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

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

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.

European food specialists identify the flavours and formats set to influence Christmas 2026

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European food specialists identify the flavours and formats set to influence Christmas 2026

Christmas food shopping in 2026 is expected to be shaped by a mix of traditional European specialities and new ways of celebrating, with premium products, regional provenance, distinctive textures and informal sharing occasions all set to feature prominently. Experts advising the EU’s More Than Only Food & Drink campaign say the festive opportunity is expanding well beyond the traditional Christmas meal.

Although Christmas lunch remains the focal point of the season, consumers are increasingly making time for additional occasions. Last year, three quarters planned to enjoy at least one other celebratory meal over Christmas, while 65% of shoppers said they ‘spent freely’ on food and drink despite concerns about costs.

From festive cocktails and Boxing Day spreads to office gifts, Friendsmas gatherings and personal treats, the extended festive calendar offers retailers more opportunities to connect with shoppers. European breads, cheeses, charcuterie and confectionery can meet this demand through their combination of established quality, regional identity and traditional production, alongside new flavours, formats and convenient options.

Sharing takes centre stage

Gaynor Stokes, industry consultant and meat advisor to the EU’s More Than Only Food & Drink campaign, sees the continued popularity of sharing food as a major opportunity for retailers this Christmas.

“The sharing and ‘picky bits’ trend we’ve seen growing throughout the summer won’t be disappearing at Christmas; instead, it’s evolving. While the festive lunch remains the centrepiece, consumers will be creating more informal occasions around it, from festive drinks to Boxing Day buffets. Charcuterie is perfectly suited to those moments, bringing together premium cured meats, cheeses, olives and artisan breads in a way that’s relaxed, sociable and easy to share.”

Stokes believes retailers should think beyond selling individual deli products and instead help customers put together complete sharing experiences.

“Rather than simply offering individual deli products, retailers can inspire shoppers with complete grazing solutions that align with the festive demand for elevated, premium ingredients to make occasions feel special. Long-fermented sourdoughs, traditional rye breads and artisan crackers provide the foundation for premium sharing boards, complemented by authentic charcuterie including Prosciutto di Parma PDO from Italy; Jamón de Teruel PDO and Chorizo Riojano PGI from Spain; as well as the lesser-known Jambon d’Ardenne PGI from Belgium, Kraški Pršut PGI from Slovenia and Dalmatinski Pršut PGI from Croatia.

“Displayed alongside olives, roasted peppers, marinated vegetables and artisan preserves, these products encourage shoppers to recreate the relaxed, restaurant-style sharing occasions that increasingly define festive entertaining.”

She adds that shoppers are continuing to seek out premium food experiences, with quality and convenience both influencing purchasing decisions.

“Premiumisation will also continue to be a key trend. Shoppers want to indulge themselves with great-tasting food. This links to confidence in sourcing, welfare and wholesome ingredients, while convenience also continues to play a major role at Christmas.

“Products carrying PDO and PGI status help reinforce those credentials, providing shoppers with confidence in provenance and authenticity while giving retailers compelling stories around craftsmanship and regional heritage.”

The elevated Christmas cheeseboard

Cheese expert and advisor to the EU’s More Than Only Food & Drink campaign, Patrick McGuigan, also expects sharing to play a central role in festive entertaining, creating opportunities for retailers to put the cheeseboard in the spotlight.

“We’re seeing the summer ‘picky bits’ trend translate naturally into festive entertaining. More people are staying in, opening a bottle of wine and recreating the sort of sharing plates they’d usually enjoy in a restaurant. Cheese sits right at the heart of that.

“While familiar favourites will always have a place, Christmas is the ideal time to encourage shoppers to discover something new. Alongside classics such as Comté PDO from France, celebrated for its rich, nutty flavour and long maturation, and Queso Manchego PDO from Spain, which pairs naturally with membrillo and premium charcuterie, retailers should be looking to introduce more adventurous regional cheeses, including the indulgent Brillat-Savarin PGI and washed-rind Langres PDO from France.

“Truffle cheeses will continue to be popular, especially combined with Brie, Pecorino and Gouda. I’m also starting to see Brie and Queso Manchego PDO with fillings such as wild garlic, pesto, pistachios, black garlic and different types of chili and pepper. Cheeses that have been soaked in alcohol, such as Ubriaco from Italy and Queso de Murcia al vino PGI from Spain, as well as leaf-wrapped cheeses such as Mothais sur Feuille PDO from France and Robiola from Italy, are also gaining popularity for their point of difference and visual appeal.

