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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.

Jewson supports young dancer’s World Cup Final dream

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Jewson supports young dancer’s World Cup Final dream

Builders’ merchant Jewson has supported the dreams of a young dancer who travelled to Dublin to take part in the prestigious Dance World Cup finals – and be part of the winning England team.

Iona Geoghegan, a 12-year-old student at American Dance School (ADS) in Wantage, Oxfordshire, was one of sixteen dancers, aged eight to 18, selected to represent England at the international event. The team earned its place after ADS secured top rankings in national competitions.

With more than 62,000 entries from dancers around the world, qualification was a significant achievement, requiring competitors to achieve some of the highest marks in their country.

The Dance World Cup Finals took place in Dublin from 8-18 July and saw 11,500 talented young performers from more than 60 countries compete on the international stage.

Through its sponsorship, Jewson helped Iona with the costs of travelling to Ireland and her accommodation during the competition, enabling her to take advantage of the incredible opportunity.

England came in first place with more than 400 medals, making them World Champions.

James Smith, Regional Director for Jewson, said: “We were delighted to support Iona as she represented England at the Dance World Cup.

“Her dedication, talent and hard work earned her a place among some of the world’s best young dancers, and it was incredible to see her do what she loves most Dublin.”

ADS offers dance classes for children aged three to 18 and currently serves more than 150 students from surrounding towns.

ENDS

About STARK UK –

STARK Group is a leading business-to-business merchant and distributor of heavy building materials for the construction industry in Europe, with a strategic focus on serving professional builders from its more than 1,050 branches. STARK Group has net sales of EUR 7.76 billion, serves a portfolio of 450,000 customers and collaborates with approx. 15,000 suppliers. Headquartered in Denmark, STARK Group employs more than 18,500 employees in Germany, Austria, the UK, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway. The Group holds leading national or regional position in all markets.

STARK Group holds SBTi-approved and validated net zero climate targets for 2050, aligned with the 1.5°C pathway of the Paris Agreement. The company is a proud signatory of the UN Global Compact and ranks among the top 1% of companies worldwide, earning EcoVadis’ Platinum rating for sustainability performance.

https://STARKbuild.co.uk

Travel Uncertainty Drives More Brits to Choose Staycations, Hotukdeals Research Reveals

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Travel Uncertainty Drives More Brits to Choose Staycations, Hotukdeals Research Reveals

LONDON, UK, July 29, 2026 – Growing concerns about international travel disruption, combined with continued pressure on household finances, are prompting many Britons to rethink their summer holiday plans. New research from Hotukdeals, the UK’s largest deal-sharing community, found that 16% of people now intend to holiday in the UK or take day trips instead of travelling overseas, while a further 20% have decided not to take a holiday at all this summer.

The survey also found that just 27% of respondents said current events have had no effect on their travel plans. Meanwhile, 18% said they would still travel abroad if they found an exceptional deal, while 15% plan to go overseas but reduce spending elsewhere to make the trip affordable.

Commenting on the findings, Hotukdeals deals expert Ben Smye said: “The cost of living crisis is already stretching household budgets to breaking point. Add in the threat of fuel shortages and flight cancellations, and it’s a risk a lot of holidaymakers just aren’t willing to take this year.”

The research reflects trends being reported across the UK holiday sector. Parkdean Resorts has experienced an increase in staycation bookings, attributing the growth in part to concerns about overseas travel, as well as a renewed interest in traditional British seaside holidays.

A spokesperson for Parkdean Resorts said: “We’re seeing more Brits searching for destinations that offer those classic seaside experiences, combining familiar childhood comforts with the convenience of staying closer to home.”

Allens Caravans has also reported higher booking levels this summer, with more holidaymakers choosing beaches, countryside breaks and UK destinations instead of flying abroad. James Allen, CEO of Allens Caravans, said: “More people are rediscovering just how much the UK has to offer when it comes to holidays. We know families are looking for flexibility, value for money and memorable experiences.”

Search data also points to growing interest in domestic breaks. According to Google Trends, UK searches for “staycations” have increased by 500% over the past three months compared with the same period in 2025. Interest in terms such as “cheap staycations” and “seaside breaks” has also risen significantly.

Ben Smye added: “Hotukdeals search data shows that interest has shifted noticeably towards UK holidays in 2026. Between April and June last year, almost 25% of travel-related searches on the platform were for UK trips or staycations. During the same period this year, that figure climbed to more than 35%.”

