St Austell Brewery is giving lucky diners the chance to experience an evening of beer and deliciously paired dishes, hosted by its brewing director, Georgina Young. Georgina, who has more than 25 years in the brewing industry and currently holds the title of Brewer of the Year from the British Guild of Beer Writers, will be curating an evening full of great beer, delicious food and conversation. The dinner, which will be held at the Punchbowl and Ladle in Feock this September, coincides with Cask Ale Week, which is an annual celebration of cask beer - Britain's national drink. To mark the occasion, diners will be greeted on arrival with a choice of two of St Austell Brewery’s best-loved cask beers; Tribute, its longstanding flagship pale ale which is still making waves in the world of beer 25 years on since it was first brewed, or Anthem, a golden pale ale brewed with 100% British ingredients. Georgina started her brewing career in the South West, at Smiles Brewery in Bristol, before moving to Brewing Research International. She then went on to Fuller’s, famous for London Pride, becoming the first woman to take on the role of head brewer in the company’s history. She joined St Austell Brewery in 2019, overseeing its two breweries in Cornwall and Warmley, on the outskirts of Bristol. Georgina said: “We can’t wait to welcome diners and share more about our beers, all paired with delicious courses designed to amplify and evoke all the different flavours you get in beer and how they work with different foods." “For beer lovers, this will be a great way to enjoy our beers with a curated menu to compliment, and for those who generally prefer wine, I’d say come and give it a go. You’ll likely be pleasantly surprised." “Beer isn’t one style or flavour; for instance, a Belgian style beer typically has banana and clove notes from the yeast whilst the bottle conditioning process that occurs in Hicks with our own yeast contributes rich toffee, raisin and madeira. Earthy and piney bitterness comes from the hops but the way they react with food is very different. There’s plenty to discover!” Each course on the menu, developed by Oli Alderson, Head Chef at the Punchbowl & Ladle, will be paired with samples of two beers. This will allow diners to compare how each chosen beer cuts or complements each dish. The beer pairings include a few of Georgina’s personal favourites, alongside some specials from St Austell Brewery’s Belgian beer range and limited-edition brews. Dishes including pan-seared scallops cooked in a lemon butter sauce with fennel, spinach and crispy onions will kick off the menu, served with a wheat beer – Baobab, and St Austell Brewery’s flagship lager, korev. The main will see diners feast on a slow-cooked belly of pork, rolled in a herby apricot stuffing, accompanied with Pommes Anna, apple, carrot and celeriac puree, tender-stem broccoli and finished with a red wine jus. The two beers to compliment will be Hicks and Proper Job - the first offering notes of toffee and fruity biscuits, the latter a powerful and authentic IPA that’s packed with citrus, pineapple, and grapefruit flavours. A decadent chocolate mess with a white chocolate Chantilly cream, raspberry coulis, sour candied orange and fresh raspberries will wind down the evening, paired with rich and complex Mena Dhu stout alongside one of the strongest beers St Austell Brewery has ever released- 13% ABV Divine Intervention, which is rich in mahogany and fruits. Finally, diners will enjoy a selection of West County cheeses alongside Big Job, Proper Job’s stronger sibling, and Extra Special Tribute, which is being released in September. Tickets will be priced at £60pp. The event will take place on the 24th of September, from 7:30pm–10:30pm. For more information, and to book tickets, visit here .

JCB’s innovative engine business marked its 20th birthday with a celebration to thank employees for their vital role in its continuing success. Since 2004, JCB Power Systems in Foston, Derbyshire, has gone from producing three engines a day to making almost 300. It has become a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of diesel engines and is now leading the way with the pioneering development of hydrogen engines. The business initially employed 20 people but has expanded its workforce to more than 400. To mark the anniversary, employees were presented with gifts and letters thanking them for their service. In addition, 10 employees with a combined 200 years’ service, planted an oak tree in the grounds of the plant to mark the occasion. JCB Power Systems General Manager Robert Taylor said: “I’m proud to have worked at JCB Power Systems since day one. Today marks 20 years of innovation, growth and dedication involving a talented team, delivering manufacturing excellence at JCB." JCB Power Systems’ engines have been instrumental in helping set world records – firstly when the JCB Dieselmax streamliner, powered by two JCB engines, became the fastest diesel-powered car in the world in 2006 when it reached a speed of 350.092mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats, USA – a record that still stands. In 2019, JCB’s Fastrac tractor stormed into the record books as the world’s fastest tractor with a speed of 135.191 mph – thanks to JCB’s 7.2 litre, 6-cylinder Dieselmax engine. In 2010, JCB expanded production of engines to JCB India, with a dedicated facility in Ballabgarh, Delhi, where 200 engines are produced every single day. In the UK, a team of more than 150 engineers is currently engaged in developing hi-tech hydrogen combustion engines for use in JCB machinery as part of a £100 million investment. More than 120 engines have come off the production line so far and many machines powered by these super-efficient engines are currently undergoing evaluation.

