The articles in this publication are the opinions of the authors. The magazine or its staff are not responsible for any content. For articles covering legals or health, please ensure you engage with legal or medical professionals before acting on any advice printed in this magazine.
We endeavour to ensure that all the content submitted is accurate and a true representation. If you cover a special subject that would be of interest to our readers and would like to write a regular column, do get in touch with the editor.
The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation. Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. Published by Ghost Publishing who decline all responsibility for advice given.ISSN 2756-0457
EditorsNotes
By group editor Gill Laidler
As I write this, I am surrounded by everything World Cup! Now I’m not a football fan, in fact I know nothing about football, but I do hope after all these years we can win, what a party that will be, lifting everyone’s spirits in what at the moment is not a good time with the war in the middle east and rising prices!
We have another great issue for you. Our cover features Yorkshire Businesswoman member, Jamila Juma-Ware, who runs Taylors Gin amongst other businesses. Jamila was one of our award winners and supplier of our awards welcome drink, the lovely glittery sparkly gin that I believe is still available to purchase. You can read about Jamila’s story on page 32.
We had a lovely time earlier his month when we held our annual summer garden party with Lexus at the stunning Goldsborough Hall. Lots of members, guests and Lexus customers joined us for a cream tea, test driving and of course networking, whilst being entertained by the singer Jessica Frost, who incidentally also sang for us at the Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards in March. Our next event is on 23rd July, in Leeds city centre at Dakota Hotel. Their terrace in the heart of the city is the perfect place for our BBQ networking as Yorkshire Businesswoman is joined by Yorkshire Businessman. Booking now on our website, make sure you don’t miss this one. Guests are also welcome.
This edition, our city feature centres around the beautiful historic city of York. We looked at its history, going right back to Roman times, its railways and of course what York is famous for in industry – chocolate!
Our next edition will be out in August, but in the meantime, do check out our new website. Work is still ongoing, but we are excited about our new features and our new member area. There is also a new look digital edition and although not quite finished, already proving popular as our stats are showing, growing rapidly over the last couple of months.
Gill x
Former Wakefield Hospice director Awarded BEM in King’s Birthday Honours
Former Wakefield Hospice director of income generation, Helen Mack DL (formerly Knowles), has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 in recognition for services to hospice care for 38 years.
Helen dedicated more than 35 years of her life to Wakefield Hospice, playing a pivotal role in the charity’s growth and development before retiring in March 2025.
Her journey with the hospice began in the late 1980s as a volunteer with the Lupset Fundraising Group. She joined the fundraising team in 1990, shortly before the hospice officially opened its doors following a visit from HM Queen Elizabeth II. Over the following three and a half decades, Helen helped shape the organisation’s fundraising strategy and success, eventually becoming
director of income generation and overseeing significant growth in support and income generation across the charity.
On learning of her inclusion in the King’s Birthday Honours List, Helen said: “For over 35 years Wakefield Hospice was my life. I cannot put into words what this place still means to me today and to have been recognised for my work at this wonderful charity is both humbling and overwhelming.
“Nobody goes into working for a charity to receive commendation for their work; we do it because we
truly care about the cause and want to do all we can to ensure it is here to serve the local community in the very best way possible.
“That being said, I accept this honour with immense pride, gratitude and humility.
“I would like to thank all those colleagues, volunteers past and present who worked tirelessly alongside me. The kindness and generosity of the community who were always very supportive and of course my own family who have been with me every step of the way, I share this honour with everyone who has been part of my journey.
“I hope this recognition shines a light on the invaluable work of hospices and inspires others to continue supporting those who need the care.
“Whilst I remain very committed to continuing in my Deputy Lieutenant role in West Yorkshire and being a proud member of Ossett Rotary Club, to have been awarded a BEM is truly the most special way imaginable to wrap up what were some of the most meaningful years of my life.”
Helen Hirst, chair of trustees at Wakefield Hospice, said: “Helen’s contribution to Wakefield Hospice over the last 35 years has been extraordinary. Her passion, dedication and unwavering commitment have
helped shape the organisation we are today, ensuring thousands of local people and their families have been able to access specialist hospice care when they needed it most.
“From overseeing the growth and development of our fundraising and retail teams over 35 years to taking on her own incredible fundraising challenges including tackling the New York Marathon, cycling through Death Valley and trekking to Everest Base Camp - this honour is thoroughly deserved and everyone connected with Wakefield Hospice is delighted to see Helen recognised in this way.”
Helen will receive her medal at an official ceremony in the coming months.
Her award recognises decades of dedication to charitable fundraising and the lasting impact of her work. The foundations she helped build continue to support Wakefield Hospice in delivering compassionate care to patients and families across Wakefield and the surrounding area.
Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler said. “I am delighted to hear this news and wanted to add my own comments. I have known Helen for many years and will forever remember her kindness and care when my colleague Mandy Taylor MBE who worked for Yorkshire Businesswoman passed away. Whilst Mandy was ill, even though she was not admitted to Wakefield Hospice, Helen offered kindness and support which didn’t end when Mandy sadly passed away in 2021. Helen continued to support me and other members of Yorkshire Businesswoman, ensuring that we were all OK and coping with our sad loss. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this outstanding award.
Hull College vice principal Awarded MBE in King’s Birthday Honours
Hull College is celebrating after vice principal Governance & Compliance, Catherine Sykes, was awarded an MBE in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List for her outstanding services to education.
The prestigious award recognises Catherine’s significant contribution to education over more than a decade, including her role in helping transform Hull College’s governance, her national leadership across the Further Education sector, and her commitment to supporting local communities and charitable causes across the region.
A highly respected governance professional, she has played a central role in Hull College’s transformation from a college in national intervention to an institution recognised for excellence, with governance now considered one of its greatest strengths. Beyond the college, Sykes serves as a National Leader of Governance for the Department for Education, supporting boards and governance professionals across England.
She has gained national recognition for pioneering the ethical use of artificial intelligence in governance, helping organisations modernise decision-making while maintaining transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Alongside her professional achievements, Catherine has dedicated significant time to supporting her local community. She serves as a Trustee of the HEY Smile Foundation, helping to improve opportunities and outcomes for communities across Hull and East Yorkshire, and is Chair of Friends of Newport School, supporting educational and community activities in her local area. She also leads and continues to support the delivery of the prestigious International Youth Championships at Bishop Burton College in association with British Eventing, creating opportunities for young people from around the UK to develop skills, confidence and lifelong friendships through sport.
Reacting to the news, Catherine said: “Receiving news of this honour was completely unexpected and incredibly humbling. I am both deeply honoured and immensely proud to be recognised in this way.
“Education has the power to transform lives, and I have been fortunate throughout my career to work alongside people who are passionate about creating opportunities for others. While this honour bears
my name, it reflects the collective efforts of so many people who have supported and inspired me along the way.
“From my colleagues at Hull College and across the Further Education sector to the communities and organisations I have had the privilege to serve, I am grateful for every opportunity to contribute. I remain passionate about championing excellence in governance, embracing innovation responsibly, and ensuring education continues to create opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive.”
Debra Gray CBE, chief executive and Principal of Hull College, said: “Everyone at Hull College
is absolutely delighted that Catherine has received this richly deserved honour. Catherine is an exceptional leader whose expertise, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to education have had a profound impact, not only on Hull College but on the wider Further Education sector nationally.
“Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening governance at Hull College and supporting our transformation journey. Catherine consistently demonstrates the highest standards of integrity, innovation, and public service, and this recognition is a fitting tribute to her outstanding contribution to the education sector and her wider community.”
A member of the Chartered Governance Institute and qualified to Master’s level in Corporate Governance, Catherine has become one of the most respected voices in governance within the education sector. She has been shortlisted nationally for Governance Professional of the Year and AI Leader of the Year, and continues to champion innovation, ethical leadership, and best practice across education and beyond.
Her appointment as an MBE recognises a career defined by service, leadership, and innovation, as well as an unwavering commitment to improving opportunities for learners, organisations, and communities across Hull, East Yorkshire, and beyond.
Bibby Financial Services appoints Gemma Heath to support SME growth
Bibby Financial Services (BFS) has appointed Gemma Heath as business development manager, to grow its support for small and medium sized businesses across the West Midlands.
Gemma brings more than 16 years of commercial finance experience to the role, having held multiple sales positions at Lloyds Banking Group throughout her career. Most recently she served as associate director – Trading & Working Capital, Intermediaries at Lloyds Banking Group where she worked closely with brokers and introducers to meet client needs.
A specialist in Invoice Finance, Gemma holds the ABFA Foundation qualification alongside a Dunn & Bradstreet Credit Diploma and Huthwaite SPIN® selling certification. She has also built a wide network of introducer relationships during her career. Joining BFS, she has a clear focus on growing its presence in the region and continuing to fund SMEs through Invoice Finance solutions.
Commenting on the appointment, David Webb, UK head of broker and introducer, said: “BFS is in growth mode and with more than £1bn of funding capacity, we have a fantastic opportunity to support SMEs and the intermediary community in 2026 and beyond. Attracting someone of Gemma’s calibre is
testament to our sales strategy and ambition.”
Speaking about her new role, Gemma said: “With the West Midlands Futures Fund seeking to supercharge projects there’s an incredible opportunity for the region’s SMEs to grow and thrive. Many of these businesses need greater access to working capital and cashflow support to enable them to seize opportunities, so I’m looking forward
to leveraging existing and developing new intermediary partnerships to make this happen.
“With our strong family heritage, financing legacy stretching back almost five decades, and a reputation for supporting businesses through the economic cycle, BFS is well-placed to help SMEs overcome challenges and take advantage of opportunities today.”
Law firm appoints family and matrimonial partner
Ward Hadaway has appointed family lawyer Maria Coster as a partner, where she will lead the family and matrimonial team in the Leeds office, working closely with colleagues across the firm’s national team.
Recognised by The Legal 500 as a Rising Star and Next Generation Partner, Maria has worked exclusively in family law for nearly 15 years, handling financial disputes and private children matters.
Her work includes divorce and dissolution, highvalue financial cases involving business interests and arrangements concerning children. She also supports clients with asset protection, including pre- and post-nuptial and cohabitation agreements.
Maria said: “My focus is on leading the matrimonial team in Leeds, working alongside partner Andrea Dyer and managing associate Greg Cross, to build on the foundations already in place. That includes strengthening the group and broadening the range of work we handle.
“I have spent my career working on financial and children’s matters, often involving significant assets or challenging personal circumstances. Bringing that experience into this role will be important as we continue to deliver clear, practical advice.
“I am looking forward to working with colleagues across the firm, building on existing relationships and contributing to the continued development of the national family offering. Maintaining a consistent, high-quality service for clients will remain central to that.”
The appointment forms part of continued investment
in this area of the firm, with a focus on strengthening capability and supporting the long-term growth of the team.
Liz Bottrill, who heads up the national family and matrimonial department, said: “Maria adds further strength to our team, bringing extensive experience across family matters alongside a pragmatic approach to client advice.
“As we continue to invest in our people and in those working on complex and often sensitive situations, Maria’s expertise and leadership will play an important role.”
This appointment is the latest into the growing private client department, led by Alison Hall who herself joined in 2025. With new additions into the teams who provide family, contentious probate, and wills, estate planning and succession services, the department is growing in strength and reach, reinforcing the firm’s full-service reputation across clients’ professional and personal needs.
Managing partner Steven Petrie added: “We’re focused on building teams with the right mix of experience and leadership to support the firm’s long-term development.
“Maria brings both, with a strong track record in advising on complex matters and developing teams. Her appointment strengthens the Leeds office at a time of continued growth and adds further depth to our overall capability in our thriving private client services team.”
Ward Hadaway appoints tax partner as corporate team expands
Leeds law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed Nicola Williams as Partner advising on corporate tax and share incentives, bolstering the firm’s specialist tax expertise.
She will work closely with clients across the firms national network of offices in Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and Teesside.
Recognised by The Legal 500 as a Next Generation Partner, Nicola advises on the tax aspects of mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, reorganisations and real estate transactions, as well as employee, director and investor reward structures.
Her work focuses on reducing tax risk for buyers, protecting taxrelated value for sellers and advising businesses on tax-efficient structures to retain and reward key people.
Nik Tunley, head of corporate said: “Nicola brings niche tax and share incentives expertise that sits directly
alongside the work our corporate department is undertaking. She will also bring her tax expertise to support the work of other colleagues across the firm, including in the real estate, commercial and private client teams.
“Tax advice is a key part of many transactions, particularly where businesses are buying, selling, raising investment or putting incentive structures in place. Her appointment gives us greater technical strength in this area and adds further value to our work supporting growing businesses.”
The move follows continued investment in Ward Hadaway’s corporate team, including its 2025 merger with Teesside-based The Endeavour Partnership which added
scale and depth across the firm’s national network, alongside the new partner appointments of Paul Wigham and Alex Cooper so far this year.
Nicola said: “the firm is at an exciting stage in its growth. As the corporate team grows, there is a strong opportunity to extend our integrated tax offering alongside that work. I was attracted by the firm’s culture and the chance to help develop a service that works across our national client base.”
The appointment follows Ward Hadaway’s recent recognition in Experian MarketIQ’s annual M&A review, where the firm was ranked sixth nationally for completed transactions after advising on 119 deals. It was also ranked first in Yorkshire and the Northeast.
Managing Partner Steven Petrie said: “Bringing Nicola on board reflects our continued investment in specialist expertise that assists clients across the full life cycle of their business.