He continued: “Holidaymakers should keep an eye on the travel deals shared on Hotukdeals. Our community of three million members posts the latest offers every day, covering everything from overseas holidays to UK staycations. It’s a great place to find inspiration and save money on a last-minute getaway.”

Five maintenance jobs landlords should tackle before stricter housing standards take hold

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Five maintenance jobs landlords should tackle before stricter housing standards take hold

As property regulations become more demanding during the second half of 2026, landlords are being encouraged to focus on five essential areas of maintenance that can help prevent costly repairs, minimise disruption for tenants and demonstrate that homes are being properly managed.

George Edwards, Managing Director of property care specialist Timberwise believes landlords should use the coming months to assess the condition of their properties rather than waiting until problems become obvious. He says taking a preventative approach now can reduce repair bills and avoid recurring defects.

The advice follows reports that landlords in England could face civil penalties of up to £7,000 if serious housing hazards remain unresolved, with damp, mould and electrical safety receiving increased scrutiny.

Edwards has identified five key maintenance priorities for landlords over the months ahead.

1. Find the source of the problem

“Visible damp or mould is rarely the root cause,” said Edwards. “Discoloured walls or musty odours often point to hidden leaks, poor airflow, defective pointing or structural timber decay. Simply cleaning the surface or repainting it without addressing the underlying issue is likely to result in the same problem returning.”

2. Carry out regular property inspections

Edwards recommends routine inspections of roofs, gutters, walls, windows, suspended floors and internal finishes instead of relying on tenants to report issues. Spotting defects early often keeps repairs straightforward, while delays can lead to damage affecting plaster, timber, masonry and indoor air quality.

3. Use contractors with suitable expertise

According to Edwards, selecting the right contractor is just as important as identifying the defect. Different property types require different approaches, so surveys and repair recommendations should reflect the building’s construction. Choosing experienced specialists can help avoid unnecessary work and reduce delays.

4. Address summer wear before wetter weather arrives

Although damp is often associated with winter, Edwards says summer conditions can create problems that become more serious later in the year. Dry ground, ageing sealants and roof deterioration can all contribute to water ingress. He advises landlords to check for cracked render, damaged sealants, blocked ventilation, sticking windows and moisture around external walls.

5. Record every inspection and repair

Edwards says thorough documentation is becoming increasingly important as enforcement increases. Keeping records of inspections, findings and completed repairs helps demonstrate that a property has been actively managed if questions arise from local authorities.

He added that landlords who deal with maintenance before defects become severe generally face fewer expensive repairs than those who wait until problems are impossible to ignore. The second half of 2026 offers an ideal opportunity to review previous repairs and ensure they resolved the underlying issue rather than simply improving appearances.

Miles & More Expands Everyday Rewards with New Pointspay Checkout Integration in Switzerland

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Miles & More Expands Everyday Rewards with New Pointspay Checkout Integration in Switzerland

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, July 28, 2026 – Miles & More, the Lufthansa Group’s loyalty programme, has partnered with Pointspay to introduce a new way for members in Switzerland to use their miles while shopping online. Through Pointspay’s M&Pay payment solution, members will be able to earn and redeem miles instantly during checkout, making loyalty rewards a seamless part of everyday purchases rather than something reserved solely for travel.

M&Pay enables Miles & More members to collect and redeem miles in real time with participating retailers during the payment process. Members can choose to pay entirely with miles or combine miles with cash in a single transaction, offering greater flexibility at checkout. By bringing loyalty rewards directly into the purchasing journey, the partnership enhances the value of the programme for members while helping merchants engage with an audience that is both travel-focused and highly engaged.

The collaboration combines the reach of the Miles & More programme in Switzerland with Pointspay’s expertise in integrating loyalty rewards into online payment experiences. Members benefit from a smooth and rewarding checkout process, while merchants gain access to a customer base motivated by loyalty incentives and repeat engagement.

Katrin Jüttner, Head of Partner Sales & Ambient at Miles & More, said: “Our members are among the most engaged loyalty participants in Europe, and they deserve a programme that delivers value beyond the flight. With Pointspay, miles are brought directly to checkout, enabling instant earning and redemption during everyday shopping.”

