Member News Subjects

Bradford Garden Centre to host pruning masterclass with leading rose grower

A Bradford garden centre is hosting a rose pruning masterclass with one of the country’s leading names in roses later this month. On Tuesday, 24th February, an expert from the long-established, family-owned rose breeder David Austin Roses will be in The Mezzanine at Tong Garden Centre at 10 am and 2 pm for hands-on rose…

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North Yorkshire development unveils latest interior design trends in new show home

A recently launched show home at Barratt Homes’ Russet Park development in Copmanthorpe is bringing the latest interior design inspiration to local homebuyers. The show home was expertly designed and styled by award-winning interior designers, Edward Thomas Interiors, meaning homebuyers can be assured they will be up to date with the latest design trends. Barratt Homes is…

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Mirfield station transformation for faster, more connected travel across the North

Customers in Mirfield will now benefit from a transformed station which includes new step-free access, longer platforms and improved facilities, marking the latest milestone in the £11 billion Transpennine Route Upgrade. This work will also enable longer trains with more seats to stop at the station and faster, more reliable journeys in the future, delivering…

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New independent report highlights the huge potential of York’s ambitious plan for growth

An ambitious strategy outlining plans for growth, with innovation, culture and heritage at its heart –could bring about £12.1bn of combined social, economic and environmental impact to the city, according to independent analysis. In November 2025, Executive members approved York’s prospectus which is designed to attract additional investment into economic and housing growth, tackle inequalities,…

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Calls for £2 billion Patent Box tax relief to be unwrapped for far more companies

Is this Britain’s most complicated business tax relief? …with a handful of large corporations getting the lion’s share A complicated tax relief aimed at encouraging companies to commercialise their innovations within the UK is in dire need of reform because it favours the few, it emerged today. Reform of the Patent Box scheme is said to…

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Two fly‑tippers fined over £2,000 as council enforces ‘Crime – Not to Care’

Two residents found to have illegally dumped waste, have been prosecuted by City of York Council. On Thursday 22 January, York Magistrates Court ordered them to pay a total £2,190 in fines, costs, and surcharges, as the council continues to deliver its ‘Crime – Not to Care’ campaign and protect neighbourhoods from environmental harm. Jake…

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Bradford BID launches inaugural Member Awards celebrating the city’s business community

Bradford Business Improvement District (BID) has today announced the launch of its inaugural Bradford BID Member Awards, a brand-new celebration recognising the innovation, resilience and excellence of local businesses in the city centre. The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 25th June 2026 at the iconic Bradford Live, bringing together businesses from across the retail,…

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Browse the region’s best independent crafts at White Rose’s Yorkshire Market

White Rose Shopping Centre invites guests to shop local as R.S.H Artisan Markets brings a new Yorkshire Market to the centre every month, showcasing an assortment of handmade crafts and gifts. Taking place in the Central Atrium the first weekend of each month between February and October, visitors can support local businesses and find truly…

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Bridging the gap in Ravensthorpe

Significant progress is being made in the delivery of upgrades by the Transpennine Route Upgrade team in Ravensthorpe, West Yorkshire following the closure of the station in December, with work on the new Calder Road bridge and Baker Viaduct well underway. TRU will build a new, modernised Ravensthorpe station 200m west of the current site,…

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Freight Island announced as new operator ahead of Trinity Kitchen’s £15m expansion

Trinity Leeds has revealed that Freight Island, the team behind the UK’s leading food hall and entertainment venue, will operate the expanded Trinity Kitchen – delivering a one-of-a-kind destination and an unrivalled food hall experience to Leeds.  Since launching in 2013, Trinity Kitchen has redefined the traditional food court model by pioneering an authentic indoor…

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York residents urged to maximise their income as part of York Talk Money fortnight

York residents are being urged to find out whether they could be eligible for extra income as part of next week’s York Talk Money fortnight (2-15 February). Run by City of York Council and partners across the city, including Citizens Advice, Peasholme Charity, Age UK, York Energy Advice and OCAY, the regular event aims to…

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Amy Hardcastle appointed Women’s Development Officer

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the appointment of England international Amy Hardcastle as Women’s Development Manager. Hardcastle played an integral role in our Women’s team following the adoption of the Bulls’ moniker in 2016 – featuring heavily in the treble winning, undefeated 2017 season. Two years at Leeds Rhinos was sandwiched by spells in…

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Universal AV Services proudly presents Connex 2026 – Bringing the future of workplace technology to Leeds

