Iran war pushing up cost of borrowing for small businesses
The ongoing war in Iran which is pushing up the cost of borrowing for Yorkshire small and medium enterprises (SMEs) may be the final nail in the coffin for some businesses, says a sector specialist. Mark Barrie, head of debt advisory at UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets, believes the war – which began in…
Create SharePoint lists in minutes, not hours
Need a tracker, register or log but don’t want to build it from scratch? Microsoft Copilot in SharePoint can help you create a SharePoint List in minutes using plain English. SharePoint Lists are a great way to track information such as project actions, support tickets, company assets, risks and issues, all in a structured and…
Council launches public consultation over proposed extension of PSPO
City of York Council is seeking residents’ views on the extension of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in the city centre. A PSPO is a legal power available to local authorities under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and is designed to help address behaviours that have a detrimental effect on the…
Enrolment Hotline opens at Kirklees College for 2026/2027 academic year
For over 200 years, Kirklees College has been at the forefront of vocational and technical education, and it’s time for new students to join this historic institution. This morning, Kirklees College officially opened its Enrolment Hotline call centre, taking queries from the public who want to join a course starting in September. The hotline number…
Local Summer Carnival event supported by North Yorkshire homebuilder
The village of Copmanthorpe celebrated its 58th annual summer carnival with help from local developer, Barratt Homes, who donated £1,500 to the running of the week of festivities. The Cop’ Carnival, which takes place near Barratt Homes’ Russett Park development, is an annual family friendly summer event in the village, which took place from the 29th of…
Institute for Equity, University Centre celebrates 100% compliance rating in British Accreditation Council inspection
Vice Principal Janet Cash praises staff, fellows, and students as specialist UK higher education institution meets every evaluated standard across governance, teaching and student support. I am thrilled to share that the Institute for Equity, University Centre (IEUC) has successfully completed a full inspection by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) under the Independent Higher Education…
Institute for Equity announces first annual Yorkshire Inclusion Luncheon incorporating the National Inclusion Awards ©
The Institute for Equity, University Centre has officially announced its landmark event, The Yorkshire Inclusion Luncheon, scheduled for 15 October 2026 at the Cedar Court Hotel, Huddersfield. This first-of-its-kind, high-end gathering, is designed to bring together Yorkshire’s most forward-thinking minds, including high-profile individuals, corporate decision-makers, and community leaders, to participate in high-level discussions on organisational…
Have you scheduled a Microsoft 365 Copilot prompt yet?
Most people use Microsoft 365 Copilot reactively. They open Copilot when they need help with a task, ask a question, get an answer and move on. But what if Copilot could start working before you even begin your day? That’s exactly what scheduled prompts are designed to do. Microsoft allows you to create a prompt…
Summer fun: North Yorkshire housebuilder sponsors summer fayre
Making the most of the sunny weather, David Wilson Homes recently sponsored stalls at Elvington Church of England Primary School’s summer fayre. The developer, which is building nearby at Bramble Wood, Wheldrake, recently supported Elvington Church of England Primary School to celebrate the school year coming to a close. Hosting the pupils and their families, the…
Core Telecom returns as headline sponsor of the Yorkshire Children of Courage Awards for a fourth consecutive year
Core Telecom is proud to announce that we will once again be the Headline Sponsor of the Yorkshire Children of Courage Awards, marking our fourth consecutive year supporting this inspirational event. Taking place this November, the awards celebrate the extraordinary bravery, resilience, and achievements of children and young people from across Yorkshire who have overcome…
AAB strengthens Central Scotland leadership team
Image caption (above): L-R: Iain Walker, Corporate Finance Partner and Head of Central Scotland, and Malcolm Crawford, Business Development Partner at AAB Leading UK and Ireland professional services firm AAB has strengthened its Central Scotland leadership team with the appointment of Malcolm Crawford as Business Development Partner, and the promotion of Corporate Finance Partner Iain…
Bateman completes return
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce John Bateman has signed a two-year deal from the start of the 2027 season – with the club holding the option of a third year. Having come through the club’s famed pathway system, Bateman made his debut aged just 17, against Catalans Dragons in 2011. After three years in…
Former Kirklees College Sports student Zak Lloyd makes Super League debut for Leeds Rhinos
Former Kirklees College student and young Rugby League player Zak Lloyd is celebrating after making his debut for Super League side Leeds Rhinos. Zak, who finished his Sport Coaching course only a few weeks ago, came off the bench in the final quarter of his side’s 46-0 win over Toulouse Olympique at Headingley. He mentioned…
