Member News Subjects

British creative studio announces US book tour

Leeds-based design studio, Buttercrumble, has set their sights on the USA. They are proud awardees of a highly competitive bursary delivered through the Creative Export Accelerator programme. The accelerator (designed by Full Circle and funded by West Yorkshire Combined Authority) aims to provide creative entrepreneurs with the confidence to break into international markets. The bursary…

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Seven tips to keep your smart devices at home safe from hackers

Smart devices in people’s homes have surged in popularity over the last 10 years, items including video doorbells, smart speakers and smart kitchen appliances becoming part of everyday life. Smart devices can be monitored and controlled remotely by the homeowner through apps on their mobile phone. But research has revealed that smart home devices are…

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AAB appoints Sarah Teshome as Corporate Tax Partner to support growth in Northern England

Leading professional services firm AAB has appointed Sarah Teshome as Corporate Tax Partner, further strengthening its expanding tax team in Leeds. This appointment underscores AAB’s commitment to helping clients across Northern England to navigate the ever-evolving tax landscape and help them to drive sustainable growth. Sarah brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as…

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New management team at Verner Wheelock

Alison Wheelock, Managing Director of leading food industry training company Verner Wheelock Associates Ltd (VWA), has completed the acquisition of the company from its founders. The transaction was completed on 3rd April 2025 with Ms Wheelock buying out her parents’ shares in the family business. Claire Lennon, VWA’s former Business Development Executive, has been appointed…

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Blacks Solicitors shows ongoing commitment to supporting emerging regional music talent

Leading Yorkshire law firm, Blacks Solicitors, is the proud sponsor of the ‘Sounds Of Leeds Conservatoire’ event series, an initiative focused on supporting and nurturing emerging regional talent and connecting budding artists with experienced industry professionals. The ‘Sound Of’ series, hosted by specialist music and performing arts school Leeds Conservatoire, offers students and the public valuable…

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Five fee earner promotions at Chadwick Lawrence following successful year

Leading Yorkshire law firm Chadwick Lawrence has announced the promotions of five fee earning team members, as it looks to build on its continued success entering the new financial year. Julia Wilding is promoted to salaried partner, wills and probate. Having qualified as a solicitor in 1997, Julia has 28 years of experience in private…

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Bradford School of Art students support large-scale textile installation for world heritage site

A group of Bradford School of Art higher education students were given the opportunity of a lifetime after being selected to support one of America’s most distinguished visual artists. We Will Sing is a new, large-scale, site-responsive installation by renowned artist Ann Hamilton, commissioned for Salts Mill as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of…

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Leeds Beckett and The Grammar School at Leeds launch research-informed programme to boost children’s physical literacy

Researchers within the Centre for Child and Adolescent Physical Literacy at Leeds Beckett University (LBU) are collaborating with The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) to develop and embed an innovative approach to enhancing the physical literacy of their pupils. It will bring cutting-edge research from the university into day-to-day school life. The 30-month Knowledge Transfer…

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Wakefield and Selby Children’s University enhance learning with free family event

Wakefield and Selby Children’s University is hosting a free, fun-filled event for local children and their families during half-term – providing them with the opportunity to enhance their learning. After successfully running for nine years, May-Hem will return to Castleford College on Wednesday 28th May 2025, from 10am to 2pm, and will include a range…

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AI’s future in business and company projects explored at event

The future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business was discussed at an event held at the University of Bradford. The AI Forum, organised by the University’s department of Business Analytics, Circular Economy and Entrepreneurship (BACE) at the School of Management, brought together academics and businesspeople from Bradford district firms.  The third-annual event showcased new ideas…

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Bradford College connects to Energy Network in Net Zero Push

Work to connect Bradford College to the £70m Bradford Energy Network is officially underway, marking a significant move away from fossil fuels and towards achieving Net Zero. Heat networks (also known as district heating) supply heat from a central source.  Underground pipes carry hot water to buildings on a network, enabling the rapid decarbonisation of…

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Clarks celebrates 200 years of comfort with new store opening at Trinity Leeds

