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Half of adults want more effort from partners on Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day has been dubbed a waste of money with novelty mugs and cheap underwear amongst the worst presents.

More than half of the 2,015 adults polled, said their partner should make more effort, rather than splurge on presents they don’t even want.

Respondents reported the rubbish gifts they had received included ‘wrong’ perfume, socks, candles and even, a car mat.

But while most said the day of lovers is a waste of time, one in three said they’d be gutted if their better half did nothing to celebrate.

Travel together

The research by Railcard.co.uk, found that one in five said a trip away would be the best romantic gesture with the Lake District top destination in the UK.

Relationship expert and coach, Sarah Louise Ryan, said: “Couples who travel together often end up more fulfilled and happier in their relationship.

“There are many reasons for this; inclusive of the fact it encourages communication and can deepen feelings of commitment as they plan their trips ahead of time, looking towards the future.

“Travel allows more opportunities for romance and time outside of the day-to-day routine, meaning romantic sparks can be reignited.

“Where flowers and chocolates can play a part, this Valentine’s Day I’d encourage all couples to carve out some time to book and experience a romantic getaway, whether for a day trip or a long weekend.”

The study also found 36% had considered a trip together as a way to rekindle a floundering relationship.

Three Resorts, One Escape: Discover the Latest Experiences at CROSSROADS Maldives

For years, visitors to the Maldives have typically had to choose the type of getaway they wanted before arriving. Whether it was a family-focused retreat, an adults-only atmosphere, complete tranquillity or a livelier social scene, most resorts offered a single style of holiday experience.

CROSSROADS Maldives is taking a different approach.

Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the destination is continuing to evolve by giving guests access to a wider variety of experiences within one integrated setting. Instead of committing to one holiday style, travellers can enjoy multiple experiences throughout the same stay.

A key development is the introduction of “1 Journey, 3 Vibes”, a new multi-resort experience that connects SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and SO/ Maldives.

Guests can seamlessly explore the distinct character of each resort without arranging separate island transfers. Families may spend time enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of SAii Lagoon Maldives, then switch to the energetic, music-inspired environment of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives before unwinding in the stylish surroundings of SO/ Maldives.

The experience feels less like moving between resorts and more like tailoring each day to a different mood.

Beyond the resorts, The Marina @ CROSSROADS offers an additional dimension with its mix of restaurants, cafés, retail outlets, entertainment and cultural attractions. It provides a vibrant social hub that complements the traditional beach holiday experience.

The destination is also preparing for the return of The Elephant & Butterfly at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives.

The popular beachfront venue is currently being refreshed and is expected to reopen later this summer with a redesigned setting, new menu offerings and an increased focus on sunset gatherings, social occasions and flame-cooked cuisine.

Individually, these additions may seem incremental. Together, they highlight a broader shift in how visitors can experience the Maldives.

Rather than being limited to a single resort atmosphere, guests can move effortlessly between different styles, experiences and energy levels without interrupting their holiday.

For many modern travellers, that flexibility is becoming one of the most valuable aspects of a getaway.

World Wellbeing Week: eXroid Encourages Greater Focus on Physical and Mental Wellness

KENT, UK, June 23, 2026 – To mark World Wellbeing Week this June, eXroid is calling on people to take a proactive approach to their overall health by paying attention to changes in their bodies, discussing concerns openly and seeking professional advice when symptoms arise. The company is using the awareness week to highlight the importance of looking after both physical and emotional wellbeing, particularly when dealing with health issues that are often overlooked or difficult to talk about.

The campaign highlights the close relationship between physical health, self-confidence and quality of life, while encouraging more open discussions about intimate health conditions that many individuals continue to manage in silence.

Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock, Medical Director at eXroid, said: “Good wellbeing is about far more than simply feeling physically healthy. Confidence, comfort and emotional wellbeing all play an important role in helping people enjoy everyday activities, maintain relationships and live life to the fullest.

“However, embarrassment remains a major barrier preventing many people from seeking help for intimate health concerns. Men in particular are often reluctant to discuss symptoms, delaying support that could improve their comfort and wellbeing.”