“Retailers can also add value by inspiring consumers with unexpected pairings that recreate restaurant-quality cheeseboards at home: serving Saint-Marcellin PGI with Noix de Grenoble PDO from France, matching Ossau-Iraty PDO from France with black cherry jam or finishing Parmigiano Reggiano PDO from Italy with aged balsamic vinegar.

“Displayed alongside artisan breads, premium charcuterie, quince paste, crackers and preserves, these combinations help shoppers recreate the sort of curated sharing boards more commonly associated with wine bars and restaurants than home entertaining.”

Premium nostalgia meets sensory innovation

Andy Baxendale, confectionery expert and advisor to the EU’s More Than Only Food & Drink campaign, expects festive sweets and chocolates to combine familiar European traditions with more adventurous flavours, textures and presentation in 2026.

“Christmas confectionery is increasingly balancing heritage with innovation. European classics such as Turrón de Alicante PGI and Jijona PGI from Spain, marrons glacés, pâte de fruits, marzipan and gianduja, align with the shift towards quality over quantity, offering the provenance, craftsmanship and emotional connection shoppers seek at Christmas.

“At the same time, texture is becoming a major driver of product development and innovation. Expect to see more freeze-dried inclusions, layered pralines, crunch-meets-cream formats and interactive shapes featuring across multi-texture boxes, filled baubles, layered truffles and crisp-coated caramels.

“Flavour innovation is also moving beyond simple salted caramel. Miso caramel, black sesame praline, spiced yuzu and savoury-sweet nut combinations reflect growing interest in global flavours and more complex eating experiences. Pistachio, matcha, calamansi, cardamom, caramelised white chocolate and bright sour-fruit notes are also well positioned for festive limited editions.”

Baxendale also highlights the growing number of smaller festive occasions, which are creating additional reasons for consumers to buy confectionery and gifts throughout the season.

“Friendsmas, work gifting, pre-Christmas countdowns and self-reward are turning Christmas into multiple smaller gifting and consumption moments rather than one peak occasion. This is encouraging more impulse gifting, single-night treats and hybrid products that cross confectionery with bakery and desserts; from panettone pralines and stollen-flavoured chocolate tablets to tiramisu and cheesecake-inspired formats.

“Whilst shoppers are often dazzled by innovation, EU specialities can provide further differentiation. Le Nougat Noir de Provence, Panforte di Siena PGI from Italy, Aachener Printen PGI from Germany, Spanish Polvorones de Estepa PGI and Pierniki Toruńskie from Poland all offer the nostalgia, provenance and premium gifting credentials needed for compelling festive storytelling, highlighting how classic flavours should never be overlooked.”

With shoppers placing greater emphasis on quality rather than quantity, retailers have an opportunity to do more than simply stock premium products. Bringing together authentic European food traditions with fresh flavour combinations, interesting textures and new formats, while presenting products around the growing number of festive occasions, can encourage discovery, support premium purchases and help create memorable Christmas experiences.

Menopause expert behind Meno Massage Method™ nominated for four major awards as book hits top spot

Helen Greaney
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Menopause expert behind Meno Massage Method™ nominated for four major awards as book hits top spot

Alison Bladh, nutritional therapist and creator of the Meno Massage Method™, has been named as a finalist in four categories at the prestigious Beauty & Skincare Awards UK 2026, just as her book launched in Sweden, where it immediately claimed the number one position in three bestseller categories.

Alison Bladh (pictured) a registered nutritional therapist, women’s hormone health specialist,  beauty therapist and educator has been recognised as a finalist in four separate categories at the Beauty & Skincare Awards UK 2026: Holistic Practitioner of the Year, Educator of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and Wellness Therapist of the Year.

Now in its fourth year, the awards celebrate outstanding talent and professionalism across Britain’s beauty, skincare and wellness industry, judged by a panel of industry experts including Katie Godfrey and Jessica Crane. Winners will be announced at an online ceremony on November 21.

The four nominations, spanning holistic practice, education, entrepreneurship and wellness therapy, reflect the breadth of Alison’s work since she created the Meno Massage Method™, a pioneering treatment that brings together lymphatic drainage, facial massage and menopause science to support women through the hormonal transition. Working with therapists across the UK and internationally, Alison has this year started  training practitioners to deliver the method and educating both professionals and women directly about the physiological changes of menopause.