Universal AV Services is proud to present Connex 2026, the North of England’s leading workplace technology event, returning to Leeds to showcase the very latest in audio visual and collaboration solutions for modern working environments. Taking place at the Marriott Hotel, Leeds on March 12th, Connex has long been a must-attend event for organisations looking…

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Carbon Neutral Group lists sector net zero readiness in Hospitality, FMCG, Manufacturing, Logistics and Retail

Carbon Neutral Group, who work with organisations to build actionable net zero roadmaps, grounded in robust carbon accounting and operational change, has reviewed industry sectors and their road in sustainability, specifically those who are leading the way to becoming net zero, by examining their decarbonisation progress across five major industries. When it comes down to…

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7 Essential Copilot Updates Businesses Need to Understand in 2026

Microsoft Copilot has already rolled out a series of updates that subtly but significantly change how work happens across Microsoft 365. Individually, some of these changes may appear incremental or technical. Taken together, they signal something much bigger: Copilot is evolving from a helpful assistant into an embedded intelligence layer across everyday business activity. Below…

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University scholarship for white males to continue

A scholarship offering financial support to white working-class males studying at the University of Bradford will continue. The Keith Howard Opportunities Programme offers at least £500 a month towards living costs to successful applicants. It is designed to make it easier for under-represented groups, in this case white working-class males, to access higher education. The programme,…

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Council’s pledge to tackle tenants’ priorities unlocks new improvements

New approaches to tackling what tenants have told us are their priorities have been agreed today (Tuesday 27 January), which unlocks funding. The Council’s housing tenants have told us that tackling anti-social behaviour, preventing damp and mould, and improving communal areas are among their top priorities. To support them and improve the way we address…

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Product Partnership Ltd acquires Think Compliance

Retail compliance expert Product Partnerships Ltd (PPL) has bought a majority stake in Think Compliance, a specialist consultancy which provides compliance support and Regulatory Data Reporting services to Consumer Credit and Claims Management regulated firms across the UK. Rebecca Wilson, shareholder of Leeds-based Think Compliance, was advised on the acquisition by Yorkshire-based commercial law firm Schofield…

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MP for Colne Valley visits Kirklees College Engineering and Process Manufacturing centres

Friday 23 January saw Paul Davies, MP for Colne Valley, visit the Kirklees College Engineering and Process Manufacturing centres. As part of the visit, discussions took place between Paul and Kirklees College staff, which included Kirklees College Principal & Chief Executive, Palvinder Singh, alongside the Head of Engineering, Michelle Grainger, and the Curriculum Director for…

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Exciting plans for Glen Gardens play area

Children from Tang Hall Primary School and Heworth Primary School have played a key role in shaping the future of Glen Gardens. As part of City of York Council’s major investment in parks and green spaces, pupils were invited to review three different design options for the play area. Their feedback has helped determine the…

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Cold Hands Syndrome (aka Raynaud’s Disease) – call for more awareness

Raynaud’s – More Than Just Cold Hands  For a condition that affects millions, Raynaud’s barely gets any attention. It doesn’t trend, it doesn’t make headlines, and yet it shapes the daily lives of so many of us, including me. It’s often described as “cold hands” or “poor circulation”, but that barely captures what it’s like to manage it day to day.   Raynaud’s causes the small blood vessels in the fingers and…

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Top Notch run with the Bulls in 2026

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the renewal of their partnership with Top Notch North West Ltd, who will remain one of the club’s main sponsors for the 2026 season. The renewed agreement sees Top Notch North West Ltd continue their prominent presence on the Bulls’ 2026 home shirt, reaffirming their strong support and commitment to the club’s ambitions…

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TRU wraps up a month of major upgrades transforming train travel

Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) teams have completed over 32 days of major upgrades between Leeds and York, helping deliver faster, greener, more frequent services across the North. The work delivered by an army of hundreds of people includes 70 new signals installed and made operational, 3km of track renewed, along with eleven switches and crossings….

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LNER London King’s Cross first class lounge to undergo refurbishment

As part of our ongoing commitment to improve station facilities along the route, the First Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station will undergo a major transformation to provide an even more comfortable and welcoming space. While we make these exciting changes, the lounge will unfortunately be closed from Monday 26 January until Spring 2026….

