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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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….
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….
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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….
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
2026 Garden Waste Subscription Scheme open
Households eligible to subscribe to the 2026 Garden Waste Subscription Scheme can now sign up ahead of the new season in March. The easiest way to sign up for the scheme is to complete an online form at www.york.gov.uk/GardenWaste Support is available for anyone who is not able to apply this way by calling 01904…
New leadership structure positions AAB for continued audit growth
Leading professional services firm, AAB, has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Gary Harding as Head of Audit, as the firm continues its rapid growth journey. Gary joins AAB with significant experience as Audit Partner having held roles at EY, BDO and Grant Thornton. In his new role, he will be responsible…
MNA Group run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are proud to announce a new partnership with MNA Group for the 2026 season. As part of this exciting collaboration, MNA Group’s branding will feature prominently on the Bulls’ playing and replica jerseys, under MNA Cladding and MNA Support Services, marking their first season as an official sponsor as the club returns to Super…
A ‘hole’ lot more fun: White Rose to welcome Volcano Falls Adventure Golf
White Rose Shopping Centre is adding even more entertainment options for guests, with Volcano Falls Adventure Golf set to open later this year. Managed by Funstation, one of the UK’s leading leisure operators, Volcano Falls Adventure Golf will occupy the former Sports Direct unit on The Balcony at White Rose. The brand plans to bring…
Azets’ five cashflow management tips for SMEs – Keeping tab of supplier/creditor payments
Swapping credit cards with virtual replacements could help Yorkshire SMEs improve their cashflow, a senior finance professional has advised. Matthew Grant, Yorkshire head of accounts and business advisory at international business advisory group Azets, said that removing traditional cards for orders, expenses and other expenditure gives a business greater control. It is one of five…
Transpennine Route Upgrade lays the foundations for a better-connected North as NPR funding is confirmed
Today on a visit to Neville Hill Depot in Leeds the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, backed Northern Powerhouse Rail with £1.1bn over the Spending Review period, allowing progress on planning, development, and design work to be made which will unlock benefits for the people of the North from the 2030s. This reinforced the importance of continued investment in rail infrastructure across the…
La Romantica Beds run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are excited to announce the renewal of their partnership with La Romantica Beds for the 2026 season. As part of this continued collaboration, La Romantica Beds’ branding will take pride of place on the chest of both the club’s playing and replica shirts. Beyond their high-profile sponsorship, La Romantica Beds remain key supporters…
Leeds founder launches marketing calendar to support UK Aesthetics Clinics
Leeds-based digital marketing consultant for medical aesthetics Jane Nriapia, founder of BoutiqueSEO, has launched the 2026 UK Aesthetics Content & Marketing Calendar, the first strategic planning tool designed specifically for medical aesthetics clinics. The launch reflects the continued growth of the medical aesthetics sector across Yorkshire and the wider UK, with many clinic owners now…
Fast-track your move with five-star North Yorkshire home developer
David Wilson Homes is inviting house hunters to its Part Exchange events at Chaloners Green and Grey Towers Village on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January. The event is designed to help existing homeowners move into new, energy-efficient homes easily with the Part Exchange scheme. Attendees will also have the chance to explore the developments and discuss available homes and offers with the team. David Wilson Homes’ Part Exchange scheme helps buyers to…
Another Partner joins Andrew Jackson’s Commercial & IP Department
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP has welcomed James Peel as a partner into the commercial and intellectual property (IP) department, strengthening further its offering in this area across the region and beyond. James specialises in commercial contracts and data protection, advising clients on practical, tailored contractual solutions to support their day-to-day operations and longer-term objectives. James’s…
ACS Group run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are thrilled to announce the renewal of their partnership with ACS Group for the 2026 season. ACS Group’s branding will once again appear on the back of both the replica and playing shirts, solidifying their ongoing commitment to the Bulls as the club returns to the Super League. Beyond brand sponsorship, ACS Group also provides…
Fairway Roofing run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are proud to announce a new commercial partnership with Fairway Roofing, who will serve as an official kit sponsor for the 2026 season. As part of the partnership, Fairway Roofing’s branding will feature prominently on the Bulls’ playing and replica kits, marking the beginning of an exciting collaboration as the club returns to the Super…
New mural celebrates 30 years of Natural Born Cobblers at the Merrion Centre
Bespoke Mural Celebrates Craft, Creativity and 30 Years of NBC at the Merrion Centre Natural Born Cobblers (NBC) at the Merrion Centre has unveiled striking new bespoke artwork inside its store on the Woodhouse Lane entrance, created by Yorkshire-based mural artist Seran Jordan. The large-scale piece celebrates craftsmanship, independence and the long-standing presence of NBC in…
Matthew Williamson leads strategy to strengthen corporate fitness offering in the West & North Yorkshire region
Hussle is the UK’s leading fitness network, on a mission to make fitness flexible, accessible, and affordable for employees as part of one simple corporate benefit. They collaborate with thousands of fantastic venues across the UK, and Yorkshire is one of its most widely served areas, with a fantastic range of leading gyms, pools and…
Team TRU delivers package of festive railway upgrades
Across the Christmas and New Year period, Team TRU worked around the clock to complete major improvements that will help deliver faster, greener and more frequent services with more seats across the Pennines. During this time, engineers made significant progress at key locations including Mirfield, Deighton and Huddersfield, while a closure of the line between…
Inheritance tax threshold increase announced
Welcome news for the rural sector and family businesses In a surprise announcement just before Christmas, the Government confirmed a significant change to the upcoming inheritance tax (IHT) reforms. The threshold for 100% IHT relief on qualifying business and agricultural assets – originally to be set at £1 million per individual – will now be…
Cedar Court Hotels run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are proud to announce the renewal of their partnership with Cedar Court Hotels, the club’s official accommodation partner for the 2026 season. Cedar Court Hotels’ branding will continue to feature on the back of the Bulls’ playing shorts, further strengthening the relationship between the two organisations as the club returns to the Super League. Having…
Save up to 50% on journeys with TPE as half a million tickets go on sale
Half a million tickets for train journeys across the North of England are up for grabs with 50%-off the cost, TransPennine Express (TPE) has announced. The train operator has slashed the price of select Advance Purchase tickets as part of the nationwide Great British Rail Sale which starts today (Tuesday 6 January) and runs until…
Bradford College ‘Junction Mills’ Development Achieves Sustainability Award for Carbon Savings
Bradford College is celebrating after attaining Morgan Sindall Construction’s platinum certification for outstanding carbon savings on a new building development. It was the only project in the whole of the Yorkshire region to achieve this status in 2025. Bradford College’s £19.3 million Junction Mills building on Thornton Road has saved an impressive 473 tonnes of…
KLG Europe run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are excited to announce the renewal of their partnership with KLG Europe, a leading global logistics company, for the 2026 season. As part of the renewed sponsorship, KLG Europe’s logo will once again be prominently displayed on the rear of the Bulls’ playing shorts, further solidifying the strong relationship between the club and…
Paints & lacquers run with the Bulls in 2026
Bradford Bulls are proud to announce a new partnership with Paints & Lacquers for the 2026 season. As part of this exciting collaboration, Paints & Lacquers’ branding will feature prominently on the playing shorts, marking their first season as an official sponsor of the Bulls as the club makes its return to the Super League….
Get ready for new employment rights enforcement agency, Azets warns
The clock is ticking for firms in Yorkshire to get ready for the introduction of the Fair Work Agency (FWA), according to experts from business and advisory group Azets. Hannah-Jane (HJ) Dobbie and Julie Gunnell have warned that employers in the county could face a number of consequences, including fines, if they don’t comply with…