Alison said: “Being recognised in four categories at once genuinely stopped me in my tracks. Each of these nominations represents a different thread of the work from the treatments, to the training, to the education, to the business of building something from the ground up. To have all of that seen and celebrated in the same moment is incredibly humbling. And to have it happen at the same time as the Swedish launch? It feels like everything I have worked for is landing at once.”

The awards recognition comes alongside the news that Alison’s book, now published in Swedish  has launched across Sweden’s major bookshops and immediately entered the bestseller charts, claiming the number one position in three separate categories. The Swedish edition marks the first international translation of Alison’s work and takes the Meno Massage Method™ to a new audience at a time when the global conversation around menopause is finally gaining the momentum it deserves.

Alison, who spends her time split between Sweden and the UK said: “When I wrote this book, I wrote it for the women in my treatment room,  the ones who were exhausted, confused and had been told there was nothing more to be done. As it was so hugely successful in the UK, it’s fabulous to now see it on shelves in Sweden, and in the treatment rooms of the practitioners I have trained in Sweden, to further support their clients.”

Alison  is a speaker, educator and author whose mission is to give women the knowledge and tools to understand their changing bodies — and to know that they can do something about it.

Litejam strengthens guitar quality control and customer support after first 5,000 shipments

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Litejam strengthens guitar quality control and customer support after first 5,000 shipments

Following the delivery of more than 5,000 guitars to customers worldwide, Litejam is introducing significant improvements to its manufacturing, quality control and after-sales support. The company says the changes reflect lessons learned from its early production and a commitment to addressing issues experienced by some of its first customers.

Litejam is being open about the challenges it has encountered and the steps it is taking to improve the product and customer experience.

The Litejam Guitar offers a new approach to learning, practising and enhancing live performances. Its fretboard features more than 150 flush-mounted LED lights, connecting via Bluetooth to a free app that helps players learn scales and chords. A separate Performance Mode allows users to display visual patterns along the guitar neck, adding another dimension to live performances.

Combining a conventional electric guitar with an integrated RGB LED fretboard, the product has attracted players around the world. However, following the first 5,000-plus shipments, some owners reported problems relating to setup, manufacturing consistency, the neck and the LED system.

“We were so focused on the user experience that we took our eye off the Quality Control ball,” said Bank Apisak, Founder & CEO of Litejam. “We should have spent more time on the details. It’s hard to admit, but it’s true.”

What Litejam found

Litejam commissioned an external industrial design team to examine reported problems with the neck and LED components. Its investigation identified several areas requiring attention, including the clearance around LED holes, contamination from glue and debris, alignment and manufacturing tolerances, and the contact between electronic components and the wood.

One of the underlying challenges is the difference in how materials respond to their environment. Wood naturally expands and contracts as temperature and humidity change, whereas the electronic components housed within the neck do not behave in the same way.

In response, Litejam has introduced substantial changes to its printed circuit board (PCB) development, manufacturing procedures and quality control processes.

Supporting existing owners

The company has already sent dozens of replacement LED necks to customers who were among its earliest supporters.

However, Litejam recognises that simply dispatching a replacement component is not always enough to resolve an issue. It is therefore moving away from its previous approach of ‘Ticket raised > Part shipped > Case closed’ and adopting a more comprehensive support process:

Listen > Diagnose > Resolve > Verify > Follow up

Depending on the circumstances, this could involve arranging assistance from a local technician or providing a complete replacement guitar, according to Irene from Litejam Support.

Support closer to players

Litejam is also developing a regional service network to make assistance more accessible to guitar owners. The planned network covers the USA, Europe, the UK, China and Thailand, with services including troubleshooting, repairs, refurbishment and replacements.

Some elements of the network are already operational, while others remain under development. Further information will be shared as the rollout progresses.

“If something isn’t right, we will listen, understand the problem and find the right solution,” added Apisak. “That’s the brand we want Litejam to be.”

Litejam has also acknowledged the contribution of its early Kickstarter supporters, including Andrew from Layered Praise Project. By openly documenting his experience, Andrew helped the company better understand the product from the perspective of its customers.

What’s next?

The ‘Better build, better support’ programme will continue with the forthcoming release of Part 02, entitled ‘Replacement necks: Supporting our Litejam Guitar customers’.

The next update will explain why the replacement-neck programme became necessary, outline how it operates and share the lessons Litejam has taken from the process.

News and progress reports will be published on the Litejam website blog at www.litejam.com and across the company’s social media channels.