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Trinity Kitchen starts the year with a warning new street food mix

Beat the cold this winter as Trinity Kitchen welcomes a brand-new street-food line-up, packed with warming dishes inspired from around the world. From juicy burgers and ultra soft bao buns to Venezuelan Arepas and Irish spice bags, the vast selection is set to tantalise taste buds. Ka-Bao, Masri, 7 Star Flag, Doles Dirty Bag and Luna’s Schnitzel will…

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Leeds Independent Venues Group launches

Leeds Independent Venues Group launches: six independent spaces unite to elevate Leeds as a premier meetings and events destination Six of Leeds’ leading independent venues have joined forces to form the Leeds Independent Venues Group, a new collective created to showcase the city’s diverse event spaces and strengthen its position as a top destination for…

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Wyedean’s skills legacy passes to next generation

More than 40 years of sewing and embroidery experience is being shared with a new generation as a giant of the military Colours and Standards ceremonial items retires. Aileen Henderson, embroidery supervisor at Haworth-based Wyedean Weaving, is stepping down after 46 years in the textile industry. Aileen, who has been awarded an MBE in the…

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Yorkshire Garden Centre group appoints new Buying Director

A Bradford-based garden centre group with a site in Shelley has recruited a new member to the senior team as it prepares for future growth across its multi-site business. Yorkshire Garden Centres has appointed Charlotte Watson as its full-time buying director. In her new role, Mrs Watson will lead the buying team across all categories…

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University of Bradford shines in THE subject rankings

The University of Bradford has achieved strong results in the newly released Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject 2025, underlining the institution’s growing reputation in key academic areas that also align with its broader success across recent league tables.  Standout subject performances  The latest subject-level data from THE shows Bradford performing particularly well…

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Unfair trading results in 10 month’s prison sentence

Following customers’ complaints and a Trading Standards’ investigation, York Crown Court has sentenced a man to 10 month’s imprisonment for unfair trading offences. Liam Wilkinson, aged 25 of Eastbourne Road, Darlington paid a total £8,095 compensation for his victims, ahead of appearing in court on 30 October 2025 when he pleaded guilty to two offences….

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Have your say in the York Parents’ Survey

Parents and carers in York are being invited to have their say in a citywide survey over the next few weeks. Organised by Raise York – the local network of people, places and online support which helps children, young people and families from pregnancy to adulthood –it’s hoped that feedback from the survey will shape…

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North Yorkshire homebuilder prepared to launch new development

Five-star housebuilder, Barratt Homes, prepares to launch its Knights Gate development in Huntington. Knights Gate, located off New Lane, will offer a range of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes. Presenting an exciting opportunity to first-time and prospective buyers, homes start from just £240,000 and buyers can start reserving their homes now. The launch will also see…

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schuh confirms commitment to Leeds with new store at Trinity Leeds

Fashion footwear retailer schuh has announced it will be opening a brand-new store at Trinity Leeds, marking an exciting new chapter for the brand and reaffirming its commitment to the city.  Set to open in April, the new store follows schuh’s recent closure from its former Briggate location and reflects the retailer’s continued investment in…

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Huddersfield’s BM Packaging acquired by global operator 

BM Packaging Ltd, the Holmfirth-based manufacturer and supplier of corrugated packaging, has been acquired by Nova Paper & Packaging B.V, part of the global Eren Holding. The family-owned business, which was established in 1990 and provides packaging solutions for a variety of businesses and industries as well as offering bespoke corrugated cases and die-cut packaging,…

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Five-star homebuilder invites public to special preview event for upcoming North Yorkshire development

David Wilson Homes is inviting prospective buyers to a special preview event for its upcoming Castra Park development at LNER Community Stadium on Thursday 22nd January. Located in the sought-after village of Huntington, Castra Park will offer a collection of energy-efficient two, three and four-bedroom homes. The development is the ideal setting for families and young professionals with…

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Chadwick Lawrence run with the Bulls in 2026

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce that Chadwick Lawrence, a leading Yorkshire-based law firm, have renewed their sponsorship heading into the 2026 season! The renewed partnership will see Chadwick Lawrence’s branding proudly featured on the club’s sleeves for the upcoming season, further solidifying a strong relationship that has flourished over recent years. The partnership extension underscores Chadwick…

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Warm Spaces cinema returns to York

York St John University’s Cinema & Social Justice team offer free film screenings for people trying to stay warm this winter York St John University is pleased to invite the local community to free Warm Spaces film screenings this winter. The University’s Cinema & Social Justice project is screening all-ages favourites Zootropolis 2 and Happy Feet at…

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North Yorkshire homebuilder sponsors creative arts day with Whitby charity