“As companies grow and their requirements become more complex, they need advisers who can bring different areas of law together around their corporate and commercial objectives. Nicola’s experience adds to that capability and will be a real asset to our work with businesses, investors and management teams nationally.”
Knights strengthen team with senior partner hire
Knights, the UK’s leading regional legal and professional services business, has strengthened its Private Client offering in Sheffield with the appointment of Gillian Coverley as partner.
Gillian joins Knights following more than twenty years at Irwin Mitchell, where she was an equity partner and held several senior leadership roles. Having built her entire career in Sheffield, she brings a strong regional network alongside extensive experience advising highnetworth individuals, professionals and business owners on wills, estate and succession planning, complex probate matters and trust administration.
Her work frequently involves advising clients with complex family circumstances as well as business owners, navigating succession and inheritance tax planning.
Gillian also works closely with charities and their supporters, advising on philanthropic giving, legacy planning and the management of charitable estates.
Gillian chose to join Knights to focus on client delivery, drawn by the firm’s model, which enables senior lawyers to spend more time advising clients and developing relationships, supported by dedicated inhouse teams.
She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners
(STEP) and was the only private client lawyer to be ranked Band 1 in the Chambers High Net Worth guide (2025) for Private Wealth Law in Sheffield and the surrounding area, recognising her as one of the leading advisers in the region.
Commenting on her appointment, Gillian says: “I was attracted to the Knights model as it allows for partners to dedicate their time working closely with clients and building relationships.
“Having worked in Sheffield throughout my career, I’m looking forward to building on established connections and supporting clients through increasingly complex estate and succession planning issues, as well as developing the firm’s offering for charities and their supporters.”
David Lister, Sheffield client services director, added: “Gillian is a highly respected private client adviser with a longstanding reputation in the Sheffield market.
“Her depth of experience, regional connections and strong clientfocused approach mak e her an excellent fit for Knights.”
Gillian’s appointment further strengthens the private client team in Sheffield, underlining its commitment to investing in highcalibre people who add real value for clients.
Knights is the largest legal and professional services business built for the UK regions. With 1,400 professionals working collaboratively nationwide, Knights provides multiple services to business clients alongside premium advisory services to private individuals.
Harlow Consulting appoints new research manager
Harlow Consulting, a bespoke research agency based in Harrogate, has recruited a new research manager as part of its continued investment in its talent base.
Mary Meredith joins the agency to support its mixedmethods research and evaluation services, working across key sectors including construction, heritage, healthcare, education and the arts.
Prior to Harlow Consulting, Mary has held roles in marketing, organisational research and intelligence, and specialist HR roles.
Harlow Consulting works with leading organisations in the UK. Clients include Historic England, the Food Standards Agency, the NHS, Innovate UK, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Skills Development Scotland, and the British Film Institute (BFI).
Managing projects from start to completion, Mary’s
strengths lie in qualitative research and evidenceled storytelling.
Mary said: “Words have always been a big part of my life, whether through reading, writing or storytelling in all its forms. I’m curious, analytical and enjoy untangling problems. Working across different sectors and disciplines has given me a wide-ranging perspective that helps me approach projects in a thoughtful and creative way.”
Harlow Consulting was founded in 2019 by codirectors Jennifer Brennan and Clare Vokes.
The female-led consultancy has made waves in the world of research, growing the agency into one of Yorkshire’s ’50 Most Exciting Companies’ last year. The business maintains a strong focus on team wellbeing and giving back to environmental and community causes.
Jennifer said: “Mary brings diverse skills to our team. She has an impressive background, and her communication skills are particularly valued as our agency continues to evolve. Mary has a passion and flair for understanding the human factors that influence organisational decisionmaking and change.”
Mary added: “I’m driven by the positive impacts good research has driving practical action and positive change. It can have lasting impacts for public and private sector organisations in fields ranging from health to heritage. It’s also a huge draw working in a female-led business, with a focus on being a flexible, equitable and supportive workplace.”
As well as offering a quarterly wellbeing allowance and regular Wellbeing Days to employees, Harlow Consulting is a Disability Confident and Mindful Employer. The business has signed the Market Research Society Net Zero Pledge and works with Positive Planet to maintain its Carbon Reduction Plan.
Leeds Pride reveals full star-studded line up for 20th anniversary celebration
Leeds Pride has unveiled the final line-up of performers for its landmark 20th anniversary celebration this summer, with more acts than ever before set to take to the stage across a fabulous two-day festival.
Headlining the weekend will be La Voix and Sweet Female Attitude. They’ll be joined by, Tomara Thomas, Livin’ Joy ft. Luzahnn, and Baga Chipz, alongside a whole host of other exciting names.
Presenting the festivities this year are Bradley Riches, Soraya Vivian, drag icons Mamma Bear and St Sordid Secret.
Taking place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July, the milestone event will see the city come alive with its biggest and boldest Pride to date. Organisers are expecting record-breaking crowds for the packed programme of entertainment which will take place from 12pm – 10pm on both days.
The weekend promises to be the most diverse and inclusive in the festival’s history, with a major focus on supporting emerging and local talent across multiple stages.
In a new addition for 2026, Leeds Pride will host The Freedom Party, a ticketed Saturday event, helping to secure the future of the festival for years to come. Revellers can expect a high energy day featuring incredible stage shows and some of the UK’s best tribute acts, paying homage to the hit songs and pop icons of the last 20 years.
Tickets for The Freedom Party are available now from just £7.50, offering incredible value for a full
day of live entertainment. Once inside, attendees can enter and exit the site freely throughout the day using their wristband.
This year also introduces a new and improved VIP area on Lower Briggate, alongside an expanded festival footprint, enhanced production and a wider range of experiences for visitors.
Alongside the main stage programme, a full schedule of fringe events will return, including the much-loved BIBIS Fundraising Ball on Friday July 3. Also returning for 2026 are the Drag Brunch Pride Special at Fibre, street parties, communityled performances and not forgetting the iconic Pride parade.
Festivalgoers can also expect a bustling event atmosphere with more food vendors and street food stalls than ever before, alongside local market traders, glitter artists, face painting, art, prints and more.
Jet2, the UK’s largest tour operator, returns as headline sponsor for the third consecutive year, and purchasers of the Leeds Pride wristbands can save £100 on a Jet2holiday as well as gain access to a range of exclusive perks and offers.
While Sunday remains free to attend, organisers are encouraging visitors
to show their support by purchasing Saturday tickets in advance.
A spokesperson for Leeds Pride said: ““Celebrating 20 years of Leeds Pride is a huge moment for the city and the community. This year’s line-up is our biggest ever, with more acts, more local talent and more to experience across the entire weekend.
“What we have in Leeds is genuinely rare, and that’s a Pride celebration that takes place right in the heart of the city. While many other Pride events are moving out to parks and greenfield sites, we’re proud to keep Leeds Pride woven into the fabric of the city. It creates an incredible atmosphere and means the celebration is shared across Leeds, supporting hotels, bars, restaurants and local businesses throughout the weekend.
“Pride remains as important as ever, and introducing a ticketed Saturday allows us to protect and grow the event for the future. We’re asking people to support us where they can, even a small contribution helps us continue delivering Pride for everyone.
“We can’t wait to welcome Leeds and visitors from across the UK to what will be an unforgettable weekend.”
Leeds Pride is still welcoming sponsors, parade entries and stall applications, with opportunities available for organisations and community groups to get involved.
Azets welcomes new audit partner in Yorkshire
Accountancy and business advisory group Azets has strengthened its senior team in Yorkshire with the appointment of Sarah Palmer as an audit and assurance partner.
Sarah joins the firm’s Leeds office after more than 17 years at PwC where she led complex audits for medium to large private, private equity-backed and internationally owned entities.
She has experience in a broad range of sectors and counts retail and manufacturing as a specialist interest, delivering insight alongside practical, hands-on support.
Sarah will work across Yorkshire delivering high-quality services, underpinned by trusted relationships, to help clients grow and manage increasing regulatory demands.
Claire Needham, who is regional managing director for Yorkshire, said: “A very warm welcome to Sarah. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise built over
many years delivering exceptional audit and assurance services for a diverse range of businesses.
“I am confident that she will make a major contribution to the continued success of our expanding audit team in Yorkshire and the UK.”
Sarah graduated with a degree in Mathematics with Finance from the University of Leeds in 2008. She held positions ranging from associate to director during her career, before taking her partner role at Azets.
Sarah said: “I am thrilled to join the superb audit and assurance team at Azets. My collaborative and relationship-driven approach matches the firm’s own values and commitment to delivering high-quality services and the best outcomes through a genuine understanding of each client’s business, challenges and ambitions.
“I‘m looking forward to helping clients navigate expansion, change and compliance with confidence while playing my part in the growth of Azets.”
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys spending time in the countryside with her young family, good food with friends and family and running.
Azets, a UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm, has offices in King Street in Leeds as well as offices in York and Bradford where it employs 335 people in total.
Ward strengthensHadaway Leeds corporate team with partner appointment
Leeds law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed Alex Cooper as a corporate partner as it continues to build its corporate offering in Yorkshire.
The appointment forms part of ongoing investment in the firm’s corporate team which was named the most active legal adviser in Yorkshire and the Humber last year.
Alex joins with more than 20 years’ experience in corporate transactional work, advising on UK and international mergers and acquisitions, disposals, investments and restructurings. This follows the recent addition of banking and finance specialist Aarti Parmar as a director in the Leeds corporate team.
Alex said: “I’m pleased to have joined the team at Ward Hadaway. Not only does it consistently top the lists of most active dealmakers in Yorkshire and the Humber, but the firm also punches well above its weight at a national level, and it’s exciting to be part of such a successful and ambitious business.
“We have genuine strength and depth in our team which will allow us to continue to deliver high quality outcomes for a diverse range of clients across the region.”
Nik Tunley, head of corporate said:
“We have built a market-leading midmarket M&A and finance practice, recognised nationally for its expertise, credibility and consistent delivery of high-quality outcomes. Our focus remains on strengthening that reputation further, supported by the breadth and depth of capability we offer across our offices.
“The arrival of Alex and Aarti in Leeds significantly enhances the scale and
experience of our offering, enabling us to support clients through increasingly complex and highvalue transactions. Their addition reinforces our commitment to a partner-led service, combining clear, pragmatic advice with the consistently high standards that define our M&A and finance practice.”
The firm has seen sustained levels of deal activity and was recently ranked among the UK’s most active legal advisers in 2025 in Experian MarketIQ’s latest UK and Republic of Ireland M&A Review.
Steven Petrie, managing partner said: “We have continued to invest in our corporate team over the past 12 months through senior appointments and have strengthened our already impressive corporate offering nationally.
“Alex brings significant experience in mid-market transactions and adds further depth to the team as we continue to grow, with more developments in the pipeline.”
Our services
• Audit and assurance
• Tax advisory and compliance
• Bookkeeping and payroll
• Corporate finance
• Outsourced financial support
• Preparation of statutory accounts
By combining our financial expertise with a clear understanding of different industry trends and operational challenges, we offer insights that will help you improve your business performance, manage risk and plan for growth.
Beyond the deal: why the best exits start years before sale
By Robin Howcroft
“All right twinkle toes, what’s your exit strategy?” So said Tom Arnold’s character Albert Gibson to the all-conquering spy Harry Tasker (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger) in the 1994 movie True Lies. It’s a question business owners should be asking themselves too,not just those who have already made the decision to sell up, but all business owners. For leaving it late to draw up a viable exit plan can narrow down the options available which in turn can lead to a less favourable outcome being achieved. A big decision
For many, selling all or part of a business is one of the biggest decisions they will ever make. Sound planning plays a fundamental role in most business successes—it’s what has got you to where you are today along with years, or even decades, of effort and dedication— but for many, the planning only goes so far. For many, it does not extend to exiting. How many? According to a 2019 study by UBS, around half of business owners surveyed did not
have a formal exit strategy in place.
All too often owners being underprepared for a sale can have material consequences. This can lead to selling their businesses either in a manner that does not fully compensate them for their years of effort, or the sale takes place at a later point in time than they expect.
A simple solution: plan early
Planning early, however, can be easier said than done. Owners tend to be so focused on the running
and growing of their businesses that they can neglect longer-term personal plans. And there is no offthe-shelf plan to draw on when the time comes either. That’s because no two entrepreneurs are alike. Key considerations and plans therefore depend largely on what matters most to each individual. This can be a difficult process, and a good starting point is simply identifying what’s personally important to the owner by answering the following questions:
What would you like to accomplish? Who matters most to you?
What legacy would you like to leave?
The answers require careful consideration and may change in time but giving them some thought can help to frame decisions in the present, as well as for the future. Popular routes for those looking to wind down after selling a business include retirement, travel and spending more time with family. Whereas those looking to carry on working may consider starting another business or becoming an employee for another company. How much is enough?
Answering the above questions (or at the very least considering them), allows business owners to have a clearer idea of what they want to get out of a sale or other form of exit when the time comes. This helps inform the answer to another key question: how much is enough? Most business owners have a minimum price at which they would sell but three other factors are also key:
Liquidity: What are the resources required to fund your desired lifestyle? Do you have other sources of income? Will your spending increase or decrease going forward? Have you got a cash buffer for unforeseen developments?
Longevity: The length of expected life after selling the business –different for a 40-year-old than a 70-year-old.
Legacy – What you would like to leave behind for your loved ones?
