Member News Subjects

Delivering more than solutions – building lasting partnerships

Strong business relationships are often built through shared values, trusted service, and meaningful connections — something clearly reflected in the growing relationship between Same Day Solutions Limited and Sound Leisure. Both businesses connected through the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating the power of local networking and how Chamber members can successfully support…

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Grand opening launch event of Volcano Falls Adventure Golf White Rose Shopping Centre, Leeds

Volcano Falls Adventure Golf, the latest immersive entertainment destination from Funstation, has officially opened at White Rose Shopping Centre in Leeds. Building on more than 20 years of creating memorable leisure experiences across the UK, the new venue combines adventure golf, electric darts and a licensed bar under one roof. The opening marks the 16th venue…

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Time to shine as Diamonds Factory arrives at Trinity Leeds

Luxury jewellery store Diamonds Factory is now open at Trinity Leeds, offering affordable pieces from earrings and pendants to wedding rings and bracelets. Priding itself on bespoke handmade pieces and expert craftmanship, the new store will offer guests a chance to view its collections and seek expert advice. The family-run business with more than four…

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Council’s new housing sweeps the board in design awards

City of York Council’s first Passivhaus development at Duncombe Square has won three awards at the annual York Design Awards this week. Lowfield Green has also won a Commendation in the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) 2026 awards. Winners of the York Design Awards were announced on Tuesday 7 July, and are for developments which…

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Paramedic students given ‘crash course’ on campus

Paramedic students at the University of Bradford gained hands-on experience of their future profession by taking part in a crash scene simulation staged on campus. A group of BSc Paramedic Science students were faced with a mock three-vehicle crash, featuring one of the cars flipped onto its side and trapped passengers. Working with experienced and trainee firefighters…

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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…

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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…

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Vice-Chancellor signals new chapter for University of Bradford

The University of Bradford’s incoming Vice-Chancellor Professor Gillian Murray has signalled “a new era” for the university focused on innovation and partnerships.  Professor Murray, who will take up her new role on Monday, July 13, at the start of the University’s summer graduation week, has a strong track record in leading large-scale partnership programmes between…

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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,…

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Craven College celebrates excellent Ofsted report

Craven College is celebrating the publication of its latest Ofsted report, which has recognised the College’s excellence across a number of key areas under the inspectorate’s new education inspection framework. The College achieved an impressive four ‘Strong’ judgements, recognising the quality of its education, student experience and employer-focused approach. Underpinned by expert teaching and industry-standard…

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North Yorkshire housebuilder donates £3,000 to homelessness charity

Barratt and David Wilson Homes has donated £3,000 to Sleepsafe Selby, helping to support vulnerable adults experiencing homelessness. Established in 2018, Sleepsafe Selby aims to support local rough sleepers and help individuals to overcome challenges that prevent them from maintaining safe and secure housing. Providing accommodation for up to 10 people at a time, the…

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10 things you didn’t know about Bradford Lit Fest

As Bradford Literature Festival prepares to enter its closing weekend, here are 10 things you didn’t know about one of the North’s biggest literary celebrations. Ethical ticketing gives free access to most of the programme to students and educators. 1 The University of Bradford has supported the festival since its launch in 2014, with a number of…

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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…

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Kirklees College and The Arcade Group are helping to make a difference in Dewsbury

Over the last four years, The Arcade Group in Dewsbury has been one of Kirklees College’s most valued employer partners, helping to provide our students with career-enhancing placements and opportunities. Since 2022, the group has worked with students and staff from a variety of subject areas to create some amazing opportunities. When speaking about the…

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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…

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North Yorkshire river project delivers 9 ways to drive positive environmental change

York St John University report highlights the power of community engagement, spending time in nature and sharing local know-how across generations.   A pioneering environmental initiative working across the River Esk and Coastal Streams Catchment is helping communities reconnect with nature while building a stronger foundation for long-term conservation and biodiversity recovery.  The River Esk catchment…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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TRU celebrates successful Community Fund projects across route

