Project PR

Project PR has a new name... and a new blog!

2011-06-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

Project PR has a brand new name and a brand new website. Rebranded in May 2011 as Genesis PR, we are a smart thinking, multi-award winning public relations agency that gets results.

To keep up-to-date on our new blog, please visit http://www.genesispr.co.uk/blog/.

Skills Training UK and partner PwC chosen for London DWP Framework

2010-11-26T02:49:00.000-08:00

November 2010: It was announced today that the Skills Training UK Consortium has won a place on the Department for Work and Pensions’ Framework in the London Region. The Consortium is an innovative new partnership for London with PwC, the UK’s leading professional services firm. Skills Training UK, already a major Welfare to Work Prime Contractor and Provider, has also been selected for the Framework in the South East Region.

Companies on the DWP Framework will deliver all Welfare to Work programmes from 2011.

Skills Training UK will work with PwC to design and deliver bespoke packages of employment-related support in London, beginning with the new Work Programme which is the first contract to be let under the Framework. These significant contracts will replace a number of previous programmes and will enable successful bidders to offer the personalised support that is required to deal with the often complex disadvantages faced by long term unemployed customers.

Martin Dunford OBE, Skills Training UK Chief Executive and Chairman of the Association of Learning Providers (ALP), said: “We are delighted to be selected for the new Framework and to be taking a leading role in delivering the new agenda for Welfare Reform. With the combined experience and expertise of Skills Training UK and our partner PwC we will be able to transform the existing delivery models, securing sustainable outcomes and value for money.”

Daniel Burke, PwC Director, said: “We aim to add real value to the development and delivery of effective Welfare to Work programmes by bringing new insights from overseas, other sectors and from our research work for government. We are delighted to be working with Skills Training UK, an organisation with an impressive track record and a commitment to innovation and delivery that mirrors our own.”

Skills Training UK is already helping over seven hundred of DWP’s most disadvantaged customers to find and stay in work every month through Welfare to Work programmes. Its core focus is on securing sustainable employment for long term unemployed customers.

As well as being the Prime Contractor for Flexible New Deal in Surrey, Sussex and Kent, Skills Training UK delivers the New Deal programme in West London. It has twelve modern, professionally equipped training centres in London and the South East and a network of more than 60 sub-contract locations.

PwC has a wealth of experience in the design, development and implementation of successful programmes in the public and private sectors in the UK and abroad – including a significant body of work on the Welfare Reform agenda.

ENDS

For further press information about Skills Training UK please contact:

Penny Arbuthnot, Project PR. Tel 01473 326401 (07885 238374)
Email: penny.arbuthnot@projectpr.biz

Or Helen Rudd, Project PR. Tel 01473 326405 (07521 318127)
Email: Helen.rudd@projectpr.biz

For further press information about PwC contact Katherine Howbrook Tel: + 44 (0) 20 7212 2711 (07515 119096
Email: katherine.j.howbrook@uk.pwc.com

NOTES TO EDITORS

Partnership information

1. Skills Training UK and PwC formed an innovative and exciting new partnership to bid for a place on the new DWP Framework for the provision of employment-related support services in the London region.

2. Both partners believe the fiscal and labour market context demand real and significant welfare reform – and through the new partnership they can play a leading role in delivering that new agenda.

3. The partnership between Skills Training UK and PwC is rooted in the two organisations’ shared commitment to welfare reform, innovation, the delivery of sustained outcomes and value for money.

4. It brings together the experience and expertise of both organisations to design and deliver bespoke packages of support that DWP customers really need to help them find and stay in work.

5. The partnership will build a resilient, sustainable and flexible supply chain, capable of improving outcomes for customers and dealing with the full range of contracts that will be let through the Framework.

Skills Training UK

1. Skills Training UK is a leading Prime Contractor for the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) Welfare to Work programmes, with a core focus on securing sustainable employment for its long term unemployed customers, improving their and their families’ life chances.

2. Its unique strengths are its size and its ability to scale up and enter new markets rapidly, establishing itself in the heart of an area through successful engagement of stakeholders in that community.

3. This approach has enabled Skills Training UK to help 5,600 people from London and the South East into work over the last year. Momentum is increasing and over 700 people are now gaining employment each month as a result of its services. Customers include some of the most disadvantaged groups in society and each person’s individual needs are always assessed and continually reviewed.

4. Employers are fully integrated into the Skills Training UK business model and Morrisons, The Metropolitan Police, Marks and Spencer, TSS Security and British Airways are amongst the clients to benefit from services such as recruitment, in-work support and training of unemployed customers who are matched to the employer’s needs.

5. For its partners, Skills Training UK offers consistent and dependable performance and innovative delivery methods, backed by sector leading Management Information Systems. The Merlin Standard report for DWP, which assesses supply chain performance, said: “The Prime Contractor has clearly promoted a culture of collaboration and cooperation.”

6. Skills Training UK has twelve modern, professionally equipped training centres and a network of more than 60 sub-contract locations.

7. Head Office, 4th Floor, Wembley Point, 1 Harrow Road, Wembley HA9 6DE

8. For further information see www.skillstraininguk.com

PwC
PwC firms provide industry-focused assurance, tax and advisory services to enhance value for their clients. More than 163,000 people in 151 countries in firms across the PwC network share their thinking, experience and solutions to develop fresh perspectives and practical advice. See www,pwc.com for more information.

Help us support Ipswich Women's Aid this Christmas

2010-10-21T04:52:00.000-07:00

Help us support Ipswich Women's Aid this Christmas

This Christmas, the Project PR team will be organising a fantastic Christmas party for the women and children supported by Ipswich Women’s Aid, an organisation which helps families who are experiencing domestic abuse.

We are appealing to local businesses and individuals to kindly donate new Christmas presents for the women and children, to be given out at the party in December.

Any suitable new gifts you are able provide for the children, teenagers and women would be much appreciated. Suggestions include toiletries, cosmetics, toys, CDs and DVDs. We would also be grateful for any gift wrap and labels.

Ipswich Women’s Aid (IWA) is an independent registered charity, affiliated to Women’s Aid Federation England (WAFE), which provides temporary accommodation for women and children fleeing domestic violence. In 2009/10, IWA housed a total of 196 women and children and helped many others recover from the traumatic effects of domestic abuse. IWA currently runs two purpose built refuges in Ipswich.

Project PR is offering its services to IWA free of charge and we hope you will also be able to support this worthy organisation at Christmas.

If you can donate any gifts, no matter how large or small, please call Rachel Cass at Project PR on 01473 326406.

Eating disorders starting at younger age, warns new survey

2010-10-07T03:16:00.000-07:00

6th October 2010: The age at which people develop eating disorders is getting younger, according to a new survey by eating disorders support group Overeaters Anonymous GB.

The poll of more than 250 OA members revealed that more than half (53 per cent) said they first developed a problem with food when they were aged 10 years or younger. A further 29 per cent admitted they were between the age of 10 and 15 years old when their compulsive eating behaviour developed.

Maureen F, spokesperson for Overeaters Anonymous GB, said: “Some might find the results of the survey shocking, but as our members have underlined, it is not uncommon for us to see people who developed an eating disorder before they reached their teens.”

The survey results follow the first memorial service for young people who lost their lives to an eating disorder, held last week (28th September) at Southwark Cathedral. The occasion, organised by eating disorders charity Beat, was attended by more than 100 bereaved familes.

The OA survey also revealed the media may not play the powerful role in encouraging eating disorders we are led to believe. Just three per cent of those polled cited newspaper, magazine and television content as a major reason for developing their illness, while more than half (52%) felt that family problems and life events such as death or abuse had triggered their eating disorder.

OA member Nicky H, explains how her issues with food began before she reached her teens: “When I was about 11 I became aware of my changing body. Although I was slim I had a bit of puppy fat, which isn’t unusual for young girls, but I was paranoid about it and started comparing myself to others, wanting to be slimmer and prettier.

“I was also experiencing the usual adolescent difficulties with emotions and relationships and started dieting as a way of coping with these and to lose weight. I would restrict what I ate for a couple of weeks and exercise obsessively, lose some weight and feel great. But as soon as I ate any ‘forbidden’ food, it would trigger a huge binge and I’d put the weight straight back on, and more. This miserable cycle carried on for years.”

Maureen F concluded: “Eating disorders are complex illnesses and although our survey highlights general trends, every sufferer is different. OA provides members with a safe environment to discuss their feelings and get to the root of their compulsive behaviour and thinking about food, body shape and image, helping them on the road to recovery.”

Overeaters Anonymous GB offers a programme of recovery for anyone suffering from compulsive overeating, anorexia or bulimia, through its network of support meetings across the country. Based around the ‘Twelve Steps’ pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous, OA uses the same principles to help members improve their disordered relationship with food.

Ends

OA 007

For more information or for case studies, please contact Helen Rudd or Rachel Cass at Project PR. helen.rudd@projectpr.biz / 01473 326405 or rachel.cass@projectpr.biz / 01473 326406

Notes to editors

1. ‘One of the primary guidelines – or ‘Traditions’ – in Overeaters Anonymous states that members “need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, films, television and other public media of communication.’ This means that the personal identity of OA members cannot be revealed in photographs, but they can be photographed if their identities are concealed, i.e. from behind, in shadow, etc. OA members can give interviews, so long as their surnames are not used in any subsequent article or programme.’

2. There are more than 175 organised Overeaters Anonymous groups across Great Britain which hold regular support meetings. Details can be found on the OA website www.oagb.org.uk and new members are welcome at any time.

3. The first OA meeting was held in 1960 in Los Angeles, California. OA now holds approximately 6,500 meetings in over 75 countries.

4. OA is not affiliated with any public or private organisation, political movement, ideology or religious doctrine and takes no position on outside issues. No membership dues or fees are required.

Spanish company comes to Colchester to take a bite into UK markets

2010-10-01T04:15:00.000-07:00

East of England Inward Investment (EEII), the regional body that helps attract and support overseas inward investors to the East of England on behalf of the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), has assisted Biotechnology UK Limited, a scientific development company which manufactures and distributes dental implants, in setting up a headquarters in Colchester.

The company, which is headquartered in Vitoria, Spain, has started operating in Essex in order to expand their business into the UK market. The ability to store products in the UK means that when orders are placed from UK dentists, delivery can be as quick as the next day.

Currently, the company is targeting and supplying dentists across London and Essex, but the firm hopes that through re-location to the UK, they can expand their market and be able to cover the whole country in the next 12-18 months, which will lead to the creation of new jobs for Colchester.

Allen Polley, Country Manager for Biotechnology UK Limited commented: “Locating in Essex was an ideal choice for us as the transport links are so good and also, as a scientific development company, we are involved in research and development activity in the dentistry field, so being so close Cambridge, which is the top R&D location in Europe was another huge selling point. The assistance we have received from our EEII advisor, John Dow, has been very helpful in establishing ourselves in the area.”

The company were assisted in moving to the UK by the UK Trade & Investment team, based at the British Consultate in Spain.

Biotechnology UK Limited are gearing up to exhibit in the dental implant industry’s biggest event in the calendar. Over the 6th – 9th October the company will have a stand at the worldwide EAO congress which this year is being held in Glasgow.

Photo caption: “Allen Polley from BTI and John Dow from East of England Inward Investment open the door to a new business in Colchester”.

ENDS

Local PR agency buoyant after securing further new clients

2010-08-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

August 2010: Ipswich PR agency Project PR continues to grow its business by securing another four new clients in recent months.

East of England Inward Investment, who support foreign owned businesses set up and invest in the region, Skills Training UK, a nationwide specialist provider of welfare to work training and employment advice, Resource Efficiency East, funded by EEDA to help local businesses reduce their impact on the environment, and Overeaters Anonymous, a body which works similarly to Alcoholics Anonymous but for those with eating disorders, have joined Project PR’s client list.

The agency has also agreed to assist local organisations Felixstowe Chamber of Commerce, Ipswich Women’s Aid and the Rotary Clubs of East Suffolk in raising the awareness of the work they do.

Penny Arbuthnot, director of Project PR, commented: “Our team have worked hard to ensure that our business hasn’t been affected by the economic downturn, and to spread the message that PR is a cost effective method for businesses to raise their awareness. We are looking forward to working with our new clients and enjoying a buoyant second half of the year.”

Project PR employs a team of six PR and marketing professionals and has built its success on delivering results for its many long term clients, who include Ford Retail, Suffolk manufacturer Challs International, and Ipswich Building Society.

The Project PR team is eagerly awaiting news of its entries to the 2010 Chartered Institute of PR Pride Awards with the finalists due to be announced in September. In 2009 it won four Gold and two Silver awards and earlier this year it was named the fourth most ‘awarded’ PR agency outside of London by The Drum magazine.

See www.projectpr.biz

RYAN INSURANCE GROUP CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

2010-08-02T02:27:00.000-07:00

Employees from Ryan Insurance celebrating 35 years in business with a 70s day

August 2010

One of the region’s leading independent insurance brokers is celebrating reaching its 35th year in business this month. Ryan Insurance, which has an offices in Ipswich, Colchester and Norwich established as a family business by Colin Ryan in 1975. As part of the celebrations, staff at the Ipswich office were invited to come to work in 70s clothing, and bring with them their 70s memorabilia. They were served 70s food and played games of ‘guess who’ using photographs from the 70s.
“It’s testament to the dedication of our team to giving great customer service that we have grown and maintained our success over 35 years” said Tim Ryan, Managing Director. “It is a family business in every sense of the word and we strive to preserve those values which are important to us and our clients.”
Local Building and Civil Engineering Merchants Collier and Catchpole have been a client of the Ryan Insurance Group since the beginning. Chris Cook from the firm said: “Ryan Insurance is a family-run business and has the same values as Collier and Catchpole. If we went elsewhere we could probably save money, but for us, nothing beats the personal service and the complete package that you get from Ryan Insurance.”
Associate Director John Girling, who is the group’s longest serving employee said: “I can remember that we used to offer a Third Party Fire & Theft policy to a 17 year old driving a Group 1 vehicle (Mini, Ford Fiesta etc) for £100! Nowadays we would be lucky to achieve a premium for the same risk of under £1,000! I can also remember selling comprehensive moped policies for as little as £12.50!”
Director Robin Belsom, who was also one of the first employees to join the business added: “I was attracted by the fact that it was a young dynamic business, which was small but growing fast.
“My first job was to sell car insurance over the counter as this was the time before telephone and internet sales. I loved meeting the public and helping them, either by saving them money or sorting out a claim. It was great fun and we got to know many of the customers really well. Some of them I speak to now, some 30 years later!
“I recall one day the great Sir Bobby Robson called, as he wanted to bring in two new signings so we could arrange their motor insurance. Bobby turned up later with Frans Thyssen and Arnold Muhren. We had paper folders at the time and I am proud to say that we had colour pictures of both on their files!
“There are many special qualities about the Ryan Group. The personal and friendly approach of Colin Ryan helped shape the development of the early Ryan's team, and I am pleased to say that Tim Ryan has the same approach but with a sharper commercial edge. Tim has always displayed a great deal of drive and energy and continues to lead the business successfully in to the future.”
All money raised through dressing up and a ‘Win a day off work’ competition will go the EACH Treehouse Appeal.

Foreign Investment secures 14,566 jobs for the East of England

2010-07-15T03:59:00.000-07:00

Investment by overseas companies created or safeguarded 14,566 jobs in the East of England over the last year, UK Trade & Investment announced today.

The inward investment figures were announced at the UK Trade & Investment Business Summit attended by over 100 of the leading overseas owned investors based in the UK.

Nationally, 1,619 foreign investment projects secured 94,346 jobs, a 20% increase from last year when 78,540 jobs were created. The new figures reveal that 32,000 of the jobs were created or safeguarded in the manufacturing sector. The leading investor country was the USA for the second year running, helping to secure 31,566 jobs .

In the East of England, 14,566 jobs were created or safeguarded by 92 projects such as DP World’s London Gateway port project in Thurrock, Essex; Nestor Pharmaceuticals - an Indian-owned manufacturer and exporter of prescription drugs, based in Mildenhall, Suffolk; and Novus Biologicals - a Colorado-based life sciences company who has established its new European distribution hub in Cambridge.

In addition, the region secured 11 research agreements set up between commercial organisations and universities or research institutions across the East of England.

Deborah Cadman, chief executive of the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) said: “These figures confirm that the East of England is a magnet for overseas investors and businesses alike.

“The East of England Inward Investment and Investor Development teams have worked hard to secure and retain foreign investment in our region through their expertise, international networks and detailed regional knowledge. This combined with other business support services in the region make the East of England an ideal location for global enterprises.

“In the past year we have witnessed the openings of several major facilities in the region: Eisai in Hertfordshire, Nestor in Suffolk, Palm Paper in Norfolk and more recently Partner Logistics in Cambridgeshire. At DP World in Essex, we will see another major project develop with an estimated 12,000 jobs created in the next few years. All these demonstrate the breadth and scope of the business community and the long-term nature of inward investment.

“The secret of our continued success includes our transport links to London and the rest of the globe, world-class universities, and the top R&D centre in Europe, which is supported by the largest venture capital funding base in the UK outside London. All these great attributes mean the East of England is rightly known as the UK’s most innovative region.”

Chief Executive of UK Trade & Investment Sir Andrew Cahn said: “Today’s results are a real vote of confidence in the East of England, but we must work harder to continue to attract inward investment in what is a very competitive global marketplace. Overall, inward investment fell by 10 per cent across Europe, but the UK remains the number one destination in Europe for FDI (foreign direct investment). UK Trade & Investment is committed to attracting high quality investment into the East of England, which is so important for the UK’s economic recovery.”

ENDS

Case Study

Company: DP World

Location: Thurrock, Essex

Country of Origin: UAE

Sector: Transportation/Logistics

Description: In January 2010, Dubai-based DP World, one of the world’s largest marine terminal operators, began laying the foundations of a new deep-sea container port in Thurrock, Essex.

The £1.5 billion ‘London Gateway’ project will be one of the most significant infrastructure developments in the UK for 20 years and will generate 12,000 direct new jobs. The 1,500-acre site, which will be one of Europe’s largest combined deep-sea port and logistics parks, will give excellent shipping access and transform the movement of freight around the UK, significantly reducing national road haulage.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World, said: “When complete, the Essex port will provide the UK with modern, efficient infrastructure, while at the same time reducing CO2 emissions and supply chain costs.”

http://www.dpworld.com/

Case study:
Company: Nestor (UK) Ltd

Location: Suffolk, EoE

Country of Origin: India

Sector: Life Sciences

Description: In 2009, Nestor Pharmaceuticals, an Indian-owned manufacturer and exporter of prescription drugs, decided to expand its UK headquarters, based in Mildenhall, Suffolk.

With business thriving, the company has decided to increase the number of employees from 30 to 100 over the next three years.

Nestor director Kamelesh Patel says: “Our Mildenhall facility gives us access to local manufacturing expertise, flexible packaging solutions and excellent transport links.

Nestor is not only growing its product portfolio, but also increasing its customer base in the UK, Europe and West Africa, which allows us to put further investment into the facility.”
EEDA Invest and UKTI have assisted Nestor with information and relationship building in the UK and India since 2005.
http://www.nestorpharma.com/

Case study:
Company: Novus Biologicals
Location: Cambridge, EoE

Country of Origin: USA

Sector: Life Sciences

Description: In April 2009, Novus Biologicals, a Colorado-based company supplying over 70,000 antibodies and related research products to the scientific community, decided to establish its new European distribution hub in Cambridge.

CFO Todd Padgett said: “We looked at a lot of possible locations in Europe for this new office, but Cambridge was the equal or superior to all in terms of science base and provided better access to our customers.

“We have six partners in the Cambridge area alone and there are others within the biotech cluster that we have been keen to gain access to.

“We also like the cluster of science and research parks in the Cambridge area. These could provide the basis for further growth for Novus as we move forward.”
http://www.novusbio.com/

Further press information from:

Helen Rudd or Charles Arbuthnot

Project PR, Tel: 01473 326405 or 01473 326402

Email: helen.rudd@projectpr.biz or charles.arbuthnot@projectpr.biz

Notes to Editors

East of England Inward Investment is the delivery agent for Inward Investment and Investor Development for the East of England. We provide a single convenient point of contact for companies looking to locate, invest and grow their operations in the East of England – the UK’s most innovative region. We work with UK Trade & Investment and on behalf of the East of England Development Agency.

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is the Government department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy. We also help overseas companies bring their high quality investment to the UK’s economy – acknowledged as Europe’s best place from which to succeed in global business. UKTI offers expertise and contacts through its extensive network of specialists in the UK, and in British embassies and other diplomatic offices around the world. We provide companies with the tools they require to be competitive on the world stage. For more information on UKTI, visit www.ukti.gov.uk or telephone +44 (0)20 7215 8000. For latest press releases, visit the online newsroom at www.ukti.gov.uk/media. You can also keep in touch with developments at UKTI through www.blog.ukti.gov.uk, www.twitter.com/ukti and www.flickr.com/photos/tags/ukti.

The UK Inward Investment 2009/10 Report refers to jobs figures provided by companies. These figures are based on company estimates.

East of England Development Agency (EEDA) is the driving force behind sustainable economic regeneration in the East of England: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Its vision is to create a leading economy, founded on a world-class knowledge base, creativity and enterprise to improve the quality of life for all who live and work here.

For further information on the above organisations visit:

http://www.eedainvest.org.uk/

http://www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk/

http://www.eeda.org.uk/

UK’S LARGEST COLD STORE LOGISTICS FACILITY OPENS IN WISBECH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

2010-07-13T01:59:00.000-07:00

12th July 2010

The UK’s largest frozen food logistics facility situated just outside Wisbech in the Fenlands, Cambridgeshire, was officially opened on Friday, 9th July. The warehouse was built and is operated by Dutch company Partner Logistics, one of Europe’s largest providers of specialised, highly automated warehousing.