Cleaning Remains the Biggest Cause of Tenancy Deposit Claims as Get It Cleaned Issues London Checklist

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Cleaning Remains the Biggest Cause of Tenancy Deposit Claims as Get It Cleaned Issues London Checklist

Nearly 30% of tenancy deposit claims in the UK relate to cleaning, according to the latest figures from the Deposit Protection Service. With cleaning continuing to top the list of claim reasons, London cleaning company Get It Cleaned has issued a practical move-out checklist to help tenants prepare for property inspections and focus on areas that are commonly missed.

Founded in 2013, Get It Cleaned is a London domestic cleaning company that has developed a room-by-room guide for renters approaching the end of their tenancy. The checklist is designed to clarify the cleaning tasks involved in preparing a property for checkout and comes as official industry figures underline the importance of leaving a rental home in the right condition.

The Deposit Protection Service (DPS) recorded cleaning as the reason for 29.38% of deposit claims in 2025. It has remained the leading category for five years running.

This percentage describes the share of claim reasons listed as cleaning in the DPS’s 2025 figures. It should not be confused with the proportion of deposits ending in a formal dispute: a claim is a request for a deduction from a tenant’s deposit. The figures are explained in the DPS report, Cleaning main cause of tenancy deposit deductions for a fifth year running, which can be read at https://www.depositprotection.com/news-insights/cleaning-main-cause-of-tenancy-deposit-deductions-for-a-fifth-year-running.

Matt Trevett, Managing Director of The DPS, said: “Less than 5% of all deposits protected by The DPS end in a dispute.”

The Tenant Fees Act does not make professional cleaning a compulsory expense for tenants. Nevertheless, renters must return the property to the standard it was in when the tenancy began, as recorded in the initial check-in inventory.

In England, tenants are not legally required to hire a professional cleaner when moving out. They are, however, responsible for the property’s cleanliness in comparison with its original condition, subject to fair wear and tear. This allowance covers ordinary deterioration associated with reasonable use, such as light scuff marks, but not dirt or grease. The check-in inventory helps establish the condition against which the property will be assessed. More information is available from Shelter England at https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/tenancy_deposits/what_can_your_landlord_deduct_from_your_deposit/cleaning_gardening_decorating.

Get It Cleaned has used common inventory inspection standards to identify the main areas tenants should check before their final walkthrough.

Room-by-Room Move-Out Cleaning Priorities

The guidance breaks the move-out clean into manageable stages, with particular attention to details that may be missed when preparing a property in a hurry.

Preparation prior to cleaning: Before starting, clear personal possessions from surfaces and empty cupboards and drawers. Remove rubbish so that all parts of the property are accessible.

Kitchen areas to inspect: Focus on removing grease from the oven, hob and extractor fan. Clean cupboards, the interiors of the fridge and freezer, and descale sinks, taps and work surfaces. Include the washing machine’s door seal and detergent drawer in the clean, as both can retain grease, detergent and other residue.

Bathroom sanitisation: Thoroughly sanitise the toilet, bath and shower enclosure. Remove limescale from shower glass and fixtures, and clean all tiles, grout, mirrors and flooring. Inspect the shower waste, the seal between the screen and shower tray, and the floor behind the toilet pedestal.

Living spaces & bedrooms: Work across all surfaces, making sure to include light switches, skirting boards, door frames and window sills. Sweep floors before vacuuming or mopping, and pay attention to window tracks where dust can collect out of sight.

Carpets & furnishings: Inspect carpets and soft furnishings for stains, ground-in dirt and odours. Specialist options, including hot water extraction, may be appropriate for persistent marks or areas with substantial wear.

A final walk-through: Clear away all rubbish and carry out a final inspection of every room in daylight. Take photographs of the property as a record for both yourself and the landlord or agent. Make a note of meter readings and ensure the keys are ready to be handed back.

Practical Guidance for Busy Handovers

“The cleaning mistakes we see most often are the ones you miss on a quick look around. You wipe the oven glass and leave the racks, trays, and back panel greasy. You vacuum the middle of the room and miss the edges, the space under the bed, and the area behind the sofa. You clean the sink and leave food in the fridge seal and crumbs in the cutlery drawer. Inventory clerks photograph those spots. When they are dirty, a cleaning claim is hard to defend.”

Nathaniel Jamesson, Coordinator at Get It Cleaned.

Moving Out Cleaning Services in London

Get It Cleaned operates across Greater London postcodes, offering comprehensive end-of-tenancy cleaning for renters preparing to vacate a property. Its additional services include carpet steam extraction, upholstery care and dip-tank oven degreasing.