Bake Off: The Professionals star brings tasty chocolate workshops to Trinity Leeds
Pictured above: Trinity Leeds The Study. 25.07.26 – Picture by Roger Moody / SD Photos Trinity Leeds is serving up the sweetest event of the summer as ‘Bake Off: The Professionals’ contestant Oliver Dunn – also known as Oli the Choc – hosts a series of chocolate workshops. Families can take part in child-friendly workshops,…
Greenwood pens new deal
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce Lee Greenwood has signed a new two-year deal – keeping him at the club until the end of the 2028 season. Greenwood initially joined the Bulls in 2023 as Assistant Coach before stepping up as Interim Head Coach midway through the season alongside Brian Noble. Lee signed a one-year…
Ex-fashion retail boss on trend with honorary award
A proud Bradfordian and University alumnus, John Hinchcliffe, the former boss of Bradford-based fashion retailer Freemans Grattan Holdings has praised the University of Bradford for “supercharging” his life after receiving an honorary award. John was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his ‘unstinting commitment to the University, business and the Bradford district’. Who is…
Core Telecom continues its support for The Endometriosis Foundation with laptop donation
At Core Telecom, we believe that businesses have a responsibility to support the communities and organisations that are making a real difference in people’s lives. That is why we are proud to continue our longstanding support of the Endometriosis Foundation through the donation of three laptops to help power the charity’s vital work. The Endometriosis…
Government’s technical education reforms reinforce the need to expand Leeds College of Building’s construction technical excellence college
Leeds College of Building has welcomed the announcement on expanding technical education pathways for young people from the age of 14, placing technical and academic routes on an equal footing and strengthening links between education, employers and regional growth priorities. The College believes the reforms are a significant endorsement of the specialist, employer-led approach it…
Trinity Leeds puts sporting hero in the spotlight as Yorkshire Day celebrations kick off
A super-sized tribute to sporting icon Sir Kevin Sinfield has been unveiled today as Yorkshire Day celebrations kick off at Trinity Leeds. The eye-catching image of the Leeds Rhinos legend – recently awarded a long-awaited knighthood – has gone on display under the main atrium at Trinity Leeds as the shopping centre supports his inspirational upcoming…
Blacks named the most recommended law firm in Yorkshire by Legal 500
Blacks Solicitors LLP has been named the most recommended law firm in Yorkshire by Legal 500, topping new rankings drawn from more than 9,000 client responses across the region. The independent firm claimed first place ahead of Addleshaw Goddard, Irwin Mitchell, Pinsent Masons, Walker Morris and Freeths – a result that underlines the strength of…
Bradford 2025 Creative Director awarded honorary doctorate
Bradford 2025 Creative Director Shanaz Gulzar MBE has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Bradford in recognition of her contribution to culture, public life and the creative industries. Born in Keighley and still living in the district, Shanaz has spent her career exploring the stories, communities and landscapes that shape Yorkshire, building a reputation…
Kirklees College celebrates the impact of adult education as it launches its new adult course guide
Kirklees College has launched not only its new Adult Course Guide for September 2026, but also a brand-new video, ‘Your Next Chapter’, which highlights the meaningful impact of adult and community education at the college. Produced in collaboration with Sam Teale Productions, an award-winning production company based in Kirklees, the new video shines a spotlight…
England’s Over 75s veterans release charity anthem ahead of 1966 World Cup anniversary match with Germany
Football could still be coming home this month The World Cup may be over, but England have a chance at international glory of a different kind this month. England’s Veteran Over 75s footballers are gearing up to mark the 60th anniversary of England’s victory over Germany with a commemorative match against their European rivals. The England v Germany match will take place at Boundary Park, Oldham at 3pm on Thursday 30…
Walker Foster completes MBO
Photo Caption: Walker Foster board of directors (l-r) Katie Ingham, Maxine Heppenstall, Ian Haynes, Jayne Schofield, Craig Williams, Sara Rutter Schofield Sweeney advises fellow law firm A management buyout at long-established general practice law firm Walker Foster, has been completed, with support from commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney. Equity Directors Maxine Heppenstall and Ian Haynes…
Tuck into tacos, wings, chicken satay and more at Trinity Kitchen this summer
Trinity Kitchen is serving up a fresh taste of summer as a brand-new line-up of street food favourites arrives, bringing bold flavours, exciting firsts and sunshine-ready dishes to the heart of Leeds. Guests can expand their taste buds and explore Singaporean classics and Venezuelan Arepas plus a doze of American Philly cheesesteaks, wings and more….