The building, which has a floorplan size of 175m x 88m (1.5 times size of a football pitch) and rises to 36m high, can store up to 77,000 pallets of frozen food at temperatures of minus 27 degrees Centigrade. It was developed for potato processing giant Lamb Weston Meijer which has taken the lion’s share of the 20,500 sq metre cold store, but is also being used by Birds Eye and Pinguin.

Speaking at the opening, CEO of Partner Logistics, Bram Hage, said: “The opening of our £42 million state-of-the-art facility is a major milestone in our company’s short history. It is our third and largest site in the UK and has been built due to unprecedented demand from our customers for more deep-frozen product storage. We now operate 13 fully automated warehouses in Europe and Russia.”

Since the project’s inception in 2006, support for setting up in the UK was given by the East of England’s inward investment team and Fenland District Council. Jacky Holtby of East of England Inward Investment, said: “We’ve helped with a range of matters including the planning process, recruitment and the local supply chain.” She added: “Partner Logistics’ investment is important to the longer term prosperity of the Fenlands, with its dependence on the agricultural industry. The facility has already created 45 new jobs and, with planned expansion, is set to bring a further 100.”

Councillor Chris Seaton, Fenland District Council's portfolio holder responsible for economic development, said: “This new facility really reinforces Fenland's status as a centre of excellence in the agri-food processing and logistics industry. We are very pleased about the extra jobs it is creating, not only at the facility itself but also within the surrounding supply chains, which will give a welcome boost to the local economy.” He added: “We have worked closely with the region’s inward investment team to help secure this venture and to make sure that everything has gone smoothly for Partner Logistics.”

Partner Logistics specialises in operating highly automated warehouses, with each new facility purpose designed and built to meet the specific needs of their customers. To date, the company provides warehousing services to leading companies in food, retail and consumer goods in the Netherlands, Belgium, UK and Russia. The majority of the sites are deep freeze warehouses. However, Partner Logistics also operates sites with ambient and chilled conditions.

EEDA is the driving force behind sustainable economic regeneration in the East of England and funds inward investment support across the region.

Ends

Ref: EI005

Notes to Editors

1. Partner Logistics is headquartered in the Netherlands and provides high quality warehousing services by operating highly automated warehouses, allowing its clients to focus their resources on their core business. Founded by Bram Hage, CEO, just over 10 years ago, PL currently operates 13 sites in the Netherlands, Belgium, UK and Russia for clients in food, retail and consumer goods. Visit www.partnerlogistics.eu

2. East of England Inward Investment delivers International Business support for new and existing overseas-owned businesses in the region. We provide a single convenient point of contact for companies looking to locate, invest and grow their operations in the East of England – the UK’s most innovative region. We work with UK Trade & Investment and on behalf of the East of England Development Agency. Visit www.eedainvest.org.uk

3. Fenland District Council provides a wide range of local services in the Cambridgeshire market towns of Chatteris, March, Whittlesey and Wisbech. We work together with local organisations to improve the economy, health, well-being and quality of life in the Fenland community. Visit www.fenland.gov.uk

4. UK Trade & Investment is the lead government organisation that provides extensive support for UK companies looking to develop international business. It also provides support for overseas companies wishing to invest in the UK. UK Trade & Investment has a comprehensive range of export services, delivered by International Trade Advisers in the UK backed-up by a network of commercial officers at British Embassies worldwide who can provide a wide variety of services such as market intelligence, advice on regulations and practical support. Visit www.ukti.gov.uk

5. East of England Development Agency (EEDA) is the driving force behind sustainable economic regeneration in the East of England: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Its vision is to create a leading economy, founded on a world-class knowledge base, creativity and enterprise to improve the quality of life for all who live and work here. Visit www.eeda.org.uk

Shipping and logistics group sponsors international tennis

2010-07-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

Tim Ryan, Chairman of SaLSA, represnting Ryan Insurance, Digby Smith, Chairman of FLTA and Belinda Jarvis, representing Lloyds TSB

East Anglian based firms with expertise in shipping and logistics, who have come together to form the Shipping and Logistics Support Alliance (SaLSA) will be batting for British tennis this week as the lead sponsor of the 114th East of England Lawn Tennis Championships, held at Felixstowe Lawn Tennis Club (5 – 10 July).

The annual championships, part of the Aegon British Tour, are the highlight of the East of England tennis calendar, with British and international players who feature in the World’s top player rankings. Qualifying draws take place in the first part of the week with international players joining the main draw on Thursday.

Digby Smith, Chairman of the Felixstowe Lawn Tennis Club, said: “It’s fantastic to have the sponsorship backing of SaLSA, whose members are all working hard to promote the expertise we have in our region in shipping and logistics. They’ll be entertaining local business leaders at the tennis on Friday.”

SaLSA, which formed in 2009, is a non profit making alliance which delivers specialist advice and services to the shipping and logistics industry under the umbrella of one brand. Each member of the alliance is from a different sector, but can boast experience in the sector.

SaLSA currently has the following members: DPS Technology Group (Information Technology); Larking Gowen (Accountancy, Taxation and Business Advice); Lloyds TSB Commercial (Commercial banking and financial services); Project PR (PR and marketing); Ryan Insurance Group (Insurance Solutions and Risk Management): SOS-HR (HR and Health & Safety Advice) and Suffolk Offset (Design and Print).

See www.salsa.uk.net

Ends

For further press information contact:-

Helen Rudd at Project PR. Tel 01473 326405 / 07521318127 / Helen.rudd@projectpr.biz

Notes to Editors:

1. SALSA was formed as a non profit making alliance in April 2009 to create an alliance built around the unique attributes of each independent member. It is wholly owned and operated solely for the benefits of its members.

2. The principal objective of SALSA is to deliver specialist advice and services to the shipping and logistics industry through a programme of events and good communication from specialist providers.

3. The membership is currently made up of experts from a number of industry segments. The members are now as follows:

Ryan Insurance Group (Insurance and Risk Management)
SOS-HR (Training, HR and Health and Safety)
DPS Technology Group (IT)
Larking Gowen Chartered Accountants
Lloyds TSB Commercial (Banking Services)
Suffolk Offset (Design, plus Digital and Lithographic Printing)
Project PR (PR and Marketing)

4. SaLSA offers companies from the shipping and logistics industry improved trading efficiency, immediate access to a broad range of expertise, access to industry information and compliance, development of business opportunities and a good communication forum.

5. The SaLSA website is http://www.salsa.uk.net/

Surviving and Thriving with Social Media

2010-06-21T04:24:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered how your business can use Twitter, Facebook, Linked In and other social media platforms to your advantage?

At Project PR we have been using social media to benefit our client campaigns and to further our own business development for the past 18 months.

We're incredibly excited about the opportunities it presents to reach and (more importantly) directly engage with a wider audience.

So if you feel a little bit in the dark about social media, let us shed some light on the subject and explain how it could benefit your business. We're delighted that two of our clients will also attend to provide their insight.

Paul Winter, chief executive of Ipswich Building Society, and

Terry Baxter, chief executive of Ipswich Town Community Trust

This will be a no-nonsense look at why social media is relevant and how business and public sector organisations can use it, including practical case studies. We'll also include advice on managing your online reputation.

There'll be ample opportunity for questions and informal discussion.

Refreshments and a buffet lunch will be provided.

For further information

Please see our website www.projectpr.biz/events or telephone Amy Bullard at Project PR on 01473 326403

MP unveils affordable housing which is keeping village community together

2010-06-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

New affordable housing which is helping people to stay connected with the village they grew up in has been officially unveiled (Friday 11 June) by new Member of Parliament for West Suffolk, Matthew Hancock.

The ten affordable homes were built in the village of West Row near Mildenhall after Mildenhall Parish Council conducted a housing needs survey in conjunction with Forest Heath District Council, who both see the need for local people to be able to remain within their communities in housing they can afford.

The Parish Council commissioned landlord Havebury Housing Partnership to manage the development of the new homes and to ensure that they would be let to people in housing need with a connection to the local area, for example with local family or work ties.

A grant from the Government’s Housing Corporation of £795,000 was secured and the total cost was £1.2 million.

Matthew Hancock, Member of Parliament for West Suffolk, said: "I'm delighted to be opening these new homes at Cornflower Close in West Row. This sort of high quality, affordable housing, in keeping with the existing village, is exactly what we need in West Suffolk. It has been welcomed by the Parish Council, and will play an important part in making sure that good local housing is available for local people."

One of the new tenants of the homes in Cornflower Close is David Clarke, who has lived all his life in the area said: “This is like coming home for me, it means so much. The house is lovely and I have my daughter and grandson close by in the village to help me.”

Karen Mayhew, Chief Executive, Havebury Housing Partnership, said: “We were delighted to work with Forest Heath District Council and the Parish Council to provide these new homes which are helping to make a real difference to the lives of the new tenants.”

Marion Fairman-Smith, Member Champion for Housing, Forest Heath District Council, said: “This is a very welcome development for Forest Heath. As a rural authority it is vital that we can assist in the development of rural housing to allow people to stay in their communities. We are working with other parishes to help develop more rural housing schemes.”

Councillor David Ward from Mildenhall Parish Council, said: “Mildenhall Parish Council have been pleased to be involved in helping to establish this affordable housing which has enabled local residents to remain close to their families.”
The ten two-bedroom houses, which have been let at £85.85 per week, benefit from solar water heating, high levels (400mm) of roof insulation and other environmental features. Planning permission was granted for the project as an ‘exception’ site, built outside the village boundary, and the land was identified and purchased through Circle Anglia. Building contractor was Lovell.
Guests at the event included the new residents and members of Mildenhall Parish Council. After a tree planting and a look round the new homes guests enjoyed refreshments at West Row Village Hall.

Shipping and Logistics Support Alliance welcomes Project PR

2010-04-30T03:28:00.001-07:00

The Shipping & Logistics Support Alliance (SaLSA) has welcomed award winning Ipswich based PR agency Project PR as a new member of the alliance.

SaLSA, set up in April 2009, delivers specialist advice and services to the shipping and logistics industry under the umbrella of one brand. Each member of the alliance is from a different sector, but can boast experience in this unique industry.

Project PR will be represented on SaLSA by Account Director Helen Rudd (nee Sharkey) whose experience in the industry comes from her time in the Public Relations department at Hutchison Ports UK, where she undertook work for the Port of Felixstowe, Harwich International Port and Thamesport.

Project PR will aim to deliver specialist services in the areas of PR, Marketing and event management.

Chairman of SaLSA, Tim Ryan said: “We are delighted to have Project PR on board, allowing SaLSA to further expand the business support services that we can offer to the Shipping and Logistics industry.”

SaLSA is currently made up of the following members: Ryan Insurance Group, SOS-HR, DPS Technology Group, Larking Gowen, Lloyds TSB, Barker Gotelee and Suffolk Offset.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. SALSA was formed as a non profit making alliance in April 2009 to create an alliance built around the unique attributes of each independent member. It is wholly owned and operated solely for the benefits of its members.

2. The principal objective of SALSA is to deliver specialist advice and services to the shipping and logistics industry through a programme of events and good communication from specialist providers.

3. The membership is currently made up of experts from a number of industry segments. The members are now as follows:

• Ryan Insurance Group (Insurance and Risk Management)

• SOS-HR (Training, HR and Health and Safety)

• DPS Technology Group (IT)

• Larking Gowen Chartered Accountants

• Lloyds TSB Commercial (Banking Services)

• Suffolk Offset (Design, plus Digital and Lithographic Printing)

• Barker Gotelee (Solicitors)

• Project PR (PR and Marketing)

4. SaLSA offers companies from the shipping and logistics industry improved trading efficiency, immediate access to a broad range of expertise, access to industry information and compliance, development of business opportunities and a good communication forum.

5. The SaLSA website is http://www.salsa.uk.net/

FOUR NEW CLIENTS IN FIRST FOUR MONTHS!

2010-04-29T05:55:00.000-07:00

Ipswich PR agency Project PR has announced four new clients, which all have a Suffolk connection.
Independent cinema group Picturehouse Cinemas, which has just bought its first Suffolk cinema in Bury St Edmunds, animal bedding company Smartbedz based in Stowmarket, Ipswich based national social work company Sanctuary and cosmetic development laboratory Jarvis, based in Hadleigh, are new additions to Project PR’s client base.

Penny Arbuthnot, director of Project PR, commented: “The range of new clients we have won shows the extent of our flexibility and experience and sets our business up for a dynamic year.”

Project PR employs a team of six PR and marketing professionals and has built its success on delivering results for its many clients, who include Suffolk manufacturer Challs International, social landlord Havebury Housing Partnership, Ipswich Building Society, Christies Care and Ford Retail.

The company was recently named as 2009’s fourth most ‘awarded’ PR agency outside of London by The Drum magazine after winning six PR awards last year and a total of 16 industry awards since 2005.

See www.projectpr.biz

FAMILY FOCUS LEADS TO NATIONAL AWARD FOR IPSWICH OPTICIANS

2010-04-28T02:11:00.000-07:00

27 April 2010 Ipswich based Kite Opticians has proved it’s the best when it comes to family friendly services, scooping the top national title of ‘Family Optician of the Year’ in the Opticians Awards 2010.

The award was presented at the London Hilton Hotel on Park Lane (17 April) by comedian Marcus Brigstocke when the whole Kite Opticians team was present to pick up the title.

The judges were impressed by Kite’s commitment to providing a quality service to all members of the family across the age range.

Adrian Kite of Kite Opticians, said: “The award is recognition for all of our staff and of the service they provide to our clients. We have always sought to provide personal care and attention to everyone who visits us, young or old, ensuring they enjoy the very best in eye care. I am delighted with this achievement.”

The developments at the practice and the care and attention for clients appealing to young and old alike helped increase the number of new clients by 50% in 2008 and 17% in 2009, despite the recession. Turnover has also increased.

In many cases three generations of the same family regularly attend the practice for eye checks and specialist services have been established such as a reading difficulties clinic to help families establish whether any eye problems are affecting their children’s reading. In particular Kite Opticians is a specialist in colour overlay testing and colorimetry which can identify visual stress (‘Irlen’ syndrome), an often overlooked cause of reading problems.

For elderly clients Kite Opticians has easy access and the latest technology to monitor eye health. Home visits are also provided for those who find difficulty getting out.

Competition for the Optician of the Year Award was fierce and there were four other shortlisted practices from across the UK and Ireland for the ‘Family Optician of the Year’ title. Comedian Marcus Brigstocke is known from ‘Have I Got News for You’ and ‘QI’.

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Ref: KO 005

Photo Caption: Marcus Brigstocke, Christopher Kite, Dorothy Chilvers, Julie Parker, Christine Phasey, Adrian Kite, Darren Skipp (Commercial Director, Sight Care Group - Award Sponsor), Chris Bennett (Editor, Optician Magazine).

Notes to Editors

1. Kite Opticians is at 38, Berners Street, Ipswich IP1 3LU.
Telephone 01473 255250.
2. It is a family owned and run business established by Christopher Kite in 1977.
3. Adrian Kite (son of Christopher Kite) joined the business in 1999 after training at Cardiff University and Boots Opticians.
4. Adrian’s qualifications are BSc, MCOptom. He has 9 years' experience at Ipswich Hospital Eye Clinic (including the Childrens' Vision Clinic and specialist contact lens fitting).
5. Kite Opticians prides itself on providing a personal service to clients and has invested heavily in the latest technology for assessing eye health and visual ability.
6. Specialist services provided at Kite Opticians include digital retinal imaging, colour overlay and colorimetry testing and the prescribing of precision tinted lenses for those diagnosed with visual stress ('Irlen syndrome').

Public vote 3 to 1 in favour of 'Abbeygate Picturehouse' - live opera from The New York Met on 1st May

2010-04-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

The new owners of Bury St Edmunds’ oldest cinema say they have been ‘overwhelmed’ by the enthusiasm of the local community in voting for the name of their cinema in Hatter Street, which by popular vote will be called Abbeygate Picturehouse.

The cinema will re-open this week-end (30 April) after Picturehouse Cinemas completes the first stage of its major refurbishment programme, with a live opera performance by satellite from New York’s The Metropolitan Opera on Saturday 1st May. In a complete reinvention of what cinema goers usually expect, the group has installed luxury recliner seats and plush sofas in the two completely refurbished auditoria, with new digital screens and 3D.

Lyn Goleby, Managing Director of Picturehouse Cinemas, says: “We had over 200 replies to our request to help choose the name and three to one voted in favour of Abbeygate Picturehouse. We’ve now completed stage one in our transformation of the cinema and are thrilled to be screening live opera this Saturday which cinema goers can enjoy in the comfort and style of luxury new seats.”

Armida will be broadcast live by satellite in high definition direct from The Metropolitan Opera in New York at 6pm on Saturday 1st May at Abbeygate Picturehouse, Hatter Street, Bury St Edmunds. Tickets are £25. For bookings and details of membership offers telephone 0871 902 5722 or book online at

www.picturehouses.co.uk

Stage two of the refurbishment programme will focus on the café, foyer and exterior of the cinema. The café will be created in the adjacent Number 4 Hatter Street, with an upstairs private function room giving direct access to the cinema screens for parties and private events for members.

Apart from the luxurious comfort and style of the new Abbeygate Picturehouse, cinema goers will be able to enjoy a new range and variety of films and alternative arts including independent, foreign-language and art-house films from around the World.

Members of Picturehouse Cinemas will enjoy a range of offers and privileges. Lyn Goleby added: “We are delighted that people are already joining even though the cinema is still a building site.”

Renée Fleming stars in the title role of Rossini's version of Armida, the mythical story of a sorceress who enthrals men in her island prison. She stars opposite no fewer than six tenors including Lawrence Brownlee, Bruce Ford, José Manuel Zapata, Barry Banks, Kobie van Rensburg. The conductor is Riccardo Frizza.

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Ref: 003

Luxury for cinema goers: Local boys try out new sofas destined for Abbeygate Picturehouse in Hatter Street, which re-opens after refurbishment on 30 April.

Press Invite

You are invited to a re-opening party on Thursday 29 April starting at 6pm. At 6.45 pm there will be private screenings of The Hurt Locker (15), Winner of Best Picture and Best Director at the Oscars and The Secret in their eyes (18) winner of Best Foreign Language Film.

Further press information

For further press information about Picturehouse Cinemas in Bury St Edmunds please call:

Penny Arbuthnot, Project PR Tel 01473 326401 (07885 238374)

Penny@projectpr.biz

Or Amy Bullard, Project PR Tel 01473 326401

Picturehouse Cinemas Press Office: contact Gabriel Swartland on 020 7292 2165 or gabriel.s@picturehouses.co.uk.

Notes to Editors

Local poll to choose cinema name

The cinema, in Hatter Street in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, was to be called The Hatter Street Picturehouse, but an art gallery across the road is called just this, so the owners asked people to give their preference on one of two names for the cinema, either Bury St Edmunds Picturehouse or Abbeygate Picturehouse, due to its proximity to the town’s historic Abbey Gate, which dates from the 14th Century.

Background on Picturehouse Cinemas

1. Picturehouse Cinemas in Bury St Edmunds is at 4 Hatter Street Bury St Edmunds IP33 1NE. Telephone 0871 902 5722 or see www.picturehouses.co.uk or www.twitter.com/picturehouses

2. Screen 1 seats 120 and Screen 2 seats 70 and both auditoria have been completely refurbished in stage 1 with luxury recliner seats, sofas, 3D digital screens, new carpets and sound walling.

3. The adjacent Bingo Club is not affected by Picturehouses acquisition of the Hollywood Cinema.

4. As well as the Hollywood Cinema, Picturehouses has purchased number 4 Hatter Street, which will become a café, delicatessen and bistro.

5. This is Bury St Edmunds oldest cinema and there have been several owners since it first opened in 1924, most recently Hollywood Cinemas.

6. Picturehouse Cinemas is owned and operated by City Screen and is Britain’s largest circuit of independent cinemas.

7. Formed in 1989 to challenge the multiplex model, City Screen provides cinemas in city centre locations to serve local communities and offer a diverse choice of films and events.

8. City Screen runs 19 cinemas and programmes a further 30 independently operated venues, drawing on over 18 years’ experience in tailoring diverse and commercially successful content spanning arthouse, independent, classic, world and Hollywood cinema.

9. Each cinema is programmed in response to its local audience, and most venues have mainstream blockbusters and quality crossover titles in the mix.

10. City Screen prides itself on being at the forefront of digital cinema and other business and technological developments. These have included live cinecasts of filmmaker Q&As, comedy, music, and productions from the New York Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House and the National Theatre, broadcast to audiences throughout the UK.

11. The group opened its first cinema the Phoenix in Oxford which was bought as a going concern when the previous owners retired. In 1992 it opened its first custom-built cinema, Clapham Picturehouse, and since then has grown steadily through a mixture of new builds and acquisitions, particularly in university cities such as Oxford, Cambridge, London, Brighton and York

12. Central to the company philosophy is maintaining the individuality of each cinema.

13. Other features are:

a. building architecturally interesting cinemas in city centre locations

b. providing cafe-bars as an integral part of the cinema going experience

c. employing staff who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about film

d. providing printed programmes and online communications which inform, educate and encourage planned entertainment

e. running a cinema membership scheme and clubs involving diverse groups such as children, new parents and the elderly

f. generating and partnering on educational work and courses which develop appreciation and understanding of film

PROJECT PR RANKS WITH THE BEST IN THE UK

2010-04-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

08 April 2010: Suffolk PR agency Project PR has been recognised as one of the best PR agencies in the UK after national industry magazine The Drum named it as the fourth most awarded PR agency outside of London in 2009.

Project PR won four Gold and two Silver awards in the annual Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards for East Anglia in 2009, more than any other agency in this region. The company’s success led to its high ranking amongst PR firms nationally. Over the past five years the agency has won a total of 16 nationally recognised PR industry awards.