Global outdoor apparel company Patagonia is taking another step forward in its environmental commitments by joining Pack4Good, a sustainable packaging initiative from Canopy, a solutions-driven non-profit organization dedicated to protecting forests, species, and climate. Building on a strong foundation of working with Canopy to eliminate the destruction of Ancient and Endangered Forests caused by the production of viscose textiles since 2013, Patagonia is now focusing on Next Generation (Next Gen) packaging solutions that come from more sustainable sources such as agricultural waste instead of trees. The company has committed to ensuring none of their packaging comes at the expense of the world’s most climate- and biodiversity-critical forests. Paper packaging — like delivery boxes, hang tags, and shoe boxes — is responsible for 3.1 billion trees being logged annually, many from climate-critical forests. The pressure on the world’s forests is intense, and using alternative sources of fibre for paper and packaging, that doesn’t use trees, is a priority for Canopy and Patagonia.  Jennifer Patrick, Packaging and Branding Director, Patagonia said: “Patagonia is excited to announce its partnership with Canopy’s Pack4Good initiative. As part of our goal to build the best product and constantly improve everything we do, we are taking steps to review and develop new, more-responsible packaging materials in partnership with Canopy.” Since its initial partnership with Canopy, Patagonia has been at the forefront of shifting the viscose and rayon supply chain, being among the first brand leaders to source exclusively from producers rated as “green shirt” in Canopy’s annual Hot Button Report. In its ongoing efforts to minimize their environmental impact, Patagonia has been using 100% recycled content for all its packaging and catalogues. The next phase of Patagonia’s sustainability journey will involve collaboration with Canopy to develop and scale up Next Gen packaging solutions. Next Gen Solutions utilize innovative materials such as agricultural waste and non-forest alternative fibres, significantly reducing reliance on primary forest resources. “We are so pleased to be welcoming Patagonia to the Pack4Good family,” said Nicole Rycroft, Founder and Executive Director of Canopy. “This commitment comes at a crucial time when the need for low-carbon alternatives to forest-based packaging is more pressing than ever. By supporting the scale-up of Next Gen materials, Patagonia is not only contributing to the preservation of Ancient and Endangered Forests, it is leading the outdoor apparel sector towards a more sustainable future.”

A spa hotel resort on the shores of Windermere is the first in Cumbria and North West England to be awarded a nationally recognised accolade for the provision and excellence of its spa services. Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa has attained the prestigious ‘Five Bubble Luxury’ standard, the highest rating from the Good Spa Guide. It is the equivalent of a 5-star hotel accreditation in terms of excellence in the spa industry and puts the English Lakes Hotels venue amongst the best spas in the UK. Inspectors examined the standards of spa facilities and services in fine detail, as well as judging the performance of the spa team, venue cleanliness, accessibility, restaurant and dining facilities and stand-out features. The Low Wood Bay spa team achieved an overall score of 98% in the adjudication process, making the hotel one of a select band of only 20 spa venues in England to achieve the top Five Bubble Luxury status. It also achieved a 100% score for both fitness and sports facilities and sustainability, thanks in part to its on-site water sports centre and the use of hydropower to generate a significant part of its own electricity. The spa’s holistic, natural skincare brands from ESPA and Berry & Birch were highlighted too. English Lakes Hotels Group Operations Director Michael Kay explains: "The criteria to qualify for one of the industry’s highest accreditations is both extensive and demanding, but it accurately reflects our standing amongst other world class resorts and spas." “The accolade is a credit to the efforts of all of our teams, not just over the two-day assessment, but over months and years of aspiring to be the best and to offer our guests and clients the ultimate in spa and wellbeing experiences.” As part of its inspection, the examiners from the Good Spa Guide commented: “From the treats served in the thermal facilities to our spa host, nothing is too much trouble at The Spa at Low Wood Bay." “Spa assistants make sure everyone feels well looked after. Everywhere was spotless and staff are seen constantly cleaning and tidying the spa. Excellent service was received and we witnessed the same level of service for all guests." “The views from the outdoor heated facilities are incredible, and the chartered yacht experience adds something different to a spa break. The 5 Bubble Luxury award is for its excellent customer service, great thermal facilities, a jaw-dropping setting and finger-licking food.” The Good Spa Guide’s rating system ranges from ‘good to heavenly’. Spas rated in the ‘Five Bubble Luxury’ category are deemed as ‘seriously special’, with spectacular facilities, and soothing, enriching treatments. For further information about the award and the Good Spa Guide’s review of the venue, visit here.