This can mean quite different things for different people.
Answers can vary depending on the aims identified in the presale phase. Retirement and travel require higher sale proceeds than if going into employment for another company, for example. True, the calculations can be quite technical—essentially determining the net present value of future family spending—but the results can provide a degree of clarity which would otherwise not have been possible. And while the results may show a shortfall between the attainable sale value and the desired amount, they could also do the opposite, allowing owners to realise they are able to sell sooner than they expected.
So, whether you are thinking of selling your business or you plan to keep going for a good while longer, it’s time to ask yourself: “what’s my exit strategy?”
By Robin Howcroft Financial Planner at Quilter Cheviot
E: Robin.Howcroft@quiltercheviot.com
T: 0113 513 3973
Quilter Cheviot and Quilter Cheviot Investment Management are trading names of Quilter Cheviot Limited. Quilter Cheviot Limited is registered in England and Wales with number 01923571, registered office at Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4AB. Quilter Cheviot Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange and authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority and as an approved Financial Services Provider by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in South Africa.
Wakefield’s historic civic buildings to become thriving new heart for creativity and culture
Plans have been approved to transform the former Coroner’s Court on Northgate into a new creative hub, the latest milestone in Rushbond’s impressive regeneration of Wakefield’s Civic Quarter.
The project is being delivered by Yorkshire-based property investment and heritage specialists Rushbond, in partnership with Wakefield Council, as part of a wider programme to restore historic buildings and bring new homes, creative workspaces and cultural activity back into this part of the city centre.
The Grade II listed building, to be known as 71 Northgate, will be converted into a series of flexible studio spaces, for makers, artists and small businesses.
The building sits just 100 metres from Wakefield’s historic former Crown Court, to be known ahead as the Court House, where restoration works are already underway. Together, the two buildings form an important part of the Civic Quarter – an area where historic civic buildings are being restored and brought back into everyday use, with new homes, studios and creative spaces returning life to this part of the city centre.
Harry Braid development surveyor at Rushbond said: “The Court
House is set to become Wakefield’s most vibrant new destination. It will be a place where everyone belongs - from designers, local radio hosts, independent businesses - all collaborating in the studios; to families enjoying live theatre, music and markets in the Village Hall, all while sharing incredible food and drink. The opportunity to breathe new life into this historic space, together with 71 Northgate is incredibly exciting.”
Within the wider Civic Quarter vision, 71 Northgate will act as the ‘little sister’ to the Court House, providing smaller-scale studio and enterprise space that complements the larger cultural and events uses planned nearby.
Meanwhile, restoration of Wakefield’s Grade II listed former Crown Court continues, with specialist teams working carefully to preserve the building’s historic features as part of its transformation.
Behind the scenes, specialist teams have been carefully stripping back later additions to reveal and,
where possible, salvage original architectural details that will be retained as the building is restored. This reflects the careful, considerate approach required when working with historic buildings of this significance and, in this case, a once-ina-hundred-years restoration.
When complete, the Court House will reopen to the public
for the first time in more than three decades, creating a place for people to gather, work, spend time and enjoy the building as part of everyday city life. The revitalised building also will be a completely new interpretation of the local ‘village hall’ for the new residents who will move into the area.
Jonathan Maud, founder and chairman of Rushbond, said:
“Wakefield has some remarkable historic buildings and they deserve to be restored with care, patience and high standards of design and craftsmanship. Projects like the Court House and 71 Northgate are not everyday developments, they are once-in-a-generation opportunities to find sustainable new uses from buildings that have played an important role in the life of the city and aim to do so in the future.
“Our shared ambition for the Civic Quarter is to create something genuinely best in class in terms of build quality, design and the way these historic spaces are used by everyone in the community. Wakefield deserves that level of attention and ambition, and we hope these projects help lift expectations for what is possible in this part of the city centre.”
Elsewhere in the Civic Quarter, the transformation of the surrounding neighbourhood is already visible.
The first phase of 63 homes at the Wood Street Collection was completed last year, bringing new homes into the city centre through the restoration of historic buildings alongside contemporary new housing. The development includes the restored police station apartments, townhouses at Gills Yard and the transformation of Wood House – once the police superintendent’s residence –into a four-storey townhouse.
Six months on, the former Wood Street Police Station is now almost 80% let with just seven apartments remaining to rent. Homes to buy on Gills Mews have also recently been released, with three story townhouses on Rishworth Street available now.
Breaking the mould of traditional law firms
From launching a new company to breaking the mould of traditional law firms Juliet Ralph has overcome imposter syndrome and created a groundbreaking law firm.
Juliet has had a very varied career, from working in pharmaceuticals to sales, and training. she even ran her own cake company ‘Shakey Cakey’ whilst her children were very young. “I love baking and it gave me the experience of setting up my own company and the highs and lows that brings,” she explained.
“What I didn’t fully appreciate was the foundations I was building for launching a bigger company. We then reached a point where my husband Simon felt that he was at
a crossroads in his own career. He was working in a large law firm and felt suffocated and wasn’t happy. He didn’t fit the traditional mould of law firms and wanted something more.”
Both were ready for a change and decided to launch their own law firm with its own values and culture. As Simon had previously changed roles, his clients made the decision to follow him. “He didn’t want to recreate what he had come from,” she continued “and whilst employment law isn’t ‘fun’
it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your job.
“It has been a challenge effectively going up against such big names, but we stand out because we are different, colourful and fun.”
Juliet is now the CEO of Robinson Ralph and has proved you don’t have to be a lawyer to run a law firm. “Initially I used to apologise for not being a lawyer, but it is exactly that that makes me perfect for the role. Lawyers are great at law – that is what they do, but running a company requires a completely different skill set,” she added.
“I was conscious of this from the start and regularly felt like I had imposter syndrome. I could see the external perception of ‘what is she doing’, but I embody everything it takes to run a company. My focus for the firm is the marketing, the growth and providing different revenue streams. We don’t just give legal advice; we also offer training and practical tools to help businesses handle workplace issues with confidence.
“I am an early riser, and I start my day walking through the woods to school and gives me time without interruptions like phone calls and emails. This gives me focus for the day ahead, whether I am in the office or working from home. I still love baking and contribute cakes to a local community café nearby. It’s a small way for me to stay involved locally and do something I genuinely enjoy.
“The aim for our business is to continue growing and diversifying. We now have 8 members of staff and hope to reach ten by the end of this year. Simon and the lawyers focus on the law and clients, my role is pretty much everything else. We also want to build the additional services we offer such as the training and mediation. With tribunal waiting lists reaching as long as 3 years before cases are heard, the more mediation we can do, will help to resolve cases before they reach tribunal and the court process.
“As the company grows, I would also like to step back and help other women in particular set up their own law firms. I would do the hand holding and first few steps support, and based on my own experience, help them to avoid some of the mistakes I made along the way,” she concluded.
Law firm strengthens family team with partner hire
Ramsdens Solicitors has announced a new partner to its family team advising clients from its Leeds office as the firm continues to invest in its regional expansion.
Siobhan Jeffels joins from law firm Clarion, where she worked for five years as legal director.
With more than two decades of family law experience, she specialises in advising clients across complex and high-net-worth finance cases, often involving business owners and farming families undergoing separation.
Siobhan is a trained in Collaborative Law and an active member of Resolution, the national body of family lawyers which promotes a non-confrontational approach to family law issues, and sits on the organisation’s North, East and West Yorkshire committee as treasurer.
Commenting on her appointment, Siobhan said: “It’s a great opportunity to join Ramsdens, which has an impressive regional reputation and has achieved significant recognition over the years for providing
outstanding client outcomes across the family team and wider practices.”
“I’m looking forward to collaborating with colleagues who combine leading expertise with a close, personal touch, which is essential for the complex, sensitive cases the team handles.”
Welcoming Siobhan, Sarah Ward head of family law said, “Having Siobhan onboard is a great addition not only to the family team, but also to the wider firm as we look to maintain regional growth momentum in Leeds and York. Her collaborative approach and impressive track record advising business owners and agricultural families further strengthen our offering in handling complex separation cases.”
“It will also be a great asset as we enhance our client offering as a fullservice law firm, ensuring that clients benefit from a single, trusted legal firm for both private and commercial matters.”
Senior hire - (from left) Ramsdens Senior Partner, Joanne Coen; Partner, Siobhan Jeffels and Head of Family, Sarah Ward
What business owners need to know about upcoming pension reforms
As a business owner, planning for growth, cash flow, and overall strategy often comes naturally. However, planning for your personal future is frequently overlooked, which can expose both your family and your business to avoidable risk.
When you own a business, it should be considered as part of your
wider estate planning. A properly prepared Will can ensure your
business interests are passed on in accordance with your wishes –whether that involves transferring the business to a co-owner, leaving shares to specific individuals, or safeguarding assets through the use of trusts.
What is a Will and why is it important?
A Will is a legal document that sets out who is responsible for administering your estate after your death and how your assets should be distributed. This can include money, property, possessions, business interests, and even your funeral arrangements.
Having a valid Will is a key element of estate planning. It allows you to retain control over how your estate is handled rather than relying on the rules of law. Without one, your assets may be distributed in a way you would not have chosen.
If you die without a valid Will in the UK, you are considered intestate. In this situation, your estate is divided according to intestacy rules, which follow a strict hierarchy of inheritance, typically prioritising a spouse or civil partner, then children, and then other family members.
This can lead to complications, particularly where family dynamics are complex or where business assets require careful succession planning. A valid Will ensures your wishes are clearly documented and can help prevent disputes.
Estate planning and reducing Inheritance Tax
In addition to making a Will, seeking professional advice can help structure your estate more efficiently, particularly where business assets are involved.
One common method of reducing Inheritance Tax (IHT) is through lifetime gifting. You can give away
up to £3,000 each tax year without it being subject to IHT under the annual exemption. Gifts above this threshold may still fall within your estate for tax purposes if you pass away within seven years.
You can also make smaller exempt gifts of up to £250 per person each tax year, as well as wedding or civil partnership gifts of up to £5,000 to a child, £2,500 to a grandchild, or £1,000 to another individual.
Charitable donations left in your Will are exempt from IHT. In addition, if you leave more than 10% of your estate to charity, the rate of IHT applied to the remainder of your taxable estate can reduce from 40% to 36%.
Business owners should also be aware of Business Property Relief (BPR), which can significantly reduce or eliminate IHT on qualifying business assets. Some assets qualify for 100% relief, while others qualify for 50%, depending on their nature.
From 6 April 2026, the availability of 100% BPR will be restricted to a combined limit of £2.5 million across qualifying business assets. Any value above this threshold will only qualify for 50% relief, which may increase potential IHT liabilities for larger estates.
Pension changes from 2027
From April 2027, unused pension funds and certain death benefits will be brought into estates for Inheritance Tax calculations.
At present, pensions generally sit outside the estate for IHT purposes. However, from 2027,
the value of some pensions may cause individuals to exceed the IHT threshold. The nil-rate band will remain at £325,000, with a potential additional £175,000 residence nil-rate band where a qualifying property is passed to direct descendants.
Exemptions for pension death benefits paid to a surviving spouse or civil partner, as well as deathin-service benefits, are expected to continue to fall outside the estate.
For business owners who have relied on pensions as part of their succession and estate planning, these changes could have a significant impact.
Why act now?
With BPR changes in 2026 and pension changes in 2027, now is the right time to review your estate planning. This means ensuring your Will is up to date, assessing the value of business and pension assets, and considering whether your current plans still meet your long-term objectives.
Chadwick Lawrence can help you navigate these changes, protect your family, preserve business continuity, and reduce future tax exposure. With eight offices across West Yorkshire, the team is accessible to businesses that are looking for support in the region and beyond.
Mixing suits with spirits
Growing up, Jamila Juma-Ware wore many hats when it came to deciding what she wanted to do when she left education. “In the morning I would want to be a ballerina, then perhaps a schoolteacher in the afternoon and then a police officer by the evening, but always envisioned being busy,” she told us.
After leaving school though, Jamila headed off to The University of Leeds to study French and music, but following a change of heart, switched and graduated from Leeds Met in politics.
Her first job was in public relations and for a long time worked in a variety of in-house teams as head of marketing and in agencies in PR and events, most recently running her own freelance agency,
Creative Marmalade, focussing on promoting large scale events to global audiences, including Dubai, South Africa, Washington DC and London.
“Setting up my own business wasn’t difficult, I think anyone can set up a business, but getting the strategy right and having the courage to take the leap from paid employment, to trusting other sources to pay, and on time is the hardest part, and the biggest risk,” she explained. “I’m a pretty risk averse person, but I was lucky enough to have the support of clients in the early days, requesting my marketing service freelance, which led me on my first steps of entrepreneurship. I also had the heavy support of my fiancé, who encouraged me to see my own strengths and believe in them, which helps when you’re making a decision that is outside of your normal comfort zone.
‘Setting up my hospitality and spirit business came a little easier, as I was already working for myself, and in some sense had the perfect side hustle to help bootstrap the business, especially in the early days,” she added. “I’d been supporting one of my PR clients with event management support, including running a themed pop-up bar (with dry ice and a little magic!). My fiancé Matthew had been a travelling tailor for almost 10 years, and we started out by finding the perfect space to transform into a tailor’s studio by
day and a 1920s cocktail bar by night. Tying everything, we do back to a solid strategy, we looked at elements that would make use truly the most authentic and unique speakeasy – and so began our journey in distilling spirits.”