“It was quite a surprise to us and a fantastic accolade for the team here that we were ranked alongside some of the world’s largest PR agencies such as Weber Shandwick, who were placed third. Winning industry awards has certainly helped us to gain recognition for our PR work both locally and nationally and we very much look forward to further success with our clients in 2010,” said Penny Arbuthnot, Director at Project PR.

Project PR employs a team of six PR and marketing professionals and has built its success on delivering results for its many local and national clients, who include Ford Retail, Suffolk manufacturer Challs International, Ipswich Building Society, social landlord Havebury Housing Partnership and live-in care agency Christies Care.

In the CIPR Pride Awards 2009 Project PR won Gold, the top award, for four specific categories: Consumer PR; Best Use of Social Media; Not for profit PR and Outstanding Young Communicator which was awarded to Project PR’s Account Director Helen Sharkey. It won silver in the ‘Outstanding Public Relations Consultancy’ and ‘Best Use of Media Relations’ categories.

The survey by Drum Magazine looked at all the industry awards schemes entered by agencies outside of London in order to identify 2009’s most decorated agencies. Project PR was ranked fourth for the number of PR awards won. See www.thedrum.co.uk/mostawarded/2010

For more information about Project PR see www.projectpr.biz

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Council leaders to speak up for the East of England

2010-03-26T03:42:00.000-07:00

The 52 council leaders and elected mayors in the East of England have formed a new organisation to speak up for the people and local communities they represent.

The East of England LGA will campaign on behalf of the people who live and work in the region, ensuring their voice is heard in Westminster and Whitehall. It will also provide a wide range of quality and cost effective services to local authorities.

Under current legislation, the East of England LGA will also constitute the statutory regional “Leaders’ Board” and have responsibilities for regional strategic planning and economic development, in conjunction with the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), as part of the new Regional Strategy Board (See Notes to Editors).

East of England LGA Chairman Cllr Robert Gordon said: “We all know that the next few years are bound to bring substantial challenges for local government, particularly with the anticipated constraints on public spending. I want the regional LGA to be a forum through which its members can identify and share best practice for the benefit of the people and communities we all serve.

“It will concentrate its work in areas where, by working together, we can add value for our member councils and it will speak up for the people and communities we represent, ensuring that local government has an effective voice.

“As the first Chairman of the East of England LGA, I look forward to working with councils of all political parties (and none) in promoting and enhancing our role as the democratic voice of the region.

“We will also have to be ready to adapt should the outcome of the general election bring further changes to the regional architecture.”

The East of England LGA is a new voluntary and independent association set up by the 52 local authorities in the region following the abolition of the East of England Regional Assembly in March 2010.

The Management Committee of the East of England LGA consists of:

• Cllr Robert Gordon (Chairman, Conservative), Leader of Hertfordshire County Council

• Cllr William Nunn (Vice-Chairman, Conservative), Leader of Breckland District Council

• Cllr Ian Nimmo-Smith (Group Leader, Liberal Democrat), Leader of Cambridge City Council

• Cllr Roy Davis (Group Leader, Labour), Deputy Leader of Luton Borough Council

• Cllr Garry Hague (Conservative), Leader of Thurrock Council

Further information about the East of England LGA will be available from the 31st March 2010 at www.eelga.gov.uk when the new website goes live.

Ends

Notes to Editors:

For further information, photographs of the Management Committee or to arrange an interview with an East of England LGA spokesperson, please contact:

Stephen Hinchley - Tel: 01284 729430, Mob: 07710 312237

Claire Sefton - Tel: 01284 729427 Mob: 07920 257940

East of England Local Government Association

1. The East of England LGA is an independent organisation representing the 52 local authorities in the East of England and the regional interests of people living and working in the East of England.

2. The Association is governed by the 52 council leaders and elected mayors. Its meetings are open to the media and general public.

3. Under current legislation, the East of England LGA also constitutes the statutory regional “Leaders’ Board” with responsibilities for regional strategic planning and economic development in conjunction with the East of England Development Agency (EEDA).

Regional Strategy Board

The Regional Strategy Board is the partnership arrangement agreed between Local Government in the East of England and the East of England Development Agency (EEDA). The Regional Strategy Board provides leadership to the region on the preparation and delivery of a Regional Strategy and accountability to the region through the East of England LGA and EEDA. Further information is available at www.eelga.gov.uk/regional-strategy

East of England LGA Management Committee

Cllr Robert Gordon (Chairman), Conservative, 01992 556582

Cllr William Nunn (Vice-Chairman), Conservative, 07766 814214

Cllr Ian Nimmo-Smith (Group Leader), Liberal Democrat, 01223 577257

Cllr Roy Davis (Group Leader), Labour, 01582 730939

Cllr Garry Hague, Conservative, 01375 652099

Family focus puts opticians in line for national award

2010-03-12T03:09:00.000-08:00

Ipswich based Kite Opticians has been named as a finalist for the ‘Family Optician of the Year’ award as a result of its family friendly focus.

The practice has many long-standing clients who have entrusted the health of their eyes to Kites for thirty years or more and whose children and grandchildren have also become clients. In many cases three generations of the same family regularly attend for eye checks.

Kite Opticians’ highly professional approach has led to the establishment of a reading difficulties clinic to help families establish whether any eye problems are affecting their children’s reading. In particular Kite Opticians is a specialist in colour overlay testing and colorimetry which can identify visual stress (‘Irlen’ syndrome), an often overlooked cause of reading problems.

The practice also introduced a new range of child-friendly features to eye care including colouring packs and toys while children wait, favourite cartoon characters on eye test charts and a child friendly dispensing area with toddler to teenager frame designs.

For elderly clients Kite Opticians has easy access, a disabled toilet and the latest technology to monitor eye health. Unhurried thoroughness of examinations has led to great loyalty from the clients. A partnership with a hearing care specialist allows people to have a hearing test at the practice when they visit if they wish. Home visits are also provided for those who find difficulty getting out.

The final aspect to impress judges was Kite Opticians’ community involvement, which over the past year has included sponsorship of Team Ipswich and an archery tournament as well as involvement with local schools.

The developments at the practice and the care and attention for clients appealing to young and old alike helped increase the number of new clients by 50% in 2008 and 17% in 2009, despite the recession. Turnover has also increased.

Adrian Kite of Kite Opticians, said:" The Optician awards are very strongly contended from every part of the UK, so it is a real honour to have made the final. It is our approach of personal care and attention in looking after every member of the family's eyes that has resulted in this recognition. What’s really pleasing is the wonderful reaction we’ve had to the news from our clients.”

The final judging required testimonials to be supplied by existing clients.

He added: “The support we had from our clients is testament to the dedicated team we have here who go the extra mile in ensuring everyone who visits us, young or old, enjoy the very best in eye care. I had a warm glow after reading the lovely comments made about us!"

The Family Optician of the Year Award is a category in the national Optician Awards 2010. Kite Opticians will be attending the presentation ceremony at The Hilton, Park Lane in London on 17 April. Four other family based opticians from around the UK have also been short-listed.

Ends

10 tips to networking success

2010-03-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

At the networking event which I attended this morning, (Refer-on, Felixstowe) we had a 30min session on the above topic, and I thought I’d share it with all of you!

1. Plan ahead – get the attendee list and make a not of who you intend to chat to

2. Be early – if the attendee lists aren’t available pre-event, this gives you a chance to do the above.

3. Be regular – as your face becomes more familiar, people will gravitate towards you and will be able to match the face to the name

4. Have a tale / story – keep it relevant i.e a similar client or some interesting success you have had recently

5. Meet, greet and move on – don’t spend any longer than you need to with one person. Try to meet 5-7 strangers in each session

6. Effective 60seconds – make sure you take advantage of your chance to make a first impression

7. Volunteer – offer to do a talk at another session, or write the minutes, or provide the lap top – it makes you look professional, helpful and enthusiastic

8. Giving is best – be the first to suggest exchanging business cards, or meeting up for a coffee – don’t expect that it’s coming

9. Have a 1:1 – either after the meeting, or another day

10. Follow up – if you say you will email or call, then do. It makes you look credible and trustworthy.

A final thought…………..”People buy from people they know, like and trust!”

Good luck in your networking endeavours!

Helen

Ipswich Building Society reports on a very good 160th year

2010-03-01T08:26:00.001-08:00

1 March 2010

Ipswich Building Society members will from today start receiving details of the Society’s results for 2009.

Despite the turmoil in the financial services industry and the very difficult conditions of the UK recession the Society has announced a strong set of results.

Highlights include

• Total Asset growth of 9% to £462 million

• Mortgage lending of £76 million

• Net savings inflow of £24 million

Commenting on the results, Paul Winter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society, said: “The confidence and trust our customers have shown have been essential to Ipswich Building Society’s success during a period when many other financial institutions have suffered. We have achieved this through taking our responsibility to our customers and to our wider community seriously and through our continual focus on quality of service and innovative, competitive products.”

Further details of the Society’s achievements will be given at the Society’s AGM on 24th March.

Ends

Ref: IBS 025-10

For further press information please contact:

Penny Arbuthnot, Project PR

Tel: 01473 326401 (07885 238374)

Email: penny.arbuthnot@projectpr.biz

Twitter: www.twitter.com/IpswichBuildSoc

Notes to editors:

1. Ipswich Building Society is hosting a media lunch on Thursday 4th March, 12.30pm – 2pm. If you have not already confirmed your attendance and you would like to attend please contact Penny Arbuthnot at Project PR on 01473 326401.

2. Ipswich Building Society has approximately 65,000 members and currently has over 80,000 savings accounts and over 5,000 mortgage accounts.

3. The Society’s head office is at 24, The Havens, Ipswich IP3 9SJ where there is also a contact centre.

4. There are nine branches across Suffolk in Aldeburgh, Saxmundham, Halesworth, Woodbridge, Tower Ramparts Ipswich, Ravenswood Ipswich, Hadleigh, Haverhill and Sudbury.

5. 80% of the Society’s members live in the East of England with the remainder living across the UK.

6. Ipswich Building Society was established in 1849 and celebrated the 160th anniversary of its formation in 2009.

7. See www.ibs.co.uk or www.twitter.com/IpswichBuildSoc

Regional Director of Homes and Communities Agency to open 30 affordable homes in Bury St Edmunds

2010-01-29T08:23:00.000-08:00

Date: Monday 1st February 2010

Time: 9.30am unveiling of plaque, followed by a look round new homes (residents have already moved in)

Venue: Maundy Close Bury St Edmunds IP33 3NT

Who: Terry Fuller, Regional Director, Homes and Communities Agency, Steve Cook, Chief Executive, Havebury Housing Partnership, Councillor Ann Gower, St Edmundsbury Borough Council

Contact: Penny Arbuthnot, Project PR

Terry Fuller, Regional Director, Homes and Communities Agency will officially unveil a £4 million, 30 home development in Bury St Edmunds which has transformed a run down area of the town and was completed well ahead of schedule.

‘Maundy Close’ was named to celebrate the Queen’s visit to St Edmundsbury Cathedral in 2009 to distribute Maundy Money to local residents. The development has transformed the area, where eight poor standard 1930’s flats were demolished to make way for the 30 new homes. They help relieve the pressure for more affordable housing where house prices are amongst the highest in the region.

Chief Executive of Havebury Steve Cook, said: “Nearly 2,000 people are currently on the register for an affordable home home in this area so building new homes is something we care about doing and doing it well. These homes are part of a much larger programme to help the desperate need for affordable homes and we have managed to complete them well ahead of schedule.”

Cllr John Griffiths, Leader of St Edmundsbury Borough Council, said:

“I am delighted that these properties are already providing a home for local people and that they are bringing new life into the area. We will continue to look at every opportunity to develop more affordable housing.”

The new homes at Maundy Close have been built to comply with Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, a new mandatory standard which measures the environmental impact of new builds in nine different areas of sustainability using a rating of one to six, with six being the highest. The areas assessed include energy efficiency and CO² emissions, building materials and water usage.

Green features of the properties include high levels of wall, floor and roof insulation, low energy light fittings and solar thermal panels to provide up to 60 per cent of hot water needs.

The development was funded with the help of a £1.15m grant from the Homes and Communities Agency and built by Baker Construction.

There are a total of 30 properties on the development.

• New homes at 1-15 Maundy Close comprise of six, two bedroom houses; six, three bedroom houses and two, four bedroom houses.

• At 84 to 94 Out Westgate there are 16 new flats comprising 12, two bedroom flats and four, one bedroom flats.

Plan to succeed with Social Media

2010-01-15T06:16:00.000-08:00

‘Facebook’, ‘Twitter’, ‘LinkedIn’, ‘Delicious’, ‘Flickr’, ‘Digg’ - the list goes on… You may have heard these words being increasingly used either by the press or by friends and colleagues, but how much do you actually know about what they do?

These are not simply a random collection of strange nouns and phrases, but are some of the most influential Social Media platforms to hit our computer screens this decade.

People have been using them for years to communicate with long lost friends and family, share news and photos or to plan their holidays, but it is only relatively recently that businesses have started to think about how they can use social media to their own advantage.

As well as providing additional platforms to promote your products or services, social media is a great way of giving your customers or potential customers an insight into your business and communicating with key stakeholders in an open and transparent way.

The key to utilising social media effectively, is to plan your online activities the same way that you would plan any new PR campaign or project. Identifying which platforms are relevant to your business and who you need to communicate with is essential – many businesses who state that social media has not ‘worked’ for them, have simply been going about it in the wrong way.

Neglecting to plan strategically will likely lead to wasted time and effort so it’s important to step back and think about what you hope to achieve and where you should channel your efforts. For example, if your business wants to promote retirement homes for the elderly, there is not much point engaging in Bebo – a social networking site used predominantly by 14 to 17 year olds.

As the winners of the 2009 CIPR PRide award for Best Use of Social Media, Project PR in Ipswich is perfectly placed to advise on all aspects of social media and to propel your business forward into the world of digital PR.

SUFFOLK EMPLOYEE NAMED AS EAST ANGLIA’S YOUNG COMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR

2009-12-21T04:17:00.000-08:00

21 December 2009: Suffolk has notched up another first, with Helen Sharkey, an employee at PR agency Project PR being named as East Anglia’s ‘Young Communicator of the Year’ for 2009 by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.

Helen, who is 26 and from Felixstowe, was nominated for the award by her bosses at Project PR and her entry was endorsed by some of her clients, including East of England Regional Assembly (EERA). The judging process included a panel interview with three of the region’s most experienced PR experts, beating off stiff competition from five other finalists to scoop the top prize.

Judges selected Helen for her maturity and confidence as an excellent PR Account Manager. They said: “We were very impressed with Helen’s enthusiasm, attention to detail, passion for making a difference, desire to deliver the best possible results for her clients and breadth of work. She is without doubt a first class strategic thinker and an outstanding team player.”

Penny Arbuthnot, Director of Project PR added: “Helen’s results have been remarkable, yet she constantly strives for further improvement with each client, analysing and forward planning and using her excellent writing and media skills to best advantage. Helen is an outstanding young communicator on every front and we are thrilled she has won this award.”

Helen added: “I am shocked but excited and proud to have won the award which tops off what has been a great year for me. I really enjoy what I do, I have some great clients and am lucky to have a great team to work with at Project PR.”

Helen began her PR career working for Hutchison Ports UK as Corporate Affairs Officer based at the Port of Felixstowe. She joined Project PR in 2008 and has since been promoted to Account Manager. Her award was presented by Chartered Institute of Public Relations President Kevin Taylor on 7th December at the SAS Radisson hotel at Stansted. Over 120 PR practitioners from around the region attended the ceremony.

See www.projectpr.biz for further information about Project PR.

Ends

For further information please contact:

Helen Sharkey or Penny Arbuthnot at Project PR on 01473 326 401 (07885 238374)

Notes to Editors

1. Project PR and Marketing Ltd is based at: The Coach House, Reed Hall, Ipswich Road, Holbrook, Ipswich IP9 2QR. See www.projectpr.biz

2. The company was established in 1996 by Penny Arbuthnot and has grown to be a leading PR agency in the region now employing 6 staff.

3. In the 2009 CIPR Pride Awards for East Anglia Project PR won four Gold awards for Best Not-for-profit campaign (TBG Learning); Best Consumer Campaign (Ford Retail), Best Use of Social Media (Buster brand/National Plughole Week) and Best Young Communicator (Helen Sharkey). It also won two Silver awards for ‘Consultancy of the Year’ and ‘Best Use of Media Relations (Buster brand/National Plughole Week) .

4. In the 2007 Chartered Institute of Public Relations Pride awards Project PR won ‘Outstanding Small Consultancy’. It also won three further Gold awards for Consumer Relations (PR for the Ford Retail group of 55 dealerships); Best Website (for the Team Ipswich website) and Integrated Communications (a joint entry with Suffolk manufacturer Challs International).

5. Project PR works with a mix of private and public sector organisations handling local and national PR and marketing programmes.

Suffolk PR firm donates services to charity

2009-12-14T03:56:00.000-08:00

Suffolk PR consultancy Project PR has adopted Ipswich Town Community Trust as its charity for 2010. The company will be donating its PR and media relations services to help build understanding of the Trust’s wide ranging work.

Penny Arbuthnot, Director of Project PR, says: “What struck me about the Community Trust is that it is carrying out some inspirational educational work with children and young people, although it’s currently known mainly for its soccer courses through the Ipswich Town link. As a company we like to put something back into our community and we’re delighted to help by giving our PR services to the Trust in 2010.”

Terry Baxter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Town Community Trust, said: “We are delighted to be offered this support by Penny and the team at Project PR who bring PR expertise and valuable extra resource. It’s given us a fantastic boost to our plans for 2010.”

Project PR will be helping to re-launch the Community Trust to the public, business, schools and the media. As well as free PR support it has donated £350 in cash in place of sending Christmas Cards to clients this year.

Ipswich Town Community Trust was established by Ipswich Town Football Club in 1996 to provide football in the community but since then has developed a much wider role. Over the past year more than 60,000 people have taken part in activities, which aim to raise achievement levels and promote active and healthy lifestyles, primarily through the medium of sport.

Project PR is one of East Anglia’s leading PR agencies and won four Gold and two Silver Awards in the 2009 Chartered Institute of Public Relations Pride Awards for East Anglia – more than any other PR agency or organisation in the region. See www.projectpr.biz

SUFFOLK PR FIRM WINS QUADRUPLE GOLD

2009-12-10T06:29:00.000-08:00

10 December 2009: Suffolk PR agency Project PR flew the flag for Suffolk when it won four Gold and two Silver awards in the annual Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) East Anglia PRide Awards for 2009, held on 7th December at the SAS Radisson Hotel in Stansted. The team of six won more awards than any of the other 24 PR agencies and in-house PR teams from around the East Anglia region who were finalists.

Project PR won Gold, the top award, for three specific categories: Not for Profit (PR for national skills provider TBG Learning), Consumer Relations (PR for Ford Retail’s 40 dealerships around the UK) and Best Use of Social Media (for Suffolk manufacturer Challs International and their Buster brand of plughole care products).

The fourth Gold was awarded to Project PR’s Account Manager Helen Sharkey, who won ‘Outstanding Young Communicator of the Year’, beating off stiff competition from five other young PR professionals from across East Anglia who had been shortlisted for the award.

The culmination of the evening was the presentation of the ‘Outstanding Public Relations Consultancy’ Award for the top PR agency in the region, with Project PR winning Silver. The company also won Silver for Best Use of Media Relations (for the Buster brand PR campaign).

“Our success is testament to the great team here at Project PR. Two years ago we won ‘Outstanding Small Consultancy’ and we have achieved even more since then. We are continually developing our business and we very much look forward to further success with our clients in 2010,” said Penny Arbuthnot, director at Project PR.

During 2009 Project PR won several high profile new clients, including Ipswich Building Society, East of England International and Christies Care. The agency has built its success on providing a highly proactive and strategic approach to PR and has established many long term relationships with national and locally based clients including Ford Retail, Havebury Housing Partnership, and the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA).

The CIPR Awards showcase the best PR work being carried out across the UK outside of London. There are 24 award categories and the judging process is rigorous, with a national panel of industry experts who asses the shortlisted entries and choose the winners.

This year the PRide Awards attracted a total of 1,448 entries from across the UK.

Ends

For further information please contact:

Penny Arbuthnot at Project PR on 01473 326 401 (07885 238374)

Note to editors:

Project PR and Marketing Ltd is based at: The Coach House, Reed Hall, Ipswich Road, Holbrook, Ipswich IP9 2QR. See http://www.projectpr.biz/

The company was established in 1996 by Penny Arbuthnot and has grown to be a leading PR agency in the region now employing 6 staff.

Project PR won the special award for Outstanding Small Consultancy in the 2007 Chartered Institute of Public Relations Pride awards. It also won three further Gold awards for Consumer Relations (PR for the Ford Retail group of 55 dealerships); Best Website (for the Team Ipswich website) and Integrated Communications (a joint entry with Suffolk manufacturer Challs International).

Project PR works with a mix of private and public sector organisations handling local and national PR and marketing programmes.

NEW CLUB WILL provide support for local businesses to improve environmental performance

2009-12-07T01:53:00.000-08:00

In a bid to help small businesses in the region save money and reduce their environmental impact, Resource Efficiency East (REE) has created the ‘EMS Club’, which will provide companies with practical help and guidance on implementing an Environmental Management System (EMS). The aim of an EMS is to help cut waste and reduce the use of water, energy and raw materials, and so making financial savings as a result.
One hundred small companies from across the region will be able to benefit from a series of practical workshops run by the EMS Club from February to November 2010. One-to-one support provided by the club will help participating businesses assess the priority areas within their organisation in which an EMS would provide the best results for cost savings.