North Yorkshire homebuilders warn children of potential summer risks
As the summer holidays approach, Barratt and David Wilson Homes are encouraging children to stay away from building sites and urging families in North Yorkshire to choose safer places to play. The leading developers are encouraging families to make use of local parks, playgrounds and leisure centres for fun, engaging activities that keep children safe…
The best of the best: North Yorkshire Site Manager wins Quality Award
A site manager overseeing the construction at a housing development in North Yorkshire has won a top national award for the quality of the homes being built onsite. David Wilson Homes’ site manager, Leanne Hardcastle (33), has won a Pride in the Job Quality Award from the National House Building Council (NHBC), an award known as the…
Cheshire Scientific drop box opens at Big Yellow on Gelderd Place, Leeds
Focusing on Leeds! Getting your water samples to a lab from Leeds just got simpler. We’ve opened a Cheshire Scientific drop box at Big Yellow on Gelderd Place, just off the M621 and a couple of minutes from the ring road. Leeds keeps a lot of people busy, a business district that’s grown quickly, two…
Syrian refugee student proud after graduating with first-class honours
A University of Bradford student who fled war-torn Syria as a child is celebrating after graduating with first-class honours, less than 10 years after arriving in the UK. Ahmad Hamdan left his hometown of Aleppo in Syria aged 10 during the country’s civil war, moving to Turkiye with his parents, sister and three brothers, then…
Award-winning dessert destination announces White Rose opening date
Artisan dessert brand Rassam’s Creamery has confirmed the launch plans for its newest and most impressive site to date, opening at White Rose Shopping Centre on 31st July, with 50% off for all guests, all day long. Located on The Balcony at White Rose, near the entrance to The Village and car parks four and five,…
New chapter for King’s Manor as York St John University moves in
Historic medieval landmark in York to continue its long tradition as a place of education. York St John University is delighted to become the custodian of King’s Manor and will begin moving into the historic buildings over the summer, ready to welcome students and staff for the start of the academic year in September. The…
Azets UK appoints Leeds Office Managing Director
Pictured Above – TAKING OFFICE 1: International accountancy and business advisory group Azets has appointed Jessica Lawrence as office managing partner in Leeds. Jessica is pictured right with regional managing director Claire Needham, left. Highly-experienced Jessica Lawrence to lead office into next phase of growth International accountancy and business advisory group Azets has appointed highly-experienced…
Multi-million pound deal sees Normanton-based manufacturer join UK’s largest independent SIP provider
Award-winning Normanton manufacturer SIP Build UK (SBUK Group) has been acquired by Liverpool-based SIP Building Systems Ltd (“SBS”) in a multi-million-pound deal that creates the UK’s largest independent provider of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). The strategic acquisition brings together three of the UK’s most established SIP businesses – SBS, SIPCO, and SIP Build UK (SBUK…
Schofield Sweeney welcomes Private Wealth Director Amanda Simmonds
Leading commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney has strengthened its private wealth offering with the arrival of Director Amanda Simmonds, who joins the firm’s 20-strong specialist team. Amanda brings 38 years’ experience as a private client solicitor to the team, advising on all aspects of private client work including wills, trusts and related documents, estate administration,…
Five things businesses get wrong when ordering staff uniform
Kitting out a team looks simple. Pick a polo, send your logo, wait for a box to arrive. Then the box turns up, half of it doesn’t fit, the logo isn’t quite right, and the whole thing has cost more in hassle than it saved in price. After more than a decade supplying and branding…
Wilkin Chapman Rollits named among UK’s most recommended law firms
Yorkshire and Lincolnshire law firm Wilkin Chapman Rollits has been named among the most highly recommended firms across UK regions. In annual research by the legal services benchmarking platform Legal 500, the firm secured second place in the rankings for both Yorkshire and the East Midlands, based entirely on feedback from clients. Each year, Legal…
A right good celebration: Yorkshire Day at White Rose Shopping Centre
