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….
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Leading North East housebuilder announces new Managing Director
In line with International Women’s Day (8th March), Barratt and David Wilson Homes North East is putting the spotlight on its new Managing Director, Jo Ainsley. Middlesborough born, Jo brings more than 18 years of experience in the construction industry, including work at Taylor Wimpey and Vistry. Jo is now an ambassador for the leading developer, supporting the…
Andrew Jackson expands litigation and dispute resolution team amid growing client demand
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has expanded its commercial litigation and dispute resolution (LDR) practice with a series of senior appointments, reflecting growing client demand. The developments come as long-standing partner Hugh Smith prepares to retire after 37 years with the firm. Led by Nick Dean, partner, and head of the LDR practice, the team has…
New LCB Assistant Principal to steer partnerships and adult provision
A former director in the education and training sector has joined Leeds College of Building (LCB) as Assistant Principal -Partnerships & Adults. Carly Sidebottom joins LCB in the new role following her position as Director of Business Strategy & Compliance at regional training provider, Total Training Provision. Prior to that, Carly served as Head of…
Schofield Sweeney advises on nursery acquisition
A day nursery in Reigate, Surrey has been acquired by Kids Planet Day Nurseries – one of the UK’s largest nursery groups. Established in March 2020, Somers House Nursery, part of Cavendish Lodge Nursery and Pre-Schools, owned by Jodie and Kevin Potter, is a reputable 80-place setting that offers year-round childcare for babies from six…
Move into a new home this spring with leading North Yorkshire developer
House hunters in North Yorkshire looking to move in for spring are encouraged to view David Wilson Homes’ Chaloners Green development. Chaloners Green offers a selection of two, three and four bedroom homes, from just £194,995, that could be ready to move into as soon as spring this year. Just two miles from Whitby town centre, it…
Salko UK strengthens leadership support with Executive Assistant appointment
Leading mechanical and engineering contractor, Salko UK, has appointed Kathryn Harman as Executive Assistant, strengthening its senior leadership team as the business continues to expand across the UK and Europe. In her new role, Kathryn will oversee day-to-day executive coordination, streamline internal processes and act as a central point of contact across departments to ensure smooth…
Bradford scores national double for student affordability
Bradford has achieved a national double for student affordability, with new data revealing the University of Bradford offers the UK’s best value halls of residence while the city itself has been ranked the most affordable place in the country to study. The city’s University has the UK’s cheapest accommodation, with an average cost of £97.75…
The traditional tax return is dead – long live Making Tax Digital
Landlords, sole traders and the self-employed in Yorkshire are being urged to prepare for ‘the death of the traditional tax return’ in April. Azets, an accountancy and business advisory group with three offices in Yorkshire, is warning that those with gross income above £50,000 per year will have to comply with a new Making Tax…
94% York pupils get first choice of Secondary School
Secondary school admission figures for entry in September 2026 published today [2 March] show that 94% per cent of York children have been allocated their first preference of school. Parents and carers who applied online can find out where their child has been allocated a place by logging into their parent portal account today via www.york.gov.uk/SecondarySchoolAdmissions….
First Bus on board as main sponsors of Women’s team
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce a major partnership with First Bus – which includes the local bus operator becoming the Main Sponsors of our Women’s team! The partnership strengthens an ongoing relationship built on shared community values and a commitment to sustainability. Building on the success of last year’s partnership, Bradford Bulls and First…
Huddersfield company Accu takes part in trade mission designed to strengthen business opportunities across Europe
Alastair Morris, Managing Director of Huddersfield-based Accu, one of the UK’s fastest growing distributors of precision engineering components, travelled to Switzerland and Germany last week as part of Mayor Tracy Brabin’s West Yorkshire trade mission. Alastair was invited to join the trade mission due to his high-profile work championing UK advanced manufacturing. he was part of…
York based construction company, William Birch & Sons celebrates the start of Women in Construction Week with Commercial Manager Appointment
William Birch & Sons Ltd, a long-established York-based contractor with over 150 years of heritage, has announced the appointment of Vicky Moss as Commercial Manager, effective 2nd March. The appointment strengthens the company’s strategic focus on commercial performance, disciplined growth and long-term sustainability. Announced during Women in Construction Week, it also reflects the increasing presence…
‘Have you considered National Defence Agencies?’ Turing Institute expert asks Bradford AI students
Artificial Intelligence expert Timipado Imomotebegha, Data Science Facilitator at the Alan Turing Institute, told University of Bradford that industry was crying out for graduates with AI and data science skills. The human-computer interaction specialist said: “AI is moving really quickly. You can use your skills to solve real life problems. You are at Ground Zero in terms of your careers. There are so many opportunities…
Institute for Equity, University Centre awards qualifications to 20!