The EMS club will be free to eligible businesses in Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire and the workshops will run at venues spread across the region, making travel times as short as possible.

Antony Gough, Director of Resource Efficiency East, says: “The EMS Club will really benefit smaller companies for whom an Environmental Management System would result in both cost savings and a reduction in their impact on the environment, but who don’t know how to get started. It will be run by experienced professionals who’ll be able to share straightforward and workable ideas.”

To register your interest in the EMS Club visit the Resource Efficiency East website at http://www.resourceefficiencyeast.org.uk/the-ems-club.asp

The EMS Club is part of a programme run by Resource Efficiency East, which has a target to help businesses save £3.5 million and significantly reduce their CO2 emissions by making savings in energy and water usage and diverting waste from landfill. Funding for the programme has come from the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and the European Regional Development Fund.

-Ends-

For further information please contact Helen Sharkey, Account Manager at Project PR on 01473 326405 or Helen.sharkey@projectpr.biz

Notes to editors:

Background information on Resource Efficiency East
Resource Efficiency East is a £2.1 million co-funded programme that runs until 2011 and is managed by Renewables East. The programme is jointly funded by the East of England Development Agency and the European Regional Development Fund to deliver specialist advice, guidance and support on how businesses in the East of England can improve their resource efficiency and realise the business benefits that result.

Resource Efficiency East delivers these services as part of Improving Your Resource Efficiency, one of a suite of publicly funded business support products and services in the Solutions for Business Portfolio; services designed to help businesses start, grow and succeed.

Resource Efficiency East has already provided over 200 companies with a free on-site Business Resource Review that includes a bespoke report and action plan helping to identify opportunities to become more efficient and cut costs through reduced use of water, energy and materials.

The programme aims to help businesses in the East of England save over £3.5 million, whilst significantly reducing CO2 emissions, energy and water usage and diverting waste from landfill.

Background information on Renewables East
Renewables East is a private and not-for-profit company delivering the services associated with being the renewable energy agency for the East of England. The Company is core-funded by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and officially designated as an EEDA partner organisation. Renewables East’s primary work areas are Bioenergy (Biomass and Biofuels,) Offshore/Onshore Wind, Planning, Supply Chain Development and the on-site renewables agenda. In 2008 Renewables East was given responsibility for the development and delivery of Resource Efficiency East, the East of England’s first region-wide resource efficiency programme for businesses.

Treat your plugholes to a happy Christmas

2009-12-03T03:43:00.000-08:00

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me…….a blocked drain! Thames Water estimates that Christmas leads to a 25% increase in the amount of fat ending up down the drain from turkeys and other rich foods. The water company says that carelessly disposed of fat causes more than 60% of the 70,000 sewer blockages it clears annually.

Make sure your festive celebrations aren’t ruined by a blocked, pongy kitchen sink and treat your plugholes to a Christmas present of their own in the shape of Buster Kitchen Plughole Unblocker! With six doses in a bottle its good value too at £3.29 (RRP) especially when you compare it to the horrid expense of an emergency call out for drain unblocking, costing over £100.

Grease and fat from festive favourites like turkey, roast potatoes and chipolatas solidifies when it hits cold pipes, restricting water flow and making our sinks drain slowly. Independent tests show that Buster Kitchen Plughole Unblocker’s specially formulated granules beat all other leading brands to blast through difficult to shift kitchen blockages – something which bleach and liquid unblockers just can’t do.

The build up of grease also creates the perfect breeding ground for nasty germs such as salmonella, which multiply to cause unpleasant smells. So why not treat your kitchen plughole to a regular sprinkle of Buster Kitchen Plughole & Sink Treatment. Let its effective foaming action work some Christmas magic, cleansing the whole pipe, killing germs and keeping your plughole clear and fresh like a perfect winter’s day!

Buster is stocked in Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Wilkinson, Morrisons and independent hardware stores. Visit www.plugholesneedlovetoo.com

Care agency says proposals are a 'stepping stone'

2009-11-19T06:12:00.000-08:00

The managing director of a Saxmundham care agency has given a cautious welcome to the proposals in yesterday’s (18th November) Queen’s speech regarding social care.

The Personal Care at Home Bill has proposed to offer free personal care to those with critical needs, such as those with serious dementia or Parkinson’s Disease.

Nicola Warner, managing director of Christies Care, a specialist provider of 24 hour live-in care said: “We welcome this proposal, which levels the playing field between those who prefer care at home and those in a care home who already receive free personal care, paid for by the NHS. With that guarantee of costs being met, we think that thousands of people will be able to stay at home for much longer than before, enjoying their remaining years in the familiar surroundings or their own home”

She continued: “These proposals, although limited to only those with ‘critical’ needs, are a stepping stone to offering elderly people the dignity of remaining in familiar, comfortable surroundings. We support any proposal which highlights the option of live-in care as a genuine alternative to residential or nursing homes.”

Nicola finished by adding; “The current information and advice about how people can receive funding towards their care costs are often confusing. We would welcome clearer guidance for the millions of people needing social care.”

For more information about Christies Care, telephone 0844 477 6460 or visit www.christiescare.com or www.twitter.com/ChristiesCare

Suffolk care agency responds to report by Alzheimer's Society

2009-11-17T06:08:00.000-08:00

A leading care agency has responded to a report published today (17th November) by the Alzheimer’s Society, highlighting how poor hospital care can have negative impacts upon those suffering from dementia.

Research undertaken by the Society has shown that the majority of those with dementia leave hospital in a worse state than when they arrive, whilst a third of all patients are discharged to care homes, unable to return to their own homes.

Christies Care, a specialist care agency based in Saxmundham, has responded to the Alzheimer’s Society’s calls for further training for carers, after 77% of carers suggested they were disappointed with the quality of care for their dementia patients.

Nicola Warner, managing director of Christies Care said: “It is frightening that many nurses and carers are not receiving proper guidance and training before working with those suffering from dementia related illnesses. The quality of care plays a big part in how patients respond to treatment, so it is vital that nurses and carers are fully prepared.”

The care agency has also criticised the statistics indicating that 36% of dementia patients are unable to return home after deteriorating in hospital due to poor care. Christies Care has called for a higher awareness of 24 hour live-in care as an alternative to care or residential homes.

Nicola added; “Research has shown that those with dementia need the benefits of familiar surroundings, to prevent the illness worsening. Currently, there is a lack of awareness of the viability of 24hour live-in care, but it is a fantastic alternative to those who wish to remain comfortable in their own home.”

Christies Care currently has over 80 clients, with various stages of dementia related illnesses, who live in their own homes and have a care assistant 24 hours of the day.

Their investment in dementia training for their carers, including introductory and advanced workshops, culminating in an exam externally marked and accredited by The Alzheimer’s Society, has seen them shortlisted for the Training and Development Award at the 2009 Anglian Business Awards.

For more information about Christies Care, telephone 0844 477 6460 or visit www.christiescare.com or www.twitter.com/ChristiesCare

Just one week left to drop off showboxes for 'Operation Christmas Child"!

2009-11-11T03:35:00.000-08:00

Car dealerships across the UK are being turned into a Santa’s Grotto in aid of a charitable campaign which sends present-filled shoeboxes to needy children in developing countries.

Polar Ford, Brunel Ford, Heartlands Ford and Dagenham Motors dealerships are all designated drop off points for the 2009 “Operation Christmas Child” shoebox appeal.

The appeal encourages people to send some festive cheer to children less fortunate than most, across the world.Run in conjunction with the Samaritans Purse charity, “Operation Christmas Child” entails filling shoeboxes with toys and gifts to send to children around the world in hospitals, orphanages, refugee camps, homeless shelters and impoverished neighbourhoods.

A spokesperson for Ford Retail, which owns each of the dealerships, said: “This is the third year that we have taken part in the appeal. Last year the Group collected over 10,000 shoeboxes, each wrapped in Christmas paper and filled with small toys, crayons, clothes and sweets, and this year we are aiming to collect even more. It’s an extremely worthwhile cause and we are looking forward to taking part again this year.”

How to pack your shoebox:
Remember to make your box both fun and educational!
All shoebox items should be new and can contain gifts such as:

Toys: Bear, soft toy, tennis ball, finger puppet, jigsaw, yo-yo, building blocks, small musical instrument. For boys trucks and cars, for girls dolls, clip on earrings etc.

Educational supplies: Felt pens, pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, eraser, colouring book, notepad, picture or puzzle book, chalk, pencil case, stickers etc.

Hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, comb, hair clips, bar of soap, flannel etc.

Other items: Sweets (sell by date to be at least March of the following year), gloves, scarf, sunglasses, cap, hat, bangles, necklaces etc.

Shoeboxes can be dropped off at your nearest showroom until Wednesday 18th November!

For further information about the campaign and what items to include in your shoeboxes, please visit www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk or contact the dealership using the details below:

Dagenham Motors:
319 The Hyde, Edgware Road, London, NW9 6TH. Tel: 0208 358 8600
Baker Street, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 2DZ. Tel: 01707 652219720
Great Cambridge Road, Enfield, Middlesex, EN1 5DU. Tel: 0208 884 7800268
London Road, Staines, Middlesex, TW18 4JQ. Tel: 01784 466 666
374 Ealing Road, Alperton, Middlesex, HA0 1HG. Tel: 0208 997 338851
Stamford Hill, London, N16 5TB. Tel: 0208 826 2200357
Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 8PE. Tel: 0208 498 9848719-727
London Road, Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 1SE. Tel: 0208 814 460020-40
East Street, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 1HF. Tel: 01372 804 000
Portsmouth Road, Thames Ditton, Kingston, Surrey, KT7 0EG. Tel: 0208 339 3514
Brighton Road, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 1BS. Tel: 01737 352 202
97 Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 1JJ. Tel: 01932 864244
Wintersells Road, Byfleet, Surrey, KT14 7LF. Tel: 01932 332933
Guildford Road, Bookham, Surrey, KT23 4HY. Tel: 0208 814 4600

Ripple Road, Barking, Essex, IG11 9PG. Tel: 0208 911 3333
Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park, Ilford, IG2 7EE. Tel: 0208 597 3331
161-169 Pier Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME7 1AF259. Tel: 01634 283400
Plaistow Road, London, E15 3EU. Tel: 0208 534 76612
Fiveways, Sidcup Road, Eltham, London, SE9 3AQ. Tel: 0208 860 1266
1 Ballard Business Park, Cuxton Road, Strood, Kent, ME2 2NY. Tel: 01634 712600

Unit 1, Waltham Park Way, Billet Road, Walthamstow, E17 5DU. Tel: 0208 556 1521
Redburn Industrial Estate, Woodhall Road, Ponders End, Enfield, EN3 4LE. Tel: 0208 804 2489

Dagenham Motors CV:
Dawley Road, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 1EH. Tel: 0208 561 8888
51-53 River Road, Barking, Essex, IG11 0SW. Tel: 0208 477 4000
Cuton Hall Lane, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 6PB. Tel: 01245 235400

Polar Ford:
Canal Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 4SR. Tel: 01274 756200
Calder Island Way Denby Dale Road, Wakefield, WF2 7AW. Tel: 01924 290290
Wakefield Road, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S71 1NF. Tel: 01226 732732
Junction 32, M62, Park Road, Castleford, West Yorkshire, WF10 4RJ. Tel: 01977 603644
St Andrews Road, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 6NA. Tel: 01484 290022

Winwick Road, Warrington, Cheshire, WA2 7NY. Tel: 01925 651111
Victoria Road, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 5SP. Tel: 01928 574333
Wellington Road, North Stockport, SK4 2PE. Tel: 0161 975 5500
Sherdley Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA9 5AD. Tel: 01744 610600
60 Buxton Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 6AF. Tel: 0161 483 9431
A34 Bypass, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1AE. Tel: 01625 257 777

Brunel Ford:
Winterstoke Road, Bristol, BS23 2LB. Tel: 0117 908 9999
175 Muller Road, Horfield, Bristol, Bs7 9RD. Tel: 0117 951 3333
Winterstoke Road, Weston Super Mare, N. Somerset, BS23 3YE. Tel: 01934 415511

Heartlands Ford:
971 Kingsbury Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 9QB. Tel: 0121 377 3000
Saxon Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7HD. Tel: 01827 306700
Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham, B42 2SP. Tel: 0121 344 5252

1) Operation Christmas Child is the world's largest children's Christmas project. Since 1990 the project has brought the joy of Christmas to more than 60 million boys and girls throughout the world.

2) The annual project enables caring individuals, families, schools, churches, businesses, and other organisations to fill ordinary shoe boxes with small toys, school supplies, sweets, and other gifts for needy children around the world.

3) Last year 1.2 million shoe boxes were sent from the UK to children in hospitals, orphanages, refugee camps, homeless shelters and impoverished neighbourhoods.

From ‘Sick-Note’ to ‘Fit-Note’ – High profile conference tackles sickness absenteeism in the workplace

2009-11-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

Good health for the workforce is good for business. In the current economic climate it’s even more important that we cut the £100 billion per year cost of worklessness caused by ill health.

A conference organised by the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA), UNISON, GMB, Unite and Local Government Employers on 15th December at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford will focus on understanding the crucial relationship between health and work. This conference will show how positive management of employees’ physical and mental health can lead not only to a reduction in sickness absence but to greater staff engagement and productivity as well as a reduction in staff turnover and recruitment costs.

The public sector employs around 6 million people – or 22% of the workforce. In recent months, incidents of high absenteeism in the public sector have grabbed the headlines. Every local authority should have effective health and safety policies in place with a clear commitment from management to support them.

The overall statistics are quite staggering.

· Absence levels in the public sector remain the highest at an average of 9.8 days per employee per year;
· Among public services employers, those in the health sector recorded the highest average level of employee absence at 11.7 days per employee per year. These figures compare sharply with those recorded among private sector organisations where the average level of absence remained static at 7.2 days per employee per year;
· Over two million people suffer from illnesses that they attribute to their work – mostly stress, depression and anxiety.

These figures mean not only increased costs for employers due to days lost but also personal suffering, family hardship and costs to individuals.

Dame Carol Black, National Director for Health and Work, who released her groundbreaking report into the health of Britain’s working age population in 2008, will be a keynote speaker at the event. In response, the Government released their ‘Improving health and work: changing lives’ report in November 2008. Lord McKenzie of Luton, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department of Work and Pensions, will describe the Government’s continuing response to Dame Carol Black’s report one year on.

Other speakers include:
· Graeme Henderson, Department of Health, who will describe the fit for work programme and progress to date.
· Dr Steve Boorman, who is leading the review of health and well being in the NHS which will report later this year
· Jane Willis, Director of Cross Cutting Interventions, Health and Safety Executive
· Steve Sumner, National Health, Safety and Well-being Policy Advisor, Local Government Employers

Cllr Ian Nimmo-Smith, Chairman of EERA’s Local Government Employers’ Panel said: “We know that sickness absence is economically, socially and personally harmful. A healthy workforce with a positive outlook provides better public services and saves money. This conference will provide an opportunity to hear well being case studies both from within the region and more widely.”

Greg Grant, Eastern Regional Director of UNISON, and Chair of this conference said: “Employers would save millions and deliver a better service by digging into and removing the underlying causes of illness in the workplace. We know that many employers are failing to tackle workplace sickness, long hours and job insecurity, all of which take a toll on workers’ health and their families.”

Who should attend

The conference is essential for public sector leaders including Councillors, Chief Executives and other senior managers, Human Resources, Organisational Development and Health and Safety professionals, along with all those who have an interest in employee wellbeing.

The fee for this event is £125 + VAT. To book a place, please visit http://events.eera.gov.uk/4741.

Ends

Notes to Editors:

For further information or to arrange an interview with an EERA spokesperson, please contact:

Claire Sefton, Tel: 01284 729427 Mob: 07920257940 Email: Claire.sefton@eera.gov.uk

Stephen Hinchley, Tel: 01284 729430, Mob: 07710 312237, Email: stephen.hinchley@eera.gov.uk

For further information about the event, contact Sue Houlder, Conference Organiser, EERA, Tel: 01284 729421 or email sue.houlder@eera.gov.uk

East of England Regional Assembly
1. The East of England Regional Assembly is independent of Government and is not a Government agency or quango. It represents the regional interests of people living and working in the East of England.

2. The Assembly has 96 members of which two thirds are elected councillors (from the 52 local authorities in the region) and one third are stakeholder representatives. Its meetings are open to the media and general public.

3. The Assembly is the designated Regional Planning Body for the East of England until March 2010 when it will cease to exist.

4. During 2008/09 EERA’s work included:
£1 billion bid for investment in public transport and roads across the region including final stretch of A11 dualling
Campaigned against a second runway at Stansted Airport
Held EEDA to account at six Economic Summits
Influenced European funding programmes worth £500 million to support employment, skills, climate change and low carbon economic growth
Delivery of 328 training courses to develop thousands of local authority employees and councillors in the region
For more information on EERA, see the website at www.eera.gov.uk

Local Government Employers Panel
Cllr Ian Nimmo-Smith (Chairman), Liberal Democrat, 01223 365484
Cllr Jim Ranger (Panel Group Leader), Conservative, 07831 587342
Cllr Philip Smith (Panel Group Leader), Labour, 01375 361180

Last chance to have your say on the future of the East of England

2009-11-09T04:52:00.000-08:00

Less than a month remains for people in the East of England to voice their opinions on plans that will shape the region over the next 20 years. Views are being sought on housing and economic growth while protecting the environment and the quality of life for existing and future residents of the East of England.

These topics form the twelve-week consultation on the East of England Plan > 2031. The Regional Assembly is urging the general public to make their views known before the consultation ends on 24th November. The consultation document is available at: www.eera.gov.uk/What-we-do/developing-regional-strategies/east-of-england-plan/east-of-england-plan-review-to-2031/.

Cllr Derrick Ashley, Chairman of the Regional Planning Panel at the East of England Regional Assembly said: “This is a vital opportunity to get involved in shaping the future development of your locality. The issues being consulted on are critical to creating a more prosperous and sustainable region. We strongly encourage all communities and organisations across the region to have their say”.

“We need to plan for new homes so that first-time buyers, young families and others in housing need can buy or rent a home at a price they can afford. Businesses also need the confidence to invest in our region.

“But we also want to protect the environment and the quality of life for existing and future residents of the East of England. New development must be appropriate and supported by Government investment.

“We will look closely at all the responses to the consultation before publishing a detailed draft plan in March. This plan will propose how and where new homes might be delivered up to 2031.

“Although there may be changes to the planning system in the years ahead, the evidence gathered will be valuable for the continuing need to plan for new jobs and homes.”

The consultation is part of a wider review of the East of England Plan which covers important issues such as transport, the environment, energy and waste as well as new homes.

The revised East of England Plan will not be completed until 2011 and the public will have further opportunities to have their say. It is the responsibility of local councils to determine the exact locations of where new homes should be built through their local development frameworks.

Ends

Notes to Editors:

An information pack on the East of England Plan > 2031 can be viewed at: www.eera.gov.uk/News/public-information-packs

To book a place at the remaining public consultation events on the East of England Plan > 2031, go to http://events.eera.gov.uk/EventDetails.aspx?ID=932

For further information or to arrange an interview with an EERA spokesperson, please contact:

Claire Sefton, Tel: 01284 729427 Mob: 07920257940 Email: Claire.sefton@eera.gov.uk

Stephen Hinchley, Tel: 01284 729430, Mob: 07710 312237, Email: stephen.hinchley@eera.gov.uk
East of England Plan
The long-term planning framework for the sustainable development of the region is provided by the East of England Plan (Regional Spatial Strategy). The East of England Plan provides the basis for local authorities to prepare their local development plans and for other organisations to plan their investment e.g. NHS, Highways Agency, water companies etc.

The current East of England Plan[1] sets out regional planning policy to 2021 but many councils are already preparing local plans stretching to 2026 and beyond. A focused review of the East of England Plan is therefore needed to set out regional planning policy from 2011 to 2031. It will plan for the region’s growth and prosperity, housing needs and respond to issues such as climate change.

The review of the East of England Plan will be completed in 2011. There will be public consultation at key stages of the process to enable members of the public and others to contribute. The review will consider:
· jobs and homes targets for 2011-2031 including affordable homes;
· broad locations for new development;
· regional infrastructure needs e.g. transport;
· targets to reduce the use of natural resources (energy, water) and greenhouse gas emissions;
· priorities for the environment such as the countryside and biodiversity protection.

In undertaking the East of England Plan 2031, the Assembly will be working closely with the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and the Government Office for the East of England (GO-East).
East of England Regional Assembly
1. The East of England Regional Assembly is independent of Government and is not a Government agency or quango. It represents the regional interests of people living and working in the East of England.

2. The Assembly has 96 members of which two thirds are elected councillors (from the 52 local authorities in the region) and one third are stakeholder representatives. Its meetings are open to the media and general public.

3. The Assembly is the designated Regional Planning Body for the East of England until March 2010 when it will cease to exist.

4. During 2008/09 EERA’s work included:
£1 billion bid for investment in public transport and roads across the region including final stretch of A11 dualling
Campaigned against a second runway at Stansted Airport
Held EEDA to account at six Economic Summits
Influenced European funding programmes worth £500 million to support employment, skills, climate change and low carbon economic growth
Delivery of 328 training courses to develop thousands of local authority employees and councillors in the region
For more information on EERA, see the website at www.eera.gov.uk

East of England Regional Planning Panel
Cllr Derrick Ashley (Chairman of RPP), Conservative, 01992 556571
Cllr Alan Crystall (Panel Group Leader), Liberal Democrat, 01702 474047
Cllr Roy Davis (Panel Group Leader), Labour, 01582 730939
Corrine Meakins (Panel Group Leader), Community Stakeholder, 07960 189994

Last chance to register for Global Opportunities conference and hear Lord Digby Jones

2009-11-09T04:12:00.000-08:00

Time is running out for business leaders to register to attend the region’s largest annual event on overseas trade, where they can hear Lord Digby Jones talk on why businesses should be looking beyond UK shores to fuel their growth and raise their profitability.