The initiative supports the aims of World Wellbeing Week, which promotes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Physical health concerns can often have a wider impact on confidence, stress and emotional resilience, making early action an important step in protecting overall wellbeing.

Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock added: “Many people continue to live with symptoms that affect their confidence, comfort and quality of life because they feel embarrassed to talk about them. World Wellbeing Week provides a valuable opportunity to encourage more open conversations around health. Seeking support early can help people regain confidence and improve their overall wellbeing.”

eXroid provides a non-surgical treatment for internal haemorrhoids, offering patients an alternative to hospital-based surgery without the need for admission, lengthy recovery periods or significant post-treatment discomfort. The procedure is designed to provide a discreet and effective option before symptoms become more severe.

Many sufferers postpone seeking treatment because they assume surgery is the only available solution. eXroid is working to raise awareness of its non-invasive electrotherapy treatment, which is suitable for all four grades of internal haemorrhoids.

The company is supported by published clinical evidence and is recognised by NICE under IPG525. eXroid Technology Ltd is also EU MDR certified, its UK clinical service has achieved an Outstanding rating from the CQC, and the company has received The King’s Award for Innovation.

With an estimated five million people in the UK experiencing haemorrhoids each year, eXroid is encouraging individuals to make both their physical and emotional wellbeing a priority. The company also highlights the benefits of simple healthy habits, such as regular walking, which can contribute positively to overall wellbeing.

For more information, visit www.exroid.com.

Wellth and Wild Introduce Community-Focused Natural Health Workshop Series

WORCESTER, UK, June 23, 2026 – Wellth and Wild, the Worcestershire-based wellness business founded by Jules Morgan and Noel Williams, has announced a new programme of educational workshops aimed at helping people explore practical approaches to natural health and wellbeing.

The hands-on sessions will explore subjects including introductory herbal medicine, nutritional guidance, and everyday lifestyle choices that can contribute to overall wellness.

The workshops will be hosted at The Fold, near Worcester, home to the company’s popular retail space and expanding online business.

Alongside the workshop launch, Wellth and Wild is nurturing a selection of organically grown herbs that will soon be available for customers to purchase directly from the shop, providing access to fresh botanical remedies.

“Wellth & Wild is much more than a retail outlet,” said Jules. “We have created a welcoming wellness centre where people can learn about herbal medicine and supplements in a relaxed environment and feel comfortable asking questions.

“Every visitor receives guidance that is tailored to their personal health goals.”

The business recently received the Best Impact Award from Big Business Entrepreneurs in recognition of its contribution to holistic wellbeing.

“This award reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable health solutions,” said Noel. “We are delighted to see our efforts recognised and remain dedicated to supporting people through a combination of herbal traditions and nutritional knowledge.”

Jules and Noel founded Wellth and Wild after training at Birmingham’s College of Naturopathic Medicine, with Jules specialising in nutrition and Noel in herbal medicine.

“We initially worked separately and occasionally collaborated when it benefited a client,” Noel explained. “As we saw positive outcomes from combining our expertise, the idea of opening a shared space naturally developed.”

Jules added: “We wanted a dedicated clinic and retail environment that would allow us to offer consultations and quality supplements in one location.”

The pair discovered The Fold through a recommendation from a friend and immediately felt it was the right fit.

After discussions with existing studio holders and learning that both a herbal apothecary and studio space were needed on site, the opportunity seemed ideal.

Working with a designer friend, they created a space that combines retail, consultation, and remedy-making facilities.

Visitors frequently comment on the welcoming atmosphere and pleasant aromas inside the shop, while the wider community at The Fold has embraced the business.

“The support has been incredible,” said Noel. “We are surrounded by people offering yoga, sound therapy, Pilates, crafts and other wellbeing services.”

“We feel fortunate to be part of such a positive environment,” added Jules. “The setting aligns perfectly with our values and attracts people who genuinely connect with what we do.”

The Wellth and Wild name was chosen to reflect the founders’ philosophy of natural, sustainable wellbeing.

“Our logo represents growth and connection with nature,” said Noel. “It perfectly complements our motto: ‘Where wellness grows wild.'”