Barratt and David Wilson Homes sponsors creative arts day for Whitby charity, WHISH. Barratt and David Wilson Homes sponsored a creative arts day at St. Hilda’s Hub with Whitby charity, WHISH. Nearby Barratt Homes’ Abbey View and David Wilson Homes’ Chaloners Green developments, the charity is a hub for the community, supporting many individuals with hidden impairments. The day…

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University of Bradford to lead £2.4m national trial to rethink swallowing care

The University of Bradford has been awarded £2.4 million from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to lead a landmark clinical trial that could reshape care for people with swallowing difficulties, including those living with dementia and other neurological conditions.  The INGEST Trial (dIscontinuing or continuiNG thickEned fluidS Trial), led by Dr Lindsey Collins, Associate Professor in the Centre for Applied Dementia Studies, in collaboration with the York…

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ATM Hospitality run with the Bulls in 2026

Bradford Bulls are proud to announce a new partnership with ATM Hospitality for the 2026 season. As part of this exciting collaboration, ATM Hospitality’s branding will feature prominently on the sleeves of the Bulls’ playing and replica jerseys, as they return to the Super League. ATM Hospitality stands as a global leader in the event sector, boasting…

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Bradford company listed among top 17 most promising biotech start-ups

A University of Bradford‑supported biotech start‑up has been named among the top 17 companies nationally to be selected for a flagship Innovate UK– funded programme supporting the future of medicines.  Hado Therapeutics, part of the University’s Enterprise Fellowship Programme, has secured a place on the LYVA Labs Future Medicines Accelerator, part of the Innovate UK Biomedical Catalyst Accelerator programme.  The programme is designed to fast‑track the UK’s most promising biotech ventures.  Dr Harsha Kantamneni, CEO and…

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Annual insolvency stats – Yorkshire accountants warn ‘no respite on horizon’

2025 insolvency stats for England and Wales – Azets response There were 23,938 corporate insolvencies in 2025 – 0.2% more than in 2024 (23,880) and 4.9% fewer than in 2023 (25,164) Richard Oddy, a partner, licensed insolvency practitioner and business restructuring, turnaround and rescue expert at accountancy and business advisory group Azets in Yorkshire, said:…

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LEAP celebrates 20 years of enterprise fairs at the Merrion Centre

LEAP (Leeds Enterprise Advisory Project) is celebrating 20 years of enterprise fairs at the Merrion Centre, reflecting on a journey that now spans decades of inspiring, mentoring and empowering young people in Leeds. The milestone year of 2026 will feature two LEAP Fairs at the Merrion Centre: the Valentine’s LEAP Fair on 7 February 2026,…

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Leeds Beckett University partners with Bradford business to drive research-led innovation in the UK steel industry

Leeds Beckett University (LBU) is partnering with Bradford-based Dent Steel Services Limited on a new research-led project designed to strengthen innovation, efficiency and long-term sustainable growth within Dent Steel and the UK steel sector. The collaboration brings together academic expertise from across LBU in supply chain management, leadership and computing systems. Working closely with Dent…

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Footasylum to open Flagship Store at Trinity Leeds

One of the UK’s leading streetwear and sportswear retailers, Footasylum, is set to open a new flagship store at Trinity Leeds. Launching in Spring, the 12,000 sq ft store will bring an expanded product range, innovative retail concepts and bespoke design features to Leeds city centre.  Located opposite Mango, the new store at Trinity Leeds…

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Council plans for the future amid toughest financial outlook since launch of austerity

Rising inflation, decades of underfunding, and growing demand for services have created major financial strains for local authorities across the country – including City of York Council. To address these pressures, the Council has published its budget proposals for 2026/27. York’s ageing population, with increasingly complex health needs, are increasing demand for social care. Significant…

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York St John becomes the first university in the UK to use revolutionary maternity simulator that actually gives birth

Midwifery students can use Mama Anne to prepare for the most challenging scenarios in labour and birth. York St John University has become the first UK higher education institution to integrate the Mama Anne birthing simulator into their new midwifery programme. Mama Anne is the most cutting-edge maternity simulator currently available and offers tangible, physical…

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91% of University of Bradford graduates in work or study – par for the course, says incoming VC

The fact University of Bradford notched up one of its best ever results on the most recent Graduate Outcomes survey did not come as a surprise for its new interim vice-chancellor, Professor Nick Braisby.  According to the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency report, 91% of University of Bradford graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating (80% in work and…

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