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…
A young person’s perspective
Too many young people in the UK feel they need to leave the communities they grew up in to succeed elsewhere. This has a profound impact on local economies across the country. For example, £1.5 billion is lost every year from young people leaving North Yorkshire. It is a similar story for other regions across the UK. What…
Why getting staff uniforms right matters more than may businesses realise
For many businesses, staff uniforms are often treated as a simple purchase. In reality, getting uniforms right can directly impact presentation, staff confidence, day-to-day operations and unnecessary cost. One of the most common issues businesses face is garment sizing. A uniform order can look straightforward on paper, but problems often begin once garments arrive. Staff…
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…
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…
£40,000 helps create comfort for hospice residents
A Keighley chemical company has completed its latest donation to a local hospice bringing its total contribution to £40,000. Airedale Group’s long running partnership with Sue Ryder’s Manorlands has seen staff at the manufacturer compete in marathons, a dragon boat race, a football match, sweepstakes, cycle rides, a straw race and ‘It’s a Knockout’ contests…
Sustainable Property through Architecture and Design
Approximately 45% of greenhouse gas emissions in West Yorkshire are generated by buildings, and it is this aspect where those in the industry and even homeowners can make a difference. The tightening up of UK Legislation requires all new buildings meet set emissions targets, however we have Europe’s oldest building stock and the biggest challenge…
Scaling your team? Your workwear should scale with it
For growing businesses across the trades, logistics and hospitality sectors, team presentation becomes increasingly important once you move beyond 10 employees. What often begins as ad-hoc ordering can quickly lead to inconsistencies — mismatched garments, uneven branding and diluted brand identity. In client-facing industries, that inconsistency is visible. At BR Apparel, we partner with Yorkshire…
‘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…
Bradford research praised as teenage pregnancy rise prompts warning
A national expert has warned of complacency over teenage pregnancy after rates increased for the first time in 14 years, adding the University of Bradford is playing a crucial role in understanding and tackling the issue. Alison Hadley OBE, Director of the Teenage Pregnancy Knowledge Exchange and a leading figure in shaping national policy for…
Bradford-led research could cut cement CO2 emissions by 40%
The University of Bradford is set to play a central role in a ground-breaking international research project which could dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry. Working with a Post Doctoral Research Fellow from Tianjin University, China, and the Holcim Innovation Center, France, Bradford researchers will help develop a new concrete technology capable…
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,…
Bradford Hospitals Charity launches Easter Appeal
Bradford Hospitals Charity is calling for donations to help brighten the day for patients spending Easter Sunday (5 April 2026) in hospital. The charity, which supports Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, hopes to lift spirits across its hospital sites. They’re asking the public to donate chocolate eggs, small treats, and comforting gifts to patients….
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…
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…
Comic artist raises £25,000 for Bradford mental health charity in memory of her brother
Award‑winning British comic book artist and author Zoe Thorogood has donated £25,000 to local mental health charity Bradford District and Craven Mind. The donation was made in memory of her brother James, who died by suicide in 2024 at the age of 23. In the wake of her brother’s death, Zoe turned to her art…
Yorkshire Building Society partners with Plain Numbers to improve customer understanding
Yorkshire Building Society has entered a new partnership with Plain Numbers, an organisation dedicated to helping companies communicate numbers clearly and effectively. The partnership is designed to make life easier for members and customers by improving how the Society explains financial information — particularly for those who may find numbers challenging or overwhelming. Plain Numbers is…
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…
Yorkshire Garden Centre group celebrates primroses with month long festival
A Yorkshire garden centre group is marketing the approach of spring with a celebration of primroses. The month-long Primrose Celebration will take place at Yorkshire Garden Centres’ sites at Tong, Tingley, Otley, Bingley, Pennine, York and Scarborough until March 14th. “Primroses are the first true sign of spring and a welcome reminder that it’s time…
Scholarship support for young people from major health study
Young participants of a landmark health research project are to receive financial support to study at the University of Bradford. Sponsored scholarship places are available to Born in Bradford (BiB) participants, now aged 18 and progressing to become students at their home city University. BiB is a long-term study of more than 60,000 people, including 13,500 children…
Manufacturer of frying ranges for fish and chips shops saved