Jamila’s first business set up 11 years ago, the first bar Tailors Speakeasy has been running since 2018 with the original spirit brand Tailors Gin and the full luxury spirit range launched for retail in 2020. A second venue, a literary themed bar and kitchen called Writers’ Bloc launched in Haworth. “I’ve always dreamed of being my own boss and having the flexibility to spend time with family, as much as to build and mould my own future.”
So, what’s a typical day like for Jamila? “Managing a team of 14 and three interconnected businesses means no two days are the same. Day’s range from overseeing operation of both
venues, stock, website and social media management to processing retailer and consumer orders for our spirits.
“We are currently looking at our third venue, there are a couple of wild cards
FACT FILE:
Husband / partner name?
Matthew Wignall
Children? Hugo
What car do you drive? Tesla X
What do you do in your leisure time? Travel as much as possible, making memories.
Where is your favourite restaurant? The Hawthorne, Haworth
What is your favourite food and drink?
up our sleeve which are pretty exciting, but essentially, we want to build and expand the business footprint and help develop our team alongside this, building opportunity for not just us, but our fantastic team that support the operation.”
Grilled seafood, champagne and our Fabric Morello Cherry Chocolate Rum!
Where is your favourite holiday destination? Sicily –the whole island!
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Appletreewick
What is your favourite gadget? My Kitchen Aid – perfect respite from work is cooking!
What couldn’t you live without? My family
What do you know about the capital of the county?
Few cities in Britain can match York for the depth and continuity of its history. From Roman foundations to Viking rule and medieval prominence, York has played a central role in shaping the story of England.
York was founded in 71 CE by the Roman Ninth Legion and named Eboracum. Its strategic position at the confluence of the rivers Ouse and Foss, made it a vital military and administrative centre. Emperors such as Septimius Severus ruled from York and it was here that Constantine the Great was proclaimed emperor in 306 CE. Today, remains of Roman walls and roads still underpin parts of modern York as we know it today.
After the Romans withdrew in the early 5th century, York declined before re-emerging as an important Anglo-Saxon settlement. In 866 Viking forces captured the city and renamed it Jorvik. Under Norse rule, York became a thriving trade hub connecting England with Scandinavia and beyond.
Following the Norman conquest of 1066, York became the administrative centre of Northern England. The construction of York Minster, one of the largest gothic cathedrals in Europe, symbolised its religious importance. The city walls, much of which still stand today, were expanded during this period.
By the 16th and 17th centuries, York remained influential but began to lose economic ground to emerging industrial centres. During the English civil war, the city was a royalist stronghold and endured a significant siege in 1644.
Although York was not a major industrial powerhouse like neighbouring Manchester and Leeds, it adapted through industries such as railways and confectionery. Companies like Rowntree’s and Terry’s of York became nationally recognised brands. The arrival of the railway in the 19th century transformed York into a key transport hub, reinforcing its regional importance. Did you know that the building that now houses The Grand Hotel, just a short walk from the main station, was originally the headquarters of the railway in York and Queen Victoria famously stopped in York for tea whilst passing through on a train, at The Milner Hotel, situated within the train station complex.
York is famous as the UK’s original ‘chocolate city’ due to its rich 300year history of cocoa manufacturing.
This legacy was built by pioneering quaker families who revolutionised the industry, transforming chocolate from a luxury drink for the elite, into an affordable treat for the masses. Some of the world’s most famous chocolate bars were invented in York. Rowntree’s introduced staples like the KitKat, Aero, Smarties, Quality Street and the Yorkie Bar. Terry’s is globally renowned for the Terry’s Chocolate Orange.
Today, York keeps its sweet heritage alive. The Nestle factory on Haxby Road still produces millions of KitKats daily and visitors can experience the city’s legacy firsthand by visiting the interactive York’s chocolate story museum or taking hands-on workshops at York Cocoa Works.
Modern York is celebrated for its heritage and tourism. Visitors are drawn to its preserved medieval streets like The Shambles, the city walls, its famous racecourse that hosts the annual Ebor festival and was the chosen racecourse by the late Queen replacing Royal Ascot, when Royal Ascot was being refurbished and the city’s museums. Today, the city balances historical preservation with a vibrant cultural life, making it one of England’s most distinctive By Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https:// commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=99967274
Medievalinspired York aparthotel opens in York
June saw the launch of a new aparthotel in York, a thoughtful and sustainable 21stcentury response to the medieval historyof Micklegate, combining modern comfort with a strong sense of place and heritage.
The 46-suite hotel in Micklegate, which has been designed by leading York architects brown + company, features self-contained apartment units that are aimed at people having longer stays in York.
Blossom Street-based architects brown + company have worked on major York developments such as Coney Street Riverside and the remodeling of the campus at St Peter’s School.
Roger Walters, founder and chairman of Supercity, commented: “Our design team have worked very closely with the team at brown + company. The original exterior was agreed with the City of York Council after careful deliberation to make the building blend in with the character of York.
“It has been a pleasure to work with brown + company. They have supported us throughout the construction and planning stages. I highly recommend the practice and
will use them on our next project.”
This successful development in York is testimony to brown + company’s established practice of working seamlessly with bestin-class partners to deliver unique solutions for complex projects. brown + company worked collaboratively with Montagu Evans, London-based townscape and heritage consultants.
The aparthotel’s surroundings were a key influence on its medieval-inspired design. Micklegate has long presented a streetscape rich in architectural diversity, with the former Roman road playing a significant role throughout each of York’s historical eras.
The name Micklegate, meaning “Great Street,” is derived from the Old Norse Myglagata, while Micklegate Bar later became an important element of the city’s medieval defenses. During the medieval period, a substantial Benedictine Priory dominated the
south-east side of the street, while, over time, the north-west side evolved to accommodate the elegant Georgian townhouses that remain today.
brown + company’s design strategy was to create a contemporary 21st-century building that responds sensitively to the context of this historically significant streetscape. The objective was to deliver a solution that enhances the area without adversely affecting the conservation area or its adjacent listed buildings. Working within stringent planning and heritage requirements made this a particularly rewarding project for the
architectural team, whose aim was to manage change while preserving the site’s cultural significance.
The design approach drew inspiration from the medieval jettied timberframed buildings that once occupied the south-east side of Micklegate. A jettied timber-framed building is a medieval construction form in which upper floors project beyond the floor below, creating additional internal space without encroaching on the streets beneath. The scheme also carefully considered rooftop views from York’s historic city walls, as well as
key viewpoints along Micklegate itself.
To successfully deliver this complex project, brown + company worked closely with its respected national partner, Leach Rhodes Walker. Their expertise in resolving challenging technical details contributed to a streamlined project experience and successful delivery for the client.
The completed sustainable building preserves Micklegate’s architectural and historic character while delivering a scheme that creates meaningful urban value through placemaking.
The development contributes to the continued regeneration of Micklegate, helping to position the street once again at the forefront of York’s tourism and leisure economy.
The aparthotel was initially due to open in 2023 but was delayed by almost a year after part of York’s original medieval wall was found at the site. The site had to be excavated with archaeologists finding items which dated back to the Roman period.
Meanwhile Roger Walters said 12.5 full-time and four part-time jobs will be created by the new hotel. He added that he felt there were few options for businesspeople to make their temporary base while staying in York for longer periods, despite the city’s high number of short-term let properties.
He also hopes the new aparthotel’s city centre location – walking distance from the railway station – will encourage people to stay in York while working nearby, which will help boost the local economy.
“It’s going to bring in a bit more permanency to the visitors, so people will hang around for a few days rather than come in and out of York,” he said.
The new aparthotel features 46 beautifully designed apartment suites that seamlessly combine luxury, practicality, and comfort. Each suite is thoughtfully curated, showcasing a distinctive art collection and original artifacts uncovered during the building’s development, adding a touch of historical charm to the modern amenities.
Facilities include: Lifts; 24 Hour Front Desk; Free Wifi; and easily accessible rooms.
Yorkshire women in the rural landscape star at Great Yorkshire Show
A truly inspiring Yorkshire photography exhibition which captures Yorkshire women in the rural landscape is coming to the Great Yorkshire Show, which takes place on Tuesday 14 – Friday 17 July.
Hardy and Free has been created by award-winning photographer Carolyn Mendelsohn and takes its name from a line in Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights: “I wish I were a girl again, half-savage and hardy, and free...” It was originally commissioned by the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth as part of its contemporary arts programme and then a new series of portraits was created for Bradford 2025, UK City of Culture.
Hardy and Free will be on show in the building next to the Ariat GYS Stage from Wednesday to Friday and explores the relationship between 12 contemporary women and the natural world, all sharing a profound emotional link with the landscapes that shape them.
Over several seasons, Carolyn photographed her subjects, artists, swimmers, athletes, adventurers and activists, in their chosen natural locations. She also recorded their thoughts on why those places were important to them.
From remote moorlands to urban parks, waterfalls to working farms, these environments serve as a backdrop to narratives of resilience, creativity and identity.
Caroyln said: “I am delighted that my series Hardy and Free is being exhibited at the Great
Yorkshire Show. It feels especially apt that work made in collaboration with women from Yorkshire, in
landscapes that hold deep personal meaning for them, is being presented at an event so closely connected to agricultural life and experienced by thousands of visitors.
“The journey of the series reflects this spirit first shown on an intimate scale at the Brontë Parsonage Museum, then expanded outdoors in the urban centre of Bradford as part of its City of Culture programme and now brought indoors again at large scale within the setting of the Show.
“My hope is that at the Great Yorkshire Show more people will encounter these portraits, enjoy them and be inspired to think about their own stories, and their personal relationship to landscape.”
Tickets for the Great Yorkshire Show are on sale now and are available to purchase in advance only, with prices frozen at the same rate as last year.
Free shuttle buses are operated by The Harrogate Bus Company every day of the Great Yorkshire Show. The buses run every 10 minutes from Harrogate Bus Station (next to the Railway Station) to the Showground’s White Gate, starting at 7.20am. The last bus departs the Showground at 7pm.
10 am - 4 pm, Grantley Hall
Beauty Hall Stall
Sponsor Partners
Do you have a beauty, health or wellbeing brand and want to take part in British Beauty Week 2026?
The theme this year is impact!
Get in touch: hello@thisisyorkshirebeauty com www
com
M does NOT just stand for menopause!
The menopause was designed to isolate and separate. To strip away our looks, our confidence, our zest for life, and drive us indoors. My response? “Sod that.” And two events I attended last week showed me lots of other women are saying the same.
Mythos
This annual film conference brings together voices from the creative industries to help unlock opportunities and drive investment across the country, rather than just in the south. I came away BUZZING, especially after watching my clientsscreenwriter Jan Birley and director Kathryn Carmichael - take part in a session alongside industry icon Helen Lederer about comedy, creativity and reinvention in later life. We were blown away by the amount of women who approached us afterwards to share their experiences of menopause and the fact that it either encouraged them or stopped them from trying new things
The whole session reinforced the ethos that if we stick together, we can deliver on the need for more films, narratives and art created by women, for women. As we YBW members know, the days of competition are over - it’s collaboration that wins the day!
MANIfest
For some of us, the menopause is the time when rather than hiding away, we decide it’s now or never and follow
that gentle voice that tells us what we should be pursuing. If you call it manifestation or visualisation and throw a few crystals in, it can be met with cynicism. But MANIfest is a safe space for dreamers – and last weekend there were several hundred of them under one roof, with amazing speakers such as Tamu Thomas and Francesca Amber. The event was expertly organised by Mart Tweedy, who I used to work with in the NHS and is now a best-selling author who regularly tops the podcast charts. And all because he followed his dream.
Both events are a prime example of what’s possible if you get clear
on your vision, believe it’s possible and take aligned action. I leapt into self-employment – totally scared witless - in my forties. I’m now 50 and working on projects I could never have dreamed of had I not taken that first step.
So, M does NOT just stand for menopause. It stands for Mythos. It stands for MANIfest. But most of all it stands for movement. Move fearfully or intentionally. If you move in the right direction. And don’t let anything stop you, especially a certain word beginning with M.
Claire Kenny is a ghostwriter, PR, and 50 plus blogger. Her insta is @writeforyou444
Claire Kenny (Right)with her sister Rachel Hill at Mythos
A new wellbeing sanctuary, with a mission to widen access, opens in North Yorkshire
In the heart of West Tanfield, at the foothills of the Yorkshire Dales, a new kind of wellbeing centre is preparing to open its doors — one rooted not just in science, but in lived experience, compassion and community.
Flow Yorkshire, has been created by Neil and Allanah Bourne-Arton, after decades navigating ADHD, Autism and related health challenges within their own family. What began as a deeply personal search for answers and meaningful support, has grown into a community-focused initiative, designed to help other individuals and families feel less alone, as clarity and healing become possible.
Flow is also a response to the significant barriers and waiting times many individuals and families face when seeking timely support through statutory services. To this end, the Flow Foundation has been established to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent families from receiving timely support. Five percent of every paid therapy programme within Flow, as well as ongoing dedicated fundraising, will go directly towards subsidising treatment for those who need it most, delivering support with dignity and care.
“We remember what it felt like to be overwhelmed, exhausted and unsure where to turn,” say the founders. “When we found approaches that truly helped our son and restored balance to our family, we knew we had to create a space where others could access that same support.”
Offering non-invasive, integrative therapies focused on
calming the nervous system, reducing inflammation, supporting the gut-brain connection and restoring regulation, Flow’s services will support individuals and families experiencing anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, low mood, sleep challenges and sensory overwhelm, and all that arises as a result.