Clarks, the globally renowned footwear brand is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year and is excited announce the opening of a brand-new store in the heart of Leeds, at the Trinity Leeds. Officially opening to the public on Friday 23rd May 2025, the store will be located on the ground floor of Trinity Leeds, Albion…

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Archaeology degree programmes receive leading accreditation

The University of Bradford has received accreditation for its archaeology programmes from the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK). The University’s BSc (Hons) Archaeology programme has been accredited for a further five years, while BSc (Hons) Forensic Anthropology has been awarded a new accreditation for the next five years by the…

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Simon Watson begins role as Yorkshire Building Society’s Chief Commercial Officer

Simon Watson has stepped into role as Yorkshire Building Society’s new Chief Commercial Officer. He will lead teams responsible for mortgages, savings and marketing and digital channels. He joins the mutual from NatWest Group, where he has worked since 2011. Most recently in the role of Managing Director of Affluent Banking & Investing, he held…

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Bulls raise the roof with new partnership

Bradford Bulls are proud to announce a new commercial partnership with Fairway Roofing, who will serve as the official sponsor of the Bulls’ match highlights throughout the 2025 season. As part of the partnership, Fairway Roofing branding will feature prominently on all match highlights published across the Bulls’ digital platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and…

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£5m scheme improves the energy efficiency of West Yorkshire homes

A £5.8million project to reduce the energy usage and carbon emissions of over 440 homes in Leeds and Harrogate has led to warmer living and lower bills for residents across the region, thanks to energy and regeneration specialist Equans and Leeds Federated Housing Association. Retrofit work carried out to the homes – a mix of…

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Is the air we share a toxic soup of invisible pollutants?

The Air We Share is a Pint of Science talk that offers a fascinating insight into the one thing we all cannot live without – air. Cell Biologist/ Pharmacologist Dr Jacobo Elies from the University of Bradford lifts the lid on the toxins we breathe on a daily basis. He says: “Pollutants are everywhere but most…

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Breathing Space HR partners with Buzz Safety to expand services into Health and Safety

Breathing Space HR, a trusted provider of expert HR support for growing businesses, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Buzz Safety, a leading health and safety consultancy. This collaboration enables Breathing Space HR to expand its offering and provide clients with comprehensive health and safety services alongside its existing HR support. With workplace…

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SEND Next Choices 2025

SEND Next Choices – Getting ready for adult life is returning to Leeds first direct arena on Tuesday 24th June 2025! The event is an opportunity for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their parents, carers, support workers and teachers to prepare themselves for adult life. You will be able to find…

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Keeping criminals and their money out of your business

Recent attacks on retailers such as Marks and Spencer and the Co-op have once again highlighted the harm, disruption, and reputational impact a cyberattack can cause. Such incidents are newsworthy and are popular with criminals because of the low risk vs potentially high returns. But we should not lose sight of other financially motivated incidents…

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Bradford garden centre group appoints new finance director

A  Bradford garden centre group has recruited a new board member as it prepares for future growth across its multi-site business.  Yorkshire Garden Centres group has appointed Emma Bristow as its full-time finance director.  In her new role, Mrs Bristow will lead the finance team to support the continued growth of the business.  An early…

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GSAL Nursery to welcome 2-year-olds from September 2025

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is delighted to announce that from September 2025, its nursery will begin welcoming children from the age of two, marking an exciting new chapter in the school’s early years provision. This expansion reflects GSAL’s commitment to supporting families from the earliest stages of their child’s education, offering a nurturing…

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Sycamore Square Group celebrates five years of strategic growth and social impact

Established in 2020, Sycamore Square Group (SSG) is celebrating five years of delivering strategic estates management and building consultancy across Yorkshire and the UK. Founded by Debbie Lewis FRICS, MCIOB, MAPM, AaPS and Will Roberts MAPM, AaPS, the business was born from a shared vision and a long-standing professional partnership formed over 7 years working…

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Andrew Jackson Solicitors to co-host event for region’s leisure park operators

Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP announces that it will host an event aimed at leisure park operators, alongside NatWest, Sanderson Weatherall and Smailes Goldie, later this month (21st May). Focusing on the key operational issues, opportunities and challenges facing leisure park operators, the event will feature a keynote speech from Harry Rix, director…