To find out more, visit www.wellthandwild.co.uk or email [email protected].

Mouza Unveils New Collection of Coloured Diamond Engagement Rings in Hatton Garden

London jeweller expands its engagement ring offering with natural and lab grown coloured diamonds available in a wide range of hues and bespoke handcrafted designs.

LONDON, UK, June 23, 2026 – Hatton Garden jeweller Mouza has introduced a new collection dedicated to coloured diamond engagement rings, bringing together an extensive selection of fancy coloured diamonds at its London showroom. The range includes both natural and lab grown coloured diamonds, allowing customers to explore and compare a variety of colour options in one location within London’s renowned jewellery district.

The collection spans seven colour categories – yellowpinkbluegreenred, brown and black and includes stones sourced to a range of colour intensities from soft and subtle to vivid and saturated. 

Customers can choose from multiple diamond shapes and pair them with bespoke handcrafted settings made in London. This enables each ring to be customised according to individual style preferences and budget requirements.

Amr Ramadan, founder of Mouza and a qualified Diamond Member of the Gemmological Association (DGA), said interest in coloured diamonds for engagement rings continues to rise.

He said: “We’ve seen a significant shift in what customers are looking for when they come to us. More and more people want something that expresses their individuality.

“Coloured diamonds do that better than almost anything else in fine jewellery. They’re rare, personal, and genuinely beautiful and because we work with both natural and lab grown stones, we can offer something meaningful at a wide range of budgets.”

The new coloured diamond engagement ring collection at Mouza’s Hatton Garden showroom includes:

  • Natural fancy coloured diamonds: Certified stones in pink, yellow, blue, green, red, brown and black, carefully sourced and assessed for colour grade, cut and clarity.
  • Coloured lab grown diamonds: Chemically and optically identical to mined diamonds, providing similar colour choices at a more accessible price point.
  • A range of colour intensities: From subtle Fancy Light grades through to striking Fancy Vivid colours, offering options to suit different tastes.
    Multiple diamond cuts: Including round brilliant, oval, pear, cushion, heart and radiant shapes.
  • Bespoke handcrafted settings: Designed and crafted in London, with options available in 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold, 18k rose gold and platinum.

Every natural coloured diamond within the collection is independently certified, giving customers confidence in the stone’s colour grade, characteristics and overall quality.

Mouza places a strong emphasis on education and transparency throughout the buying process. Because coloured diamond grading differs considerably from traditional white diamond grading, with colour playing the most important role in determining value, the company offers one-to-one consultations to help customers better understand the options available.

Visitors to the Hatton Garden showroom can compare diamonds side by side, review certification documents, examine differences in colour intensity and discuss bespoke ring designs with experienced team members.

For buyers working within a specific budget, Mouza can provide guidance on selecting the most suitable combination of diamond colour, intensity and origin to achieve the desired result.

To find out more about the collection, or to book an appointment, visit Mouza’s website at www.mouza.co.uk.

crdone Wins High Growth Business Award at Bedfordshire Business Awards 

Bedford digital marketing agency CRDOne has been named High Growth Business of the Year at the 2026 SME Bedfordshire Business Awards, following a year of rapid expansion across its team, client base, and commercial impact.

The agency, which was also shortlisted for Business of the Year in the under 50 employees category, received the award at a ceremony held at The Marquee in Bedford on 18th June 2026.

Founded in 2021, CRDOne has more than doubled its team over the past year, growing from three to seven people. During the same period, the agency has expanded its client base to more than 30 businesses across the UK, reflecting continued demand for its transparent, results-led approach to digital marketing and web design.

Those achievements reflect the impact CRDOne continues to deliver for its clients. The agency recently helped a local e-commerce business increase traffic and revenue by 45% year on year, contributing to nearly £1 million in online sales. It has also supported the growth of Cambridgeshire-based Gadget GoGo, helping the retailer become a leading challenger brand in the highly competitive tech recycling market, winning online market share from established household names. In addition, CRDOne has delivered projects for well-known automotive brands including Renault, Citroën and Genesis.