The Global Opportunities conference, organised by East of England International in conjunction with HSBC, is taking place on 19th November at Newmarket Racecourse and includes a host of other key note speakers, opportunities to get advice from export specialists and to see who has won Exporter of the Year at an Awards ceremony taking place on the day.

To register, visit www.eei-online.com/globalopportunity or call 08456 419 955.

Further press information from:
Charles Arbuthnot or Helen Sharkey
Project PR, Tel: 01473 326402 or 01473 326405
Email: charles.arbuthnot@projectpr.biz or helen.sharkey@projectpr.biz

Dealerships turn showrooms into Santa's Grotto

2009-11-05T03:03:00.002-08:00

Car dealerships across the UK are being turned into a Santa’s Grotto for the next couple of weeks – all in aid of a charitable campaign which sends present-filled shoeboxes to needy children in developing countries.

Polar Ford, Brunel Ford, Heartlands Ford and Dagenham Motors dealerships are all designated drop off points for the 2009 “Operation Christmas Child” shoebox appeal. The appeal encourages people to send some festive cheer to children less fortunate than most, across the world.

Run in conjunction with the Samaritans Purse charity, “Operation Christmas Child” entails filling shoeboxes with toys and gifts to send to children around the world in hospitals, orphanages, refugee camps, homeless shelters and impoverished neighbourhoods.

A spokesperson for Ford Retail, which owns each of the dealerships, said: “This is the third year that we have taken part in the appeal. Last year the Group collected over 10,000 shoeboxes, each wrapped in Christmas paper and filled with small toys, crayons, clothes and sweets, and this year we are aiming to collect even more. It’s an extremely worthwhile cause and we are looking forward to taking part again this year.”

How to pack your shoebox:
Remember to make your box both fun and educational! All shoebox items should be new and can contain gifts such as:
Toys: Bear, soft toy, tennis ball, finger puppet, jigsaw, yo-yo, building blocks, small musical instrument. For boys trucks and cars, for girls dolls, clip on earrings etc.
Educational supplies: Felt pens, pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, eraser, colouring book, notepad, picture or puzzle book, chalk, pencil case, stickers etc.
Hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, comb, hair clips, bar of soap, flannel etc.
Other items: Sweets (sell by date to be at least March of the following year), gloves, scarf, sunglasses, cap, hat, bangles, necklaces etc.

Shoeboxes can be dropped off at your nearest showroom until Tuesday 18th November. For further information about the campaign and what items to include in your shoeboxes, please visit www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk or contact the dealership using the details below:

Dagenham Motors:
319 The Hyde, Edgware Road, London, NW9 6TH. Tel: 0208 358 8600
Baker Street, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 2DZ. Tel: 01707 652219
720 Great Cambridge Road, Enfield, Middlesex, EN1 5DU. Tel: 0208 884 7800
268 London Road, Staines, Middlesex, TW18 4JQ. Tel: 01784 466 666

374 Ealing Road, Alperton, Middlesex, HA0 1HG. Tel: 0208 997 3388
51 Stamford Hill, London, N16 5TB. Tel: 0208 826 2200
357 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 8PE. Tel: 0208 498 9848
719-727 London Road, Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 1SE. Tel: 0208 814 4600

20-40 East Street, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 1HF. Tel: 01372 804 000
Portsmouth Road, Thames Ditton, Kingston, Surrey, KT7 0EG. Tel: 0208 339 3514
Brighton Road, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 1BS. Tel: 01737 352 202

97 Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 1JJ. Tel: 01932 864244
Wintersells Road, Byfleet, Surrey, KT14 7LF. Tel: 01932 332933
Guildford Road, Bookham, Surrey, KT23 4HY. Tel: 0208 814 4600

Ripple Road, Barking, Essex, IG11 9PG
Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park, Ilford, IG2 7EE
161-169 Pier Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME7 1AF
259 Plaistow Road, London, E15 3EU
Fiveways, Sidcup Road, Eltham, London, SE9 3AQ

1 Ballard Business Park, Cuxton Road, Strood, Kent, ME2 2NY

Unit 1, Waltham Park Way, Billet Road, Walthamstow, E17 5DU. Tel: 0208 556 1521

Redburn Industrial Estate, Woodhall Road, Ponders End, Enfield, EN3 4LE. Tel: 0208 804 2489

Dagenham Motors CV:

Dawley Road, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 1EH. Tel: 0208 561 8888

51-53 River Road, Barking, Essex, IG11 0SW. Tel: 0208 477 4000

Cuton Hall Lane, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 6PB. Tel: 01245 235400

Polar Ford:

Canal Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 4SR. Tel: 01274 756200

Calder Island Way Denby Dale Road, Wakefield, WF2 7AW. Tel: 01924 290290

Wakefield Road, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S71 1NF. Tel: 01226 732732

Junction 32, M62, Park Road, Castleford, West Yorkshire, WF10 4RJ. Tel: 01977 603644

St Andrews Road, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 6NA. Tel: 01484 290022

Winwick Road, Warrington, Cheshire, WA2 7NY. Tel: 01925 651111

Victoria Road, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 5SP. Tel: 01928 574333

Wellington Road, North Stockport, SK4 2PE. Tel: 0161 975 5500

Sherdley Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA9 5AD. Tel: 01744 610600

60 Buxton Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 6AF. Tel: 0161 483 9431

A34 Bypass, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1AE. Tel: 01625 257 777

Brunel Ford:

Winterstoke Road, Bristol, BS23 2LB. Tel: 0117 908 9999

175 Muller Road, Horfield, Bristol, Bs7 9RD. Tel: 0117 951 3333

Winterstoke Road, Weston Super Mare, N. Somerset, BS23 3YE. Tel: 01934 415511

Heartlands Ford:

971 Kingsbury Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 9QB. Tel: 0121 377 3000

Saxon Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7HD. Tel: 01827 306700

Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham, B42 2SP. Tel: 0121 344 5252

1) Operation Christmas Child is the world's largest children's Christmas project. Since 1990 the project has brought the joy of Christmas to more than 60 million boys and girls throughout the world.
2) The annual project enables caring individuals, families, schools, churches, businesses, and other organisations to fill ordinary shoe boxes with small toys, school supplies, sweets, and other gifts for needy children around the world.
3) Last year 1.2 million shoe boxes were sent from the UK to children in hospitals, orphanages, refugee camps, homeless shelters and impoverished neighbourhoods.

Pink paradise at Suffolk care agency raises £172 for Breast Cancer

2009-11-02T06:50:00.001-08:00

A Saxmundham care agency transformed their head office into a pink paradise last week (30th October) which saw generous staff raise £172 for Breast Cancer Campaign as part of the annual Wear it Pink appeal.

Staff at Christies Care took part in the appeal by making a donation to the charity, in exchange for dressing up in pink clothing. Further funds were raised through a raffle which saw an array of fabulous prizes including a bouquet of flowers, perfume, and luxury beauty products.

Wear it Pink has become a fixture in the Christies Care charitable calendar and since 2004, generous donations to various breast cancer charities have topped £1,400.

Debbie Ratcliffe, who organised the day said of the donations; “Wear it Pink is a cause that is close to our hearts, and it is the highlight of our charitable activities throughout the year. We are absolutely delighted to have raised over £1,400 over the past 5 years, as it is a fantastic cause.”

The money raised throughout the Wear it Pink campaign will be used to help fund world class research into breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

For more information on Wear it Pink, visit www.wearitpink.co.uk

Bust your scary sink smells

2009-10-30T03:02:00.000-07:00

Ghosts, ghouls, witches and goblins – when it comes to hustle and bustle of Halloween are we ready for the scariest part of all – our kitchen sink?

Forget about vampires, zombies and demons – the real monsters are lurking in your kitchen plughole. Nasty germs like salmonella love to breed on the bits of fat debris washed down your plughole, and if left untreated, can create stinks that would scare off Dracula himself!

So instead of filling your kitchen with cloves of garlic, crosses and holy water, prepare yourselves for this Halloween with a sprinkling of Buster Kitchen Plughole and Sink Treatment. The specially formulated foaming granules will exorcise your plughole demons leaving them hygienically clean, fresh and sweet smelling.

Alternatively for those nastier plughole gremlins, a dose of Buster Kitchen Plughole Unblocker is tough enough for even the scariest of bacteria. A quick dose will blast away any food or fat debris, clearing any blockages, and with regular use will prevent build up.

Priced at £3.29 (RRP) for 300gm, Buster is stocked in Sainsbury’s, Asda, Waitrose, Wilkinson, Tesco, Morrisons and independent hardware stores. Visit www.plugholesneedlovetoo.com

Your chance to ‘meet the world’ and explore global opportunities at major regional export conference

2009-10-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

Businesses who sign up to attend a major regional export conference being held in Newmarket on 19th November will have the unique chance to arrange one-to-one meetings with commercial officers and country specialists at the event, who have experience in markets across the globe.

The conference, called ‘Global Opportunity’, and arranged by East of England International (EEI), which delivers business support on behalf of UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to assist the region’s firms in exploiting overseas markets, aims to showcase the significant opportunities for firms of all sizes to increase their revenues through exploring new overseas markets.

During the one-hour lunch break, delegates will have the opportunity to arrange meetings with commercial officers who have the ‘on-the-ground’ knowledge and experience needed to help explore new opportunities in markets such as China, the Nordics, the Benelux countries, Russia, Hungary, the Baltics, Spain, Europe and Africa.

It is expected that the slots will fill up quickly, so delegates are urged to pre-book their one-to-ones in advance, through the form on the website. For more information on exactly which countries will be covered, see www.eei-online.com/globalopportunity.

Marguerite Meyer, Regional Head of Trade at EEI said: “This is your chance to explore new overseas markets for your business. It is an ideal opportunity to speak with someone who has first hand knowledge in a country you may have considered exporting to, but the contacts they can provide may well open new opportunities for your business. “

Lord Digby Jones, a name synonymous with British business and previously Director General of the CBI and Minister of UK Trade & Industry, will be the keynote speaker at ‘Global Opportunity’. Lord Digby Jones will tell the region’s businesses why they should be looking beyond UK shores to fuel their growth and raise their profitability.

The conference is being sponsored by HSBC Bank plc, and the bank’s senior economist, Mark Berrisford-Smith along with David Evans, CEO of Grassroots plc, add to the auspicious line up of keynote speakers for the event that takes place at Newmarket Racecourse.

The day also includes a discussion panel involving the speakers and local business chiefs, a short awards ceremony to recognise export leaders from across the region, and ample time to network.

The afternoon includes a series of breakout sessions, enabling delegates to hear firsthand from experts on how to go about exporting to and the opportunities in countries such as the USA, Europe, Middle East and Brazil. An additional set of breakout sessions will focus on exporting for specific industry sectors such as Food & Drink, Biotechnology, renewable energy and digital media.

The one-to-one sessions with the commercial officer of your choice can be pre-booked via the website. Tickets for the event cost £50 which includes refreshments and lunch. To register, visit www.eei-online.com/globalopportunity or call 08456 419 955.

Ends

Kelly proves its never too late to turn your life around

2009-10-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

A woman from Colchester who suffered from severe agoraphobia for 6 years and couldn’t face leaving her house is now celebrating making it through to the regional finals of the Learndirect Adult Learners Awards for 2009, after turning her life around by going back into learning and securing employment.

Kelly Kirby, who is 42 and from Colchester, registered with training provider TBG Learning in late 2008 on the NDDP (New Deal for Disabled People) programme. Kelly had no formal qualifications and was suffering from depression, but she knew it was time to do something to get her life back on track.

The NDDP programme, delivered at TBG Learning in conjunction with the Shaw Trust, aims to help people who are disadvantaged in the labour market due to disability, ill health or other social circumstances, and aims to get 400 disabled people into full or part time work.

Andrea Pawsey, TBG Learning Colchester centre manager commented: “Kelly’s progress has been amazing. Her confidence has soared and she has made new friends. She has even achieved her dream of being employed. I admire her strength and determination to succeed against the odds, and we have decided to name her the TBG Learning Colchester ‘Outstanding Learner of 2009’.”

Qualifications which Kelly has achieved in the last year include English at level 1 and level 2, maths at level 1, the ‘switch on’ IT programme, a conflict management NVQ and the SIA door supervision course, as well as online Learndirect courses. She has secured employment with Essex firm Reliance Security, and regularly works with DHL and the NHS as a security guard.

Kelly commented: “TBG Learning has helped me turn my life around, my confidence has soared and I feel like a different person. My family are very pleased with how much happier I am nowadays, and have even managed to make friends with others in the centre, which is something I have never felt comfortable doing. I really enjoy my job and am so happy I took that first step a year ago.”

TBG Learning Colchester is situated at 27 Southway, Colchester. Courses available at the centre include NDDP (New Deal for Disabled People) and Entry to Employment (e2e), which supports 16-18 year olds to improve their skills and employment chances. TBG Learning also works with a wide number of employers in the area, providing Train to Gain and Apprenticeships learning in the workplace for employees.

Telephone TBG Learning on 01206 366341 or drop into the centre for more information. www.tbglearning.com

Lucky seventh birthday winner celebrates £50 Child Trust Fund boost with Ipswich Building Society

2009-10-16T03:21:00.000-07:00

A lucky seven-year old has been given an extra birthday present this week (13th October) after receiving a £50 boost to her Child Trust Fund account, courtesy of Ipswich Building Society.

Shannon Harvey was chosen as the recipient of a £50 voucher by staff at the Tower Ramparts branch of the Society to celebrate the second stage of the Child Trust Fund payments for seven year olds.

Each one of the Society’s nine branches has randomly selected one Child Trust Fund account holder to receive a bonus of £50 to add to their savings.

Shannon’s mum Nicola Harvey said of the account top-up; “This is absolutely amazing. I was gobsmacked when I found out Shannon had won this prize. We weren’t aware of the second stage of the Child Trust Fund payment, so to get this extra prize on top of the payment is fantastic.”

She continued: “Every time we pop into the branch the staff have given us their undivided attention and we certainly feel that we are knowledgeable about the best ways to save for our children’s futures. We are saving as much as we can, so that when Shannon turns 18, she will have a strong nest egg to fall back on. Thank you to the Ipswich Building Society.”

Paul Millar, Tower Ramparts branch manager added; “We were pleased to give Shannon a bonus for her Child Trust Fund account. It is a vital tool in enabling parents to teach their children how to save, and we are delighted that Shannon’s parents are already thinking about her future.”

The Child Trust Fund was established by the government in September 2002 and seeks to encourage every child to have their own savings account. An initial £250 voucher is given to every child when they are born, with a further £250 top-up when the child turns seven. The aim of the Child Trust Fund is to ensure when the child turns 18, they have significant savings.

Care agency staff celebrate NVQ success

2009-10-16T03:05:00.000-07:00

A Saxmundham employer has praised Otley College after four senior staff members completed a fifteen month NVQ qualification in management.

The team from Christies Care worked closely with the college to complete the business management training programme, which saw managing director Nicola Warner receive a level 5 award, and managers Lin Barnes, Jill Pass and Sarah Middleton receive the level 4 qualification.

Along with Otley College course co-ordinator Drostan Stileman, the team were able to specifically tailor their training to their individual needs, paying particular attention to any strengths and weaknesses.

Speaking of the training, Drostan said: “I’m delighted with the achievements of the team at Christies Care. Not only have they worked hard to secure a formal qualification, but they have become much more confident in the way they work. It is a hard course, but thanks to the one-on-one training and the levels of commitment they have shown, they will be able to reap the benefits.”

Nicola Warner, managing director Christies Care, who completed the NVQ Level 5, added; “We’ve always placed an important focus upon ensuring our carers were trained to the highest possible standards, but we were very aware that we weren’t always offering the same to our office staff. Since completing the NVQ courses, we have all felt much more competent in the way we work.

She continued: “This is down to the fantastic support and training we received from Drostan and the team at Otley College, and we would like to thank them for their help and support. The individual tailoring of the course was superb, and it has meant we are all fully understanding of the work that we do, and the reasons why we work in a particular way.”

Since the completion of the course, over 20 more office staff have registered an interest in undertaking their own NVQ qualifications. It follows on from a successful training programme for the carers employed by Christies Care, who are offered introductory and further specific training on a regular basis.

Young people speak at Kent ‘engaging and preventing NEETs’ conference

2009-10-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 13th October 2009

Young people from Gillingham and Ashford who were NEET (not in education, employment or training), but who have now found employment or entered into training, spoke to delegates at a conference held yesterday, about why and how they became NEET, and what they did to overcome it. They also gave advice to those gathered on how to engage with young people and ensure that they progress into further education or employment after leaving school.

The conference, called ‘Shaping the curriculum: engaging young people and preventing NEETs’ was held yesterday (Monday 12th October) at the Ramada hotel in Maidstone. The conference was for managers from schools, colleges, government organisations such as Connexions and training providers such as TBG Learning, and gave them the opportunity to discuss and share effective practice on how to prevent young people becoming NEET after leaving school, and how to engage with those who do.

Nic Cole from TBG Learning, which has four centres throughout Kent and runs courses especially for young people who are NEET attended the conference, and commented: “It is important to ensure all young people get the right support that they need and recognise that traditional curriculums do not work for everyone. At TBG Learning we listen to the views of young people and build programmes around their needs and the needs of the local labour market. It is this flexible approach that makes us successful in helping young people gain qualifications and progress into employment or further learning.”

Kerry Knight, 17, used to be a NEET, but decided to join the Entry to Education programme at TBG Learning in Ashford. She also attended the conference, and said: “It was good to be at the conference as we got the chance to tell schools what it is like being NEET and what they can do to do to help young people in the future.”

The conference started with a key note speech from Rosalind Turner, Managing Director of the Children, Families and Education department at Kent County Council. This was followed by contributions from other organisations on topics such as ‘challenging stereotypes and understanding of why young people become NEET’.

The conference was organised in conjunction with Kent County Council, Kent Association of Further Education Corporations (KAFEC), the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), and the Kent Association of Training Providers (KATO).

Anyone is welcome to drop into TBG Learning and find out about the range of courses and help. The centres can be found at the following locations:

Gillingham: Floor 2, Kingsley House, ME7 4NT (tel 01634 855629).
Gravesend: 23-25 King Street, DA12 2DU (Tel 01474 566 588)
Folkestone: Unit B, 145-147 Sandgate Road, CT20 2DA (Tel 01303 297 064)
Ashford: The Bull Yard, High Street, Ashford TN24 8SN (Tel 01233 634 476)

TBG Learning Kent 095
For further information please contact:
Helen Sharkey Project PR, Telephone 01473 326405 / 07521 318127

Notes to editors:

TBG Learning Ltd is an independent training provider. Its mission is to ‘improve people’s lives through learning’ and its focus is on helping each individual achieve employment related skills and qualifications. It operates 19 Learning Centres in some of the most economically challenged areas of Britain with over 6,500 learners at any one time.

It also works with over eight hundred employers in London, Kent, Essex and the Midlands, delivering Apprenticeships and Train to Gain to employees in the workplace.

Many people achieve their first ever qualification through courses such as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Information Technology (from beginners to advanced), Literacy, and Numeracy.

Employability Skills Programmes (for unemployed adults) and Entry to Employment (for 16-18 year-olds) are just two of a wide number of programmes offered at many of the centres.

TBG courses are funded through a wide number of organisations including the Learning and Skills Council, Regional Development Agencies, Colleges of Further Education.

TBG (The Training and Business Group) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the charity Rehab Group.

Firefighter training boosted by car dealer partnership

2009-10-13T06:05:00.000-07:00

Potters Bar Fire Station is set to benefit from a new partnership with local car dealership Dagenham Motors, who yesterday (8th October) handed over the first in a series of planned vehicle donations to the service.

This unique partnership will help boost vital training for the fire service which continuously needs access to cars and vans for both demonstrations and vital training for road traffic incidents.

Marc Skuce, Business Manager at Dagenham Motors, Potters Bar, said: “As a local business we feel it is important for us to contribute to the community, which is why we want to support our local services. Road accidents can have a devastating effect on people’s lives and the fire service plays a vital part in minimising that devastation”.

Station Commander Trevor Brown, Potters Bar Fire Station, said: “I am delighted to have set up this partnership, which will enable our crews to practice the essential skills needed to deal with road traffic collisions. We rely on the donation of scrap vehicles to use for training; so I would like to thank Dagenham Motors for their generosity and look forward to working with them in the future.”

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service is now called to rescue more people from road traffic collisions than from fires, therefore rely heavily on the availability of cars for training.

Training vehicles are currently purchased from local scrap yards; however this new partnership with Dagenham Motors will ensure the provision of vehicles on a regular basis, giving firefighter training a boost in the preparation of all RTC scenarios.

Ends

Notes:

- Dagenham Motors is part of Ford Retail, the UK’s largest Ford dealership Group. Ford Retail trades as Dagenham Motors (in London and the South East), Brunel Ford (Bristol & South West), Heartlands Ford (Birmingham) and Polar Ford (Yorkshire and the North Wet).

- During the year April 2007 to April 2008, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) attended 682 RTCs (Road Traffic Collisions) where there were 15 fatalities and 950 casualties.

Ipswich launches limited edition 5 year 'Big Bond'

2009-10-07T07:40:00.000-07:00

Ipswich Building Society has launched a chart topping 5 year, 5.1% fixed interest rate savings bond for consumers who have renewed confidence in longer term investments.

The highly competitive ‘Big Bond’ has the added advantage of giving access to funds after two years, providing investors with greater assurance.

Jo Leah, General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Ipswich Building Society, says: “This is a very feisty 5 year savings bond for savers who have their sights set on a longer term goal. It has the added flexibility of giving access after two years which makes it one of the most attractive offers in the marketplace at the moment.”