Sale of Henry Nuttall, founded in 1865, by joint administrators Azets, with all jobs saved A manufacturer of frying ranges for fish and chip shops across Great Britain, that traces its roots back to Victorian times, has been saved after running into financial difficulties. Henry Nuttall, founded 161 years ago in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, is…
Rani scholar aims to empower more future women in tech
A student hopes to inspire more young women to pursue careers in technology as she benefits from a scholarship backed by University of Bradford Chancellor Anita Rani, which is returning for its third year. Anum Ayub, 22, a second year BSc Computer Science student, is enrolled on the Rani Scholarship, which supports women who would not otherwise…
York Garden Centre raises its fundraising target for Wetherby children’s hospice
With two months of the charity year still to go, a Bradford-based garden centre group with a site in York has smashed its fundraising target and extended its commitment to a local children’s hospice. In April 2025, the teams at Yorkshire Garden Centres’ sites in West and North Yorkshire pledged to raise £30,000 for Martin…
Switalskis invests in inclusive qualification routes
Law firm Switalskis is investing in training programmes that support colleagues to train and qualify through a range of routes, enabling them to choose pathways that suit their circumstances. Switalskis has recently supported solicitor Catherine Cain to qualify through the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) while continuing her work in family law. The firm provided adjusted…
Yorkshire firm Refreshment Systems expands nationally with Neubria partnership
Bradford, Yorkshire-based Refreshment Systems (RSL) has announced an official partnership with Neubria, marking another milestone in the company’s continued national expansion from its Yorkshire roots. Proudly founded and headquartered in Bradford, Refreshment Systems has grown from a regional family-run business into one of the UK’s most forward-thinking vending and refreshment providers. This latest partnership highlights how…
Bradford Hospitals Charity secures The Broadway’s Charity of the Year
Bradford Hospitals Charity has been named The Broadway Bradford’s ‘Charity of the Year’, following an enthusiastic public vote which saw the charity secure almost 700 votes. The shopping centre invited the public to choose which local good cause should receive year‑long support. While all nominated charities were worthy contenders, Bradford Hospitals Charity topped the poll…
Hope for Tomorrow featured on national TV as government’s milestone cancer plan is released
Cancer care charity, Hope for Tomorrow, recently took centre stage on national TV, coinciding with the government’s landmark release of the national cancer plan. To mark the launch on World Cancer Day, ITV’s Good Morning Britain joined us on board our Gloucestershire-based mobile cancer care unit. Viewers saw how one of our mobile cancer care…
Three-sy doesn’t do it for small parcel exporters to EU
Why Yorkshire businesses need to prepare for July: €3 tariff duty is being applied to each small parcel sent to the EU with a value below €150 Businesses in Yorkshire which export small parcels to the EU with a value below €150 per an item face a €3 duty for each one from July. They…
Bradford research powers first global launch of plastic‑free drink technology
A breakthrough University of Bradford technology that could eliminate billions of single‑use plastic bottles is hitting the global market this week, with a New Zealand drinks launch built on the University’s patented co‑crystal science and manufactured under exclusive licence by Yorkshire firms Octopoda Innovations and Health Innovations (UK). A University of Bradford research breakthrough with…
Rewarding food industry excellence at Verner Wheelock
Food industry training expert Verner Wheelock has just announced the winners of its annual Excellence Awards. The business is the training company of choice for numerous, well-known food manufacturers and has trained thousands of delegates over the years. The Verner Wheelock Excellence Awards recognise outstanding delegates and companies dedicated to training and ethical excellence. The…
Wunder Crumble and MyLahore community rallies to raise £20,000 for critically ill newborns
£20,000 has been raised to support families of babies being cared for at Bradford Royal Infirmary, as Bradford Hospitals Charity Ambassador Ishfaq Farooq leads a powerful call to action. Ishfaq raised the money in just one night with support from friends, family and colleagues across MyLahore and Wunder Crumble, helping to fund a new ‘Home…
Local firm triumphs at Bradford College Apprenticeship Games 2026
A local firm powered its way to victory at this year’s annual Bradford College Apprenticeship Games. Northern Pump Suppliers Ltd were crowned winners after a day of intense battling against nine other employer teams. The fourth annual Apprenticeship Games brought together teams of apprentices and their employers for a day of action-packed challenges. Each squad competed for…
CO₂Sustain unifies technologies into one breakthrough product
CO₂Sustain, the specialist drinks technology company, today announced the merger of its two flagship solutions –CO₂Sustain™ and TasteMod2™ into a single, next-generation product TM2 engineered to deliver two powerful benefits for drink manufacturers: Superior taste modification Enhanced carbonation retention This strategic move comes in direct response to feedback from leading brands, co-packers and NPD teams around the world, who increasingly seek a single,…
New Chief Executive at TL Dallas