The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is showcasing some of the organisations from its 2025 Community Fund round, who have used their grants to improve local spaces and places. Launched in 2024, the TRU Community Fund aims to help local community groups, schools and charities to create or enhance community-focused facilities across the 70-mile route. The second iteration in 2025 saw 35 successful applicants offered small, medium and large…

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Korean Beauty store moida set to arrive at Trinity Leeds

Trinity Leeds is set to welcome beauty retailer moida, bringing the finest handpicked Korean skincare to the heart of the city. The store will offer guests an extensive range of authentic K-beauty products from brands such as Dr. Althea, Beauty of Joseon, Tirtir, Medicube, Biodance and many more. Named after the Korean word meaning ’to…

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The Institute for Equity, University Centre launches major strategic expansion on its 6th birthday

On its 6th Birthday, the Institute for Equity, University Centre launches Major Strategic Expansion with Three New Academic Schools to Drive Global Leadership and Social Transformation Marking exactly six years of delivering pioneering education, the Institute for Equity, University Centre (IEUC) has today unveiled a bold and historic expansion of its academic architecture. Moving dynamically…

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Aesthetica marks 20 years with landmark programme exploring the future of contemporary art

Aesthetica announces Aesthetica 20, a major anniversary programme redefining how contemporary art is made, experienced, and understood, culminating in the Aesthetica Art Prize 2026 exhibition at York Art Gallery. Contemporary art is undergoing a profound shift in how it is produced, circulated, and interpreted. At Aesthetica, this moment is being met with clarity and ambition…

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Over one million tickets sold to LNER York Community Stadium events

Picture caption – L-R – Phil Donhay – Chief Executive (Designate) GLL, Peter Bundey – Chief Executive GLL, Cllr Claire Douglas Leader of City of York Council, Justin Jardine – Chief Officer Corporate Development GLL. City of York Council is celebrating a major milestone as more than one million tickets have now been sold to…

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Family Football Festival to celebrate our Armed Forces in York

City of York Council is joining partners across the city and the UK to celebrate and recognise the contribution of our Armed Forces this summer. Here in York, the Council and partner organisations will be showing their support for currently serving personnel and their families, plus veterans and cadets with a free, vibrant football festival,…

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Students scoop top prize in landmark Grayling PR competition

A team of final-year students from Leeds Beckett University have won the prestigious Grayling Prize 2026, after impressing judges with a creative public relations campaign developed in response to a live industry brief. Lilly Argent, Will Turner, Lauren Knowles and Abby Sullivan – competing under the agency name Above the Bar PR – claimed the top prize…

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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…

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Why the UK needs an essential user fuel rebate

While the UK government has largely stayed quiet on fuel support for commercial operators, the rest of the world hasn’t been as passive. The Road Haulage Association (RHA) published a breakdown of how other countries are responding to the current fuel crisis, and the contrast with the UK is hard to ignore. Whilst the World…

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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%…

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For founders, the business is never entirely “just work”

Founders and owner/managers often live inside a type of pressure that other roles do not create in quite the same way. The business is not merely a job. It is identity. Livelihood. Reputation. Responsibility. Risk. Proof. And, sometimes legacy. That makes it unique and incredibly difficult to switch off from. Even when the working day…

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Bradford College Careers Adviser wins National Education Award

A long-serving Bradford College careers adviser has won the coveted ‘Support Staff of the Year’ title in the national NCFE Aspiration Awards. The annual awards celebrate learners, apprentices, educators, support staff and educational organisations making an outstanding impact in learning across the UK. From going above and beyond to exceed expectations, to overcoming obstacles to…

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Bradford College, Production Park and Academy of Live Technology launch landmark partnership through The Producing Academy

Bradford College has announced a major new partnership with Production Park and Academy of Live Technology (ALT), anchored by its flagship Producing Academy, to create industry-leading training and employment pathways into the UK’s fast-growing creative and live events sectors. The three organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver a collaborative programme of skills,…

