Schofield Sweeney partner joins national succession planning taskforce
A partner at leading commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney has been appointed to the steering committee of the newly formed Succession Alliance – a UK-wide taskforce aimed at improving succession outcomes across financial planning. Established by the Consumer Duty Alliance, the Succession Alliance aims to improve consistency, raise expectations and provide practical education across the…
Growth for Andrew Marr International with acquisition of Seafish UK
Fastnet Fish Holdings (“Fastnet”), a subsidiary company of Andrew Marr International, has strengthened its position as one of the UK’s leading seafood businesses with the acquisition of Seafish U.K. Limited (“Seafish”), a long-established Hull-based manufacturer of frozen seafood products and bespoke sauce solutions. The acquisition brings together two businesses with deep roots in the Humber…
Experienced Insurance Account Executive appointed to support client growth
Bradford headquartered independent insurance broking and risk management firm, TL Dallas, has appointed experienced insurance professional John Loran as an account executive, strengthening its commercial team in Glasgow, as the business continues to expand its presence across Scotland. John joins TL Dallas with 18 years’ experience in the insurance sector, having worked across commercial insurance,…
Andrew Jackson strengthens corporate team with latest appointment
Regional law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has welcomed solicitor Dan Burton to its corporate team, further strengthening the firm’s offering to businesses across the Yorkshire and Humber region and beyond. Dan has several years’ experience advising corporate clients on a broad range of matters, with a particular focus on mergers and acquisitions. His work…
Specialist People Services completes refinancing with Virgin Money
Specialist People Services (SPS), the parent company of Driver Hire, has completed a refinancing of its senior and mezzanine facilities with Virgin Money. The deal, which followed a competitive process, secured a £25m funding package to support both the refinancing and future growth of the business. It replaces the existing facilities with a more competitive…
Schofield Sweeney represents Easy Bathrooms in successful high-profile IP case
Yorkshire-based commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney has acted in the successful defence of a significant trade mark and passing off claim, brought against its client Cubico (UK) Limited, trading as Easy Bathrooms, by the owners of easyJet. Founded in Yorkshire in 2013, Easy Bathrooms has grown from a single showroom into one of the UK’s…
Two-thirds of Making Tax Digital clients haven’t registered, Freedom of Information request by Azets finds
More than 580,000 people who should have registered for Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax have failed to do so, according to the results of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request from accountancy and business advisory group Azets. HMRC data shows that 864,000 individuals and landlords should have registered for MTD for Income Tax…
Chadwick Lawrence invests in training and support for the next generation of lawyers
Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has awarded training and funding support for 11 team members, furthering its commitment to developing the next generation of legal professionals. The successful candidates are Sara Ali, Tom Coombes, Daniella Omoragie, Katie Smith, Ben Hess, Shayan Malik, Ethan Ward, Fran Whiting, Jess Goodwin, James Lockwood and Nadia Mohammed. They…
Blacks expands Real Estate Litigation team
The Real Estate Litigation team at Blacks Solicitors LLP, one of Yorkshire’s leading law firms, has strengthened its offering with the appointment of two new solicitors. Following a period of sustained growth and increasing demand, the team has appointed Chloe Ward and Jess Bowen as Associate Solicitor and Solicitor – taking the team’s total headcount…
Chadwick Lawrence invests in training and support for the next generation of lawyers
Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has awarded training and funding support for 11 team members, furthering its commitment to developing the next generation of legal professionals. The successful candidates are Sara Ali, Tom Coombes, Daniella Omoragie, Katie Smith, Ben Hess, Shayan Malik, Ethan Ward, Fran Whiting, Jess Goodwin, James Lockwood and Nadia Mohammed. They…
70% of UK businesses fear economic uncertainty most as climate hits profits, hiring and costs, Azets research finds
UK businesses have been hit hard by economic issues and remain worried and pessimistic about the future of UK plc, according to new research from international accountancy and business advisory group Azets. The findings of the Q2 2026 Azets Barometer showed that economic uncertainty was the biggest concern over the next year for nearly 70%…
Schofield Sweeney strengthens team with senior appointments
Yorkshire law firm expands team with four senior recruits and influx of legal talent Leading commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney has made four senior appointments as part of a significant intake, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing service offerings and operational capabilities. Among the new hires are Leonie Sutherland, who joins the Real Estate team as…
Yorkshire Building Society wins Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year
Yorkshire Building Society’s External Affairs team has won Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year at last night’s Headline Money Awards in London, recognising its impactful work championing financial education for young people. The Headlinemoney Awards recognise and celebrate excellence in the UK financial media industry—specifically outstanding work in journalism, PR, and communications related to money,…