For London renters considering professional assistance with their move-out clean, details are available on the Get It Cleaned end-of-tenancy cleaning service page (https://getitcleaned.co.uk/end-of-tenancy-cleaning-in-london/). Availability can also be checked through the online portal.

Queen’s Square Social aims to become a Wrexham hub under new family leadership

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Queen’s Square Social aims to become a Wrexham hub under new family leadership

Queen’s Square Social is looking to establish itself as more than a hospitality venue, with new general manager Scott Hesketh setting out plans to make the Wrexham destination a place for people to work, meet, create and celebrate. The 21-year-old takes on the role as the family business behind the venture continues to invest in the city.

Scott’s appointment follows the venue’s first six months of trading at the historic Old Library. Queen’s Square Social is run by SAVVY Collective, the family-led hospitality group founded by his father, Steven Hesketh.

Having begun his career as a kitchen porter at The Chester Townhouse, Scott went on to establish street food business Foxxy Foods with a co-founder. The business launched at DevaFest in 2025, giving him experience of building and running a hospitality venture of his own.

Scott said: “In the space of six months we’ve made incredible progress. The Deli is busier every month, the events diary is filling up fast and we’ve just hosted our first wedding, which was a really special moment for the whole team.

“I’m incredibly proud to be able to lead the venue through this exciting new chapter in its history, and I’m looking forward to bringing the experience and ambition behind Foxxy Foods to Queen’s Square Social.”

The venue is situated on the ground floor of the 1907 Carnegie-funded Old Library, which reopened after Wrexham Council completed a £4 million refurbishment. Four spaces make up the Queen’s Square Social offer: The Deli, The Board, The Pod and The Social.

Each has a role to play in Scott’s plans for the business. He said: “People have been hugely positive about The Deli and I want to build on that. I want it to be known as an informal place where local professionals can work, meet and connect, as well as somewhere residents can relax and take their time.

“The Pod, our podcast and vodcast studio, is a real point of difference, particularly for the growing creative and business community in our area. We’re already recording some fantastic content inside The Pod including Wrexham Means Business, and we have lots more in the planning.

“The Board is already proving very popular with local businesses and is hosting regular weekly meetings. The opportunity to grow that is huge.

“The Social gives us real versatility as a venue. It’s a flexible space for events, workshops, networking, private celebrations and community activity.

“Ultimately I want Queen’s Square Social to be a place where people come to eat, create, connect and celebrate.

“It can be used for everything from exercise classes and open-mic nights to award ceremonies, keynote speaking events, antique and toy sales and art exhibitions.”

The team has expanded to five employees since launch, and further recruitment is planned as activity increases. The business is also keen to make local sourcing central to its operation, working with Welsh suppliers and promoting the region’s products.

Scott added: “We’re passionate about working with Welsh suppliers and showcasing the best of what’s on our doorstep. Supporting local businesses will always be at the heart of everything we do.

“The feedback from locals, many of whom have now become regulars, has been brilliant. People love the new way the building is being used and it’s fantastic to see it so full of life.”

The venue’s reception among customers is reflected in its Google reviews, where it has achieved a rating of 4.9 out of 5.

Queen’s Square Social brings together a deli, meeting rooms and event facilities, offering what its owners describe as the experience of a hotel without accommodation. However, overnight stays are set to become part of the wider business, with the forthcoming opening of The Old Registry, a luxury apartment development in the city’s former register office. It has already secured its first booking.

SAVVY Collective’s hospitality portfolio also includes The Chester Townhouse, and the business has been recognised with the Leisure and Tourism Award at the North West Family Business Awards.

The group’s presence in Wrexham includes Hotel Wrexham and The Savvy Fox, alongside Queen’s Square Social. The family’s investment in the city is matched by a commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates.

This includes backing local sports clubs and initiatives such as Connect Wrexham. Founder Steven Hesketh has also extended the group’s interest in hospitality to younger audiences through his children’s book, Bee Our Guest, which now reaches readers in Wales as well as England.

In August, SAVVY Collective joined the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce as a Patron Member. It is supporting the Chamber’s work to encourage investment, strengthen skills and develop opportunities across the region, particularly in the visitor economy.

Steven Hesketh said: “This region is where SAVVY Collective started, and it’s where we intend to keep investing for years to come.”

Scott’s appointment represents the family’s next generation taking a leading role in delivering that long-term ambition.