“This is a proud moment for the whole team,” said Carl Darnell, founder of CRDOne. “We are proud to represent Bedfordshire businesses, but the credit really sits with our clients. Almost all of our growth has come from long-term relationships with people who have stayed with us year after year, and that is the part we value most.”

Beyond its client work, CRDOne has invested in supporting the wider business community. Earlier this year, the agency supported an event at the Red Bull Technology Campus in Milton Keynes, bringing together more than 50 independent business owners. Founder Carl Darnell was invited to speak, sharing practical marketing insights and advice to help businesses grow online.

The High Growth Business of the Year award recognises CRDOne’s strong performance across revenue growth, team expansion, client retention and its wider contribution to the business community.

“What we care about hasn’t changed with the award or in the last five years,” Carl added. “Our job is to help business owners understand their marketing and make better commercial decisions, in plain English. We’re excited about what comes next, and just as focused on delivering results for the clients who rely on us.”

CRDOne has built its reputation on accountable digital marketing, clear communication, and a focus on commercial outcomes. The agency continues to work with ambitious businesses across Bedfordshire and the wider UK, helping them turn marketing activity into measurable growth.

Evlo first in commercial lending sector to launch award-winning MoneyToolkit

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New initiative helps customers find practical financial assistance when borrowing is not the answer.

WAKEFIELD, UK, June 23, 2026Evlo has announced the introduction of Moneyline’s MoneyToolkit, becoming the first commercial lender to make the award-winning platform available to its customers. The service is designed to help individuals access alternative support when a loan application cannot proceed, offering a clear route to resources that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Recognised with the FCA Financial Inclusion Tech Sprint’s ‘Eureka’ Award, MoneyToolkit was developed to bring multiple forms of financial support together in one place. The platform helps users check eligibility for benefits, identify grant opportunities and make use of budgeting resources, while also delivering personalised guidance to support stronger financial decision-making.

Support that goes beyond lending

The partnership supports Evlo’s wider goal of promoting financial inclusion. Through its Financial Freedom for Everyone campaign, the lender is working to broaden access to financial opportunities and encourage greater recognition of rental payment histories within credit reporting. By introducing MoneyToolkit, Evlo can continue supporting customers even when lending is not possible, helping them access services that may improve both their short-term and long-term financial outlook.

What the partners say

Jono Gillespie, CEO of Evlo, commented: “Financial inclusion means ensuring people can access the support they need, even when credit isn’t the right solution. By partnering with Moneyline and becoming the first commercial lender to offer MoneyToolkit, we’re helping customers find practical alternatives that can make a meaningful difference to their financial circumstances.”

Shiona Crichton, CEO at Moneyline, added: “We’re delighted to be working with Evlo to expand access to our MoneyToolkit. When someone is declined for credit, it can leave them vulnerable. By connecting people with the right support at the right time, we can help reduce financial stress and improve outcomes for customers who may otherwise struggle to find the support they need.”

Survey Reveals Widespread Use of Unauthorised AI Among Laboratory Researchers

LONDON, UK. June 22, 2026 – A new survey commissioned by Sapio Sciences has uncovered extensive use of public AI tools across scientific laboratories. The findings show that 77 percent of scientists are using AI applications outside approved workplace systems, while almost 45 percent are doing so through personal accounts. This trend raises concerns about data security, compliance obligations, and the reliability of scientific outputs.

Just 5 percent of scientists surveyed reported being able to carry out experimental analysis independently within approved software environments.

Shadow AI refers to artificial intelligence tools used without formal approval from IT and security departments. Such usage can expose organisations to risks involving confidential information, intellectual property, and regulatory requirements.

Sean Blake, Chief Information Officer at Sapio Sciences, said: “Shadow AI tends to emerge where official digital tools fail to support how modern science is practised.

“When platforms cannot support interpretation, comparison, or decision-making at the required pace, scientists work around them.”

According to Sapio Sciences, the growing use of shadow AI reflects broader challenges within biopharmaceutical R&D. Researchers often turn to public AI platforms to help interpret data, refine methods, and organise experimental planning. Despite widespread adoption of ELNs and laboratory information management systems, many scientists still encounter obstacles when analysing results.