Dominic Hofer, CEO of Pointspay, added: “Miles & More is one of the world’s best-known loyalty programmes, and we are delighted to support the next stage of its development. Integrating M&Pay into merchant checkouts makes miles more useful in everyday life, creating meaningful value for members, merchant partners and the programme itself.”

Key benefits of the partnership

Earn and redeem miles at checkout
Miles & More members can collect miles on eligible purchases and redeem them instantly at participating merchants. They can choose to pay entirely with miles or use a combination of miles and cash, all within the merchant’s existing checkout experience through M&Pay.

Making rewards part of everyday shopping
The partnership extends the value of the Miles & More programme beyond air travel, allowing members to earn and spend miles across an expanding range of retail, fashion, lifestyle and travel brands.

Helping merchants reach valuable customers
Retailers gain access to a highly engaged, loyalty-driven customer audience while benefiting from joint marketing opportunities with Miles & More that help connect their brand with members at the point of purchase.

Creating stronger customer loyalty
By offering flexible payment options through M&Pay, merchants can improve the checkout experience, encourage higher conversion rates, increase average basket values and build stronger long-term relationships with customers through repeat engagement.

Teesside Electrical Engineering Consultancy named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 

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Teesside Electrical Engineering Consultancy named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 

STOCKTON-ON-TEES, UK. July 24th, 2026 – Engineering Power Solutions (EPS), a Stockton-on-Tees headquartered electrical engineering consultancy, has been named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 (powered by WorkL), in the Best Small Places to Work category.

The recognition is based on independent employee feedback, with EPS recording an overall engagement score of 93%, significantly above the Energy and Utilities sector average. 96% of employees surveyed said they are proud to work for the company.

The award caps a period of rapid growth for the consultancy, which was founded and led by a husband-and-wife duo with Teesside roots and who still live locally. Since employing its first member of staff in 2020, EPS has grown to a team of 37, recently moving into its own newly renovated premises, EPS House, at Preston Farm Industrial Estate in preparation for further planned growth.

The firm delivers power system studies, high-voltage (HV) design, power earthing sitetesting, and grid code compliance for clients across transmission & distribution, renewables, battery energy storage, data centres, and manufacturing sectors. Many of its engineers have came through Teesside University and have progressed into senior and specialist roles as the company invests heavily in training and professional development, creating high-quality engineering careers and building a long term home for technical talent in Stockton-on-Tees.

Adrian Hall, Managing Director at EPS, said: “Being named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work is a proud moment for everyone at EPS. As a growing electrical engineering consultancy, our strength lies in the skill, commitment and professionalism of our people.

“We have worked hard to build a culture where people feel trusted, supported and able to do their best work. This recognition is a credit to the whole team and reflects the workplace we have built together.”

Lord Mark Price, Founder of WorkL, comments: “I’m absolutely delighted for this year’s winners of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work, powered by WorkL. Many brilliant companies entered the Awards in the hopes of being recognised, so it’s a real achievement to have made the list. WorkL are proud to power these Awards and support organisations in retaining and recruiting the very best employees.”

Entries for the 2027 The Sunday Times Best Places to Work are now open at https://workl.com/business/workplace-awards/sunday-times-uk/.

How to unify your PPC strategy with your landing pages

Helen Greaney
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How to unify your PPC strategy with your landing pages

Running a PPC campaign is only half the job. If the landing page you direct your audiences towards doesn’t match the promise you make in your ads, that’s a recipe for a high bounce rate and traffic leaving as fast as it arrives. 

Unifying your PPC campaigns and your landing page strategy is the difference between a campaign that burns through your marketing budget and one that actually converts.

The main ways businesses break the landing page-PPC connection

Before we dive into what a good strategy looks like, let’s take a look at some of the most common mistakes people make with their campaigns (you might even be guilty of a few of these).

  • * Sending all your traffic to a homepage instead of a dedicated landing page
  • * Ad copy making promises the landing page doesn’t deliver
  • * Complicated forms creating friction at the point of conversion
  • * No single, clear call to action (on the ad copy or the landing page)
  • * Uploading a landing page and never testing or updating it
  • * Not segmenting pages by campaign, keyword group or audience
  • * Skipping the trust signals, e.g., reviews, case studies or guarantees

Any of these sound familiar? If so, there’s a good chance you’re wasting a lot of ad spend on a bad landing page-PPC strategy. Here’s how to fix that.