Steven added: “Hospitality has always been part of family life for us. I’ve learned the business from the ground up and now I want to build something here that lasts.”

Scott said: “We’re only just getting started and with The Old Registry about to open, we’ll be able to offer guests the complete package.”

Tyres.co.uk Backs Cardiff Racing’s Formula Student Electric Race Car

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Tyres.co.uk Backs Cardiff Racing’s Formula Student Electric Race Car

Tyres.co.uk, the UK online tyre retailer, has signed on as a partner of Cardiff Racing, Cardiff University’s student-run Formula Student team, for the season ahead.

The partnership covers the cost of tyres for the team’s electric race car, one of the biggest yearly expenses for any Formula Student entry. Teams usually go through several sets of dry and wet tyres across a season of testing and competition, so the support frees up more of the students’ budget for developing the car itself.

Formula Student, run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, challenges university teams to design, build and race a single-seat car. Entries are judged on engineering design, cost and the business case behind the car as well as on track performance.

At Cardiff University, students from across the School of Engineering design parts on screen, make them in the University’s workshops and test them throughout the year. The project gives them hands-on experience of budgeting, teamwork and working to tight deadlines.

On a race car, tyres affect almost everything. They set how hard the car can brake, how quickly it can take a corner and how well it copes on a wet track.

Connor Wendt, Deputy Technical Director at Cardiff Racing, said: “Tyres are one of the biggest things we spend money on each season, and they make a massive difference to how the car performs. Having Tyres.co.uk on board takes some of that pressure off and means we can focus on making the car as good as it can be.”

Vithurs, Co-Founder of Tyres.co.uk, said: “Tyres are what we do every day, helping drivers find the right tyres for their car and get them fitted locally. We’re a young business ourselves, so we know what it takes to build something from scratch. Seeing a group of students design and build a race car is genuinely impressive, and supporting the part of the car we know best felt like the natural thing to do. We’ll be following their season closely.”

Cardiff Racing will spend the coming months finishing and testing the car before competing at Silverstone next summer. Updates will be shared on the team’s website and social channels throughout the season.

Architects urged to consider practicalities of Corten steel in modern building projects

Helen Greaney
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Architects urged to consider practicalities of Corten steel in modern building projects

Corten steel is becoming an increasingly popular choice for contemporary architecture and landscaping, thanks to its distinctive weathered appearance and low maintenance requirements. However, achieving the material’s full benefits depends on understanding how it reacts to its surroundings and how it should be installed.

With interest in durable, long-lasting building materials growing, UK metal supplier Buy Metal Online has issued practical
advice to help architects, landscapers, fabricators and homeowners make informed decisions when specifying weathering steel.

A key consideration when working with Corten is the timeline of its visual evolution. Buy Metal Online supplies the material in its raw condition, which initially looks similar to conventional dark mild steel. For projects where an established weathered finish is required from the outset, the company also offers pre-weathered options. When supplied raw, the protective patina develops naturally over a period of six to twelve months, changing from a bright orange appearance to a deeper, earthy brown.

According to SSAB’s design guides for COR-TEN® A, the process depends on alternating periods of wet and dry weather to create a dense, protective oxide surface.

The way Corten is installed also has a significant bearing on the final result. During the early weathering period, rainwater can carry loose rust particles away from the steel, potentially leaving permanent marks on nearby porous surfaces, including light-coloured concrete, stone and untreated timber. Incorporating suitable drainage channels or sacrificial gravel borders into the design can help direct this run-off away from vulnerable materials.

Adequate ventilation around the steel is also important, as water that remains trapped or pools on the surface can prevent the patina from stabilising and increase the risk of premature corrosion. For larger planters and robust façade applications, sheet thicknesses of between 2.0mm and 3.0mm are recommended. This provides sufficient material to accommodate surface
oxidation while retaining the strength of the underlying steel. Buy Metal Online offers a bespoke cutting service, allowing customers to order sheets prepared to precise dimensions for on-site assembly.

Although the supplier provides precision-cut metal, projects involving Corten in load-bearing applications or complex façade systems require additional professional assessment.

Architects, homeowners and specifiers should consult qualified structural engineers or architects to confirm structural suitability and long-term safety.

Sara Halman Thompson, Managing Director at Buy Metal Online, comments: “Corten brings a beautifully dynamic, organic texture to architectural projects. Whether supplying raw or pre-weathered sheets, our role is to provide premium metal precisely cut to specification. By understanding how the metal weathers, bleeds, and interacts with its environment, project
teams can design structures that look spectacular and stand the test of time”.