Therapies offered include:
• Neurosonic - low-frequency sound and vibration therapy
• Neuromodulation - supporting the Central and Autonomic Nervous System
• Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy –grounding, reducing inflammation and improving circulation
• Red Light Therapy - reducing inflammation and improving circulation, stimulating energy production from the cells
• Health screening and genetic testing
• Audio Visual Entrainment (AVE) - Sound and light therapy
• Counselling and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) - for children and adults
• Nutritional guidance
• Medicinal Herbs
• Holistic Life Coaching
While the centre will primarily serve the local community, remote consultations will also be available. Those choosing to travel from further afield, to use the modalities on offer within Flow, will benefit from priority rates at beautiful riverside accommodation, within walking distance of the centre.
New edition out now! Print and Digital
Download our new app and read it on your device
Grow businessyourwith Yorkshire Businesswoman
Details on the Yorkshire Businesswoman website https://yorkshirebusinesswoman. co.uk or by emailing editor@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk
Students and staff come together to celebrate at COLS 2026
On Wednesday 10 June, Kirklees College hosted its annual College Outstanding Learner Success Awards (COLS) at Accu Stadium in Huddersfield.
At the event, kindly sponsored by Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust, 29 awards were presented across all of our subject areas, and each was awarded to a student who
has gone above and beyond in their academic and extra-curricular efforts at college this year. The nominations were varied, and a lot of our students have excelled both in and out of the classroom.
The awards are funded through the Thomas Armytage Technical School Endowment of 1879, and every one of our winners received a cash prize in recognition of their efforts.
Three of our awards were based on our Kirklees College values of Kindness, Unity and Excellence. Our other two were a Students’ Choice, selected by our Students’ Union, and Principal’s Choice chosen by the college Principal Palvinder Singh.
Kirklees College Principal Palvinder Singh said: “Kirklees College’s mission statement is Creating Opportunities and Changing Lives. This fabulous event provides us with the opportunity to recognise our outstanding students who have grasped the opportunities that Kirklees College provides and changed their lives for the better.”
Have you been inspired?
To find out more about Kirklees College and to start your journey with us today, explore our range of courses and find out more.
Cecil Beaton: Staging Icons (13 June – 4 October 2026) brings together more than 50 unforgettable photographs from the National Portrait Gallery’s collection, some on display to the public for the first time.
Cecil Beaton: Staging Icons at Harewood House
This summer, Yorkshire’s most vibrant country house, Harewood House Trust, hosts a major exhibition dedicated to the legendary photographer Cecil Beaton (1904 – 1980). Renowned for his innovative theatrical style, Beaton captured some of the most iconic figures of the 20th Century, from Hollywood legends and stars of the West End to the British Royal Family. Organised by the National Portrait Gallery in partnership with Harewood House Trust,
Staging Icons offers a captivating journey through Beaton’s extraordinary career as a photographer to the stars. Featuring era-defining portraits such as those of Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Fred Astaire, Queen Elizabeth II and others, the show explores how Beaton’s spectacular approach to staging and design fashioned the identities of his all-star clientele, whilst also revealing Harewood’s
own connections to the photographer’s world. From the opulence of the stage to the solemn grandeur of the monarchy, Staging Icons invites visitors to consider Beaton’s approach to image-making through the art of performance and how it continues to shape identity and the public imagination today.
Beaton’s first love was the stage, and it left a profound
mark on his groundbreaking photographic style. Using elaborate backdrops, theatrical props, costume, lighting and dramatic composition, he blurred the line between reality and artifice, transforming each of his portraits into a work of visual theatre. His passion for creating opulent sets extended to stage and costume design, bringing his unique aesthetic to numerous operas and ballets, as well as stage and film productions in the post-war period.
Beaton’s bold creative vision was also instrumental in his work for the British Royal Family. Appointed royal photographer in 1939, his revolutionary portraits propelled the monarchy into the modern age, creating images that were both strikingly glamorousdemonstrated in Beaton’s portraits of Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother as well as remarkably intimate. Just like his work in show-business, Beaton’s royal portraiture combined elegance and control with theatre, spectacle and fantasy.
wStaging Icons also explores Harewood’s connection to Beaton and the world of stage and screen, featuring original portraits, artworks and archival material from the Harewood collection. Throughout his career, Beaton photographed numerous members of the Lascelles family and visited Harewood on several occasions during the 60s and early 70s.
Several portraits on display feature George and Patricia, 7th Earl and Countess of Harewood, who shared Beaton’s passion for the performing arts. George Harewood was a prominent figure in the world of music, and was a personal friend of many of Beaton’s sitters,
such as the opera singer Maria Callas and composer Benjamin Britten.
Harewood’s historic visitor book, featuring Beaton’s signature, as well as a Christmas card with a hand-drawn costume design, appears in the show, documenting the photographer’s personal relationship with the family.
Cecil Beaton: Staging Icons is organised by the National Portrait Gallery in partnership with Harewood House Trust, marking their first collaborative project. Featuring several neverbefore displayed portraits, Staging Icons brings the National Portrait Gallery’s internationally significant Beaton collection to audiences in the North of England. Displayed throughout Harewood’s grand State Floor interiors, this major loan is presented against the backdrop Harewood’s own renowned
collection of British portraiture, including recent acquisitions such as Ashley Karrell’s powerful photographic portrait of British actor, David Harewood. This work was commissioned as part of Harewood’s Missing Portrait series that seeks to redress the lack of diversity within its historic portrait collection by commissioning new portraits of men and women of African-Caribbean heritage who have contemporary connections to Harewood.
Zoë Hughes, head of public programme at Harewood House Trust, commented: “Beaton’s visits to Harewood in the 60s and 70s is just one example of how the site has long been a source of inspiration for artists.
Today, Harewood continuously reimagines what makes a historic country house, and by working with the National Portrait Gallery for the first time to bring together Beaton’s work and the House’s rich history, we offer our visitors the chance to step into his glamorous world and see icons, stars, and royals amongst the beautiful backdrop of the House.”
Miranda Stacey, head of national partnerships, National Portrait Gallery said “Beaton’s impact on portraiture, and how we visualise British culture, cannot be underestimated. Whether capturing a monarch or a muse, Beaton shaped the public imagination through his use of fantasy, beauty, and the art of performance. Beaton and the National Portrait Gallery share a long and distinguished history and his first major retrospective, Beaton Portraits, was presented here in 1968. It marked the first time the Gallery had ever exhibited photographs, and the first-time portraits of living sitters were shown, laying the foundations for our enduring
commitment to photography. We are thrilled to collaborate with Harewood House Trust to bring over 50 Beaton photographs from our collection to the North, giving audiences the chance to experience the creativity, elegance, and theatricality that defined Beaton’s work.”
Cecil Beaton: Staging Icons opens at Harewood House from 13 June to the 4 October 2026. For more information visit:
Dean Clough to host production for third series of hit TV show
Dean Clough, the 22-acre mixed-use destination in Halifax, has been selected for the second time as the main production base for hit TV show High Hoops.
The award-winning comedy, which stars Peep Show’s Robert Webb and Isy Suttie, previously utilised the Dean Clough mill complex as a base for operations for the second series.
Independent production company, Can Can Productions has secured a temporary lease for 5,000 sq ft of space for storage, costumes and set production with filming due to commence next month.
Thea Burrows, head of production at Can Can Productions, said, “We are thrilled to start filming a third series for High Hoops which has been hugely successful.
Dean Clough provides an ideal base for production since our set film locations, such as Calderdale College, are so close by.
“The team at Dean Clough are extremely accommodating and flexible to our ever-changing production requirements, with 24-hour accessibility and a secure compound for our vehicles.”
Halifax is rapidly emerging as a significant centre for international film and television production, drawing major companies such as
the BBC, Netflix, and Disney Plus to produce and film various projects.
Dean Clough, in particular, has served as a filming location for well-known productions including Happy Valley, Ackley Bridge, and Secret Invasion, and has also featured as a backdrop for numerous presenting programmes.
Dean Clough is well known for its cultural contributions, featuring a distinctive underground theatre and one of the largest private art galleries in the UK. The Viaduct Theatre hosts Northern Broadsides,
a celebrated resident company whose diverse touring schedule includes Shakespearean works, adaptations of classic plays, and fresh scripts delivered in a northern style, attracting a devoted audience.
It is also a prominent hub for creative industries, serving as home to Calderdale College’s digital creative skills centre, which offers state-of-the-art facilities for studies in film and TV production, design and editing, esports, and games design. Additionally, Dean Clough houses the UK’s largest collection of
historic cinema projection equipment in its basement.
Jeremy Hall, chairman and managing director of Dean Clough, added, “We are delighted to have Can Can Productions and the High Hoops cast join us again at Dean Clough. We love working with them! It adds additional vibrancy and excitement to the community here requiring a quick-fire plan to deliver their filming location as it progresses!
“Dean Clough offers a lively and diverse range of amenities that, together with its cultural
attractions, creates a truly unique environment. You’ll find excellent cafes, bars, restaurants, and fitness, wellbeing, beauty, therapy, and retail services alongside six public art galleries, a subterranean theatre, art studios, and event venues—all within welcoming public spaces and plenty of onsite parking.”
Dean Clough, recipient of the prestigious ‘Development of the Year’ award at the 2024 Placemaking Awards, stands out
as one of Yorkshire’s largest and most influential centres dedicated to
the business of arts and culture. The site actively supports commercial enterprise, educational practices, public engagement, and innovation across a wide array of disciplines.
Within the historic mills, the Arts Charity at Dean Clough (ACDC) plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusive arts, business, and education programmes. ACDC’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement was recognised with its own Placemaking award, underlining its contribution to the local and regional arts landscape.
New partnership rounds up ‘shop local’ gifts for the end of term
People can now group collect, fee-free, for the Bradford City Centre Gift Card. Business leaders say they hope the move will divert teacher gift spending into the local economy.
A new partnership between Bradford BID, Miconex, and GiftRound will simplify group collecting for the Bradford City Centre Gift Card in time for the end of the school year.
From now, people will be able to set up a group collection for the Bradford City Centre Gift Card www. bradfordgiftcard.com and redeem as a digital gift card, fee-free.
Once the GiftRound collection closes, the digital Bradford City Centre Gift Card can be sent directly to the organiser with a printable gift card, or directly to the recipient with a link to messages from the contributors. Collections can also be split across multiple gifts/recipients.
Delivered by Bradford BID, the Bradford Gift Card is a local gift card
that can be spent with over 120 local businesses including big brands like Primark, J D Sports and Nandos, and local independent businesses like Pizza Pieces, The Alhambra and Blossoms.
The ability to group collect for a Bradford Gift Card arrives just in time for the end of term teacher gifting season. With an estimated 4.5m children in state funded primary schools in the UK and parents spending an average of £9.06 on teacher gifts, over £4m is spent on teacher gifts at the end of term, and again at Christmas, if just 10% of families buy a gift for a teacher.
The partnership between Miconex and GiftRound will enable group collecting for over 90+ Town & City Gift Card programmes in the UK. Miconex announced over £24m in local gift
card sales across its network in 2025, a 60% increase on 2024 as shoppers make the move to local gift cards to show support for local businesses.
Group collecting platform GiftRound reports that the average contribution to a teacher gift on their platform is £10, with an average overall teacher collection value of £145. The tech firm was founded in 2018, giving people an easy, fee-free way to collect money for various occasions including leaving gifts, new babies, weddings and teacher gifts.
Over 175,000 collections have been created to date through GiftRound with over £9 million in gift cards/vouchers ordered through the platform.
Nikki Chadburn, business communications manager at Bradford BID said: “The Bradford City Centre Gift Card is popular for gifts, rewards and incentives, giving the recipient money to spend with over FF
120 amazing local businesses right here in Bradford city centre.The ability to group collect, gather messages in one place, and send our local gift card easily is a positive development and will be useful for end of term gifts but also wedding gifts, leaving gifts, new baby gifts and more. With over £4m being spent on teacher gifts at the end of term, the more spend we can lock into our economy through the Bradford City Centre Gift Card, the more businesses we can keep open and the more vibrant our city will be.”
Craig Forsythe, CEO & founder at GiftRound, said: “Going live with Town & City Gift Cards, including the Bradford City Centre Gift Card, across 90+ UK towns and cities is exciting. We’re making it easy to group collect for all kinds of occasions and redeem as a local gift card where the beneficiaries are the local businesses who power our economy. Gifts for teachers is one of our most popular collections and it makes huge sense. Instead of teachers receiving multiple mugs or gift sets, parents can each put a small amount into a collection, and
the teacher receives the collection as a gift card to buy something they’d really like.”
David O’Neil, chief customer and growth officer at Miconex, said: “The Bradford Gift Card is the ultimate ‘shop local’ gift card, blending unbeatable local choice and unrivalled support for local. It’s fantastic to see this new technology go live in time for the end of term – helping people easily collect money as a group for a teacher’s gift – and gift a teacher the best of local in one gift card.”
Major exhibition announced for 2027 at Bolton Castle
One of the country’s best preserved medieval castles, Bolton Castle near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, announces a forthcoming major new historical exhibition for 2027.