One of Scotland’s leading hospitality operators, Buzzworks has announced exciting plans to open a ‘Lido’ café, bar & restaurant this winter in Musselburgh. Following on from the success of sister venues already operating in Troon and Prestwick, Lido will bring a taste of the Continental Café Life to Musselburgh, serving up delicious food and drinks, all day long. From early morning coffee and energising breakfasts, to leisurely lunches and casual evening meals, Lido is set to become the perfect place to kick-back and relax in laid-back but luxurious surroundings. Designed by the internationally acclaimed interior designer Jim Hamilton, Lido will have more than 120 seats. The venue’s talented chefs will be serving up delicious, freshly prepared food from an open kitchen that features a custom-made pizza oven imported from Italy – all adding to the unique atmosphere, buzz and dining experience guests can enjoy. In addition to this, Lido will boast a fabulous, semi-private dining room – perfect for getting together with friends and family, whatever the occasion. Kenny Blair, Managing Director of Buzzworks said: "We are absolutely delighted to announce the opening of Lido Musselburgh, our 21st venue, and we’re excited to bring the vibrant Lido experience to the town." “Our vision is to create a welcoming space where people can come together to enjoy Lido’s signature blend of delicious food and drinks in a relaxed, stylish setting – all offering fantastic value for money. “Musselburgh is a fantastic town with a strong sense of community, and we’re thrilled to offer a destination that everyone can enjoy and take pride in—whether it’s for a casual coffee, a family meal, or a special celebration with friends.” At Lido, the bar is set to be just as welcoming as the dining space. Whether it's a perfectly chilled glass of Pinot Grigio, a handcrafted cocktail made by the talented bartenders, or an ice-cold pint of Peroni, the fully stocked bar will offer something for everyone. It's the perfect setting to relax, catch up, and enjoy a drink or two with friends, family, or colleagues in a vibrant atmosphere. Lido’s Mediterranean-inspired menu is also being crafted to delight every palate. The hand-stretched Neapolitan pizzas, baked in an Italian-imported oven with San Marzano tomatoes and Fior di Latte mozzarella, will be a standout. But there’s more— the new Lido will also offer authentic, freshly made pastas, mouth-watering steaks, Piri Piri chicken, and fresh locally landed seafood, all expertly cooked on robata and rotisserie grills. As well as this, Lido Musselburgh will offer a bespoke takeaway area— a first for Lido venues—complete with its own dedicated kitchen and collection point. This innovative addition will allow guests to order their favourite dishes online for collection or delivery, or simply pop in, place a takeaway order, and enjoy a drink at the bar while their food is freshly prepared. Kenny continued: “We're looking forward to opening this winter and joining the Musselburgh community. As we prepare, our goal is to become a welcoming spot in town with a menu and atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. We can't wait to meet our new neighbours and be a part of the local scene.” Lido is excited to announce that it is now recruiting for all positions, both front of house and in the kitchens, as it prepares for the opening of its new restaurants. As part of the award-winning Buzzworks group, which has been recognised as one of the top 100 companies to work for in the UK, Lido is committed to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment. The company offers competitive rates of pay, industry-leading training and development opportunities, and flexible working options to help team members achieve a healthy work-life balance. If you or anyone you know is interested in working at Lido – or any of Buzzworks’ other venues across Scotland – please visit here , check out the Buzzworks People Facebook, Instagram or the Buzzworks Holdings LinkedIn page to find out more or apply with your CV to people@buzzworksholdings.com. Alongside Lido Musselburgh, the award-winning company offers an aspirational dining and entertainment experience across Scotland through its other stylish brands – Scotts, House, Vic’s & The Vine, The Duke, Thirty Knots, The Bridge Inn, The Fox and Herringbone.