For more information, or to order bespoke Corten steel cut to size, visit www.buymetalonline.co.uk.

Eurostar Commodities secures highest BRCGS Food Safety rating across its manufacturing operations

Helen Greaney
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Eurostar Commodities secures highest BRCGS Food Safety rating across its manufacturing operations

Yorkshire food ingredients supplier achieves AA grade, recognising its standards in food safety, quality control and production.

Yorkshire-based food ingredients business Eurostar Commodities has been awarded the highest available grade under the BRCGS Global Standard Food Safety announced audit programme, securing an AA rating across its manufacturing operations.

The accreditation represents an important achievement for the company, which supplies specialist ingredients to food manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and foodservice businesses throughout the UK and overseas. It covers all of Eurostar’s manufacturing facilities, including recently developed operations for gluten-free products and rice production and packing.

The new certification adds to the company’s existing BRCGS Storage & Distribution AA accreditation, further demonstrating its focus on maintaining high standards throughout its ingredient supply and manufacturing activities.

BRCGS is an internationally recognised food safety certification scheme. Its standards are widely used by manufacturers, retailers and other food businesses to assess the safety, quality, legality and integrity of products.

The AA rating represents the highest audit outcome available under the announced assessment programme. The independent assessment considers a range of areas, including food safety management, production procedures, product controls, traceability, hygiene and measures designed to protect consumers.

To qualify for an AA grade, businesses must meet the requirements of the standard without any critical or major non-conformities, and with no more than five minor non-conformities recorded during the audit.

For Eurostar’s customers, the accreditation offers independent confirmation that its audited facilities operate in line with internationally recognised food safety requirements, providing reassurance around ingredient quality, safety and supply chain management.

Jason Bull, Managing Director of Eurostar Commodities, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have achieved the BRCGS Food Safety AA grade. This is a major achievement for Eurostar Commodities and a reflection of the exceptional standards and dedication of our entire team. Food safety and quality are fundamental to our business. Our customers, from major food manufacturers and retailers to independent bakeries, wholesalers and foodservice operators, depend on us to deliver ingredients that meet the highest standards of safety, consistency and reliability.

“This is not simply about passing an audit. It is about embedding a culture of food safety, quality and continuous improvement throughout the business. We are particularly proud of our team, whose hard work and attention to detail have made this achievement possible.

“As we continue to grow, innovate and develop new products, maintaining the highest levels of quality and customer confidence will always be at the heart of everything we do.”

Founded in 1994, Eurostar Commodities has developed into a major supplier of specialist food ingredients. Its range includes rice, pizza flours, gluten-free products and innovative flour made using British regeneratively farmed wheat.

The company continues to invest in product innovation, technical capabilities and its UK manufacturing facilities, supplying businesses across food production, baking, wholesale, retail and hospitality.

Its brands and products include Kintaro sushi rice, GMI Italian pizza flours, award-winning gluten-free chapati flours and RISE Re, a range of flour made entirely from British regeneratively farmed wheat.

The latest BRCGS Food Safety AA accreditation covers manufacturing at the company’s Brighouse site, as well as its recently invested-in facilities, dedicated gluten-free production operations and rice manufacturing and packing facilities.

With food businesses facing growing expectations around product quality, traceability, food security and responsible sourcing, independent certification continues to play an important role in demonstrating supply chain standards.

The accreditation further reinforces Eurostar Commodities’ position as a trusted supplier to the UK food industry and provides a foundation for its ongoing investment, growth and product development.

Event Academy puts global industry graduates in spotlight with Hall of Fame launch

Helen Greaney
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Event Academy puts global industry graduates in spotlight with Hall of Fame launch

A new initiative from Event Academy is highlighting the growing influence of its former students, many of whom are now playing important roles in delivering major events on the international stage.

The UK training provider has launched its first ‘Hall of Fame’ to showcase alumni working behind some of the world’s most recognised sporting, entertainment and business events, from the Olympics and Glastonbury to international championships and corporate technology summits.

More than 5,500 people have graduated from Event Academy since it began operating in 2012. The new campaign celebrates the professional achievements of those graduates, with separate Diploma and Postgraduate lists featuring individuals who have progressed into significant industry roles.

