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….
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…
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…
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…
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)…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Carbon Neutral Group reveals why sustainability plans can fail and how businesses can fix this
Consultancy shares some tips on how to create a good starting point when it comes down to sustainability Carbon Neutral Group, one of the UK’s fastest-growing carbon neutral and sustainability consultancies has revealed why some businesses have sustainability plans that can fail and how brands can prevent this happening. Most organisations now recognise the need…
Adcrete strengthens service delivery with major investment backed by Oscrete
Concrete admixture specialist Adcrete, the official sister company of Oscrete Construction Products in Northern Ireland and Ireland, is marking its 10th anniversary with a significant investment designed to further enhance service, availability and technical support for customers. The Lisburn-based business has completed a major refurbishment of its warehousing and logistics facility, thanks to investment from…
Global reach of Rotary Peace Fellows showcased
The global impact of the Rotary Peace Fellowship at the University of Bradford has been celebrated as the prestigious scheme looks to recruit future scholars. Bradford’s current group of Rotary Peace Fellows joined some of the 2026-27 academic year cohort to highlight the work of the Fellowship, which is looking for Bradford applicants for the 2027-28 academic…
Salko UK awarded four-year maintenance contract for Uniper’s Enfield power station
Salko UK, a leading mechanical and electrical solutions provider, has been awarded a major contract encompassing the supply and associated on-site activities for the Once-Through Cooler (OTC) and GT Exhaust works at the Enfield Power Station located in Brimsdown, London. The M&E specialist will also manage ongoing maintenance operations at Uniper’s Grain and Taylors Lane…
Bulls sign Jack Ormondroyd
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of towering forward Jack Ormondroyd on a season long loan deal – with no recall option. The 34-year-old joins from Oldham RLFC, having spent six years at Salford Red Devils prior, making over 110 appearances. Ormondroyd also enjoyed two spells at Betfred Championship side Featherstone Rovers, sandwiching…
20 years and 180 million miles: TransPennine Express marks milestone for Class 185 fleet
TransPennine Express (TPE) has marked 20 years of its Class 185 trains with a special celebration at Siemens Mobility’s Ardwick depot in Manchester. The event recognised two decades of an award-winning fleet that has become a backbone of rail travel across the North, travelling almost 180 million miles – the equivalent of circling the earth…
Bulls and Council develop youth engagement partnership
Bradford Bulls and Bradford Council have developed a new partnership to engage young people across the district and introduce a new generation of fans to rugby league. The Council’s Youth Service has been working with the club following their return to the Super League and have been taking young people to home games. Many of…
February 2026 insolvency statistics, Azets response
There were 1,878 corporate insolvencies in February 2026, 7.4% more than in January 2026 (1,749) and 6.8% less than in February 2025 (2,015). Covering the Yorkshire region, Richard Oddy is a partner, licensed insolvency practitioner and business restructuring, turnaround and rescue expert at regional accountancy and business advisory firm Azets, with offices in Leeds, Bradford and York….
Sentio strengthens deal team as market activity picks up
Leeds-based corporate finance firm Sentio Partners has expanded its team, adding depth to its deal delivery capability and continuing its investment in early-career talent as market activity increases. On the back of a strong year with multiple high profile deals across Business Services, Healthcare and Industrials, the firm has appointed Ollie Francis as Assistant Manager…
Bradford-based Refreshment Systems shortlisted for National Retail Technology Award
Bradford based Refreshment Systems Ltd (RSL), a family-run business based in Bradford, has been shortlisted for the Most Disruptive Retail Technology Award at the Retail Systems Awards. The shortlist recognises RSL’s Vendsmart technology, a new software platform built to transform how vending machines operate. While Vendsmart looks like a vending machine, it runs on completely…
Final opportunity to have your say on car parking charges consultation
A review of car parking charges in Bishopthorpe Road, Micklegate, The Groves and East Parade/Heworth has entered its final phase with a series of face-to-face drop-in sessions. A consultation has been taking place over the past few months after residents and business in all four of these areas initiated a challenge to parking charges through The Right to…
North Yorkshire developer reveals top tips for a clutter free home
Housebuilder Barratt and David Wilson Homes is encouraging North Yorkshire residents to think proactively when it comes to decluttering their homes this spring. With the season symbolizing a new beginning, many people also see spring as a chance to renew or rearrange their home, but many people may feel lost when faced with their own…
City of York Council celebrates National Social Work Day [17 March] with local social workers nominated for national awards
Social workers from City of York Council’s Adult and Children’s Social Work teams have been nominated for the national Amazing Social Worker awards. Organised by the British Association of Social Workers (BASW), the campaign aims to recognise individual and collective achievements in social work, shining a spotlight on the countless examples of exceptional social work practice in…
Henley embarks on new chapter with MBO and acquisition
Henley Construction Management Group (“Henley”), a specialist construction group headquartered in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, has completed a management buyout (MBO) alongside the acquisition of Smart Crosby International (SCI), a leading engineering and consultancy practice. The MBO was completed by long-standing senior team members Tom Cardoe, Jon Henley, Dave Cawley and Jim Wenham. It marks a…
York welcomes two new Youth Parliament representatives
City of York Council is pleased to announce the results of the recent online election for York’s representatives in the UK Youth Parliament. Following a strong turnout from young people across the city, Will has been elected as York’s new Member of Youth Parliament (MYP), with William chosen as Deputy Member of Youth Parliament (DMYP)….