White Rose Shopping Centre is marking Yorkshire Day, Saturday 1st August, with free in-centre events to celebrate the best that our glorious region has to offer. Renowned musicians Back Chat Brass will be performing at the centre throughout the day, with 20-minute sets taking place at intervals between 10am and 2pm. The band’s dynamic and unique…
Web, Wipe, Repeat: Superhero Leaves Trinity’s Glass Dome Spotless
Shoppers in Leeds were treated to a superhero sight this week as Trinity Leeds’ iconic glass dome was cleaned by a real-life “Spider-Man”. To celebrate the release of the new Spider-Man: Brand New Day film later this month, specialist high-level window cleaning company PLA swapped its usual workwear for a Spider-Man suit as one of its team…
Leading North Yorkshire homebuilder highlights part exchange guarantee scheme
Barratt Homes is helping existing homeowners to move this spring with a helping hand from its Part Exchange Guarantee scheme. The housebuilder is encouraging families looking for more space, second-steppers and downsizers to consider its popular Russet Park development in Copmanthorpe. Homeowners looking to move to a new, energy-efficient home can take advantage of Barratt Homes’ Part Exchange…
Yorkshire engineering firm scoops prestigious regional business award
Leading mechanical and electrical engineering firm, Salko UK, has been named Family Business of the Year at the North Yorkshire Business Awards. The business was recognised for its strong family ethos and active involvement from multiple generations. Family ownership, leadership and values are embedded at every level of the organisation and have directly shaped its…
Aesthetica announces winners of the 2026 Art Prize & celebrates 20th anniversary of the prize
Aesthetica is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Aesthetica Art Prize, celebrating outstanding contemporary artists from around the world. The Main Prize winner is Felipe Castelblanco for Tunda: A Quantic Plant and the Devil’s Breath (2025), while the Emerging Prize goes to DIVA for Memoria 2020: When Memories Are No Longer Enough (2025). Felipe Castelblanco is a multidisciplinary artist, researcher, and filmmaker working at…
Like mother, like daughter – family dig deep to graduate together
A mother and daughter have enjoyed a family celebration with a difference – after both graduating together from the University of Bradford. Elaine Shaw and her daughter, Anysia Padgett, have completed their studies in BA (Hons) Heritage and Archaeology and BSc Archaeology respectively. The pair have spent much of their degree programmes learning side-by-side, sharing…
June 2026 insolvency statistics, Azets response
There were 1,845 corporate insolvencies in June 2026 in England and Wales – four fewer than in May 2026 (1,849), and 10% fewer than in June 2025 (2,048) Leeds-based Richard Oddy, restructuring and insolvency partner at UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory group Azets in Yorkshire, says: “June’s corporate insolvency figures were dominated by…
Justyna’s journey from rural Poland to first-class honours
A University of Bradford student who arrived in the UK without speaking English after growing up on a rural Polish army base has graduated with a first-class degree in artificial intelligence. Justyna Dobersztajn moved to the UK aged 11, with her mother, followed by her older sister a year later. Fast forward more than 15…
Net Zero and the Road We’re Not Ready For
The route to net zero is a complicated road for me. I believe in net zero targets, and I understand the importance of continued investment in sustainable energy to support our overworked national grid. But I cannot pretend it is an ambition I fully support, not in its current form, and not at the pace…
York’s 100 year-old D-Day veteran receives prestigious city honour
Ken Cooke, who took part in D-Day in 1944 and fought in Europe during World War Two, has joined an illustrious group in becoming an Honorary Freeman of York. Conferring the honour took place at an Extraordinary Meeting of the Council, at the city’s Guildhall yesterday (Thursday 16 July). Mr Cooke, aged 100, was a…
Hidden historic space at St Leonard’s to open to the public this summer
Visitors to York will soon be able to enjoy access to a rarely seen section of the city’s historic monastic hospital, as partners across the city come together to open the usually closed area at St Leonard’s for the summer season. City of York Council has been working alongside Explore York, York Museum Trust, York BID and York Archaeology to make…
The best of the best: Site Manager wins Quality Award
A site manager overseeing the construction at Bramble Wood in North Yorkshire has won a top national award for the quality of the homes being built onsite. David Wilson Homes’ site manager, Ricky Coulter-Bell (32), has won a Pride in the Job Quality Award from the National House Building Council (NHBC), an award known as the ‘Oscars’ of the…