Among the alumni recognised are professionals responsible for the delivery of major sporting events. Emma Thomas works as a Football Operations Manager Consultant for FIFA, while Madeleine Hollis was Venue Operations Co-Ordinator for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Hall of Fame also reflects the breadth of opportunities available within the events sector. Graduates have moved into positions across luxury, corporate and entertainment organisations, with Abbey Mercer working as an Operations Co-Ordinator at IMG and Tiziano Piervisiani having served as Event Producer for Eurovision 2022.

Other former students are involved in managing operations at high-profile locations, including the Royal Botanic Gardens. Alumni are also contributing to the organisation of major international technology events, established music festivals and prestigious corporate occasions across the world.

Tania Tilbrook, Head of Marketing at Event Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud to launch the Hall of Fame and formally recognise the outstanding global impact our alumni are making. When our students join us, they bring raw passion and ambition. Through our rigorous, hands-on methodology, we transform that potential into the practical expertise required to deliver high-stakes events to millions of attendees. Seeing our graduates at the helm of the world’s most significant cultural and sporting moments is the ultimate validation of our educational approach”.

The Academy says its graduates’ career progression is underpinned by training that prioritises practical skills and direct exposure to the events industry. It offers a range of routes into the profession, including degree-alternative courses, intensive diplomas and postgraduate programmes.

Event Academy also states that it is the only provider of event management courses accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Its programmes place emphasis on industry placements and professional networking, giving students opportunities to develop experience beyond the classroom and build connections that can support their careers.

The Hall of Fame is intended to recognise the results of this approach and demonstrate the range of opportunities available to those pursuing a career in the global events industry.

Pharmacist urges public to turn to pharmacies as NHS winter pressures mount

News Team
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Pharmacist urges public to turn to pharmacies as NHS winter pressures mount

Ahsan Bhatti, Superintendent Pharmacist at licensed online pharmacy Quick Meds and owner of Frankley Pharmacy in Birmingham, explains why your local pharmacy could be your first port of call for common health concerns this winter.

As winter approaches, the familiar NHS winter pressures are starting to make national news headlines again. Seasonal viruses, respiratory infections and other cold-weather illnesses can put extra strain on GP surgeries, urgent care services and A&E departments.

For patients, that can mean another winter of trying to get an appointment when they need medical advice or treatment, but there’s another option that many people still overlook: their local pharmacy.

Many people still think of pharmacists as simply the people who dispense GP-issued prescriptions, but our role has actually grown considerably over the years. Today, qualified pharmacists can offer advice, assess a range of common conditions and, where appropriately trained and authorised, prescribe treatment.

That’s especially useful when getting seen quickly by your local GP proves difficult. Last winter, it was reported that an additional 300,000 patients waited for a month to see a GP compared with the previous year – so knowing when your pharmacist can help could help you get treated much sooner. 

The NHS Pharmacy First scheme has now made it much easier to access treatment at community pharmacies for common conditions without needing a GP appointment, but part of the reason people still don’t use pharmacies enough is the lack of awareness of the types of issues a pharmacist can help with. 

As an example, we typically see and treat patients with common health and lifestyle issues uch as colds, sore throats, sinus problems, migraines, cystitis, thrush, bacterial vaginosis (BV), urinary tract infections (UTIs), period pain, acne, rosacea and impetigo, as well as lifestyle issues like hair loss, erectile dysfunction (ED) and weight management.

If you’re suffering with any of these issues, you might automatically head straight to your GP. But depending on your symptoms, medical history and the treatment needed, Pharmacist Independent Prescribers can prescribe any licensed medicine within their scope of clinical competence, including antibiotics. 

You don’t necessarily have to visit a pharmacy in person, either. Licensed online pharmacies across the UK like Quick Meds, who are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council, can offer consultations with qualified clinicians, including senior prescribing pharmacists, allowing patients to seek advice and treatment remotely through an established clinical process.

These services are especially important for people juggling work, caring responsibilities or difficulties getting out of the house, as well as in cases where patients may feel embarrassed to discuss their concerns face to face. 

It’s always important to check the legitimacy of your chosen online pharmacy, though. The pharmacy website should clearly display the name of the owner, the name of the superintendent pharmacist, the name and physical address of the pharmacy, and the registration number of the pharmacy. If the online pharmacy offers a private prescription service, the website should also state the name and registration number of all prescribers.

Winter is one of the toughest times of year for the NHS, but by turning to pharmacies for non-urgent conditions, patients may be able to access the advice and treatment they need while helping to ensure GP appointments are available for those who need them most.

For more information or to book an online consultation, visit www.quickmeds.co.uk.

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