…

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AAB launches ‘Office of the CFO’ service to support growing businesses with flexible finance leadership

In response to the increasingly complex trading environment for businesses, professional services firm, AAB, has launched a new ‘Office of the CFO’ service designed to give organisations the ability to strengthen their finance leadership and gain clarity in their numbers without the difficulties of recruitment of finance professionals at all levels. Businesses across the UK are facing more challenges than ever before – from inflationary…

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Award winning York data firm secures grant thanks to support from City of York Council

City of York Council is celebrating the continued success of York-based data transformation specialist Simpson Associates, following targeted support from the Council’s Business Growth Manager to help the company expand its reach, strengthen partnerships and unlock new opportunities. After help from the council’s Business Growth Manager they have recently secured £10,000 from the Get Exporting…

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A fusion of street food favourites arrive at Trinity Kitchen

Trinity Kitchen is back with an unbeatable new line-up of mouth-watering dishes. From bold fusion flavours to crowd-pleasing classics including Pan-Asian fried chicken and traditional poutine, this latest drop is set to put smiles upon faces. Guests can sample some of Trinity Kitchen’s favourites, including Jimmy Macks, Luigi Street Food Italiano, Spuds & Bro’s, Wagyu Lookin’ At? and Yoi Fried Chicken,…

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Are You Ready for 6 April Changes?

Major changes are on the way that might impact both your income and your business. From Making Tax Digital (MTD), relief reforms and employment law changes – the way you run and reward your business is set to change. Our experts have pulled together what you need to know, what to plan for, and the…

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Viva Leeds Vegas! Trinity Leeds raises the roof with plans for ‘Sphere’-Style Dome

Leeds looks set to get its own Las Vegas-style ‘Sphere’ complete with dazzling LED rooftop displays, according to exciting new plans unveiled today. Unlike the revolutionary Las Vegas Sphere, which was a $2.3bn purpose-built arena, ‘T’Yorkshire Sphere’ will be housed on the iconic Trinity Leeds glass-domed roof. Lighting up the city’s skyline with hundreds of…

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Thank you, key workers: Leading North Yorkshire housebuilder donates to key worker services

Leading housebuilder David Wilson Homes is donating to key workers across the region this Easter. David Wilson Homes is showing its appreciation for key workers by donating Easter eggs to multiple essential services across its operational areas of North Yorkshire, East Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, and Lincolnshire. Delivering hundreds of eggs across the region, the developer…

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The Secrets of Succession

Part One – Introduction Published research has repeatedly shown that only a very small minority of family businesses survive intact for more than two generations of ownership. But there is, equally, clear evidence that this is not an inevitable outcome and that (not surprisingly) effective planning is the key to success. For example, findings published…

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Bradford student champions children’s creativity in age of AI

A University of Bradford student is encouraging children to discover their creative voices at a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how we read, write, and communicate. David Ben Eke is looking for children aged between five and 17 from the Bradford district to write short stories and poems for his next two books….

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50,000 tonnes of ballast, 11.5km of track, 5,515 sleepers: the numbers behind TRU’s next series of major upgrades

Throughout May and June, Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) teams will take another huge step in delivering faster, more frequent trains on a greener railway across the North, through a series of engineering works between Huddersfield and Leeds. From Saturday 2 May until Monday 25 May, 56 engineering trains will be deployed along this stretch of…

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Gamesmania® powers up the Merrion Centre this Easter

Retro arcade fun, immersive gaming and family entertainment arrive in Leeds The Merrion Centre is set to level up the Easter holidays with the arrival of Gamesmania®, an exciting pop-up gaming event running from Saturday 4th April to Saturday 11th April, bringing interactive entertainment for all ages into the heart of the city. Open daily from 10:00am…

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Turning a ‘problem’ into global strength: Peace Studies leads 60th anniversary lectures

A remark reportedly made by Margaret Thatcher; ‘Has that Peace Studies problem been dealt with yet?’ is now inspiring a forward-looking conversation as the University of Bradford launches its 60th anniversary lecture series. The lecture’s title, inspired by the 1984 quote, shows how far the University has come since those early questions about whether a…

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Sovereign Health Care takes the ‘Home from Home’ to £2 million milestone

Bradford Hospitals Charity and The Sick Children’s Trust’s ‘Home from Home’ Appeal has reached a major milestone, thanks to a generous £250,000 donation from Sovereign Health Care. The appeal is raising funds to create free, on-site accommodation for families whose babies need treatment on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI)…

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Local mental health charity ensures Bradford’s City of Culture legacy lives on through major new creative health programme

Bradford District and Craven Mind is set to continue the creative legacy of Bradford 2025 with the launch of an ambitious two-year programme designed to tackle local health inequalities through arts, culture and creativity. Bradford is currently the fifth most income‑deprived district in England, facing deep-rooted challenges including economic inequality, poor health outcomes and limited…