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University support for women-led firms in new programme

Women-led businesses have been encouraged to apply for a place on a programme supported by the University of Bradford.  The Bradford-Renduchintala Enterprise Ecosystem (BREE), based at the University, in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Lifted Ventures, has launched a two-year Innovation Programme designed to accelerate women-led projects in West Yorkshire. The programme,…

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Haworth’s Wyedean Weaving serves historic international reenactments

The military expertise of Haworth’s Wyedean Weaving is “front and centre” of international commemorations of the American Revolution. Orders of Wyedean’s regimental lace have increased by nearly 20% as re-enactment groups across the UK create their replica British regimental uniforms associated with the 250th anniversary of the American War of Independence. Since January, the Haworth-based…

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GSAL announces partnership with Leeds Literature Festival

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is proud to announce its latest partnership as a sponsor of the 2025 Leeds Literature Festival (LLF), taking place between 14-22 June 2025. Now in its seventh year, LLF has become a dynamic celebration of words, ideas and performance, attracting acclaimed writers, poets and speakers from across the UK…

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NNFCC Ltd has officially rebranded to Alder BioInsights

NNFCC Limited, an award-winning consultancy in the bioeconomy sector, has officially rebranded to Alder BioInsights. Based at York Science Park, the rebrand marks a new milestone in the company’s history which spans over 20 years. While NNFCC Ltd remains the registered company name, the refreshed brand identity reflects a stable and adaptive approach to leadership…

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Chemical company actions environmental commitment with 220 hours of work

A chemical specialist has actioned part of its plan to be a net-zero company by 2045 with the completion of its first environmental project. Forty members of staff at Airedale Group have volunteered 220 hours of time to the Aire Rivers Trust, helping nurture the waterways in the Aire Valley and encourage natural life in…

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Iconic Meltham café business goes up for sale

A unique café and events business in Meltham, near Holmfirth, has been put up for sale with a guide price of £175,000 with commercial property estate agent Ernest Wilson, which is part of Eddisons. Launched in 2020, Lu’s Place, on the edge of Meltham and adjacent to open countryside and woodland, has built a reputation…

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Big wins for Bradford College at West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Bradford College scooped a trophies haul at the 2025 West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford. The event saw three apprentices win their categories and another receive highly commended, alongside a Mentor of the Year award for an employer partner. Now in its fourth year, the Awards celebrate excellence across 14…

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Bradford business apprentice secures double award win!

A business apprentice from Drighlington property compliance specialists Inspectas, has won two Bradford College Star Awards for being an inspirational student. Faye Oxley (19), won Business Admin Subject Student of the Year and Inspirational Student of the Year, an accolade chosen by Bradford College’s Senior leadership Team. The annual Bradford College Star Awards cover all…

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Bradford City Centre sees positive growth as footfall rises 25% in early 2025

Bradford City Centre is showing encouraging signs of recovery, with both footfall and dwell time on the rise following a challenging year for local businesses. The Bradford Business Improvement District (BID), which represents almost 600 member businesses in the city centre, closely monitors a range of performance indicators. Figures from the first quarter of 2025…

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York’s favourite party ‘Yorktoberfest’ returns to racecourse for 5th year

Two weekends of laughs, live entertainment and lederhosen! Autumn cheer is forecast today with the news that Yorktoberfest, York’s traditional Bavarian beer festival, will be returning to the Clocktower Enclosure at York Racecourse this October, for a fifth successive year.  York’s very own Oktoberfest has proved hugely popular since its debut in 2021 with all…

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Bulls cook up Perfect Storm

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with full-service marketing agency Perfect Storm – to develop a growth marketing strategy to support the club’s ambitions. As well as providing strategic insight, the Leeds-based agency will grab the bull by the horns with a ramp-up of digital activity, fan experience and creative strategies….