The Institute for Equity, University Centre – Developing Individuals, Changing Organisations & Society (IEUC) is proud to congratulate learners who have successfully completed academic and professional qualifications in EDI: Certificate in Inclusive Curriculum Leadership Certificate in Leading Equity, Diversity & Inclusion EDI Fellowship © All 20 successful awardees have led change in EDI within their…
New member introduction: BR Apparel
The Premium Standard in Branded Workwear Across Yorkshire BR Apparel is a trusted partner to ambitious businesses seeking a higher standard in branded workwear. We specialise in supporting growing companies with 10–50 employees who recognise that team presentation is a direct reflection of their brand. Through carefully selected premium garments, precision embroidery and refined finishing,…
Adult tickets just £10! Kids go FREE!
Supporters and families are set for a spectacular afternoon of rugby league and live entertainment when Bradford Bulls host Toulouse Olympique at Bartercard Odsal Stadium on Sunday 1st March. As part of an unmissable matchday offer, adult tickets are available for just £10, with kids going completely free, providing outstanding value for families looking to enjoy a full afternoon of sport and entertainment. Gates…
More, better quality affordable homes proposed
As part of the Council’s commitment to increase the quantity and quality of homes in York, it is proposing to develop 93 new affordable homes on the city centre Castle Mills site. Details are outlined in a report to Executive councillors being discussed next week. Another Executive report will outline plans to provide additional pitches…
Brit Systems run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce a brand-new partnership with Brit Systems, who join the club for the Bulls’ return to the Super League in 2026. Brit Systems will feature as sponsors on the club’s brand new warm up jumpers, which were first seen by supporters at Doncaster in pre-season – as well as enjoy the season as Hospitality…
Council asked to commit to York Cultural Strategy
City of York Council is set to consider whether to adopt the York Cultural Strategy at an Executive meeting on Tuesday 3 March. The strategy, though funded by the Council thanks to a grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, was developed independently by arts, heritage and cultural organisations across the city. It lays out…
Homebuilder prepares to unveil luxury development in North Yorkshire
Leading homebuilder David Wilson Homes prepares to unveil its Castra Park development in Huntington. Located in the popular village of Huntington, Castra Park will offer a range of luxurious, energy-efficient two, three and four bedroom homes. The development offers a great opportunity for first-time buyers and families to find their ideal home in a picturesque area on…
Schofield Sweeney strengthens team with new appointments and promotions
Yorkshire law firm Schofield Sweeney has expanded its team through a series of promotions and senior appointments, broadening its service offering and strengthening its company culture. The firm has recruited three new senior team members and promoted three employees in the business. The new hires include Dorrien Peters, who joins the firm from Knights as…
Rail services between Huddersfield and Leeds to be impacted during May & June as part of major upgrade works
Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) rail engineering work will be undertaken throughout May and June, with significant disruption expected between Huddersfield and Leeds. In addition, trains will not call at Huddersfield on weekends in April. These closures will enable the safe delivery of critical infrastructure upgrades, including track and drainage renewals, bridge works, signalling improvements, and…















