Why PPC and landing pages need to work as one

Annoyingly, in a lot of businesses, these two tasks are handled by two different people or are treated as entirely separate. Never forget, for the user, moving from an ad to a landing page takes one click. If the people or strategies behind these two things aren’t aligned, something looks off to the user, trust drops, and they bounce. Misalignment will ruin your conversion rate.

On the platform side of things, low trust and high bounce rate will signal that your content is low-quality, which will push up your cost-per-click. Treating PPC and landing pages as one, connected thing will protect your budget and improve your results.

However, staying aligned across a business is sometimes easier said than done, especially if you’re going through busy times or your team is at capacity. In these situations, working with a specialist in pay-per-click advertising in London can help.

Hitting the same message across ad copy and page copy

If your ad says “20% off your first order”, your landing page better say the same thing. Matching your message means that the headline, offer, and tone a person sees in the ad are accurately reflected in the landing page copy. Repetition and reinforcement are what keep audiences locked in from the first click, right the way through to conversion. Continuity reassures the viewer that they’ve landed in the right place and that they’ll get what they came for.

Mapping campaigns to dedicated landing pages

A common, and costly, habit is sending PPC audiences to a general homepage. This is bad practice because homepages are built to serve many different users with a wide array of intents. PPC audiences have one specific goal in mind, so the page you send them to needs to address that goal. PPC audiences are primed and ready to take action, while home pages are bad at converting. See the problem? Building a dedicated landing page for each campaign, or even each ad group, keeps your messaging tightly focused and makes it easier to track which campaigns are actually performing.

Using keywords and search intent to shape page content

The keywords you bid on tell you what your audience is searching for: informational, navigational, commercial or transactional. Your landing page needs to reflect that intent directly. Just think, someone searching in highly transactional terms is ready to make a purchase, not looking for an introduction to a product. Misaligning on intent and content is a sure-fire way to let customers who are ready to convert slip through your fingers. Auditing your top-performing keywords against the page they go to is a simple and effective way to keep your alignment on point.

Testing and iterating

Once the fundamentals are in place, testing is what pushes your ad performance further. Here are some things worth prioritising:

  • * Headline variations
  • * CTA wording and placement
  • * Form length
  • * Trust signals
  • * Hero images and videos vs a static layout

Consistent testing compounds over time into a better conversion rate.

How a joined-up PPC and CRO strategy can improve ROI

Businesses that get the most out of PPC recognise that when ad copy, targeting, and landing page experience work together, cost per acquisition decreases and ad results become more reliable over time.

eXroid urges people to take early action on health worries to mark Good Care Month and World Hepatitis Day

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eXroid urges people to take early action on health worries to mark Good Care Month and World Hepatitis Day

KENT, UK. July 28th, 2026 – To mark Good Care Month and World Hepatitis Day, eXroid is highlighting the importance of looking after our own health, supporting others and taking early action when something does not feel right. 

The awareness campaign aims to highlight that good care begins with recognising changes in health and feeling confident enough to seek appropriate advice. However, many people delay asking for help because of embarrassment, stigma or uncertainty about their symptoms. 

This can also be the case with conditions such as hepatitis. Hepatitis affects millions of people worldwide, yet many people are unaware that they have the condition. Without early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it can lead to serious and potentially long-term health complications. 

Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock, Medical Director at eXroid, said: “Identifying hepatitis at an early stage can help people access the care and support they need, while greater awareness can encourage individuals to understand the importance of protecting their liver and recognising when to seek medical advice. 

“A healthy liver plays a vital role in overall wellbeing and supports many of the body’s essential functions. Small steps, such as attending health checks, discussing concerns with a healthcare professional and seeking support early, can help prevent future health problems and improve quality of life.”

To mark Good Care Month, eXroid is reminding people that looking after their own health allows them to better support the people who matter most. 

Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock  added: “Whether it involves attending a medical appointment, speaking openly about a concern or helping someone else access care, taking action can make a meaningful difference. 

“Care is at the heart of better health. By raising awareness, encouraging testing and reducing the embarrassment that can prevent people from seeking support, we can help individuals take greater control of their wellbeing and create healthier, more supportive communities.”

eXroid is encouraging people to use Good Care Month and World Hepatitis Day as an opportunity to learn more about their health, recognise when they may need support and avoid allowing embarrassment or stigma to prevent them from seeking help. 