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Leeds College of Building celebrates success at West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Two Leeds College of Building higher-level apprentices have been recognised at this year’s prestigious West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. Charlie Brady, a Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician Apprentice working at EN:Able Futures, won the sought-after Higher Apprentice of the Year Award after fighting off tough regional competition. Hosted by Termrim Construction, Charlie was chosen for his…

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Notre Dame alumnus hits spotlight

Tyler Pickles, Notre Dame alumni, is currently starring in Channel 4’s new coming-of-age dance school drama ‘Dreamers’. The show explores the lives of the ‘Chapeltown Collective’, an eclectic group of Leeds dance students making moves as they navigate romance, rivalry and ambition, both on and off the dancefloor. The series’ characters are inspired by true…

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L6 Student Takara’s Growing Business

Lower Sixth student Takara Hodson launched KCore in May 2024. KCore imports and retails official Korean pop culture merchandise to the UK. Products include: Music albums (CD’s) Fan-made merchandise created in the UK (Beanies, T Shirts, notebooks & blankets) Key rings, cup sleeves Light sticks Phone charms Photo cards Takara is a sole trader, operating…

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This weekend: Fast-track a move with housebuilder’s events in North Yorkshire

House hunters looking to secure a brand-new home are invited to Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ Instant Part Exchange events at its Harclay Park and Manor Chase developments in Boroughbridge this weekend. The events, taking place from Friday 9th to Sunday 11th May, will offer those looking to move home the chance to arrange a…

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Bradford based Garden Centre Group crowns Values Champions

A Bradford based Garden Centre Group has held a celebration lunch to honour its Values Champions. On 1st May, Yorkshire Garden Centres directors celebrated the success of the 10 Values Champions winners with a lunch at the Mezzanine Restaurant at Tong Garden Centre. Throughout 2024, the team at all seven Yorkshire Garden Centres sites voted…

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Bradford’s historic Little Germany sets its sights on a new chapter

Following the completion of a successful round of funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, a team led by Impact Hub Bradford has revealed plans to regenerate the city’s historic mercantile quarter, Little Germany. Home to 55 Grade 2 Listed buildings, the area is home to one of the most remarkable heritage destinations in the…

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Five fee earner promotions at Chadwick Lawrence following successful year

Leading Yorkshire law firm Chadwick Lawrence has announced the promotions of five fee earning team members, as it looks to build on its continued success entering the new financial year. Julia Wilding is promoted to salaried partner, wills and probate. Having qualified as a solicitor in 1997, Julia has 28 years of experience in private…

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Schofield Sweeney supports ‘home city’ again with Bradford Showcase partnership

Leading commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney will play a key role in showcasing the Bradford district’s planning and investment potential at an event alongside the UK Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), in Leeds from May 20th-22nd. Working in partnership with Bradford Council, Schofield Sweeney, which has one of the region’s largest and most…

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Burns Unit features in Bradford City fire ITV series

The Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit (PSBRU), based at the University of Bradford, is featured in a powerful new TV documentary series marking the 40th anniversary of the Bradford City fire.  Professor Ajay L Mahajan, Director of PSBRU and a consultant plastic surgeon at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, was interviewed as part…

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Engineering expertise is expanding at the Environmental Protection Group

The team at EPG goes from strength-to-strength with the appointment of a leading and ambitious individual to bolster the current expertise. George Grant, an award-winning engineer with a passion for innovative design, joins the team as Principal Engineer for the water team. George will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered effectively and to the…

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TL Dallas strengthens in-house claims team

Leading independent insurance broker, TL Dallas, has expanded its highly respected in-house claims team with the appointment of claims handler, Caroline Thorpe. Caroline brings over 12 years of specialist experience in the health and care claims sector, having previously worked at Bupa and Markel. Her expertise includes handling complex cases involving employers’ and public liability,…

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AAB strengthens senior leadership team to drive growth in London

Leading professional services firm AAB has expanded its senior team in London, underlining its strategic commitment to growth and enhanced client support in the capital. AAB, a top-25 UK firm that has trebled in size since 2021, has appointed Jai Raja as Audit Partner, James Snape as Audit Director, and Greg Smythe as Tax Director…

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Moomins milestone marked with Bradford screening

A long-running cartoon book series will be celebrated for its work highlighting inclusion and refugees at an event hosted by a University of Bradford academic. The ‘Conversation x Cine Spotlights: Moomins on the Riviera’ held on Friday 23 May from 18:30 at the National Science and Media Museum, Bradford, will be introduced by Dr Becky…

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