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Leading homebuilder features high-quality five bedroom homes in North Yorkshire

Barratt Homes is encouraging families looking to step up the property ladder, or move away from the city, to consider its five bedroom Lamberton style homes at its Russet Park development in North Yorkshire. Located in the semi-rural village of Copmanthorpe, Russet Park offers the ideal balance between city and country living. Situated less than five miles…

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York woodland supports work of York’s foster carers

The work of City of York Council’s amazing foster carers is being recognised and celebrated with a special area of designated woodland at York Community Woodland this spring. The 78 hectare York Community Woodland site has been identified by the council to increase green space in the city. The area of woodland dedicated to fostering…

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University of Leeds ‘Growing Well Study’ to launch pop-up research hub at Merrion Centre

Families invited to participate in child health research in central Leeds The Merrion Centre continues to diversify its city centre offering with the arrival of a new research-led pop-up from the University of Leeds this April. Located in an upper-balcony level retail unit, the temporary ‘Growing Well Study’ hub will open on 8th April and provide…

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Buy-to-let property in West Yorkshire: Rental yields and capital growth around Leeds

West Yorkshire continues to be a key area of interest for buy-to-let property, particularly for those looking beyond Leeds city centre and into the surrounding suburbs and commuter towns. While Leeds remains a strong economic hub, many buyers are now exploring nearby areas where entry prices are more accessible and rental yields can be comparatively…

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Step into a Woodland Wonderland this Easter at White Rose

White Rose Shopping Centre invites families to enjoy free crafting sessions with a woodland adventure theme from Tuesday 7th to Sunday 12th April. Guests can get creative from 10am – 4pm each day in White Rose’s Central Atrium, near the escalators leading to The Balcony and The Village. Little ones can let their imaginations run wild during…

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94% of businesses not ready for Making Tax Digital

A UK poll of businesses shows that 94% are not prepared for Making Tax Digital (MTD) which is being introduced from 6 April. Firms were responding to the survey carried out by UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm Azets, which has offices in Leeds, Bradford and York. Fraser Campbell, UK head of accounts…

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Our brand evolves for the future…

Over the past 27 years we’ve helped thousands of companies across the UK evolve their brands or completely rebrand through visual display. Now, as we enter our next chapter, it felt right to give ourselves the same treatment. Reaching 27 years in business has given us a rare chance to pause, look back and ask…

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Leading housebuilder donates £1,500 to North Yorkshire horse riding charity

Barratt and David Wilson Homes has donated £1,500 to York and District RDA, a York based charity enriching lives through innovative equestrian programmes.   York and District RDA is a registered charity that is part of the Riding for the Disabled Association. The group was established 55 years ago by Mrs Margaret Dibb, who is still a…

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Bulls sign Phoenix Steinwede

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of towering Australian forward Phoenix Steinwede on a permanent deal until the end of the season. The 23-year-old arrived in the country this morning and the club would like to thank the Bradford Bulls Squad Booster Association for their support in bringing Phoenix to the club. A…

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Schofield Sweeney advises Galleon Tools Group on latest acquisition 

Yorkshire-based commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney has advised specialist tools distributor Dormole Limited on the acquisition of the business and assets of Rollins and Sons (London) Ltd, marking the latest step in the group’s strategic growth. A leading supplier and distributor of professional quality hand tools, the acquisition of Rollins and Sons (London) Ltd is…

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Chadwick Lawrence strengthens wills and probate team with two new appointments

Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has expanded its wills and probate team with the appointment of solicitors Helena Wong and Tom Grice. Helena Wong joins the firm as a solicitor specialising in probate matters, including taxable and non-taxable estates, as well as wills and lasting powers of attorney. Helena brings a strong blend of…

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Bradford secures fifth #1 Social Mobility ranking amid rising national performance

The University of Bradford has been ranked first on the Higher Education Policy Institute’s (HEPI) Social Mobility Index for the fifth consecutive year.  The SMI result sits alongside other strong performance markers, including being ranked 16th in the UK for graduate employment (HESA, 2025) and 8th nationally for ‘value added’ by the most recent Guardian University League Table. University of Bradford Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Braisby said: “This…

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Town Centre Securities PLC Donates 500 Easter Eggs to Yorkshire Children’s Charity

Leeds-based property investment and car park operator Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) has supported this year’s Easter campaign in partnership with Yorkshire Children’s Charity, donating 500 Easter eggs to help bring joy to vulnerable children across the region. The donation forms part of a wider coordinated effort to ensure that children who may otherwise go…

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Have your say on introducing wheeled recycling bins

City of York Council is set to launch a city‑wide consultation inviting residents to share their views on proposed changes to kerbside recycling collections from Monday 23 March. The council is considering moving from the current three‑box system to a wheeled‑bin service and is asking households across the city to take part in a short online…

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