Chadwick Lawrence announces nine associate and salaried partner promotions following record year
Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has announced a series of promotions across the business, recognising the outstanding achievements, dedication and contribution of its people following a record year for the firm. Nine internal promotions have been made, including four new salaried partners, three associate solicitors, one senior associate and one senior licensed conveyancer. The…
Experienced Head of Compliance launches Quinn Oath Advisory to support growing and regulated firms
Quinn Oath Advisory Limited has launched to provide practical compliance, governance, risk and senior advisory support to businesses that need experienced expertise without the cost or commitment of a permanent hire. Founded by experienced Head of Compliance, Helen Quinn, the firm has been created to support financial services and regulated businesses with the increasing demands…
Temporary VAT reduction may lead to ‘Summer of disruption for businesses’
Azets tax specialist advises early action to ensure compliance and minimise disruption The temporary VAT reduction for children’s meals, admissions and family attractions could lead to a summer of disruption for businesses, says Yorkshire accountancy firm Azets. Aimed at families, it is being introduced by the government as part of a wider initiative to support…
Colleagues conquer Snowdon at night to reach £1 million milestone for the Felix Project & FareShare
Colleagues from Yorkshire Building Society are celebrating raising over £1 million for the Society’s charity partner, The Felix Project & FareShare. The team’s fundraising total tipped over the £1 million mark after more than 200 colleagues from across the Society, completed a challenging, yet unforgettable overnight climb of Mount Snowdon, Wales’ highest mountain. Together, the…
Blacks Solicitors leads on sale of Yorkshire Raw Feeds to The Nutriment Company
Leading Yorkshire law firm Blacks Solicitors LLP has advised the shareholders of Yorkshire Raw Feeds in the sale to The Nutriment Company (TNC), one of Europe’s fastest-growing natural pet food groups. Completing on 17th June, Rebecca Holden, Partner and Head of Corporate, assisted by Trainee, Leon Cordero advised on all aspects of the transaction. Specialists…
Why financial responsibility is so difficult to rest from
At senior level in banking, lending, wealth management and financial leadership, money is never just money, is it? It represents security. Payrolls. Mortgages. Business continuity. Family stability. Long-term futures. That is why the pressure in these roles is rarely superficial. Leaders in finance are not only managing figures. They are carrying the emotional and practical…
Review payroll processes amid tighter minimum wage scrutiny, bosses warned
Employers across Yorkshire are being urged to review their payroll processes and employment practices urgently amid growing scrutiny over National Minimum Wage (NMW) compliance and the expanding enforcement powers of the Fair Work Agency (FWA). Accountancy and business advisory group Azets, which has offices in Leeds, Bradford and York, has warned that many businesses are…
Blacks announces strong financial year as firm unveils refreshed brand
Blacks Solicitors LLP has today announced a record financial year alongside the launch of a refreshed brand identity, reflecting the firm’s continued growth and development. The 2025/2026 financial year was the strongest in Blacks’ history, with turnover exceeding £22.9 million for the first time. During the year, Blacks supported clients across the UK, including Morrisons,…
Castle to host free Employer Update for Yorkshire businesses ahead of Employment Rights Act changes
Yorkshire businesses are being encouraged to prepare early for major employment law changes that could affect how they recruit, manage and retain staff from 2026 onwards. Castle HR & Training Solutions and Castle Employment Solutions are hosting a free face-to-face Employer Update on 25 June to help employers understand the upcoming Employment Rights Act changes…
A value-added boost for Yorkshire charities
A long-standing tax levied on businesses donating to charities has now been removed, a major accountancy and advisory firm in Yorkshire has said. Azets, with offices in Leeds, Bradford and York, wants to remind businesses that they can now give goods to registered charities without paying VAT. The news comes at a time of falling…
Three new partners appointed at Wilkin Chapman Rollits
Law firm Wilkin Chapman Rollits has further strengthened its senior team with the appointment of three new partners, including one in its York office. Experienced commercial litigator Dean Hill has joined the Lincolnshire and Yorkshire firm as a partner in the dispute resolution team, based in York. Dean joins as a lateral hire from Ramsdens…
Savills appointed to sell Crab Manor Hotel in Thirsk, North Yorkshire
International real estate advisor Savills has been appointed by a private individual to sell the long leasehold of the Crab Manor Hotel and Crab and Lobster Restaurant in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, for offers over £4 million. The boutique hotel provides 20 individually designed en-suite rooms within the 18th century Georgian manor house. The rooms are inspired…
Yorkshire Building Society appoints new Non-Executive Directors
Yorkshire Building Society today announces the appointment of two new Independent Non-Executive Directors. Barry O’Dwyer and Philippa Brown join the Board from 2 June, bringing extensive experience across financial services, customer-focused businesses and digital transformation. Barry has almost 40 years’ experience in financial services, particularly insurance and pensions. He is currently Group Chief Executive of…