Independent insurance broker, TL Dallas, has appointed Tim Mortimer as its new Chief Executive, as the fourth-generation family firm positions itself for the next phase of managed growth. Tim takes up the role at the Yorkshire-headquartered group as Group Managing Director, and fourth generation family member, Polly Staveley, moves into an Executive Chair position, allowing…
Fintech future ahead for young minds of industry
Bradcoin, a digital rewards token, is at the heart of a wave of fintech innovation emerging from the University of Bradford, where students are reimagining how technology can improve everyday financial experiences. Created by postgraduate students on the University’s MSc Financial Technology (FinTech) programme, Bradcoin is a proposed campus‑wide digital token that would reward students…
Haworth manufacturer crafts replica Brontë hair bracelet for film premiere
A fourth-generation West Yorkshire manufacturer has demonstrated how heritage craftsmanship can intersect with global film promotion, after recreating one of the Brontë family’s most intimate artefacts for the red carpet premiere of Wuthering Heights. Wyedean Weaving, a Haworth-based specialist in braiding and ceremonial manufacturing, was commissioned to produce a replica of the 175-year-old mourning bracelet…
Businesses in Yorkshire with payroll should prepare for April 6 – R-Day
From then, businesses must keep accurate records of holiday entitlement, holiday pay calculations and annual leave processed through payroll for six years. It’s being called R-Day – and every business with payroll systems in Yorkshire could face criminal prosecution if they fail to abide with strict new compliance rules. From April 6, dubbed Records-Day, they…
MP champions construction skills during hospital visit
A local MP has praised the work of exceptional young talent during a visit to a hospital construction project in Keighley. Anna Dixon MP visited Airedale General Hospital to see how work is progressing on a phased programme of structural repairs across the estate. The hospital serves around 220,000 people from a widespread area covering…
Beyond Horizons: Reimagining the future of work experience
This National Work Experience Week, we’re introducing Beyond Horizons, a new programme designed to reimagine the future of workplace experiences for young people in Bradford – and beyond. Is work experience in need of a refresh? Every young person deserves the chance to thrive in the workplace. Yet, in the current system, many young people…
Bradford students win global satellite competition
Students from the University of Bradford have been named among the global winners of a prestigious international satellite engineering competition, beating teams from around the world and becoming the only UK team ever selected in the challenge’s history. The multidisciplinary student team was chosen as one of five global winners of the IEEE Geoscience and…
Apprentice engineers welcome MP to mark National Apprenticeship Week 2026
Bradford College engineering apprentices welcomed a local MP to their workplace to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9-15 February). Judith Cummins MP visited the Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprentices to learn more about their jobs at AESSEAL plc near Dudley Hill – a firm that specialises in the design, manufacture, and supply of mechanical seals and…
Keighley ‘Soul Sisters’ are doing it for themselves
Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has successfully delivered an innovative local project to boost the health and wellbeing of local women in Keighley. ‘Soul Sisters’ brought 12 residents together over a six-week period for a series of themed sessions at Keighley Civic Centre and Keighley Central Hall. Led by Eyarun Nessa, MHA’s Community Development Officer, and…
New study reveals ancient Doggerland started sinking 10,000 years ago
Scientists have uncovered new evidence showing how Doggerland – the vast prehistoric landscape that once connected Britain to mainland Europe – was gradually overwhelmed by rising seas at the end of the last Ice Age. Carbon dating on new core samples taken from the North Sea suggests its demise began around 10,000 years ago with rising sea levels due to melting…
Events launched to help Yorkshire businesses navigate payroll shake-up
Employers in Yorkshire are being urged to get to grips with major payroll changes that are hurtling down the tracks. A raft of strict new regulations are coming into force under the April 6 overhaul, which includes the potential for significant enforcement action for non‑compliance. Azets, a UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm…
Breast cancer research boost thanks to Wellcome award
Dr Francis Mprah Barnieh, an early-career researcher at the University of Bradford, has been awarded £236,455 under the competitive Wellcome Accelerator Award scheme to advance the development of safer, more targeted treatments for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC is one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat forms of breast cancer. It disproportionately affects black women and is associated with poorer clinical…
Projects help children explore loss and realities of knife crime
School pupils are exploring bereavement and the dangers of knife crime through two projects from the University of Bradford. ‘Lost and Found: Bereavement, Archaeology and Creativity’ is transforming how primary schools talk about death, loss and bereavement, using archaeology-inspired art and poetry to start these conversations, while Junior Detectives Week sees school students investigate, and…