For more information about eXroid’s homecare service, visit www.exroid.com. 

Up to 250,000 UK Homeowners Face Mortgage and House Sale Delays Because of Spray Foam Insulation

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Up to 250,000 UK Homeowners Face Mortgage and House Sale Delays Because of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation was widely promoted as an effective way to improve energy efficiency and lower household bills. However, for many homeowners, that once-popular upgrade has become an unexpected obstacle. Properties with spray foam installed in the roof are increasingly being rejected by mortgage lenders, leaving owners unable to sell or remortgage until the issue is resolved. Property specialists say that professional removal remains the most dependable solution.

Across the UK, homeowners who installed spray foam insulation in good faith are now discovering it can complicate property transactions. The Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) estimates that as many as 250,000 homes may be affected (RPSA, 2021). Much of the insulation was fitted during government-supported initiatives aimed at improving the energy efficiency of older homes.

Why mortgage lenders are concerned

The concern is less about the insulation itself and more about its impact on roof inspections. Spray foam adheres directly to the underside of roof timbers, preventing surveyors from carrying out a full visual assessment of the structure. Certain types of foam, particularly open-cell products, may also retain moisture against the timber, increasing the possibility of damp and decay over time. To address these concerns, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors introduced guidance for surveyors in 2023, and lenders have become increasingly cautious when assessing affected properties.

That cautious approach is now common across the lending market. A BBC investigation published in 2024 reported that one quarter of the UK’s largest mortgage lenders, along with every equity release provider included in the research, would not offer finance on homes with spray foam insulation installed in the roof (BBC, 2024). As a result, homeowners may experience failed property sales, rejected remortgage applications or extended periods paying higher interest rates.

Industry experts highlight the risks

Professional organisations have consistently raised concerns about spray foam insulation. In 2023, Property Care Association Chief Executive Stephen Hodgson said that “many lending institutions, surveyors and property professionals are rightly concerned about the risks of defects that can occur as a result of poorly installed or inappropriate sprayed foam.” The Property Care Association has since produced an inspection protocol to help surveyors assess affected roofs.

A joint investigation carried out by the RPSA and the Property Care Association concluded that it had “failed to identify any circumstances” where a roof containing spray foam insulation could receive a “clean bill of health.”

A practical route forward

Although the situation can be frustrating, homeowners are not without options. Removing the spray foam to a lender-approved standard, followed by an independent inspection of the roof timbers and supporting documentation, allows surveyors to properly assess the roof and can help restore lender confidence.

“Spray foam was marketed as a practical way to improve a home’s energy efficiency, and most homeowners had no reason to believe it could create problems years later when they wanted to sell or remortgage,” said Jack Purdie, Director of Operations at Go Green Quote. “Fortunately, there is a solution. Professional removal completed to lender standards, together with the correct certification, enables surveyors to inspect the roof properly and helps homeowners move forward with confidence.”

Homeowners unsure of their position can check which mortgage lenders lend on spray foam and arrange a survey to understand the cost and timeline of removal, which typically takes one to three days on site. As a rough industry benchmark, removing spray foam from a typical three-bedroom roof costs around £3,200 (Checkatrade).

About Go Green Quote


Go Green Quote is a UK spray foam removal service that connects homeowners with vetted, certified removal specialists nationwide and manages each job to a single standard, with a lender-ready certificate and full evidence pack. Eligible properties can save up to 20% on removal, subject to a site visit. More at gogreenquote.com.

Safespaces Employees Set Out on 100km Challenge to Raise £10,000 for Caudwell Children

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Safespaces Employees Set Out on 100km Challenge to Raise £10,000 for Caudwell Children

TODMORDEN, WEST YORKSHIRE, 27 July 2026 – A team of employees from specialist manufacturer Safespaces is preparing to tackle a demanding 100-kilometre walk in support of Caudwell Children, with the aim of raising £10,000 for disabled and neurodivergent children. The fundraising challenge marks the company’s biggest charity event to date and reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting families with complex needs.

The walk will take place across 30 and 31 July, with participants setting off from Safespaces’ headquarters in Todmorden and finishing at Caudwell Children’s home in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Travelling throughout the day, overnight and into the following afternoon, the team hopes to reach its £10,000 fundraising target.