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens in March next year and is the first time the exhibition will be seen at a location where Mary Stuart was held. Exploring the life, legacy and enduring fascination of Mary Queen of Scots, this captivating exhibition offers visitors a journey through the dramatic life of one of history’s most iconic and controversial monarchs, tracing her story from her birth in 1542 to her execution in 1587. The exhibition combines original historical artefacts, immersive displays and striking visual design to bring her story vividly to life.
The exhibition’s arrival at Bolton Castle holds historical significance. Bolton Castle has long shown rooms dressed for Mary Queen of Scots’ stay of six months – often thought to be her longest period of captivity. Her continual imprisonment and eventual beheading is seen as one of the most controversial periods of British history and Bolton Castle has always honoured her stay in Wensleydale.
With displays housed within museum-grade display cases and enhanced by atmospheric graphics and period styling, the exhibition presents a compelling narrative of triumph, intrigue and tragedy. Visitors will encounter a rich collection of objects and interpretive materials that illuminate Mary’s life, reign and
legacy, one that has captivated audiences for over four centuries.
Jacqui Naylor, general manager adds: “This is a tremendous opportunity for the castle to host such an acclaimed exhibition and to show visitors many original artefacts which were touched by Mary, such as her rosary, a lock of hair and tapestries which are thought to have been sewn by her very hands. In addition, costumes and immersive displays bring the story alive, all now to be seen for the first time within the walls of rooms she may have known well. The exhibition also brings resonance to her sad story and a glimpse behind the royal facade at the woman herself. We are immensely proud to have this stunning exhibition from March to September and look forward to 2027.”
Exhibition curator, John White said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to be staging Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition at Bolton Castle. The first
castle to host our exhibition and a place that she knew well.’
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition has been widely praised for its ability to transport audiences into the past, combining authentic artefacts, detailed storytelling and evocative staging to create an engaging and educational experience. From royal intrigue and political rivalry to personal tragedy and enduring myth, the exhibition explores the many dimensions of Mary’s life, offering fresh insights for both history enthusiasts and general visitors alike.
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens 6 March and runs to 5 September 2027.
Tickets are available now for 2027 from: Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition | Bolton Castle
Mary Queen of Scots Portrait with Gown at Bolton Castle in 2027
Experts earn their stripes with iconic tiger TLC
It was once one of the animal kingdom’s most impressive apex predators and for generations has been the striped sentinel guarding the entrance to Leeds City Museum.
But an expert clean-up crew has discovered even the famous Leeds Tiger can fall prey to the passage of time and occasionally needs some careful pampering.
The gigantic Bengal tiger, thought to be one of the biggest taxidermy mounts of its kind anywhere in the world, was among a selection of the museum’s most precious and historic specimens being conserved in the museum’s spectacular Life on Earth Gallery.
Curators Clare Brown and Sarah Burhouse were on site carrying out meticulous checks for dust and the types of tiny pests which can be harmful to vintage taxidermy, before undertaking a delicate clean of some unique and historically significant exhibits.
A resident of Leeds for more than 160 years, the magnificent big cat was originally shot and killed in the foothills of the Himalayas by decorated soldier Major-General Sir Charles Reid in 1860.
He later boasted that it was the largest tiger he had ever seen, measuring more than 12 feet in length. Sadly, hunting tigers was a hugely popular pastime for British soldiers serving in colonial India,
contributing to what was a catastrophic decline in the local population.
The animal’s pelt was subsequently shipped to the UK as a trophy and put on display in the Indian court of the London International Exhibition before being purchased by wealthy Leeds industrialist William Gott in 1862.
Gott then commissioned noted taxidermist Edwin Henry Ward to mount the tiger’s skin and presented the finished article for display by Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society, where it was hailed as “unequalled in Europe.”
As well as the tiger, conservation work included cleaning the delicate tail feathers of the museum’s incredibly rare pair of Huia, an extinct species of bird that once lived in New Zealand.
A sacred bird to the island nation’s indigenous Māori people, Huia tail feathers are traditionally only used and worn by people of great status and power.
In 1901, the Duke of York visited New Zealand and was gifted a Huia feather to wear in his hat. Unfortunately, the fashion statement led to a massive
surge in demand for similar feathers, and Huai were hunted into extinction just six years later.
Also, among the animals being checked over was giant panda Grandma. Named after being captured near Weizhou village in central China, she became the first live giant panda ever to arrive in the UK in 1938. She died just two weeks later after contracting double pneumonia.
Clare Brown, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of natural sciences, said: “A great deal of our taxidermy collection dates from the late 19th and early 20thcentury, and because of the techniques used to preserve the mounts, as well as what they are made
from, over time they can fall victim to pests, dust and shrinkage, where the skin dries out and can begin to crack.
“That’s why we need to carry out periodic monitoring like this to check for any noticeable changes to condition and to make sure pests aren’t causing any damage to these extremely rare and precious specimens.
“All of the animals we’ve been checking this week come from very different parts of the world and hugely varied habitats, but they’re all united by the fact their lives, and deaths were profoundly impacted by the intervention of humans into their environment.
“That’s one of the reasons taxidermy collections like ours are so important. Not only can these exhibits teach us about the past, they’re also an invaluable source of learning and research into how we can protect and preserve vulnerable species in the future.”
The Life on Earth Gallery is home to a vast collection of taxidermy which also includes a polar bear, turtle, sea lion, a Tibetan yak and the skeleton of a huge bluefin tuna.
The collection is displayed alongside information on the climate emergency and in-depth histories and stories of some of the museum’s amazing natural science objects.Councillor Salma Arif,
Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, said: “The Leeds collection is truly extraordinary and filled with a spectacular array of artefacts, specimens and stories which can be seen nowhere else in the world.
“It’s thanks to the diligence and dedication of our teams working behind the scenes that this collection is preserved and conserved so it can continue to engage and inspire visitors for generations to come.”
Leeds City Museum is a ‘Give What You Can museum’ where visitors are invited to donate to support the museum if they are able
The burnout blind spot smart leaders don’t see coming
By Coaching and personal development coach Ros Jones
On the surface, everything looks fine.
They’re delivering, performing, holding it all together. The kind of leader others rely on. The one who gets things done, no matter what. And for a long time, that works.
But beneath that, there’s often a very different experience that doesn’t get spoken about. Things start to feel heavier than they should. Decisions take more energy. Patience wears thinner. There’s a sense that something isn’t quite right - but nothing dramatic enough to justify stopping.
This is where burnout often begins.
Not with collapse, but with continuation.
In my work with leaders across Yorkshire, I see this pattern frequently. The people most at risk are rarely those who are visibly struggling. They’re the capable ones, the reliable ones, the ones who have built their reputation on staying calm under pressure and pushing through when it matters. Over time, those strengths can become part of the problem.
When you’re used to handling pressure well, you don’t question it. You normalise it. You absorb it without really noticing the cost. And because you can keep going… you do.
There’s often an additional layer beneath this – an unconscious,
internal pressure to prove yourself, to maintain high standards, to not let people down. It can look like commitment and drive, and in many ways it is. But left unexamined, it shifts from something that supports you into something that drives you, a habitual way of being. And that’s when it can become a dangerous blind spot.
Instead of noticing when things feel off, many leaders override it. They tell themselves it’s just a busy period, that things will settle down soon, that this is simply what leadership requires.
Gradually, the space to pause disappears. Not because you don’t need it, but because you’ve now trained yourself not to take it.
This is why smart, capable leaders miss their own burnout - because they’ve become exceptionally good at functioning inside pressure.
The leaders who avoid burnout aren’t those with less pressure. They’re the ones who remain aware of how they’re carrying it, who notice when things begin to feel heavier than they should, and are willing to pause - even briefly - to reset.
Because the real risk isn’t pressure itself. It’s becoming so good at carrying it… that you stop questioning whether it’s sustainable.
Rachel Cheshire
At 34 yrs old, after spending her career in music and fashion events, Yorkshire Businesswoman member Rachel Cheshire decided to take huge change in direction.
In February 2017, Rachel and her husband Matt’s world ended when their beautiful baby girl, Lillia, was born sleeping. “Everything came to a standstill” she said, “and during our grieving we learned that we were expecting Violet. Bringing our baby girl into the world safely was my only priority and after she was born, I was in no shape to be posing for photos or presenting on the catwalk.
“Three months into motherhood and I was bored; I was getting headaches from the lack of mental stimulation usually provided by work. I decided to start a hobby business to keep me sane because one more episode of Jeremy Kyle was going to tip me over the edge!
“A year before I had put together a cheese birthday cake for my sisters 30th birthday and people went nuts for it,” she explained. “I wanted to something that would move me into the wedding world but needed an area that wasn’t already saturated……. cheese wedding cakes it was!
“Just like Richard Branson, I wasn’t inventing anything new, I was taking an existing product but wanting to do it better! So many transferable skills were taken from years in fashion and music; profit and loss spreadsheets, photographing products, designing ideas, pitching to clients, building slide decks, planning events.
“Two years of building cheese
Boredom led to booming business
wedding cakes flew by and then there it was…..lockdown!
“No more weddings. I had to do the thing I never wanted to do to keep our name floating about, hampers and gift boxes. Years before I had presented a show with ITV presenter and stylist, Mark Heyes. I gave him a call, and he offered to feature my products on Lorraine. The phone went crackers!
“I’ve always considered myself to be a yes person but never realised how much so until businesses began calling me about services we didn’t provide……. YES we can do that!
“Do you do cheese and wine virtual classes with a sommelier?” ……we do now.
“Lockdown saw the beginning of our grazing tables when groups of women who hadn’t seen each other in 18 months wanted to catch up with fizz and food.
“By the time our corporate and private aviation clients came on the scene I realised we had outgrown Celebration Cheeses. All our jobs came from networking as many of our services weren’t even on our website. In November 2025 we started rebranding behind the scenes with Filament Creative to become Colourful Catering and launched February 2026.
“We’re excited to see where this year takes us, “it’s already led us to some fantastic new clients and our team is growing,” she concluded.
Ilkley studio owner launches world class pilates training
A local entrepreneur, and Pilates studio owner, who’s been teaching the now booming wellness practice for nearly three decades, and has travelled the world teaching celebrities, athletes and royalty, is celebrating the announcement of her opening a new internationally recognised Pilates teacher training centre in Ilkley.
Following years of intensive training, monitoring and evaluation whilst running her own studio, Kirstin Ferrie, 46, founder of Pure Pilates, has achieved global recognition from one of the most respected and traditional forms of Pilates, Romana Pilates, the world’s oldest and most authentic practice developed by founder Joseph Pilates.
Romana Pilates was born as Romana Kryzanowska, one of Joseph’s students, dedicated her life to preserving his original work exactly as he taught it, and Kirstin has now been mentored and assessed by Romana’s daughter and granddaughter, to become one of the few teacher trainers endorsed and qualified to deliver the world class training in the UK, the majority of which are based in the South.
Kirstin, who has been practicing Pilates since 1997 and teaching it since 2001 said: “Romana Pilates training is recognised worldwide as the epitome of excellence in the industry, and as we
continue to see a boom in the uptake for Pilates with over 12 million people now practising it, I’m passionate about helping to keep the standards high, as we read about more and more horror stories of people sustaining injuries when their teachers have not been professionally trained. We’re working with the human body, which is complex and unique to each person. Without proper training, there’s a real risk of injury. High-quality education isn’t optional, it’s essential, and for too long the only place available for this has been down South. How amazing is it that a Yorkshire town is now leading the biggest wellness trend!”.
For her training, Kirstin undertook
a vigorous assessment process and continues to train weekly with Romana’s Granddaughter and other leading teachers in the U.K. and Europe, embodying and continuing to improve and deepen her own physical knowledge, passing this onto her students.
Kirstin said: “At this level the smallest tweaks make the difference, the attention to detail and the understanding of how the equipment works with the human body is intricate. There really is nothing like this level of training and I’m so proud to now be able to provide it through my own Centre of Teaching Excellence. “
She added: ‘There is no central body for the Pilates industry. There are no regulations around teaching it and no Government guidelines in place around best practice and standards. With the surge in popularity people can now buy equipment easily and set up as a teacher - this is SO dangerous”.
Becoming a certified teacher within the Romana’s Pilates system is not a quick or easy process. It requires years of intensive training, mentorship, and practical experience. Kirstin, a mum of 2, is now a Level 4 Romana’s Pilates teacher trainer, one of the highest qualifications in this method. She trained through internationally recognised studios and has taught around the world, including in New York, the Caribbean, and Australia. This level of training places her among a small group of teachers globally who are trusted to pass on the method at the highest standard.
Romana Pilates is a classical method of Pilates that was originally created by Joseph Pilates nearly 100 years ago. His method focused on building strength, improving posture, increasing flexibility, and helping the body move efficiently, without strain. Unlike many modern Pilates classes, which can vary widely in style and quality, Romana’s Pilates follows a structured, time-tested system, where every exercise, sequence, and teaching approach is rooted in the original method. “This is what makes it so respected and so demanding to learn”, explains Kirstin.
Until now, most Romana’s Pilates training in the UK has been based in London and the South. Kirstin’s new centre in Ilkley aims to change that, giving people in the North access to the same elite training without needing to relocate. Her goal is not just to train instructors, but to
raise standards across the industry and she is passionate about the ripple effect this can have on communities.
“I want to build a community of teachers who are not only highly skilled, but also thoughtful and compassionate,” she says. “When we teach well, we can genuinely change how people move, feel, and live.”
Having already had the privilege of helping others progress through the training programme, including Antoinette Brooks-Daw, previously Principal Ballerina at Northern Ballet, she is now excited to continue nurturing the next generation of teachers into the world of Romana’s Pilates.