Chadwick Lawrence strengthens regulatory team with senior solicitor appointment in Darlington
Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has appointed highly regarded Teesside solicitor Simon Catterall to strengthen its specialist regulatory law team, bolstering the firm’s presence in the North East. Catterall joins the firm’s expanding regulatory department, bringing decades of experience representing businesses and individuals facing prosecution or investigation by public authorities across Northern England. He…
James Sweeting shares lessons from 30 years in business at Humber Business Week
Andrew Jackson Solicitors hosts more than 120 delegates for flagship event James Sweeting, co-founder of Pipers Crisps, Lincoln & York, and Sumo UK, was keynote speaker at a flagship event hosted by Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP this morning, marking the start of Humber Business Week. More than 120 business leaders and professionals from across the…
Schofield Sweeney retains its place in Sunday Times Best Places to Work list
Leading commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney has been named in the official Sunday Times Best Places to Work list for the third year running. The nationwide workplace survey recognises and celebrates the UK’s top employers, showcasing organisations that are leading the way in employee engagement, workplace culture and overall employee experience. The law firm was once again…
AAB welcomes two firms in latest strategic growth deal
BpH Wealth Management and Jane Smith Financial Planning join AAB as Assets Under Advice reach £2.5 Billion AAB’s award-winning chartered financial planning team, AAB Wealth, continues to implement its strategic growth plan with the acquisition of two firms – BpH Wealth Management and Jane Smith Financial Planning. The move will mean AAB Wealth serves over…
Azets welcomes new audit partner in Yorkshire
UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm recruits highly-experienced auditor Sarah Palmer in Leeds office International accountancy and business advisory group Azets has strengthened its senior team in Yorkshire with the appointment of Sarah Palmer as an audit and assurance partner. Sarah joins the firm’s Leeds office after more than 17 years at PwC…
Chadwick Lawrence appoints Leanne Franks as Equity Partner
Northern law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has promoted Leanne Franks to equity partner, recognising her outstanding contribution to the firm over the past 11 years. As partner and head of the corporate and commercial department, Franks has played a key role in strengthening the firm’s commercial offering and shaping the direction of the team. Now…
AAB Wealth recognised at 2026 VouchedFor Client Experience Awards
AAB’s chartered financial planning team, AAB Wealth, has been recognised at the 2026 VouchedFor Client Experience Awards, winning the Client Communication Award, in recognition of its commitment to delivering clear, client-focused financial advice. Hosted by VouchedFor, the UK’s leading review platform for financial advisers, the Client Experience Awards are based entirely on verified client feedback….
Partner and Associate roles among latest promotions at Andrew Jackson Solicitors
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has announced a series of promotions across the firm, strengthening its ability to support clients across the region and beyond. Sally Price has been promoted to partner in the tax and trusts department. She advises clients on wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, probate matters and estate administration, with particular expertise in…
Azets warns Yorkshire charities of HMRC clampdown
Warning to Yorkshire charities over increased HMRC activity in sector Charities and not-for-profit organisations in Yorkshire are being warned to ensure all their procedures and records are watertight in the light of new and enhanced compliance activity by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). HMRC has recently initiated a programme of Structured Risk Reviews (SRRs) across…
Making tax digital for landlords and sole traders
What You Need to Know (and How to Prepare) If you’re a sole trader or landlord running a small property business, you’ve probably heard about Making Tax Digital (MTD)—but many are still unclear on what it actually means in practice. MTD for Income Tax is a significant change being introduced by HMRC that will affect…
Andrew Jackson and Smailes Goldie advise on sale of LSTC Group to SOCOTEC UK and Ireland
Leading regional firms Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP and chartered accountants Smailes Goldie, announce that they have advised the selling shareholders of Driffield-based LSTC Group (“LSTC”) on the sale of their shares to SOCOTEC UK & Ireland (“SOCOTEC”), a leading provider of testing, inspection and certification services, which employs over 2,000 people and generates £240 million…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Azets’ five cashflow management tips for SMEs: Monitor and manage Work in Progress
Businesses in Yorkshire are being urged to meticulously track the heartbeat of work in progress throughout its lifecycle. Monitoring, managing and making changes to reduce mission creep, improve efficiencies and maximise cashflow are critical steps which can improve a business’ health and growth prospects, according to a senior finance professional. The advice comes from Matthew…
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)…
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…
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…
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,…