Caudwell Children supports disabled and neurodivergent children and their families by providing practical and emotional assistance, including access to specialist equipment, therapies, autism assessments and other services that enhance independence, wellbeing and quality of life.

Since beginning its Charity of the Year partnership with Caudwell Children last year, the Safespaces team has taken part in a variety of fundraising events, including half marathons, skydives and inflatable 10K races, raising more than £5,000. The upcoming 100km walk is their most ambitious fundraising effort so far.

The overnight element of the challenge has been chosen for a meaningful reason. Many parents and carers supported by Caudwell Children regularly spend sleepless nights caring for their children. By continuing their walk through the night, the Safespaces team hopes to recognise the commitment, resilience and dedication shown by these families every single day.

Alastair Demick, Managing Director of Safespaces, said:

“At Safespaces, we work with families every day who face challenges that many people never see. We wanted this challenge to represent more than simply walking 100 kilometres. By walking through the night, we’re recognising the dedication of parents and carers who rarely get the opportunity to rest because they’re caring for their children around the clock.

Every mile we complete is for the families who face these challenges every day. We’re incredibly proud to support Caudwell Children and hope our fundraising will help more children access the specialist equipment, therapies and services they need to reach their potential.”

How You Can Support

Safespaces is aiming to raise £10,000 for Caudwell Children and every donation will help the team get one step closer to its goal of supporting disabled and neurodivergent children and their families.

Donate today:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/safespaceswalk

Daughter Publishes Late Father’s Forgotten Children’s Book to Raise Money for Alzheimer’s Research 

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Daughter Publishes Late Father’s Forgotten Children’s Book to Raise Money for Alzheimer’s Research 

KENT, UK. July 24th, 2026 – A children’s story about bees, written 15 years ago by a Kent beekeeper and former teacher, is finally being published by his daughter – seven years after his death from Alzheimer’s disease.

Mr. B and the Bees, written by Richard Fryd during retirement, will be published on 28th July this year, which marks the seventh anniversary of his death. 

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His daughter, author and illustrator Katy Fryd, has illustrated the book herself and is publishing it in his memory, while also raising money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

For every paperback £10 copy of Mr. B and the Bees sold on Amazon, £3 will be donated to Alzheimer’s Research UK via Work for Good until 31st December, 2026.

Richard spent 20 years as a beekeeper in Kent and Sussex and had more than 200 hives when he retired from the honey business. Before becoming a beekeeper, he was a teacher in London, and his love of education and the natural world came together when he decided to write a children’s story inspired by his experiences with bees.

Richard had hoped that his story would be published during his lifetime, but he never found an illustrator and never sent the manuscript to any publishers. The story was eventually forgotten as life moved on. 

Richard was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and sadly died from the condition in 2019 at the age of 84. Years later, Katy rediscovered her father’s manuscript and began to think about how she could bring his story to life. 

Katy, 48, decided to illustrate the book herself and publish it in tribute to her father. She also wanted the project to support research into Alzheimer’s disease, a cause that she believes would have been important to him.

Katy said: “I believe it is what he would have wanted. Scientific research was very important to him, and he’d taken part in trials for other illnesses.”

When Richard originally wrote the story, Katy was more interested in painting and did not consider herself a professional illustrator. Since then, however, she has developed her own career as an author and illustrator. 

She has written and illustrated three books in her Cat Inspector series and has even had one of her books translated into Welsh. This experience gave her the confidence and skills to take on the challenge of illustrating her father’s story.

Mr. B and the Bees is a 26 page children’s story aimed particularly at readers aged 4 to 7. Inspired by Richard’s years as a beekeeper and his experience of collecting many swarms, the story follows Mr. B, a man who loves growing fruit, vegetables and flowers in his garden.

One day, a swarm of bees arrives and lands on a bush in his garden. Mr. B must work out what to do with the unexpected visitors. Through the story, children are introduced to the fascinating world of bees and learn about their importance as major pollinators and their vital role in the ecosystem.

Although the story is fictional, it also aims to teach young readers about what to do if a swarm of bees lands in their own garden. The book is particularly suited to children who are interested in bees, gardening, wildlife and the natural world.

For Katy, the publication of Mr. B and the Bees is an opportunity to fulfil a dream her father never had the chance to realise, while turning his love of bees into something that can benefit others.

The book will be available to buy online from 28th July, 2026. More information about the release, and purchase links, are available at Katy Fryd’s books page.

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