A workshop and information day will be announced in due course to invite people interested in exploring the training and experience the difference of how Romana’s Pilates works.
The Mid-Year Power Edit
with Lisa Darwin, transformational Coach
There is something powerful about the middle of the year. The energy of January has passed, the summer season is in full flow, and many women find themselves asking a deeper question: is the life I am building still aligned with the woman I want to become?
For female professionals, leaders and business owners, success can often become a moving target. We achieve one goal and immediately chase the next. We hold teams, families, businesses, friendships, homes and expectations together, often without pausing long enough to ask whether the pace, pressure and version of success we are living still feels right. That is why I believe this time of year is perfect for a Mid-Year Power Edit.
Not a dramatic reinvention. Not throwing everything away. But a beautiful, intentional pause to edit what no longer serves you and step into the second half of the year with more clarity, confidence and self-respect.
As women, we are often brilliant at showing up for everyone else. But leadership, life and success become far more powerful when we also learn to show up for ourselves. That means looking at our energy, our mindset, our diary, our boundaries, our visibility, our wardrobe, our confidence and the rooms we are choosing to step into.
The next era of female leadership is not about doing more. It is about becoming more aligned. It is about leading with presence, making
intentional choices, feeling confident in how we speak, dress, connect and carry ourselves, and refusing to shrink in spaces we have worked hard to enter.
Here are my five transformational tips for your Mid-Year Power Edit:
• Edit your energy. Notice what drains you, what inspires you and where you are over-giving.
• Edit your diary. Make space for the opportunities, people and experiences that move you forward.
• Edit your self-talk. Speak to yourself like the woman you are becoming, not the version of you who doubts herself.
• Edit your visibility. Stop waiting to be chosen. Share your voice, enter the room, take the opportunity and own your story.
• Edit your style. Your image is not superficial; it is part of your confidence, identity and personal brand.
Success should not cost us ourselves. The second half of the year is an invitation to reset, rise and realign not as a different woman, but as the most powerful version of who you already are.
If this resonates, let it be your reminder to pause, reset and choose what feels more aligned and truer. If you are ready for support, I would be honoured to help through
The Lavish Collective. E:lisa@ lisadarwin.com www. lisadarwin.com
The Modern Mother of the Bride
By Fashion Designer Rebecca Rhoades
One of the conversations I find myself having time and time again is with women searching for the perfect Mother of the Bride or Mother of the Groom outfit.More often than not, they arrive feeling frustrated.
They’ve spent weeks looking at rails of dresses that all feel the same. They’ve been told what they should wear, what colours they should avoid and how they should dress at a certain age. Somewhere amongst all the advice, they’ve lost sight of the most important thing: how they want to feel.
For me, occasion dressing has never been about following rules.
The role of Mother of the Bride or Groom is one of the most important positions at a wedding. You are not simply attending as a guest. You are celebrating one of the biggest moments in your child’s life, and your outfit should reflect that significance.
I believe women deserve to feel beautiful, confident and completely themselves, regardless of age.
That doesn’t always mean wearing the loudest colour in the room or the
most dramatic silhouette. Sometimes confidence comes from impeccable fit, beautiful fabric and thoughtful details. Sometimes it comes from a print that tells a story or a colour that lights up your complexion. The secret is finding something that feels authentically you.
Comfort is equally important. Weddings are long days filled with emotion, laughter, dancing and
countless photographs. The last thing you should be worrying about is whether your dress feels restrictive or uncomfortable.
I also encourage women to think beyond the wedding day itself. Investing in a beautifully made piece that can be worn again for future celebrations creates a wardrobe with longevity rather than a collection of dresses worn only once.
The women I design for are not looking to fade into the background. They want elegance, sophistication and individuality in equal measure. They want to feel seen without needing to seek attention.
And perhaps that is what modern occasion dressing is really about.
Not dressing for your age. Not dressing for expectations.
Simply dressing as the best version of yourself.
Whitby Lit Fest start new charity chapter
Whitby Lit Fest marks a new exciting chapter as it’s been granted charitable status.
The festival, which launched last year, was created to celebrate Whitby’s literary heritage, as well as connect readers to contemporary writers and inspire readers and visitors alike.
The second Whitby Lit Fest takes place 19 to 22 November.
Just announced as headline guest for 2026 is one of the most successful and critically acclaimed novelists of his generation, John Boyne.
Author of 15 novels, Boyne is best known for The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, which was a New York Times No. 1 bestseller and adapted for film, theatre, opera and ballet, selling more than 11 million copies worldwide.
Among his many international bestsellers are The Heart’s Invisible Furies, A Ladder to the Sky, and All the Broken Places. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Observer, The Times Literary Supplement, The Irish Times, and in dozens of international newspapers and magazines.
He’ll be talking about his new book, The Weight of Angels, an “astonishing” reimagining of the life of Oscar Wilde.
Also announced for 2026 are crime authors Elly Griffiths and Sarah Hilary, the Channel 4 style guru, Nicky Hambleton-Jones of 10-Years
Younger fame, historian Alistair Moffat with his book, The North Sea, and the debut novelist Helen Bain with her acclaimed book The Daffodil Days, which was a 2026 Harper’s Bazaar book pick.
They join authors already confirmed including Vera and Shetland author Ann Cleeves, Joanne Harris of Chocolat fame, this year’s CWA Diamond Dagger winner, the crime author Mark Billingham, and the award-winning BBC broadcaster turned psychologist, Dr Sian Williams.
Lois Kirlan, Chair of Whitby Lit Fest, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to announce another flurry of fabulous names joining the 2026 line-up, and the full programme, including our outreach and community events, will be published soon this summer.”
The inaugural event last year attracted over 50 authors. Its patron is the Whitby resident and former Radio 4 producer and author, Kate Fenton. Honorary patron is the acclaimed playwright, Sir Alan Aykbourn.
Last year’s event established the festival as a highlight of Yorkshire’s cultural calendar, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond. It showcased local authors and poets, and hosted writing workshops and a school writing competition in partnership with the National Literacy Trust.
Headline authors from last year’s event also sang its praises, with Lee Child declaring it, a ‘triumph’ and Rob Rinder calling it a ‘joy’ and full of ‘heart’: “A real celebration of words and ideas by the sea.” The actor Miriam Margolyes also said it was, “utterly
John Boyne - Photo Rich Gilligan.
wonderful…one of the best weekends ever. Joyous. Uplifting. Beautiful.”
Gaining charitable status will allow the festival to expand its objective to be of public benefit and advance the education and appreciation of literature, in and around Whitby.
Mark Williamson, Trustee of Whitby Lit Fest, said: “Having charity status helps us build in sustainability into the festival, and
allows us to expand its existing work around accessibility, education, and community outreach. We passionately believe that people living in coastal areas deserve a similar quality of culture and opportunity that audiences expect in larger, cosmopolitan towns and cities. Whitby has inspired writers who have shaped the nation’s cultural landscape, and that’s a legacy worth celebrating and nurturing.”
Organisers are calling on local businesses and organisations to get involved through sponsorship opportunities.
Mark added: “Supporting the festival, from just £50, offers a unique chance to be part of a growing cultural event that brings significant economic and cultural benefits to Whitby and the surrounding area, in the shoulder winter months.
Join This is Yorkshire Beauty for a fabulous evening of all things luxury beauty and skincare at the iconic Bettys in Harrogate, as they kick off the countdown to British Beauty Week and celebrate Yorkshire day!
You’ll be welcomed with a glass of Champagne (or non-alcoholic option), before enjoying a luxurious afternoon tea as our experts take you through empowering masterclasses in the latest make up
looks, products and tips. From daytime essentials, to show stopping looks, the teams from Lancôme, YSL and Kiehl’s will be on hand.
Tickets also include a £20 voucher to spend on the night in our beauty hall!
Book your ticket for this beautiful evening in gorgeous company. Places limited
New holistic care and support for patients at The Rob Burrow Centre
Patients and families are benefiting from new holistic care and supportatThe Rob BurrowCentre forMotorNeurone Diseasein Leeds.
Several new sessions and services are being offered to patients and the people who are important to them.
These include mindfulness and relaxation groups, and meditation sessions, which are all open to people from across the MND community in Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, East Riding and the Humber, including patients, families and carers.
A peer support group for bereaved carers is also available for past carers from Leeds and the West Yorkshire region.
Gary Jevon, centre manager, said: “We always wanted the centre to feel different from a traditional
clinic and these holistic care groups are a great part of that.
“The mindfulness and relaxation and meditation sessions offer a gentle space for patients and carers to pause, breathe and reconnect. This supports relaxation and a sense of calm through simple, guided practices, including breath awareness, mindfulness and light movement, if possible. Everything is optional and those who attend are free to participate in whatever way feels right for them.
“The Cornflower Group, run by Sam, our family support worker, and the MND Association, gives bereaved carers a space for them to talk and
remember a loved one. This was previously running in a service station café and has now been able to move to the new centre, giving past carers a more peaceful and therapeutic setting.
“We are looking forward to developing more groups for patients and families here in the future.”
Another new group, the PEG Café, has been set up for Leeds patients, giving them the opportunity to join an informative and informal chat about Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) tubes, which deliver nutrition and hydration directly to the stomach.
Dr Andrew Gill, a palliative medicine consultant who has worked in palliative care in general practice and hospices and is currently based at
Airedale General Hospital, will also now be working with motor neurone disease (MND) patients in Leeds.
Dr Gill will be working with patients in Leeds one day a week, helping them manage symptoms and plan for the future. He will talk with patients, and the people who are important to them, about their priorities and wishes. He will also work with patients who have been admitted into hospital, and with those who need home visits.
“When people think of palliative care, they think it’s mostly for older people who are actively dying
of cancer, but it’s for anyone with life-limiting illness,” said Dr Gill.
“Palliative care is important right from diagnosis. When people are supported to make decisions all the way through their treatment, it can make a real difference for them in receiving the care they want towards the end of their life.”
People from marginalised groups often have worse access to palliative care and this is something Dr Gill wants to address. “We have to develop palliative care for the needs of the diverse population we serve,” he said. “Everyone should be able to
make decisions about where they want to be and the treatment they want to receive, through their care and towards the end of life.
“It’s really rewarding when you navigate those conversations well and people get the care they want and are as comfortable as possible.”
Dr Gill added: “It is inspirational working here and being part of this team. It feels like a place that’s been inspired by patients, built by patients, and everyone works together for the patients and the people that are important to them.”
Tackling an overgrown garden is so rewarding
on what we can plant and grow ourselves.
There are few things that bring as much simple pleasure as listening to the raindrops falling on the panes of the conservatory. Following a particularly sudden and uncomfortable heatwave, the rain has been very welcome in my garden.
Following a visit to RHS last May, I was inspired to invest in a Cornus Kousa Chinensis “China Girl” - a small tree that promises beautifully creamy petals in the spring and summer. Sadly, the heatwave affected the tree quite severely despite my efforts to keep it in the shade. The leaves turned brown and wilted and the tree underwent a “false autumn” to conserve water. I really did wonder if it was the end of the road for China Girl. However, a very thorough and prolonged drenching in recent rainstorms has worked wonders. There are new leaves growing,
and the tree is responding well to increased TLC. The moral of the fable is keeping the faith, and perhaps a closer eye on the weather conditions!
This growing season I have been charged with the task of restoring a small but very overgrown and neglected garden. The brief is largely
my decision, but I have been asked to try to introduce elements of an edible garden. I like to consider myself a very capable and enthusiastic gardener, but I know my limits, and I enlisted the help of a professional to cut back the leggy heights of the Wiegela, Climbing Roses and hydrangeas. As Jason the gardener
Michaela Axford our regular gardening contributor shares tips with us
advised, everything was cut back but done so with the aesthetic of the cut as a priority so that the garden still retains its attractiveness. I’m the first to admit that as a predominantly
allotment-based gardener, I can be somewhat brutal in my approach!
The garden is South-facing, meaning it catches a lot of sun, so I have
decided to create zones. There are areas of shade treated by the placement of a shed, and upon removing a considerable number of pots and containers, it transpired that there was a rather attractive retaining wall. The perfect placement for a shade garden, consisting of white foxgloves, hostas and ferns. Knowing that the garden had been very neglected for quite some time, I did not want to take any chances with the soil. I added a great deal of fresh compost, with slow-release seaweed fertiliser dug in. Given the recent hot weather, I decided to mulch heavily around the plants to retain moisture in the soil.
As I had planned, I found a garden centre that was selling beautifully cultivated Black-eyed Susan plants. These impactful flowers are vigorous growers and tolerate full sun readily. So far, the specimen that I found has made a strong attempt to vine and this has been incredibly satisfying to watch.
In-keeping with the aim to create a partially edible garden, I also found, to my great joy, an espalier apple tree in a local garden centre. I have never cultivated an apple tree this way, so it was exciting to find one that had already been trained across a frame. The tree is planted to grow across a fence as support, and I shall enjoy training the branches along the sparse areas to fill gaps with beautiful apples later next year. The variety that I chose is “Elstar”, a partially self-pollinating variety. This is important as at present, it
is the only apple tree in the garden. However, for more long-term yields of apples, it may be necessary to consider planting a dwarf variety such as a Cox’s Orange Pippin.