The minimum investment is £5,000 (maximum £100,000) and the limited edition Big Bond is only expected to be available until the end of November.

The 5.1% gross/AER fixed interest (4.08% Net) is paid annually on the account’s anniversary, or monthly if the balance is over £25,000. No withdrawals are permitted for 2 years and thereafter any withdrawals incur a 180 days interest penalty on the amount withdrawn.

To find out more about the Big Bond savings account telephone 0845 230 8686 or email enquiries@ibs.co.uk Big Bond can be opened by post or at any Ipswich Building Society branch. See www.ibs.co.uk

UK business leaders to speak at major regional export conference

2009-10-06T04:28:00.000-07:00

6 October 2009

East of England companies will have the chance to hear one of the UK’s foremost business gurus speak about the significant opportunities for firms of all sizes to increase their revenues through exploiting overseas markets.

Lord Digby Jones, a name synonymous with British business and previously Director General of the CBI and Minister of UK Trade & Industry, will be the keynote speaker at ‘Global Opportunity’. Digby Jones will tell the region’s businesses why they should be looking beyond UK shores to fuel their growth and raise their profitability.

The conference, organised by East of England International (EEI) which delivers business support on behalf of UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to assist the region’s firms exploit overseas markets, is being sponsored by HSBC. The bank’s chief economist, Mark Berrisford-Smith along with other business leaders to be announced soon add to the auspicious line up of keynote speakers for the event that takes place on 19th November at Newmarket Racecourse.

The day also includes a discussion panel involving the speakers and local business chiefs, a short awards ceremony to recognise export leaders from across the region, opportunities to arrange one-to-one meetings with UKTI commercial officers from countries around the world and ample time to network.

The afternoon includes a series of breakout sessions, enabling delegates to hear firsthand from experts on how to go about exporting to countries such as the USA, Europe, Middle East and Brazil. Additional breakout sessions will focus on exporting for specific industry sectors such as ICT, life sciences, renewable energy and digital media.

EEI’s Head of Regional Trade, Marguerite Meyer, encouraged businesses to attend, saying: “This is a one-time chance to hear from some excellent speakers and get a good understanding of the real opportunities overseas markets offer, as well as learn how exporting isn’t as difficult as many would think.”

Tickets for this one-off event are strictly limited to 200 on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and people interested in attending are encouraged to register quickly. Tickets cost £50 which includes refreshments and lunch. To register, visit www.eei-online.com/globalopportunity or call 08456 419 955.

Ends

Saxmundham firm reach £500+ milestone for Jeans for Genes

2009-10-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

Employees at Saxmundham care agency Christies Care swapped their uniforms for jeans last week (2nd October), and reached a fundraising total of more than £540 for children suffering from genetic disorders.

Admin and booking staff at Christies Care have been supporting the annual Jeans for Genes appeal since 2004, and last week’s fundraising efforts, which raised £55, saw their cumulative total reach £541. The appeal encouraged workers to don their best denim in exchange for a £2 donation to the charity.

Debbie Ratcliffe, who organised the company’s charitable efforts, said of the money raised; “We are absolutely amazed that we have managed to raise so much money over the past five years as it is such a good cause. It’s become a staple on the Christies Care calendar, and everyone looks forward to taking part as it’s such a simple thing to do. We are already looking forward to next years appeal.”

Jeans for Genes was established in 1996, and raises funds for research into serious and often life-threatening genetic disorders affecting thousands of children.

For more information on Jeans for Genes and how to donate money, please visit www.jeansforgenes.com

Barking's Biggest Coffee Morning raises £100 for Macmillan

2009-10-02T06:44:00.000-07:00

The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning came to Barking last week (25th September) in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support.

Staff and visitors to the Dagenham Motors showroom on Ripple Road, helped to raise £100 by taking part in the annual “World’s Biggest Coffee Morning” appeal, which encourages local people to ‘boil’, ‘bake’ and ‘take a break’ to raise vital funds for the charity.

The money was raised through the sale of coffee and cakes to staff, customers and the local community in return for a donation to the charity.

General Manager Rob Dier said of the event: “We really wanted to support Macmillan as it is a charity that is often overlooked but is invaluable to cancer sufferers and their families. We had a great turn out and are so pleased that we could help raise money for such a worthy cause”.

Last year, more than 45,000 people held coffee mornings and together with their family, friends and colleagues, raised over £7.5 million towards practical, medical, financial and emotional support to help change the lives of those in need.

PR 'Pet Peeves'

2009-10-02T04:48:00.000-07:00

Leading industry magazine PR Week recently asked the editors of some well-known magazines and newspapers “What are your PR pet peeves?” The answers were straight out of a text book:

“When they ring me up to chase their press release”, “When they have not done their homework about what sort of things we publish”, “generic press releases”, “ringing to see if I have got their press release”, “when they don’t take time to find out who our readers are”, “when they blatantly have never seen a copy of our magazine” and so on.

Getting our clients into the media is the bread and butter of what we do in the PR industry, so it is essential that we build good relationships with journalists, and create a good reputation for ourselves in the process. It is vital that we do our research and take time to find out about the outlets we hope will cover our stories, giving us the best chance to develop a good relationship with them and secure the coverage our clients.

We are now in an age of 24/7 news. Journalists are busier than ever as news is constantly developing, so they need to be able to rely on us to give them good material. It is important that when an email arrives in a journalist’s inbox, they recognise the sender, and instantly know that the content is going to be interesting, relevant, and something they want to use. If the sender has been known to issue press releases that are too generic, or not relevant to their audience, the journalist will more than likely ignore or delete it if they are busy. And that could be the one press release that would have become their front page…..!

It is worth spending that extra little bit of time to research the publications you wish to target. Buy a copy and spend ten minutes flicking through to see its style, its content, how it is written, who its readers are, and the publication’s opinions on topical issues. If you can, try to target your press release to each publication, changing the focus of each if necessary, to ensure it grabs the attention of the journalist who picks it up. The same applies to local and regional media. Ensure you know which areas the publication covers, and try to ensure your releases include specific detail relevant to that newspaper. This is especially important to local newspapers that only cover small towns – there is no point sending them a story that is region-wide if they are only covering very local news.

Another of the pet peeves mentioned by editors is the idea of PRO’s calling journalists to check if they have received a release, or to follow it up. One editor added to her comment by saying: “if you don’t get an out of office, or it doesn’t bounce back, then assume we have received it. If it is good, we will use it. If it’s not, then we won’t. We are too busy to take calls about every release we receive.” This is important, and goes back to the point I made in the second paragraph. If your release is relevant and newsworthy, and you sent it to the right person then you are almost guaranteed coverage. If your release isn’t what they are looking for, and yet you still chase them with a phone call at their busiest time, you are likely to blacklist yourself even further. If you ensure your release is targeted to their publication, is salient, relevant and well written, then you don’t need to worry about following it up with a call. It will speak for itself.

However, there are some instances where a call to a journalist can make all the difference. If they work for a national newspaper or popular magazine they are likely to receive hundreds of emails per day. In this case, you will be fighting for both space and their attention. Call them first and tell them about it. They will soon tell you whether they are interested or not, and if they are, they will look out for it when you send it over.

Another important point to keep in mind when sending press releases to the media, is your timing. They will all have press days and deadlines, and some consumer magazines work up to 3 months in advance. It all goes back to doing your homework and giving yourself the best chance of getting your news into the press which you are targeting.

To sum up, do your research. Don’t just expect that your piece of news will automatically be printed; you are up against a world of 24/7 news and you need to make sure that yours stands out, and gets to the right people at the right time.

Managing bad news

2009-10-02T04:42:00.000-07:00

One question that PR teams will be hearing regularly from management in these times of recession is “how do we tell our loyal employees the bad news?” Plenty of companies have been in the news recently with first class examples of how not to do this, but there have been very few cases of successful delivery of the words none of them want to hear.

The key to making redundancies or implementing pay cuts without causing too much heartache and protest is simple. Keep employees informed, involve them as much as possible in the planning stages, ask for their opinions, and recognise their loyalty to your business.

We all saw the pictures of protesters outside the MINI plant who turned up to work only to be told there were no longer jobs for any of them. They were given no prior warning, no explanation, and no financial help or training to help them find new employment. They felt as if they just didn’t matter.

If employees are involved in important decisions made by their employer then they will feel a sense of solidarity and ownership towards the business. They are more likely to club together and unite behind the cause, and will be more willing to take a day’s unpaid leave, or a pay cut, because they feel like their contribution is helping save the business they are proud to work for.

This recession is played out 24/7 on the news, radio and in the written press, and everyone knows what is happening. Employees understand that businesses across the world are struggling, and they are intelligent enough to know that no one is safe, including them. They will see other businesses on the news making redundancies, and will be hoping that it won’t happen in their workplace.

If you start to notice a slip in business, call a meeting to warn your staff. If you start thinking about redundancies, get your staff together to brainstorm other ways of saving money, and ask them what they would be prepared to sacrifice. If you really need to make people redundant, speak to them personally in advance, and offer anything you can to help make the process easier, such as one day training courses, days off to attend interviews, or excellent references. Don’t be scared of being honest. Your employees will respect you for this and will be much more cooperative.

Don’t forget the unions, which can be particularly influential, both positively and negatively, in these times. Involve them from the start, work with them, not against them, and they will be more likely to fight your corner. Hide things from them, and spring redundancies on employees, and they will incite protest, disloyalty and resentfulness.

Train your middle management and line managers to ensure they know the key messages and are capable of presenting to their reportees. Arm them with as much information as you can so they can answer anything the employees have to ask. If you are reading this and you are a senior manager, make yourself visible, speak to your staff and make sure they know just how important they are to you.

Finally, make sure your plans don’t get leaked to the press. They don’t want to read their job is in danger on the front page of the newspaper! They might just choke on their cornflakes!

Nestor Pharma celebrates a year of trading by showcasing its success

2009-09-25T03:00:00.000-07:00

25 September 2009

Nestor Pharmaceuticals Ltd, an Indian owned business which set up its UK headquarters in Mildenhall, Suffolk, has opened its doors to showcase its newly refurbished facilities.

Visiting from India, Nestor chairman Mr Rahul Sehgal, welcomed guests which included county and district councillors, who heard how the high-tech manufacturing plant plans to grow from employing 30 people to over 100 in the next few years, bringing vital employment to the area.

To date over £10 million has been invested in the facility to enable the company to start producing a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications including Amoxicillin, Aspirin and Diazepam. The company now plans a further £3 million expansion to increase the packaging capacity beyond the current 1 billion tablets a year and also install liquid filling lines and a powder sachet processing plant.

The event was organised with East of England International (EEI), the region’s inward investment agency, who were instrumental in securing Nestor’s investment in the region and who provided extensive practical support to make it easy for the company to set up in the UK, such as arranging work permits, organising utility supplies and advising on regulatory matters.

EEI also worked with the Choose Suffolk and Forest Heath District Council in helping with recruitment and training, as well as advising on housing and schooling for some of Nestor’s employees transferring from India.

Kamlesh Patel, managing director of Nestor UK, advocates Suffolk as a great place to set up business: “The transport links are excellent and the proximity of the Port of Felixstowe is important to us, as is the commitment of the local people who work for Nestor including the many local suppliers we use.”

David Riches, chief executive of East of England International, remarked: “Increasingly, we are seeing businesses from the major developing economies such as India and China looking to set up in the UK and choosing the East of England as their preferred location. Already 25% of the region’s economy is based on foreign owned businesses and we are working hard to attract as much inward investment as possible to the region which has so much to offer them.”

Nestor’s ethos is to use local companies and resources for its ancillary services and its large investment has brought about significant work for a wide range of local suppliers such as logistics, construction, HR and accountancy work. The antibiotics facility which is the company’s latest outlay was built by Hi Tech of Bury St Edmunds.

Ends

Note to Editors

Nestor is a leading pharmaceutical company with a mission to provide low cost, high quality drugs for the many, instead of high-priced drugs for the few. Every capsule, injection, tablet, ointment, syrup and powder that carries the Nestor symbol ensures integrity, purity and safety, endorsed by 50,000 doctors and 200,000 pharmacies each month.Six Nestor factories serve India, Nigeria and the UK. Our next expansion phase will see us in the strategic markets of S.E. Asia, North Africa and Central Asia.

East of England International (EEI) works with companies seeking to trade internationally and assists foreign-owned businesses looking to invest in the region. EEI is funded by and works in partnership with the UK Government, the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and a wide range of businesses and partners in the region.

In the East of England, EEI’s Trade Team delivers UK Trade & Investment’s export services.

UK Trade & Investment is the government organisation that provides integrated support services for UK companies engaged in overseas trade and foreign businesses focused on the UK as an inward investment location. It brings together the work of teams in British embassies and FCO posts overseas and government departments across Whitehall. In England, international trade support is coordinated by nine International Trade Directors working in partnership with each Regional Development Agency.

East of England Development Agency (EEDA) is the driving force behind sustainable economic regeneration in the East of England: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Its vision is to create a leading economy, founded on a world-class knowledge base, creativity and enterprise to improve the quality of life for all who live and work here. EEDA funds EEI’s Inward Investment activity.

For further information on the above organisations visit:
www.nestorpharma.com
www.eei-online.com
www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk
www.eeda.org.uk

KATE HOEY MP LAUNCHES ‘RESPONSE TO REDUNDANCY’ IN LAMBETH

2009-09-25T02:53:00.000-07:00

The Hon Kate Hoey, Member of Parliament for Vauxhall, visited TBG Learning in Lambeth (Thursday 24th September 2009) to officially launch the new ‘Response to Redundancy’ service in the centre. The flagship government programme aims to help people who have been made redundant, or who are facing redundancy, back into employment. TBG Learning has been awarded the prestigious contract to deliver the programme in Lambeth, Southwark and Wandsworth.

The MP had a tour of the centre where she met learners currently on the programme, including Roy Chambers and Barry Rowland, who were made redundant recently, and who have joined the Response to Redundancy programme to top up their skills and hopefully get back into employment.

On officially launching the programme Kate Hoey MP said “It is great to see this wonderful centre right in the heart of this community which is helping people like Roy and Barry get through this difficult period. I have been struck by the genuine keenness of the staff to really help people and I am sure that everyone who comes to TBG Learning on the Response to Redundancy course will feel welcome and will be given all the support they need to get them back on track.”

Roy addressed guests and said: “I have been in work all of my life so being unemployed has been an alien situation for me. I realised I needed to improve my IT skills quickly so the Jobcentre referred me to TBG. On starting the course I was assessed on literacy and numeracy skills and then attended a CV workshop – I had not altered my CV for over 20 years! I found the staff to be knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, with lots of patience for dinosaurs like me. Having been shown how to compile all my experiences and format into a CV, I feel more confident in competing in today’s job market.”

Abi Osho, Regional Manager, TBG Learning, London, said: “Stories like Barry’s and Roy’s are very real and are just a snapshot of what is happening in society today due to the recession, so there’s never been a greater need for the kind of individual support we provide through TBG Learning.”

The Response to Redundancy programme can be short and sharp, such as receiving intensive help on CV writing, application letters and interview techniques. Or a longer term programme of tailored help can be developed, with TBG Learning providing access to further training through its range of local training partners.

Over 1,400 people living in South London will be able to benefit from the programme over the next 18 months, whatever their line of work or educational background. It is for people of all experience and skill levels, manual workers to those from professional and management roles. The programme is jointly funded by the Learning and Skills Council and the European Social Fund.

TBG Learning, which also has seven other centres across London, as well as in 11 other locations in England, is a leading local provider of work-related training and employment help for young people and adults.

The Lambeth learning centre is TBG Learning’s flagship centre, and opened in March 2009, having moved from premises in Ellerslie Square on Lyham Road.
As well as Response to Redundancy the centre offers a wide range of courses as well as job-focused help and advice for local people looking to improve their skills and qualifications and find meaningful employment. The courses and supports available include Employability Skills, Entry to Employment (e2e) (for 16-18 year-olds), Literacy, Numeracy, English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL), Apprenticeships, Business administration and Computer qualifications (from beginners to advanced).

For further information please contact:
Helen Sharkey, Project PR – 01473 326405 (07521 318127) helen.sharkey@projectpr.biz

TBG Learning South London 094

Notes to editors:
TBG Learning Ltd is an independent training provider. Its mission is to ‘improve people’s lives through learning’ and its focus is on helping each individual achieve employment related skills and qualifications.
It operates 21 Learning Centres in some of the most economically challenged areas of Britain with over 6,500 learners at any one time.
It also works with over eight hundred employers in London, Kent, Essex and the Midlands, delivering Apprenticeships and Train to Gain to employees in the workplace.
Many people achieve their first ever qualification through courses such as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Information Technology (from beginners to advanced), Literacy, and Numeracy.
Employability Skills Programmes (for unemployed adults) and Entry to Employment (for 16-18 year-olds) are just two of a wide number of programmes offered at many of the centres.
TBG courses are funded through a wide number of organisations including the Learning and Skills Council, Jobcentre Plus, Regional Development Agencies, Colleges of Further Education.
TBG (The Training and Business Group) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the charity Rehab Group, which provides a range of training, employment health and social services to people in England, Scotland, Ireland, the Netherlands and Poland.

Sensible shoppers live in East Anglia

2009-09-24T01:23:00.000-07:00

A national survey on shopping habits commissioned by Ipswich Building Society has shown that East Anglian women are more clued up about money than female shoppers living in other parts of the country.

61% of women polled from East Anglia said they budget each month and only spend what they can afford. The East Midlands was the only region to poll higher, with 62%, whilst in Northern Ireland only 40% of women said they planned their spending.

It also emerged that East Anglian women are the biggest bargain hunters in the UK, with 83% admitting to scouring shops for the best possible buys. They are also the most likely to know how much their monthly credit card bill is, with 75% saying they will be aware of the amount before the bill hits the mat.

Paul Winter, Chief Executive at Ipswich Building Society, said: “I suspect many women reading about this will admit to enjoying the adrenaline rush which spending gives them - it makes them feel great in the short term. But it’s worrying that even in East Anglia 39% admit they don’t budget and often spend beyond their means.''

The poll of 5,347 women by research agency 72 point revealed that every week the average shopaholic will spend around £10 on things they don’t really need such as a fast food lunch, chocolate, beauty products, nice shampoo, make up and accessories.

More than half of those polled (53 per cent) admitted it didn't matter what they bought, as long as they bought something.

Paul Winter continues: "What’s amazing is that we are in a recession, when generally spending is down and the job market isn’t good, but there are nearly 1 in 4 women in our region who admit to being a shopaholic.”

TOP 10 NON ESSENTIALS WHICH EAST ANGLIAN WOMEN BUY EVERY WEEK
East Anglian women spend a total of £9.35 on average each week on (in order of most bought items first):
1. Chocolate
2. Food from the supermarket
3. Lunch out
4. Magazines
5. Treats from vending machines
6. Beauty products
7. Children’s toys
8. Nice shampoo
9. Nail varnish
10. Make-up

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Ref: IBS 004-09

For further press information please contact:
Penny Arbuthnot or Amy Bullard, Project PR
Tel: 01473 326403
Email: amy.bullard@projectpr.biz

World’s Biggest Coffee Morning this Friday

2009-09-22T02:46:00.000-07:00

Ipswich Building Society and Suffolk based coffee company Paddy & Scott’s have teamed up to invite neighbouring businesses to a deliciously fresh coffee and cakes event this Friday, as part of The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support.

The fun event takes place on Friday 25 September, 12 noon to 2pm at Ipswich Building Society’s Head Office, 24 The Havens (near to David Lloyd centre). Gazebos, tables and chairs are all provided for the comfort of guests, along with fresh roasted coffee, courtesy of Paddy & Scott’s and scrumptious cakes, thanks to Sainsbury’s. Hatfield Catering has also pledged its support and all money raised will go to MacMillan.

“Our branches have supported MacMillan coffee mornings for many years but this year we wanted to get involved at Head Office as well. We are hoping lots of employees from nearby companies will come along in their lunch hour to have some fun helping us raise as much money as possible for MacMillan Cancer Support,” said Paul Winter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society.

Paddy Bishopp, co founder, Paddy & Scott’s, said: “Paddy and Scott's have always admired the work of Macmillan and have supported The World's Biggest Coffee Morning every year since we started. We hope everyone enjoys a fantastic cup of coffee.”

MacMillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer. It provides practical, medical and financial support and pushes for better cancer care, relying on voluntary donations for 99% of its funding.

Employees at Ipswich Building Society, including Chief Executive Paul Winter, have been giving up their lunch breaks to deliver leaflets about the coffee and cake event and will be serving on the day. For further details call Jo Palfrey at Ipswich Building Society on 01473 278435.
Ends
Ref: IBS 005-09

Photo Call - Friday 25 September, 11am-12 noon
Ipswich Building Society Head Office
24, The Havens IP3 9SJ

Paul Winter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society together with employees and mascot Pound the Hound will be brewing fresh coffee for guests at MacMillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning

For further press information please contact:
Penny Arbuthnot or Amy Bullard, Project PR
Tel: 01473 326403
Email: amy.bullard@projectpr.biz

Notes to editors:
Ipswich Building Society has approximately 65,000 members and currently has over 80,000 savings accounts and over 5,000 mortgage accounts.
It has nine branches across Suffolk and one contact centre.
80% of the Society’s members live in East Anglia
In 2008 the Society’s assets grew by 5% to £423.2 million.
The Society has successfully grown its mortgage lending. In May 2009, gross mortgage applications increased 137% from May 2008.
Ipswich Building Society was established in 1849 and is celebrating its 160th anniversary in 2009.
See www.ibs.co.uk

Ipswich Building Society strong for the future

2009-09-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

Ipswich Building Society is in a strong position with ambitious plans for the future, says its chief executive, who has responded to a report by accountants KPMG which said UK building societies ‘face challenges around profitability’ and will need to cut costs.