Sean Blake added: “Many ELNs are optimised for documentation and retention rather than scientific reasoning. Interpretation and comparison frequently require informatics queues, manual exports, or external analysis.

“Scientific progress rarely stalls at data capture. It more often stalls during interpretation, when results must be translated into decisions. When official tools cannot support that transition efficiently, scientists adapt.”

Survey results also showed that more than half of respondents feel their ELN hinders productivity. In addition, 65 percent said they have repeated experiments because previous findings were difficult to locate, interpret, or reuse.

Generative AI tools have gained popularity because they offer immediate assistance, helping researchers summarise data, organise ideas, and simplify complex information.

Sean Blake noted: “This usage reflects rational tradeoffs rather than defiance. From an infrastructure perspective, shadow AI reflects unmet demand within official systems.

“Typically, companies tend to respond by restricting the use of shadow AI. Blanket policies reduce exposure, but they rarely change behaviour.”

Experts argue that the challenge is not AI adoption itself but ensuring AI operates within approved and governed environments.

Sean Blake believes that integrating AI directly into laboratory workflows is the next step. Technologies such as the AI Lab Notebook are designed to support scientific interpretation and reasoning within secure systems rather than relying on external tools.

Scientists are seeking support that enables faster progress while maintaining confidence in their work.

Sean Blake concluded: “The challenge is designing infrastructure that supports both control and innovation. Focusing solely on restriction reduces confidence. Embedding intelligence within approved systems regains visibility.

“The choice is no longer whether AI belongs in the lab. It is whether intelligence remains outside official systems or is embedded where scientific decisions are actually made.”

For more information about Sapio Sciences, please visit https://www.sapiosciences.com/.

LTi Metaltech Managing Director Receives Oxfordshire Business Person of the Year Honour

ABINGDON, UK, June 22, 2026 – Edgar Rayner, Managing Director of LTi Metaltech, has been recognised with the Business Person of the Year title at the Oxfordshire Business Awards. The accolade highlights his role in guiding the engineering company through a transformative period marked by business growth, diversification and expansion into new sectors.

The award acknowledges Edgar’s leadership of the Oxfordshire engineering specialist during a time of considerable progress. Since taking on the role of Managing Director in 2020, he has led the company’s move into additional markets, reinforced its presence in highly regulated industries and supported the development of a stronger, more adaptable organisation.

Edgar joined LTi Metaltech more than 15 years ago as Engineering Manager before advancing to Technical Director and ultimately Managing Director. His professional journey demonstrates a blend of technical knowledge, strategic leadership and a commitment to delivering sustainable long-term success.

Speaking about the achievement, Edgar said: “I am honoured to receive this recognition. While the award carries my name, it reflects the efforts of a talented team whose commitment, expertise and professionalism have helped shape LTi Metaltech into the business it is today. I have been fortunate to work alongside some exceptional people throughout my career, and I share this recognition with them.”

Jane Reeve, Director of the Oxfordshire Business Awards, said: “Congratulations to Edgar on being named Business Person of the Year at the Oxfordshire Business Awards Dinner. This award recognises exceptional leadership, vision and dedication, and Edgar is a highly deserving recipient.”

The Business Person of the Year Award recognises individuals who have made a significant impact through strong leadership, innovation and meaningful contributions to both their organisation and the wider business community.

Hidden Costs of Budget VPS Hosting Could Outweigh Initial Savings

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Businesses tempted by inexpensive VPS hosting packages may end up paying significantly more if they fail to account for the security and management responsibilities that accompany greater server control, an industry expert has cautioned.

As organisations grow, many move towards VPS hosting because it offers a balance between affordability and performance. Although it provides more resources and flexibility than shared hosting, customers are often responsible for maintaining software, backups and security protections.

Roy Shelton, CEO of Connectus Business Solutions, said: “A VPS is often the ideal step for businesses that need more than shared hosting can offer but are not ready for a dedicated server.

“It provides greater flexibility and performance at a lower cost. What many businesses overlook is that increased control also means increased responsibility.”