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Professor laments $2.9 trillion spent on war as he accepts Luxembourg Peace Prize

Luxembourg Peace Prize 2026 winner Emeritus Professor Tom Woodhouse from the University of Bradford used his acceptance speech to warn of a global imbalance between spending on war and investment in peace.  Professor Woodhouse, awarded in the category of outstanding contribution to peace education, was presented with his award by the Schengen Peace Foundation at a ceremony in the European Convention Center in…

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Industrial waste management firm named York and North Yorkshire’s top ranked business for 2026 

The region’s business community gathers at York St John University for the prestigious Top 100 awards. The best performing and most impactful businesses in York and North Yorkshire have been unveiled at a high-profile event at York St John University this afternoon. Hosted by York Business School in partnership with York Press, the York and…

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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…

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Sutton pens new deal

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce earlier today, vice-captain Ryan Sutton put pen-to-paper on a new two-year deal! The prop forward became an instant fans favourite when first pulling on the red, amber and black – with his work rate and ability to do big minutes leaving a lasting impression on the Bulls supporters. Ryan…

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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,…

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A sparkling addition: Lovisa now open at White Rose 

Global fashion jewellery brand Lovisa has opened a brand-new store at White Rose Shopping Centre. The new store features more than 15,000 individual pieces of jewellery including the latest earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, bangles, and hair accessories. Lovisa’s professional piercing service is also on offer, free-of-charge with the purchase of any piercing studs and with all children under the age of nine receiving a free doughnut pillow to support healing…

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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…

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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…

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Work begins on major refresh of construction college façade

Work has begun on a new look for Leeds College of Building’s (LCB) North Street Campus building. As part of ongoing improvements to its estate, LCB is over-cladding the façade of the building that has been its home since the 1960s. In addition to increasing the kerbside appeal of the North Street Campus, the works…

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Pack your bags. We’ll do the rest.

Planning a trip should feel exciting, especially when visiting a historic and vibrant destination like York. While online booking platforms may offer convenience, many travellers are now seeking a more personal experience by choosing a trusted local travel agency in York city centre that provides expert advice, tailored recommendations, and genuine customer support. Whether you…

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Poetry in Motion: Creative Writing lecturer’s work connects passengers with the history of reopened railway

Dr John Challis ‘honoured’ to see his verse brought to life at stations along the Northumberland Line. Dr John Challis, Poet and Lecturer in Creative Writing at York St John University says it’s a ‘great honour’ for his poetry to be selected to celebrate the reopened Northumberland Line. His specially commissioned poem The Journey has…

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Bradford breaks into top 500 global QS rank

The University of Bradford has been ranked among the world’s top 500 universities for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its continued rise on the global stage.   In the latest QS World University Rankings 2027, published on 18 June, Bradford climbed 14 places to 497th in the world, securing its place in the…

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Volcano Falls Adventure Golf is now open at White Rose Leeds

White Rose Shopping Centre has welcomed Volcano Falls Adventure Golf, Funstation’s new immersive adventure golf venue. Volcano Falls is an immersive prehistoric-themed adventure golf experience set in a world 65 million years in the making, featuring detailed theming, atmospheric lighting and sound, and high-quality landscapes designed to create memorable experiences for visitors of all ages….

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The hidden nervous system cost of building shelter for others

In property, development, construction and the built environment, responsibility has a very physical quality to it. Deadlines matter. Budgets matter. Safety matters. Delivery matters. Reputation matters. But beyond it all sits something deeper in that the work shapes places other people will live in, work in, move through and rely upon. That creates a particular…

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£130,000 invested to help Bradford communities thrive together

GiveBradford have invested nearly £130,000 in 9 Bradford community organisations through The Thrive Together Fund! The programme is our partnership with The National Lottery Community Fund, made possible thanks to National Lottery players. The Thrive Together Fund aims to develop inclusive places, spaces and activities for people who are least able to come together. The…

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