Paul Winter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society, who was interviewed for BBC TV’s The Politics Show, which was broadcast on 13 September, has spoken out in response to the annual Database produced by KPMG about the future of the UK’s 53 building societies.

He says: “The executive summary in KPMG’s report created headlines that aren’t borne out by the figures. At Ipswich Building Society we are very positive about our future profitability and growth.”

On the strength of its performance in 2009 Ipswich Building Society has revised its Corporate Plan and aims to grow its total assets from £450 million to £550 million by the end of 2010.

Paul Winter added: “We have an excellent branch network and a contact centre to support customers who live across the UK but particularly in our heartland of the East of England, so we have the infrastructure in place to support our continued growth and success. We also have strong customer loyalty and simple, transparent products which people understand and trust.”

Ipswich Building Society achieved a 55% increase in receipts in savings and investments in the first half of this year, compared to the same period in 2008. Its mortgage applications have soared and the Society is one of few to open a new branch (in Sudbury, Suffolk) in the midst of recession.

For further information about Ipswich Building Society telephone 0845 230 8686 or visit the website at www.ibs.co.uk

PPI Engineering receive the Queens Award for International Trade from the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk

2009-09-15T06:55:00.000-07:00

15th September 2009

Norwich based Engineering company PPI Engineering officially received their Queens Award for International Trade today, at a ceremony hosted by the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk.

The event took place at The Norfolk Club on Upper King Street, and guests included Councillor Evelyn Collishaw, Lord Mayor of Norwich, Professor Tim O'Riordan, Sheriff of Norwich, Mrs Shelagh Gurney, Chairman of Norfolk County Council, and Brian Iles, Norfolk County Council Cabinet member for Economic Development, as well as representatives from several Norfolk based companies who are currently going through the Queens Awards application process for 2010.

PPI Engineering designs, specifies, and provides site support for large rotating electrical machinery, and wanted to expand trading into overseas markets. They participated in UK Trade and Investment business support programmes ‘Passport to Export’, and the ‘Overseas Market Introduction Service’, which are delivered in the East by East of England International (EEI), to develop relationships and understand markets in the Middle East and South America. So far, the company has traded directly with businesses in China, USA, UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Tanzania and Gabon amongst many others.

The Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk presented Dr Mike Robinson, Managing Director of PPI with the award. On handing it over, he said: “The Queens Award is the most prestigious award for business performance and recognises and rewards outstanding achievement by UK companies. They are given to whole organisations, from the newest recruit to the Director. My congratulations to everyone employed at PPI Engineering.”

On receiving the award, Dr Robinson said: “PPI Engineering is thrilled to have received this prestigious award which recognises the hard work and commitment of everyone in the company. The support we received from East of England International through the UKTI programmes was invaluable to us. It enabled us to plan our entry into the new markets with confidence.”

David Riches, Chief Executive of EEI added: “We are delighted to be here celebrating PPI Engineering’s success, which is very well deserved. We are happy that EEI were able to support PPI with their expansion into foreign markets and they are a shining example of how trading overseas can help grow a business.”

At the event John Rimmer, International Trade Advisor for EEI also launched the new ‘Norfolk Exporters Club’.

For further information about East of England International call 0845 641 9955 or visit www.eei-online.com.

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PAUL CLARK MP HELPS TO CELEBRATE LOCAL REDUNDANCY SUCCESS STORIES IN GILLINGHAM

2009-09-14T07:36:00.001-07:00

The Hon Paul Clark, Member of Parliament for Gillingham and Rainham, visited TBG Learning in Gillingham (Friday 11 September) to see the centre first hand and meet learners, including some of the 85 local unemployed people who have been helped through the ‘Response to Redundancy’ course which TBG Learning has been delivering in Kent since June this year.

TBG Learning, which also has centres in Gravesend, Folkestone and Ashford, as well as in 16 other locations in England, is a leading local provider of work related training and employment help for young people and adults.

Mike Burger, Regional Manager, TBG Learning, Kent, said: “The number of unemployed people in Kent has nearly doubled in the last 12 months so there’s never been a greater need for the kind of individual support we provide through TBG Learning.”

On his visit Paul Clark MP met Nick Harding, who was an export manager for a local Kent brewery before being made redundant in May this year. He said: “I had been in a senior position for over ten years and it was an unexpected blow to be made redundant. TBG Learning helped me identify the skills I had developed as an export manager and which I could use again in a different job. Through the one to one sessions with tutors I discovered what I was enthusiastic about doing next, which was coaching and managing other people.”

Since completing ‘Response to Redundancy’ Nick has become a tutor for TBG Learning in Kent.

Paul Clark MP said “Nick’s story highlights how important it is for companies such as TBG Learning to work with individual people. Tailoring training programmes is vital, as we are not just talking about numbers and statistics; we are talking about real people who are affected by real issues outside of their control. The work undertaken by TBG Learning shows how it is essential for governments to take leadership and work with partners to ensure funding for these fantastic programmes.”

In Kent TBG Learning is promoting its range of help for people who have become out of work recently as ‘Back on Track’. The support available can be short and sharp, such as receiving intensive help on CV writing, application letters and interview techniques. Or a longer term programme of tailored help can be developed, with TBG Learning providing access to further training through its range of local training partners Intraining, ATS, East Kent ITEC and Northpoint Training.

TBG Learning’s Gillingham centre opened in December 2008 and since then it has helped nearly 90 local unemployed people back into work through a variety of courses. Individual support from tutors and job-focused learning and advice are ingredients of the centre’s success, as are the wide range of relationships the centre has developed with local employers. Over 125 local companies are working with TBG Learning to offer work placements and through these the learners build their personal confidence and experience.

Anyone is welcome to drop into TBG Learning and find out about the range of courses and help. The Gillingham centre is at Floor 2, Kingsley House, Balmoral Road, Gillingham ME7 4NT or telephone 01634 855629.

Other Kent TBG Learning centres are as follows:

Gravesend: 23-25 King Street, DA12 2DU (Tel 01474 566 588)
Folkestone: Unit 20, Shearway Business Park CT19 4RH (Tel 01303 297 064)Ashford: The Bull Yard, High Street, Ashford TN24 8SN (Tel 01233 634 476)

Ends

A TRUE PROFESSIONAL - THE FORD CAPRI, STILL TURNING HEADS AT FORTY

2009-09-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

The Ford Capri is refusing to grow old gracefully as the car designed for the young at heart celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

Although production ended in 1986, the Capri lives on within many owners' clubs, including the Liverpool and Cheshire Capri club who will be celebrating its milestone birthday at an event hosted by Polar Ford at their new dealership in St Helens.

Launched in January 1969 as "the car you always promised yourself", the Ford Capri was unashamedly aimed at a style-conscious generation. In just 18 years sales of the European answer to the Ford Mustang reached nearly two million and achieved iconic status with its target audience.

Star status was assured with regular Capri appearances in TV shows such as Minder and The Professionals.

Polar Ford, which opened the doors on its new dealership in Sherdley road last month, is marking the anniversary with a competition to find the ‘best’ Ford Capri, out of 10 that will be on display in the showroom between 11am - 4pm on Sunday 13th September.

Visitors to the dealership will be able to get up close and personal to these stylish pieces of history and will be given a scorecard to rate them on a variety of factors. The owner of the winning Capri will take home a trophy as recognition of his (or her!) commitment to keeping the legend alive.

So for the chance to celebrate the birthday of a motoring icon and get one of the first looks at the brand new Polar Ford St Helens, come along to the showroom from 11am on the 13th September.

Polar Dragons roar down the river for St Rocco's

2009-09-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

A team of twelve plucky rowers from Polar Ford took to the river last month as part of the first ever Dragon Boat race in aid of St Rocco’s Hospice in Warrington.

The ‘Polar Dragons’ came 3rd out of twelve teams in what was a challenging but rewarding day and managed to raise over £200 for the independent hospice.

St Rocco’s helps hundreds of patients and their families in Warrington each year, providing clinical treatment, emotional and spiritual support, symptom control and nursing care.

Rowena Pyne, team captain of the Polar Dragons, said: “It was great to get out and about and do something worthwhile for a local charity whilst indulging in a bit of healthy competition. A great day was had by all - we came 3rd out of 12 teams, but got the 2nd fastest time overall. Not bad considering most of us had never been in a boat before we raced”!

The event, which started at Warrington Rowing club, was sponsored by BiG Storage and all money raised by the teams went directly to St Rocco’s to help to pay for patient care at the hospice.

It costs approximately £2million per year to keep St. Rocco’s Hospice running with most funds being generated by the local community from sources such as fundraising events corporate and community donations, legacies, Hospice shops, a local lottery and Gift Aid tax relief.

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Mayor of Greenwich welcomes new dealership at special launch event

2009-09-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Dagenham Motors dealership in Eltham celebrated its first birthday last month with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at a special event for customers, guests and local people.

The event was supported by the new Mayor of Greenwich, Cllr Allan MacCarthy and Ford of Britain sales director Jon Wellsman, who commended the dealership for the work they had done in the local community since it opened its doors last June.

Dagenham Motors has a tradition of heavy involvement with community initiatives, supporting charities, disabled motorists and local schools. It most recently ran a road safety competition with local primary schools, highlighting ways for pupils to stay safe on the roads.

Chris Minter, General Manager for Dagenham Motors, said: “As a local business we feel it is important to give back to our local community which is why we wanted to invite everybody to share in the celebration of our first anniversary. We had a great afternoon and were so pleased to be supported not only by the Mayor himself, but by so many local people”.

Commenting on the event, the Mayor of Greenwich said: "The opening of this new dealership is a real boon for the borough as it not only includes a significant investment into the area but has also created nearly 30 new jobs in the borough at what is undoubtedly a challenging time for the economy. I would like to welcome Dagenham Motors to Greenwich and wish them all the best in the future".

Dagenham Motors is part of Ford Retail, the UK’s largest Ford Dealer Group. The Group invested approaching £1million in the new dealership at the Fiveways junction, which saw Ford return to Eltham for the first time in 10 years.

The celebration of their first anniversary follows another celebration by Dagenham Motors, which was recently awarded ‘Dealer Group of the Year’ by Motability Operations, in recognition of its commitment to helping disabled drivers get back on the road.

SUFFOLK PR FIRM SHORTLISTED FOR SIX AWARDS

2009-09-04T05:42:00.001-07:00

4 September 2009: Ipswich-based regional PR consultancy Project PR has been short-listed in the annual Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards for no less than six awards – the most amongst all the PR agencies short-listed this year. The awards are held regionally to recognise outstanding PR agencies based outside London.

“We’re thrilled to be selected as a finalist in six categories covering our work in media relations, social media, consumer and not-for-profit PR. Our business has grown throughout the recession and we’re particularly pleased to be in the final shortlist for the most outstanding PR company in the Eastern region,” said Penny Arbuthnot, director, Project PR.

The awards that Project PR has been short-listed for are: Outstanding Public Relations Consultancy, Not for Profit (for national skills provider TBG Learning), Consumer Relations (PR for Ford Retail’s 40 dealerships around the UK), Best Use of Media Relations and Best Use of Social Media (for Suffolk manufacturer Challs International and their Buster brand of plughole care products).

Project PR’s account manager Helen Sharkey has also been short-listed for the Outstanding Young Communicator of the Year award. Helen, who joined Project PR in January 2008, manages three of Project PR’s clients: East of England International, East of England Regional Assembly and TBG Learning.

During the past year Project PR has won several new clients in competitive tenders including Ipswich Building Society and East of England International. The company’s team of six employees will now have to wait until 7th December when they’ll attend the Eastern region awards ceremony at the SAS Radisson hotel at Stansted.

This year the PRide Awards attracted a total of 1,448 entries from across the UK.

ENDS

Have your say on the future of the East of England

2009-09-03T01:35:00.000-07:00

The public are being asked for their views on how the region should grow and develop over the next twenty years in a consultation being launched by the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) today (2nd September 2009).

The consultation will help EERA to develop a new target for the number of new homes and jobs to be planned for in the region between 2011 and 2031.

In this first stage of consultation, EERA is seeking responses to four different approaches to housing and economic growth as follows:

Scenario 1 - 26,060 new homes p/a – continuation of existing target and broadly based on the views of local councils in the region.

Scenario 2 - 30,100 new homes p/a – promotes growth in areas identified by the Regional Scale Settlement Study published in January 2009. Chelmsford would grow to be a regional city, three medium-sized new settlements of up to 20,000 homes located in Central Bedfordshire, Huntingdonshire and either Uttlesford or Braintree – and smaller increases in Peterborough, Suffolk and the rest of Essex.

Scenario 3 – 29,970 new homes p/a – promotes growth around successful business locations where new jobs are attracting workers. Additional growth is spread over many districts but with a particular focus on Hertfordshire, south Essex and Cambridgeshire.

Scenario 4 – 33,650 new homes p/a – promotes growth where households are projected to grow. It is based on long-term trends such as people living longer and people moving to the region. It focuses the majority of additional growth in Hertfordshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Scenarios 2-4 will test the Government’s view that more homes are needed in the region although EERA has already rejected the highest end of the range of new homes being proposed by the Government – about 39,000 new homes a year.

EERA Regional Planning Panel Chairman Cllr Derrick Ashley said: “We need to plan for new homes so that first-time buyers, young families and others in housing need can buy or rent a home at a price they can afford. Businesses also need the confidence to invest in our region.

“But we also want to protect the environment and the quality of life for existing and future residents of the East of England. New development must be appropriate and supported by Government investment.

“We will look closely at all the responses to the consultation before publishing, in March 2010, a detailed plan for how many new homes are needed up to 2031.

“Although there may be changes to the planning system in the years ahead, the evidence gathered will be valuable for the continuing need to plan for new jobs and homes.”

The consultation is part of a wider review of the East of England Plan which covers important issues such as transport, the environment, energy and waste as well as new homes.

The revised East of England Plan will not be completed until 2011 and the public will have further opportunities to have their say. It is the responsibility of local councils to determine the exact locations of where new homes should be built through their local development frameworks.

Fifteen consultation events are being held across the region beginning at the Forum in Norwich at 7.15pm today (2 September). A place can be booked online at: http://events.eera.gov.uk/conferences/ or contact Jayne Cole, Conference Organiser, EERA, 01284 729405, jayne.cole@eera.gov.uk

The events are being held at 7pm (unless stated otherwise) as follows:

September
2nd The Forum, Norwich, (7.15pm)
3rd Essex Records Office, Wharf Road, Chelmsford
8th Central Bedfordshire Council Chamber, Priory House, Chicksands
9th Robinson House, Hertfordshire Development Centre, Six Hills Way, Stevenage
10th Robinson College, Grange Road, Cambridge
14th Town Hall, Bridge Street, Peterborough
16th Endeavour House, Russell Road, Ipswich
17th The Town Hall, Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn
22nd Luton Borough Council, George Street, Luton
23rd The Council Chamber, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea
24th The Council Chamber, Thurrock Civic Centre, New Road, Grays
29th Harpur Suite, Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford
30th Commemoration Hall, Huntingdon, Huntingdonshire

October
2nd The Maltings, Ely, East Cambridgeshire (6pm)

EERA has also organised a regional consultation event focusing on the whole of the East of England between 2-4pm on 10th September at Robinson College, Cambridge. This event will be of particular interest to a professional stakeholder audience.

Ends

Notes to Editors:

An information pack including local housing numbers for each scenario is available at: www.eera.gov.uk/News/public-information-packs

The consultation document is available at:
www.eera.gov.uk/What-we-do/developing-regional-strategies/east-of-england-plan/east-of-england-plan-review-to-2031/

For further information or to arrange an interview with an EERA spokesperson, please contact:

Stephen Hinchley, Tel: 01284 729430, Mob: 07710 312237, Email: stephen.hinchley@eera.gov.uk

Claire Sefton, Tel: 01284 729427 Mob: 07920257940 Email: Claire.sefton@eera.gov.uk
East of England Plan
The long-term planning framework for the sustainable development of the region is provided by the East of England Plan (Regional Spatial Strategy). The East of England Plan provides the basis for local authorities to prepare their local development plans and for other organisations to plan their investment e.g. NHS, Highways Agency, water companies etc.

The current East of England Plan[1] sets out regional planning policy to 2021 but many councils are already preparing local plans stretching to 2026 and beyond. A focused review of the East of England Plan is therefore needed to set out regional planning policy from 2011 to 2031. It will plan for the region’s growth and prosperity, housing needs and respond to issues such as climate change.

The review of the East of England Plan will be completed in 2011. There will be public consultation at key stages of the process to enable members of the public and others to contribute. The review will consider:
· jobs and homes targets for 2011-2031 including affordable homes;
· broad locations for new development;
· regional infrastructure needs e.g. transport;
· targets to reduce the use of natural resources (energy, water) and greenhouse gas emissions;
· priorities for the environment such as the countryside and biodiversity protection.

In undertaking the East of England Plan 2031, the Assembly will be working closely with the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and the Government Office for the East of England (GO-East).
East of England Regional Assembly
1. The East of England Regional Assembly is independent of Government and is not a Government agency or quango. It represents the regional interests of people living and working in the East of England.

2. The Assembly has 96 members of which two thirds are elected councillors (from the 52 local authorities in the region) and one third are stakeholder representatives. Its meetings are open to the media and general public.

3. The Assembly is the designated Regional Planning Body for the East of England until March 2010 when it will cease to exist.

4. During 2008/09 EERA’s work included:
£1 billion bid for investment in public transport and roads across the region including final stretch of A11 dualling
Campaigned against a second runway at Stansted Airport
Held EEDA to account at six Economic Summits
Influenced European funding programmes worth £500 million to support employment, skills, climate change and low carbon economic growth
Delivery of 328 training courses to develop thousands of local authority employees and councillors in the region
For more information on EERA, see the website at www.eera.gov.uk

East of England Regional Planning Panel
Cllr Derrick Ashley (Chairman of RPP), Conservative, 01992 556571
Cllr Alan Crystall (Panel Group Leader), Liberal Democrat, 01702 474047
Cllr Roy Davis (Panel Group Leader), Labour, 01582 730939
Corrine Meakins (Panel Group Leader), Community Stakeholder, 07960 189994

Buster offer money back guarentee for Plughole Unblockers

2009-08-27T07:06:00.000-07:00

Buster, the plughole care brand is so confident about its products it has launched a 30 day money back guarantee on its two unblocking products.

The new money back guarantee on packs of Buster Kitchen Plughole Unblocker and Buster Bathroom Plughole Unblocker is available in stores now. It comes hot on the heels of National Plughole Week (20-27 July), which was supported by the brand.

Louise Perry, Buster brand manager says: “Times are tight and we are simply saying that if you are not happy with the performance of our products, you can have your money back!”

Buster has become synonymous with plughole care and is the only brand of plughole treatments and unblockers individually formulated for kitchens and bathrooms.

Buster Kitchen Plughole Unblocker works by blasting food and fat waste out of kitchen drains whilst Buster Bathroom Unblocker dissolves hair and soap blockages in showers and baths.

The two unblockers are complemented by two treatment products Buster Kitchen Plughole & Sink Treatment and Buster Bathroom Plughole & Sink Treatment, which kill germs and smells, remove stains and leave plugholes fresh.

Priced at £3.29 (RRP) for 300gm, Buster is stocked in Sainsbury’s, Asda, Waitrose, Wilkinson, Tesco, Morrisons and independent hardware stores. Visit www.plugholesneedlovetoo.com

‘Doctors’ stars officially unveil new learning centre for Birmingham

2009-08-25T01:54:00.000-07:00

Press invite & Photo-call

‘Doctors’ stars officially unveil new learning centre for Birmingham

date Friday 4th September 2009
time 2.30pm – 5.30pmvenue TBG Learning, George Nott House, 119 Holloway Head, Birmingham, B1 1QP
media rsvp Helen Sharkey, Tel 01473 326405 (07521 318127) helen.sharkey@projectpr.biz

Selina Chilton (Ruth Pearce) and Donnaleigh Bailey (Michelle Corrigan), stars of the BBC One drama series ‘Doctors’, will be officially opening a new learning centre for Birmingham, with help from local MP Claire Short.

TBG Learning, which used to be based in Great Charles Street, has moved into a new centre in George Nott house in order to provide more space and better facilities for learners on programmes such as entry to employment (e2e), Flexible Routeways, and the Government’s Flexible New Deal programme, which starts on 5th October and aims to assist people back into employment.

The event will include the opportunity to have a tour of the new centre and find out about courses on offer. Successful ex-learners who have since gained employment following participation on a programme at TBG Learning will be returning for the event to talk about their experiences. E2e students who have progressed onto college will also be attending to tell their story. TBG Learning’s regional manager for the West Midlands, Lawrence Thirlaway, will address guests.

The event will include a prize draw to raise money for TBG Learning Birmingham’s chosen charity, the Stroke Association.

Other guests will include representatives from TBG Learning’s partners, including Connexions, the Jobcentre, Matthew Bolton College, A1 training, the Shaw Trust, Platinum Training, City College, Zenos Training Academy, and the Learning and Skills Council.

If you would like to attend, or would like to receive photographs and a write-up post event, please contact Helen Sharkey on the details below.

Ends
088 Birmingham
For further information please contact:
Helen Sharkey, Project PR – 01473 326405 (07521 318127) or helen.sharkey@projectpr.biz

70% of NEET’s in Tendring finding work, apprenticeships or further training in 2009

2009-08-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

Government figures released this morning have shown that one in six 18 to 24-year-olds are now ‘NEET’ - not in education, employment or training. According to the Department for Children, Schools and Families, 835,000 are now ‘NEET’, up from 730,000.

However, in Tendring, Essex, local training provider TBG Learning’s NEET programme has achieved outstanding success so far in 2009, with 70% of all young people who enrol on courses with them progressing on to further training, apprenticeships or employment.