VPS technology creates separate virtual environments within a single physical server, allowing businesses to benefit from dedicated resources and stronger separation from neighbouring users.

Despite these advantages, Mr Shelton said many companies underestimate the importance of ongoing server management.

“Cyber threats do not take a break,” he said. “Failure to keep systems updated, secure firewalls properly or maintain reliable backups can leave businesses facing significant recovery costs.”

When reviewing hosting options, businesses should compare the strengths and weaknesses of VPS, shared hosting and dedicated servers.

Shared hosting is usually the least expensive route but can be affected by resource demands from other websites. Dedicated servers offer superior performance and control but require a much larger financial commitment.

A VPS provides a middle ground, delivering greater flexibility without the expense of dedicated infrastructure.

Mr Shelton added: “The isolated nature of a VPS is one of its biggest strengths. Issues affecting other users on the same hardware are much less likely to disrupt your operations.

“Even so, businesses need to understand where responsibility lies and ensure they are working with a trusted hosting provider.”

He recommends assessing the following areas:

Provider credentials – Certifications such as ISO/IEC 27001 and Cyber Essentials demonstrate a commitment to security. Businesses should also review DDoS protection measures and provider reputation.

Data centre security – Quality facilities incorporate physical safeguards such as controlled access systems, surveillance, on-site teams, backup power and fire protection.

Security and recovery services – Managed VPS offerings can include updates, monitoring and backup management, reducing risk and administrative workload.

Mr Shelton said: “Choosing solely on price can be a false economy. A managed service often delivers better long-term value by reducing downtime and security concerns.”


For more information, visit connectus.org.uk.

Funeral Printing by Esmee G Launches Priority++ Guaranteed Delivery in Response to Growing Pressure on Deadlines

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Data from over 5,000 UK families reveals a structural move away from rigid, traditional formats toward photographic layouts, celebration of life themes, and digital flipbook integration.

LEICESTER, UK. June 19th, 2026 – Funeral Printing by Esmee G, operator of orderofserviceforfuneral.co.uk, has launched Priority++ Guaranteed Delivery, a new rapid-response fulfilment service designed to ensure funeral stationery arrives ahead of scheduled services, as new research reveals UK families are facing increasingly compressed funeral preparation timelines.

The announcement accompanies the company’s newly published UK Funeral Trends Report, an analysis of more than 5,000 funeral services spanning 25 years, which identifies a major shift in both memorial design expectations and production logistics across the UK funeral sector.

According to the report, families now expect highly personalised memorial stationery delivered within increasingly narrow timeframes, creating new operational challenges for funeral providers and print specialists alike.

The report also highlighted several recurring issues that can delay funeral stationery production, including last-minute text amendments, low-resolution photographs sourced from social media, missing acknowledgements or thank-you messages and delayed approval processes among family members.

The company says these findings directly informed the development of Priority++ Guaranteed Delivery and its enhanced pre-production checking procedures.

“Twenty-five years ago, most funeral order of service booklets followed a fairly rigid, standardized structure. Today, families view the stationery as an enduring reflection of a unique life,” said Esmee G, Founder of Funeral Printing by Esmee G.

“We frequently produce booklets featuring extensive photo galleries, personal poetry, bespoke design themes and even QR codes linking directly to video tributes. At the same time, preparation windows have become significantly shorter. Priority++ was developed to provide families with greater certainty during what is often an extremely time-sensitive period.”

The new service combines an enhanced print-readiness review process with same-day logistics contingency measures designed to minimise delays caused by artwork amendments, courier disruptions or last-minute production changes.

Since launching its nationwide order of service for funeral printing service in 2001, Funeral Printing by Esmee G has witnessed a substantial transformation in customer expectations. 

To support this shift, the business has developed dedicated design infrastructure and a digital library of more than 1,000 funeral order of service templates covering religious, contemporary, cremation, celebration-of-life services and more.

The full UK Funeral Trends Report examines how personalisation, digital integration and accelerated logistics are reshaping memorial stationery across the United Kingdom and influencing the future of funeral service planning.