I was also asked to include tomatoes as part of the plan. With limited space, I have opted for container gardening. To make the most of the available space, I chose a hanging basket of Tumbling Tom and French Marigolds outside the kitchen door, with the ubiquitous favourite “Moneymaker” variety
in a container in the back garden, also planted with marigolds as a companion plant. An early attempt at patio runner beans sadly failed due to a vicious snail attack in the dead of night, and it may be too late to try again at this time of year.
Possibly most exciting of all, is my tiny olive tree. Rescued from neardeath for the princely sum of £2, I have fertilised and watered this tree with all the affection of a doting parent. I have been rewarded with lush green foliage, and the early signs of flowering. All being well, and depending on the variety of the tree, we could be seeing olives growing on the tree before the summer is out. The tree - I always want to call it “she” - sits in the perfect spot; in full sun with exposure to a breeze. The wind is essential to transfer pollen from one flower to another. But who knows - with the increased in summer temperatures as our climate changes, we may just find ourselves with a bumper harvest of mediterranean fruits!
I’ll keep you updated of how I get on in the next edition.
Brit Fest 2026 returns this July
Take the short hop over the Pennines and visit The Brit Fest taking place this Summer from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th July 2026 at Ashley Hall Showground in Altrincham, it promises it’s biggest and most spectacular event yet – a fourday celebration of live music, community,and British culture that continues to grow from strength to strength.
Headlining the festival will be Happy Mondays on Friday, Holly Johnson on Saturday, and ABC on Sunday, joined by a stellar cast of British music icons including Wet Wet Wet, Eternal, Peter Hook & The Light,
Sleeper, Chris Helme, Cast, Aswad, Space, The Blow Monkeys, Babybird, Rick Parfitt Jnr & The RPJ Band, Fisherman’s Friends, Altered Images, Doctor and the Medics, Stereo MC’s, The Farm, Let Loose, Nathan Moore (Brother Beyond), Mark Radcliffe & Co., James Walsh (Starsailor) and our first international guest Jason Donovan, plus many more. The weekend kicks off with a Thursday night party featuring Symphonic Ibiza, complete with live strings and special guest Angie Brown.
Since its debut in 2024, The Brit Fest has seen remarkable growth, reaching over 30,000 visitors in 2025 — a massive year-on-year increase.
2026 is set to be the biggest edition yet.
Festival goers can camp, glamp with Tangerine Fields, or bring motorhomes and caravans, while nearby hotels including the Delta Marriott offer luxury stays complete with spa and shuttle service. The Brit Fest won the Leading Live Event of the Year at the This is Manchester Awards 2025 and Best Event or Festival at the Visit Cheshire Tourism Awards 2025/26, following previous recognition at the UK Festival Awards and a High Sheriff’s Award for Community Contribution.
Tickets are on sale now via www. thebritfest.co.uk.
Headliners:
• Friday: Happy Mondays – Manchester legends performing Step On, Kinky Afro, and 24 Hour Party People.
• Saturday: Holly Johnson – the voice of Frankie Goes to Hollywood, performing Relax, Two Tribes, and The Power of Love.
• Sunday: ABC – fronted by Martin Fry, performing timeless hits from The Lexicon of Love including Poison Arrow and The Look of Love.
Also performing:
• Wet Wet Wet (Love Is All Around), Eternal (Stay, Power of a Woman),
• Peter Hook & The Light (Joy Division & New Order classics),
• Chris Helme (Love is the Law),
• Sleeper (Inbetweener),
• Cast (Walkaway, Alright),
• Aswad (Don’t Turn Around),
• Space (Female of the Species),
• The Blow Monkeys (Digging Your Scene),
• Babybird (You’re Gorgeous),
• Rick Parfitt Jnr & The RPJ Band,
• Fisherman’s Friends,
• Altered Images (Happy Birthday),
• Doctor and the Medics (Spirit in the Sky),
• Stereo MC’s (Connected),
• The Farm (All Together Now),
• Let Loose (Crazy for You),
• Nathan Moore (Brother Beyond, The Harder I Try),
• Mark Radcliffe & Co.,
• James Walsh (Starsailor, Four to the Floor),
• Cole Page, and our first international guest
• Jason Donovan (Too Many Broken Hearts).
The festival opens with Symphonic Ibiza, featuring live strings and powerhouse vocalist Angie Brown, performing a euphoric fusion of classic Ibiza anthems and orchestral arrangements to start the weekend in style.
Festival Director Edward Prophet said: “When we first started, we dreamed of creating something that would celebrate music and bring people together. The love and energy from our audience have been extraordinary.
The Brit Fest has become more than a festival – it’s a shared celebration of pride, nostalgia and community, and 2026 will take that to another level.” Commercial Director Anthony Prophet added: “The growth in just
two years has been incredible. Every message, every smile, every returning face tells us that people feel part of something special here. 2026 is going to be our most exciting chapter yet.”
Hotels across Altrincham and Trafford sell out months in advance, and through its partnership with the Delta Marriott Hotel, guests can combine the festival with a luxury spa stay and convenient shuttle service direct to the showground. The festival also proudly supports The Seashell Trust, helping children and young adults with complex learning difficulties and disabilities. Through ticket donations, fundraising, and community initiatives, The Brit Fest continues to give back to causes that matter locally. More than 70% of the festival’s traders and suppliers are based in the Northwest, ensuring the event’s economic benefits stay within the region.
Festivalgoers can camp on-site, choose luxury glamping with Tangerine Fields, or bring a motorhome or caravan for the full outdoor experience. For those seeking style and comfort, nearby hotels including the Delta Marriott offer the perfect base for a relaxing weekend. Ashley Hall Showground’s prime Cheshire location makes the event easy to reach for all. The site is a short walk from Ashley Station and just minutes from Altrincham Interchange, connecting via Metrolink, train, and bus across the Northwest. Manchester and Chester are both under 40 minutes away, giving festivalgoers the chance to enjoy a world-class event practically on their doorstep.
The Brit Fest continues to invest in new technology and infrastructure to improve the audience experience. 2026 will see new eco-friendly initiatives across site operations. These upgrades follow audience feedback, ensuring every guest enjoys a smooth, safe and modern festival experience. Accessibility remains a priority, with step-free access, dedicated viewing areas, and improved parking to make The Brit Fest open and enjoyable for everyone.
The Brit Fest has been widely celebrated within the live events industry, earning nominations and awards that highlight both its cultural and community impact.
With its legendary line-up, charitable heart, local partnerships, and commitment to innovation, The Brit Fest 2026 is set to be the ultimate celebration of music, community, and summer spirit.
Tickets for The Brit Fest 2026 are available via www.thebritfest.co.uk.
Bookcase
by author Milly Johnson. Milly is an author from Barnsley who has penned well over 20 books and is an ambassador for Yorkshire Businesswoman.
Secrets of the Italian Guesthouse
Sue Moorcroft
Renegade Books, RRP £9.99
Who doesn’t love a bit of Italy in the summer. This is a beautiful story,
brimming with Lake Como sunshine and romance. When Jade inherits a share in a family guesthouse, she finds the rest of it belongs to two sisters she had no idea existed. The women start to build tentative bonds, but all of them have their own cracked
hearts. Romance comes in the form of Jade’s first love Leo, back in town and, infuriatingly, all roads seem to lead back to him. A perfect read for your holidays!
The One Day You Were My Husband
Rosie Walsh
Macmillan, RRP £16.99
Rosie is an auto-buy for me. I love her plots and her exquisite writing style. Carrie and Johan married on a beach in Thailand. Then the groom is snatched away by armed police and he is never seen again. Until… twelve years later, Carrie has rebuilt her life and by chance she stumbles upon Johan online. She finds he was released from prison so why did he never make contact with her? The action flips from now to then and we gradually uncover what happened. Keeps you on the edge until the very last.
How to Talk So Your Doctor Will Listen
Penny Parkes
Short Books, RRP - £16.99
Penny is an ‘expert patient’ as well as a novelist. She’s had to negotiate the health system with many illnesses
of her wisdom. It’s a book that really every household should own because nothing surer we will all need to dip into it at some point, from how to save a life to getting round the ‘one appointment, one symptom’ rule at the docs. Maybe not one for the beach, but it really is a must-buy.
It Could Have Been Her Lisa Jewell Century, RRP £22.00
There is a reason why Lisa Jewell is at the top of her game, as the cover quote says, and that is because she is incapable of writing a duff book. Middle-aged, benign Jane finds a missing dog and her attempt to reunite him with his owner opens up a door into the world of her own unsettling past. The owner of a dog is a missing teenager and Jane becomes hell-bent on finding her, discovering that the mystery is tied up with a house from where Jane herself escaped twentyfive years ago. Very unsettling in the best way.
Looking for a revitalised and radiant finish for your skin?
In the heart of Harrogate, Michelle Clarke, founder of HIFU Clinics Group, celebrates a decade of specialization in advanced HIFU skin tightening. Over the past ten years, Michelle has become a trusted expert, sought after by discerning clients, including fellow professionals and celebrities. Clients travel from across the UK to experience her multi-layered approach, which delivers natural, lasting results.
The journey starts with the Aura scanner, a clinical-grade device that creates a detailed digital map of the face and neck. This objective analysis ensures precise, customized treatment plans. Michelle’s philosophy is built on three pillars: Precision. Expertise. Transformation.
Her advanced method addresses the skin in layers. At deeper levels, HIFU stimulates collagen and elastin, lifting and firming the underlying structure. At intermediate depths, texture is refined, and fine lines softened. On the surface, the skin is revitalized for a radiant finish. This layered strategy ensures balanced and natural rejuvenation.
Clients consistently praise this approach, noting that results are subtle yet transformative. The Aura scanner is used not only at the start but also in follow-ups, offering clinical proof of progress.
Michelle’s expertise draws clients from
afar, from industry experts to highprofile individuals, all seeking the assurance of Precision. Expertise. Transformation. With over 10,000 procedures performed, her blend of science, technology, and artistry has
set a standard in the field. At HIFU Clinics Group, clients embark on a journey of confidence—guided by the pillars of precise care, expert execution, and transformative results.
The Focus4Hope 10-year anniversary ball is one not to miss
Drinks reception
• Three-course celebration menu
• Live entertainment with the fantastic Crescendos Band, plus DJ
• Lots of fundraising fun
• Time: Saturday 19th September 7-12pm
• Venue: Casa, 281 Elland Rd, Brighouse HD6 2RG
• Dress code: Black tie
• Tickets: focus4hope.co.uk
All hosted by presenter, influencer, reality TV star and Focus4Hope ambassador Matt Jameson.
Focus4Hope is ten! Join us at our glittering anniversary ball to help us celebrate a decade of helping communities across West Yorkshire, and to support our vital work!
This event is expected to sell out fast - grab your tickets at focus4hope.co.uk
“It’s been quite a journey!
Focus4Hope was originally created as a community organisation but became a registered charity so we could respond to rapid demand arising from the increased cost of living. The need for our services continues to grow - homelessness has doubled in the past year - but we’re rising to the occasion, offering a range of vital services in a bid to avoid individuals reaching crisis point. Help us raise funds so we can keep helping those who desperately need us, while celebrating our 10th anniversary and having a brilliant night!”
Louise Reed Founder and CEO, Focus4Hope
Summer in the City
When the sun shines in Leeds, the city takes on a different rhythm. Lunches linger a little longer, afterwork drinks become evening plans, and Greek Street comes alive with the energy of summer.
At Dakota, the Greek Street Terrace places you at the heart of it all. Whether you’re sharing small plates and contemporary cocktails with friends or enjoying an unforgettable dining experience outdoors, it’s a stylish setting designed for long lunches, spontaneous gatherings and memorable summer evenings.
Effortlessly elegant and unmistakably Dakota, the Terrace offers attentive service, a vibrant atmosphere and a front-row seat to one of Leeds’ most iconic streets. The city buzzes around you, while your table remains a place to unwind, reconnect and savour the moment. From sunny afternoons to golden-hour drinks, the Terrace captures everything that makes summer in the city so enjoyable.
For those looking to enjoy a truly indulgent dining experience, the heated and covered alfresco Terrace offers the best of both worlds. Here, guests can embrace the atmosphere of outdoor dining while enjoying favourites from Dakota Grill. Signature steaks are cooked over hot coals and served exactly as you like them, alongside seasonal dishes and Dakota classics, bringing the flavour of the Grill outdoors throughout the summer months.
Complementing the menu is a curated selection of seasonal serves, including refreshing spritzes inspired by summer favourites. Orange, Limoncello and Rhubarb feature alongside classic cocktails, creating the perfect drinks list for golden-hour catch-ups, leisurely afternoons and evenings that stretch long after sunset.
If you’re planning an event this summer The Greek Street Terrace is available for exclusive hire for up to 70 guests, offering an impressive setting for private celebrations, corporate events and client entertaining. Bespoke food and drink packages can be tailored to suit every event, ensuring a seamless Dakota experience from start to finish. Open throughout the summer for lunch, dinner and drinks, with walk-ins welcomed when availability allows, The Greek Street Terrace is your destination for al fresco dining in Leeds.
Why not join Yorkshire Businesswoman & Yorkshire Businessman for our summer BBQ on the terrace on 23rd July? Tickets are just £30 for members, £35 for non-members that includes a delicious BBQ and welcome drink as well as fabulous networking. Full details on the website www. yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk
The menu celebrates the season with fresh summer flavours, chargrilled favourites and generous plates designed for sharing. From vibrant salads and lighter dishes to premium cuts from the Grill, every dish is crafted with quality ingredients and bold flavour.