TBG Learning centres have been at the forefront in delivering the Government programme aimed at helping the NEET group. Tutors help them improve skills in English, Maths and IT, as well as giving them individual support to develop their confidence. Advice on further training and careers are also given to progress each young person onto something positive. Many learners join the entry to employment (e2e) programme as a ‘NEET’, but in a short period of time are able to gain skills to help them into apprenticeships or employment.

In Tendring, Ellie McCarthy enrolled on the e2e programme, and in just two weeks was successful in securing an apprenticeship placement with Omega Estate Agents, and has now progressed into a full time job. Nathan Phillips, who has ADHA and difficulties in concentrating, took just 13 weeks to secure a full time position with Grantleys Electrical as a sales assistant.

Rob Fitt, TBG Learning Tendring centre manager commented: “In Tendring the amount of young people who are NEET is always higher than the national average, so to have a 70% positive progression rate is a huge success. The e2e programme is a great tool to get young people back on the right path.”

Iain Wright, the minister for 14-19 reform, said school leavers had been badly hit by the recession.

"Reducing the proportion of 18 year old Neets has proved challenging, and we know that the economic downturn is significantly affecting young people," he said.

The Government has said reducing the number in this age group is a priority, but the figures show they rose by more than 13,000 to 233,000.

ENDS

TBG Tendring 081

For further information please contact:
Helen Sharkey Project PR, Telephone 01473 326405 / 07521 318127

National Plughole Week raises £10,500 for Oxfam GB

2009-08-17T02:21:00.000-07:00

Caring plughole experts Buster are delighted to announce that almost £10,500 has been raised for Oxfam GB, as a result of the activities undertaken during National Plughole Week (20-27th July).

The money, which totalled £10,458, was raised through a five pence donation on every product sold during the campaign, with generous consumers adding to the total by making their own contributions on the justgiving.com website.

The money will be given to support Oxfam GB’s water and sanitation work, providing people in developing countries with items such as rainwater harvesting systems, filters and essential hygiene kits. These will enable them to access clean, safe drinking water. It is estimated the donation will help provide clean water to more than 14,000 people.

Louise Perry, Buster brand manager said of the donation; “We are absolutely thrilled with the final total, it exceeded all of our expectations. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to the campaign, either through making a donation or by buying a bottle of the product. Buster is a caring brand and the donation to Oxfam will provide clean, safe water to help thousands of people who don’t have access to the luxuries that we take for granted.”

Natalie Griffin in the corporate partnerships team at Oxfam GB added; “We are very grateful for the support shown by Buster and National Plughole Week. The money will help us to deliver essential clean water to some of the world’s poorest people.”

If you would like to make a contribution to the campaign, please visit www.justgiving.com/plugholeweekwithoxfam.

Alternatively, visit www.twitter.com/plugholeweek. Oxfam GB is a Registered Charity Number 202918.

TBG Learning’s Response to Redundancy programme can ease the strain of today’s rise in unemployment figures

2009-08-12T03:18:00.000-07:00

Local independent training provider TBG Learning, which has centres in Derbyshire, Kent and London, is ready to help the rising numbers of unemployed people announced in new figures released today. Over 2.44 million people are now out of work – the highest level in nearly fifteen years.

TBG Learning provides the free ‘Response to Redundancy’ programme, which can help people get back into work. It is for people of all skill levels, from manual workers to those from professional and management roles. It gives individual, practical support on areas such as CV writing; identifying job vacancies and brushing up on interview techniques plus help with improving literacy and Numeracy skills if required.

Response to Redundancy is available to anyone who is under notice of redundancy, has been made redundant recently, or is unemployed and ready for work. The advice and training is tailored and can be as short or as long as is needed, dependent on the extent of help required.

The programme also offers support to employers who have had to make staff redundant, not only to help those under notice of redundancy, but also to upskill the remaining workforce to help make the future of the company more secure.

Abi Osho, Regional Manager for TBG Learning London said: “This is a distressing time for those people who are out of work or facing redundancy, but this programme is great because it is tailored to the needs of the individual, whether you have been made redundant from a financial job in the City or have come from a more practical background. Come along and see what it can do for you!”

To find out more about whether Response to Redundancy is for you visit www.tbglearning.com to find details of your nearest centre.

The course is free to anyone who enrols as it is being funded by the Learning and Skills Council.

ENDS

Trust factor key as mortgage applications soar

2009-08-07T04:17:00.000-07:00

Confidence in the economy is low, but Ipswich Building Society is bucking the trend. It has reported a staggering increase of 80% in its mortgage applications (July 09 v July 08), whilst building societies overall have seen the number of applications reduced.

The dramatic increase in Ipswich Building Society’s mortgage lending is mirrored in its success at attracting new deposits in savings accounts. The industry as a whole has continued to see higher withdrawals than receipts from accounts, whereas Ipswich Building Society's half year results for 2009 show an increase of 55% in positive net receipts, compared to the same period in 2008.

Paul Winter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society, said: “The current financial climate means people will be naturally nervous and as well as competitive products, they need reassurance. Unlike most lenders, we empower our employees so they can follow through each mortgage or new account request, giving customers the confidence of dealing with just one individual, as well as having prompt and efficient service.”

He added: “There is a return by the public generally to appreciating the benefits of locally based financial organisations who they can develop a relationship with and trust. Our own research backs this up.”

Ipswich Building Society undertook brand research with 400 customers and non-customers in April this year, which showed trust and quality of service as the two most important factors in choosing a financial institution.

For further information about Ipswich Building Society telephone 0845 230 8686 or visit the website at www.ibs.co.uk

EEI welcomes new head of Business Development

2009-08-05T02:32:00.000-07:00

East of England International (EEI), the organisation that helps businesses export and assists foreign-owned companies to set up in the region, is delighted to announce that Brian Hayland has joined the organisation as Head of Business Development.

Brian’s new role will be as part of the inward investment function, and he will spearhead the team looking to secure foreign businesses to invest in the region, and to assist them when they arrive.

Prior to joining EEI, Brian built a career spanning over 20 years with Barclays Commercial Banking, where the latter half of his time there was spent focusing entirely on helping businesses expand and succeed outside their domestic territories.

More recently, in his role as Head of the Barclays Inward Investment team, Brian supported foreign businesses wishing to invest in the region. He will be bringing with him established, strong relationships with international and UK inward investment business communities which will benefit EEI and the businesses that it supports.

EEI chairman Sir Robin Young said: “I am delighted to welcome Brian to the team. His experience in helping foreign owned businesses set up in the UK will be a great asset to EEI, and as he was born and bred in the East of England he will be a great ambassador for the region.”

Brian is based in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, where he lives with his wife Claire and his two children. In his spare time, he is an avid spectator and player of rugby, football and cricket.

01/08/09

Ends

Photo caption: Brian Hyland

Further press information from:
Helen Sharkey, Project PR,
Tel: 01473 326405
Email: Helen.sharkey@projectpr.biz

Note to Editors

East of England International (EEI) works with companies seeking to trade internationally and assists foreign-owned businesses looking to invest in the region. EEI is funded by and works in partnership with the UK Government, the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) and a wide range of businesses and partners in the region.

In the East of England, EEI’s Trade Team delivers UK Trade & Investment’s export services.

UK Trade & Investment is the government organisation that provides integrated support services for UK companies engaged in overseas trade and foreign businesses focused on the UK as an inward investment location. It brings together the work of teams in British embassies and FCO posts overseas and government departments across Whitehall. In England, international trade support is coordinated by nine International Trade Directors working in partnership with each Regional Development Agency.

East of England Development Agency (EEDA) is the driving force behind sustainable economic regeneration in the East of England: Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Its vision is to create a leading economy, founded on a world-class knowledge base, creativity and enterprise to improve the quality of life for all who live and work here.

For further information on the above organisations visit:
www.eei-online.com
www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk
www.eeda.org.uk

Ref: EEI-C009

When washing your hair don't forget your plugholes!

2009-08-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

Washing your hair can be one of the most relaxing parts of having a bath or shower. The gentle massage on your head as you rub in the shampoo can stimulate your mind and body, but if you’ve ever had to clear up your shower from clogs of unwanted hair you’ll know its not a relaxing time for your plugholes!

The average human head has 100,000 strands of hair, and it is estimated that we lose 100 strands of hair a day. Most of this falls out when we wash our hair, so combined with soap sludge and other bathroom deposits it is clear that it can cause havoc in your bathroom.

When left unattended, a build up of hair and soap sludge can not only cause blockages and slow running pipes, but it is a breeding ground for nasty germs such as salmonella which can lead to nasty smells and stains in your pipes and around your plughole.

However, this can easily be prevented with a dose of Buster Bathroom Plughole Unblocker. The solution will dissolve any blocked hair and sludge, leaving your plugholes hygienically clean and fresh and your showers flowing freely.

Complimenting the unblocker is Buster Bathroom Plughole& Sink Treatment, which will remove stains and smelly odours from your plugholes. The foaming granules will add a little luxury to your bathroom with the fresh fragrance of rose and camphor.

Priced at £3.29 (RRP) for 300gm, Buster is stocked in Sainsbury’s, Asda, Waitrose, Wilkinson, Tesco, Morrisons and independent hardware stores. Visit www.plugholesneedlovetoo.com

Learn how to save again

2009-07-31T05:51:00.000-07:00

You would love a new sofa, your wife wants a new designer handbag and the kids are crying out for a holiday. But you don’t want to put more on the card. Today’s society is full of ‘must haves’ but a culture of ‘buy now, pay later’ has created a mountain of credit card debt and a financial meltdown in the economy which everyone wants to move on from.

One building society is taking things back to basics and helping people to learn how to save again. Ipswich Building Society has launched ‘Smart Save’ which encourages you to set yourself a target, save a bit regularly towards something special, then sit back and watch your account grow. After all, it’s always easier to save when you have an incentive.

Paul Winter, Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society, says: “Smart Save is simple and transparent and you can see exactly how much your regular savings will add up to. We are encouraging people to plan their purchases and learn how to save again. It gives you the satisfaction of buying yourself something with your own money, rather than worrying about repaying a debt.”

Smart Save is a simple savings account where you make variable monthly direct debit savings of between £10 and £500. There’s a variable interest rate calculated on a daily basis and an annual bonus of 3.00% paid on the account’s anniversary if you have made 11 monthly payments. You can even make one penalty free instant access withdrawal per year.

So if you know you’d like to plan for a home improvement, a dream wedding or your son/daughter’s University education, then Smart Save will help you get going. Why not aspire to and save for your dream purchase and avoid the worry of credit card debts or hefty interest rates on loans or finance deals.

For more information about Ipswich Building Society’s Smart Saver account, visit www.ibs.co.uk

TBG Learning’s Julie scales Ben Nevis for local charity

2009-07-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

A local woman who spends her days helping unemployed people back into work has managed to climb the highest mountain in the British Isles, whilst raising money for charity.

Julie McCarvil, a recruitment consultant based at TBG Learning in Gillingham decided to scale the 1,344m peak to raise money for Cliff Woods Cerebral Palsy, which is TBG Learning Gillingham’s chosen charity for 2009.

Julie has raised a staggering £580 for the charity, which is a huge boost to the total already raised by learners and staff at the centre.

Julie said of her climb: We set out at 9am and got back to the bottom at 8pm having survived hail stones, rain, fog and snow! The climb back down took longer than it should owing to my boot falling apart after a fall - I descended from half way down with one bare foot! Needless to say, I didn't enjoy it too much, but got great satisfaction from reaching the top and raising the money for a worthwhile local charity.”

Learners and staff at the centre, based in Kinglsey House on Balmoral Road, will continue to hold fundraising events throughout the year in order to raise as much as they can for the local charity.

For more information about the courses and programmes on offer at TBG Learning in Gillingham and for advice and assistance in getting back into work, call 01634 855629 or call into the centre.

McCain’s Renewable Energy facilities attract foreign VIP interest

2009-07-27T01:55:00.000-07:00

East of England International (EEI) and McCain Foods (GB) Ltd, based in Whittlesey, have played host to a visit from the British Consul General for Toronto, who is in the UK as part of a fact finding mission about clean technology (Cleantech).

Jonathan Dart, who is also the Director of UKTI for Canada with overall responsibility for the UK’s commercial inward investment and trade activities within Canada, is in the region as part of a duty tour, with an emphasis on seeing Cleantech in action, and finding out about further investment opportunities there are in the East of England for Canadian companies.

McCain Foods Ltd is a major Canadian family-owned investor into the UK. The Whittlesey plant opened in 1972, and expansion of the production plant has been incrementally driven by almost unbroken year-on year growth in demand. McCain Foods, as an investor in the community, has a strong family ethos and commitment to their staff, evidenced by their solvent Final Salary Pension scheme. Mr Dart was keen to see their investment in action, and his visit to the site included a tour of their renewable energy facilities, which includes three 3MW wind turbines which have proven very successful in reducing the ‘take’ of electricity from the Grid since the end of 2007..

Additional green investment has been made by McCain in an anaerobic digester lagoon for liquid wastes which provides a methane fuel source to further reduce external power consumption. Investment is also continuing inside the plant to minimise water usage, reduce energy consumption, reduce packaging volumes, and simplify maintenance.

Mr Dart is keen to take information and experiences of Cleantech back to Canada in order to support EEI in encouraging further investment in the East of England and the Peterborough area, especially in the research and development of Cleantech.

Mr Dart was met by Bill Bartlett, Corporate Affairs Director for McCain Foods (GB) Ltd, and Andy Hook, Investor Development Manager for EEI.

Andy Hook said: “McCain’s inward investments into Whittlesey and the community are impressive and by embracing green technology they are having a significant positive environmental impact and controlling their production costs. They are an example to other larger manufacturers in the UK who aspire to lead their sector.”

EEI has worked closely with McCain Foods to provide business support including information about government backed training and qualifications for staff through local organisations such as Improve and Food East. They organised introductions to the regional Food Sector Employers Group, and provided details of regional expertise in renewable energy from Renewables East, and industrial material recycling via the National Industrial Symbiosis Programme.

Cleantech is new technology and related business models that offer competitive returns for investors and customers while providing solutions to global challenges. The term Cleantech represents a diverse range of products, services, and processes, all intended to provide superior performance at lower costs, while greatly reducing or eliminating negative ecological impact, at the same time as Improving the productive and responsible use of natural resources

Driving off for your summer holiday? Make sure your car is up to the trip

2009-07-24T06:09:00.000-07:00

With many of us choosing a ‘stay-cation’ this summer and forgoing our annual flight abroad, it’s important that wherever you decide to holiday in the UK, your car is in tip top shape and can get you there in one piece.

Whether you’re planning a driving holiday, caravanning or simply driving off to the seaside, preparing your car for the long, hot trip is essential and if overlooked, could turn your relaxing break into an extremely stressful experience for you and your family.

The summer holidays are the perfect time to invest in your car’s health and Ford Retail dealerships are offering motorists a free summer health check - worth over £30, consisting of a visual check as well as oil, antifreeze and windscreen check and top up, to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey to your chosen destination.

Ford Retail is also currently offering the new ‘Value Service’ at just £99, giving your car a basic health check, tyre check, oil and filter change and more*. Half price MOT tests are also on offer at just £27 for any make or model when combined with your service.

During the summer, hot weather and congestion can too often cause roads to become littered with broken down vehicles and hassled drivers, so to prevent you from becoming part of that scene, Ford Retail has highlighted a few simple but vital checks you can make yourself before revving up your engine…

Top Ten Tips for summer driving:

1) Check your oil and water – a hot engine needs all the lubrication it can get and if your water levels are too low, you may find your engine overheating just when you’re starting to make progress on your journey. If towing a heavy trailer or caravan, switch to a motor oil with higher viscosity

2) Check your cooling fan is operating correctly – set your heater to cold and switch on the engine – the fan should cut in after about 5-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge and make sure it doesn’t overheat

3) Tyre pressure – examine your tyres for uneven or worn tread and make sure all tyres (including the spare!) are inflated to the correct pressure. Try to check them every couple of hours on your journey, as they can expand in hot weather

4) Top up your windscreen washer – a dirty windshield can be a hazard in itself, so make sure your reservoir is topped up with plenty of screenwash and your wiper blades are in good condition

5) Lights – inspect all lights and bulbs and replace any that have burnt out

6) Brakes – put them to the test and check the brake fluid. If you notice any pulsations, noises or longer stopping distances, get the brakes checked over straight away

7) Air-conditioning – one thing that is guaranteed to get you hot under the collar is if your air con fails. Check that cold air is coming out of the vents before you set off – if it’s not, or you notice and funny odours, get it checked out

8) Pack an ‘emergency kit’ – in case of difficulties take with you; a first aid kit, torch (and extra batteries), reflective triangle, mobile phone, jump cables and extra bottles of water to keep cool in the event of a breakdown

9) Get your car serviced – it is recommended that a full service is carried out at least one week before embarking on a long journey

10) Roof racks – Ensure that roof racks are properly loaded and securely tied down to minimise wind resistance and save fuel.

If you’re still unsure of what to look for when preparing your car for the summer holidays, or are worried about the outcome of any of your own checks, drop in or book in your car for its free summer health check at your local Ford Retail dealership:

Polar Ford, Wakefield Road, Barnsley. Tel: 01226 732732
Polar Ford, Calder Island Way, Denby Dale Road, Wakefield. Tel: 01924 290290
Polar Ford, Junction 32 M62, Park Road, Castleford. Tel: 01977 603644
Polar Ford, St Andrews Road, Huddersfield. Tel: 01484 290022
Polar Ford, Canal Road, Bradford. Tel: 01274 756200

Polar Ford, Winwick Road, Warrington. Tel: 01925 651111
Polar Ford, Victoria Road, Runcorn. Tel: 01928 574333
Polar Ford, City Road, St Helens Tel: 01744 26381
Polar Ford, A34 By-Pass, Wilmslow. Tel: 01625 257777
Polar Ford, Wellington Road North, Stockport. Tel: 0161 975 5500
Polar Ford, 60 Buxton Road, Hazel Grove, Tel: 01614 264050

Brunel Ford, Winterstoke Road, Bristol. Tel: 0117 908 9999
Brunel Ford, 175 Muller Road, Horfield, Bristol. Tel: 0117 951 3333
Brunel Ford, Winterstoke Road, Weston-Super-Mare. Tel: 01934 415511

Heartlands Ford, 971 Kingsbury Road, Erdington, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 377 3000
Heartlands Ford, Aldridge Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham. Tel: 0121 344 5252
Heartlands Ford, Saxon Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire. Tel: 01827 306700

Dagenham Motors Newbury Park, Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park. Tel: 020 8597 3331
Dagenham Motors Plaistow, 259 Plaistow Road, Plaistow. Tel: 020 8534 7661
Dagenham Motors Ripple Road, Ripple Road, Barking, Essex, Tel: 0208 911 3333

Dagenham Motors, 161-169 Pier Road, Gillingham. Tel: 01634 283400
Dagenham Motors, Ballard Business Park, Cuxton Road, Strood. Tel: 01634 712300

Dagenham Motors Eltham, Five Ways, Sidcup Road, Eltham, London, SE9 3AQ. Tel: 020 8860 1266

Dagenham Motors Banstead, Brighton Road, Banstead. Tel: 01737 352202
Dagenham Motors, Guildford Road, Bookham. Tel: 01372 804500
Dagenham Motors, Wintersells Road, Byfleet. Tel: 01932 332933
Dagenham Motors, 97 Portsmouth Road, Cobham. Tel: 01932 864244
Dagenham Motors, 20-40 East Street, Epsom. Tel: 01372 804040
Dagenham Motors, Portsmouth Road, Thames Ditton, Kingston. Tel: 020 8339 3500

Dagenham Motors, 319 The Hyde, Edgware Road. Tel: 020 8358 8600
Dagenham Motors, Baker Street, Potters Bar. Tel: 01707 652219
Dagenham Motors, 51 Stamford Hill. Tel: 020 8826 2200
Dagenham Motors, Unit 1 Waltham Park Way, Walthamstow, Billet Road. Tel: 020 8556 1521
Dagenham Motors, 357 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green. Tel: 020 8498 9848
Dagenham Motors, 720 Great Cambridge Road, Enfield. Tel: 020 8884 7800
Dagenham Motors, 374 Ealing Road, Alperton. Tel: 020 8997 3388

Dagenham Motors Hounslow, 719-727 London Road, Hounslow. Tel: 020 8814 4600
Dagenham Motors Staines, 268 London Road, Staines. Tel: 01784 466666

*Ford’s Value Service is offered to cars aged four years or older. Please contact dealership for additional information.

'Here come the girls' - Swish Party raises over £200 for charity

2009-07-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

The traditionally male-dominated world of car dealership Polar Ford was recently turned into a ladies paradise for a night, when it hosted an exclusive ‘Swish Party’ for local customers and guests.

Fashion-loving ladies from all over Bradford descended on the showroom to indulge in the popular clothes-swapping craze, which is fast becoming the favourite way to kit out your wardrobe without emptying out your purse, particularly during the current recession.

£255 was raised on the night, through the entry fee which included a buffet and drinks. A representative from Martini Rosso was there to serve up cocktails and keep guests refreshed throughout the thirsty task of hunting for that perfect outfit.

Clothes swapping, or ‘swishing’ as it is increasingly known, is a great way to recycle unwanted clothes, have some fun, while making some new friends and Polar Ford gave the party an extra twist by donating all the proceeds to Age Concern.

Maureen McEvoy, Sales Manager at Polar Ford who organised the event, said: “We had such a fun night and everybody thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The ladies had to be held back until I signalled the start of the swishing, then they could take away as many clothes as they wanted in return for the hats, shoes and accessories they brought in which were lurking in the back of their wardrobe”.

Any items that weren’t snapped up at the party were donated to the Age Concern shop in Horsforth to be sold on at a later date and raise even more for the charity.