Caribbean streetfood favourite Jerk Junction announces Trinity Kitchen launch
Foodie fans can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean at Trinity Kitchen as Jerk Junction prepares to join the line-up. Serving up real, authentic Caribbean flavours, Jerk Junction will offer mouth-watering dishes, from dumplings and jerk chicken – flame-grilled and packed with authentic island spices – to rice and peas and curried goat. The street…
Work underway on new £100m TrainCare Centre in Shipley
The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) has this week welcomed Leader of Bradford Council, Susan Hinchcliffe, Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw and Councillor Liz Rowe to its Shipley site, where the programme is investing over £100m in the construction of a new TrainCare Centre. The rail depot will initially be used to house and maintain Northern’s fleet of…
Bradford broker opens Harrogate base to support expansion plans
Family and employee owned insurance firm, TL Dallas, is expanding its footprint in North Yorkshire with a new presence in Harrogate, as the Bradford-headquartered firm continues to invest in regional growth. The long-established insurance broking, risk management and financial services group will operate from premises at 36 Victoria Avenue, placing its team in the centre…
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College named finalist for FE College of the Year
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College, based on the outskirts of Leeds City Centre, has been shortlisted in recognition of its commitment to academic excellence, student support and innovative partnerships that help prepare young people for their future. The college welcomes students from across Leeds and provides an inclusive learning environment focused on both academic…
Last chance to secure a home at popular North Yorkshire development
Five-star housebuilder Barratt Homes announces final six homes for sale at popular Whitby development, Abbey View. Barratt Homes is urging property seekers looking to buy at Abbey View to act quickly as the final six homes remain. A selection of two, three and four bedroom homes are still available, starting from just £204,995. Abbey View offers…
Idle Travel run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce a brand-new partnership with Idle Travel, who will sponsor the club’s new kit van as the Bulls’ return to the Super League in 2026. As the club prepares for an exciting new era, the electric kit van represents a modern step forward in supporting the first team and wider rugby operations across the…
Yorkshire garden centre group shortlisted for national people and culture award
A Bradford-headquartered garden centre group is celebrating after being shortlisted for a prestigious national HR award. Yorkshire Garden Centres Group has reached the final in the Large Organisation of the Year category at the British HR Awards, which celebrate organisations and individuals delivering a world-class people experience. The recognition comes after a period of significant…
Bradford College Named ‘Apprenticeship Provider of the Year’
Bradford College has been named ‘Apprenticeship Provider of the Year’ at the national Apprenticeship & Training Awards 2026. Announced at the Apprenticeships and Training Conference gala dinner and awards evening at the ACC Liverpool, the award recognises a provider that specialises in delivering apprenticeships and has achieved outstanding results. Bradford College was among 19 winners…
Accu wins Exporter of the Year Award!
Accu, the Huddersfield-based precision engineering component distributor, has won the prestigious ‘Exporter of the Year’ category at the ‘Made in Yorkshire’ awards, held at the Royal Armouries in Leeds last week. The company, alongside the other category winners from the evening, will now go forward to the national Made in the UK Awards in June. Accu…
Chadwick Lawrence donates £2,500 to support a number of initiatives this Ramadan
Law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has donated £2,500 to a number of initiatives over Ramadan, as part of its ongoing charitable work. The firm held an Iftar at its Leeds office on 5th March, bringing together colleagues from across its eight West Yorkshire offices to break the fast at sunset. Open to colleagues of all faiths…
Inheritance tax time-bomb is looming – Yorkshire farmers should act now
The fuse is burning down on the government’s inheritance tax (IHT) time-bomb for farmers, UK top 10 accountancy and advisory firm Azets in Yorkshire has warned. Under legislation to be introduced by the Finance Act 2026 new restrictions will apply to the amount of Agricultural and Business Property Reliefs available on the estates of farmers…
Made in Yorkshire returns at Trinity Leeds and White Rose to inspire the next generation of retail talent
Trinity Leeds and White Rose Shopping Centre have once again hosted their industry-led challenge, ‘Made in Yorkshire’, welcoming three local schools to compete in a ‘Dragons’ Den’-style pitch. Made in Yorkshire is a cross-school competition that challenges students to design an innovative community space for the city, before competing in a live pitch to present…
Apprenticeships: a young person’s perspective
Too many young people in the UK feel they need to leave the communities they grew up in to succeed elsewhere. This has a profound impact on local economies across the country. For example, £1.5 billion is lost every year from young people leaving North Yorkshire. It is a similar story for other regions across the UK. What…