Leading glass packaging company, Croxsons, will be showcasing its innovative packaging at this year’s London Packaging Week on 11 & 12 September 2024, at ExCeL London. The company is exhibiting on stand G44. Utilising an updated stand design, inspired by their Sutton headquarters, the Croxsons' display will feature bar shelving to replicate the centrepiece of its office, providing visitors with a first hand look at its comprehensive range of products and services. In addition to an improved range of closures, comprising standard twist-offs and crown corks to bespoke printed options, the company is set to display a wide range of products, including recent work for Gordon Ramsay Gin from Eden Mill, Thatchers Cider, Dead Man’s Fingers and other special projects. Members of Croxsons’ sales team will be on hand throughout the show to assist with visitor enquiries. In anticipation of the event, Croxsons’ CEO, Tim Croxson, said: “We are excited to bring a slice of our Sutton headquarters to London Packaging Week. This year’s stand reflects not just our product offerings but our commitment to connecting with our customers in a way that resonates with our company’s heritage and forward-thinking approach.” He also emphasised Croxsons' dedication to sustainability, emphasising its importance as being "central to our operations" as they aim to lead the glass packaging industry towards a more environmentally responsible future. For more information on Croxsons, visit here .

International logistics company Gebrüder Weiss welcomes a new cohort of apprentices, with 110 individuals in their early career starting their training across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. It is encouraging to see that the number of apprentices has stayed more or less the same (2023: 105). Most of the apprenticeship places available have been filled, while a further 20 could still be taken up during the course of the year. Monika Mandl, Head of Human Resources Development at Gebrüder Weiss explains: “We offer these young men and women a stimulating educational experience that not only enables them to familiarize themselves with the basic principles of the transport and logistics industry, but also gives them plenty of impetus to spur them on in their careers." “As well as teaching them specialist knowledge, our aim is to support these apprentices in their personal development and help to uncover and explore hidden potential.” The company supports professional development in a number of ways, including through targeted efforts to encourage trainees to participate in apprentice and vocational competitions. Up-and-coming logistics experts have taken advantage of these opportunities in years past with very positive results. In 2024, one freight forwarding apprentice from Gebrüder Weiss Austria became the only representative from her specialist area to qualify for the prestigious WorldSkills international competition for professionals, which will take place in Lyon, France, this fall. Gebrüder Weiss offers its apprentices opportunities beyond just training. By working their way through various departments, they gain well-rounded insights into the different areas of activity in the logistics sector and benefit from the knowledge of more experienced colleagues. They can also use the extensive range of internal continuing education courses available. “There are so many options for ambitious apprentices to enjoy a successful career at Gebrüder Weiss after completing their training,” says Mandl. Overall, Gebrüder Weiss employs 326 apprentices at 41 locations in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, and around 40 percent are women. Another 26 young people are also currently training with the company in Bulgaria and Serbia. In Austria, the logistics company also offers a shortened training program through its “Duale Akademie” (“Dual Academy”) for trainees who have already completed a secondary school and want to pursue a career as a freight forwarding agent or a company logistics agent.

Family Business United are delighted to launch a new podcast for the family business community called LEGACY. Founder and CEO of Family Business United has teamed up with Sam Greaves, fourth generation Managing Director of Cleenol Group, to provide a platform for family business leaders to share this stories, the ups and downs of their journeys and to provide inspiration to others. As Paul explains, "We have been working on the first series of the podcast for a while and are delighted with the way the series has come together. We have interviewed some inspirational individuals who have shared their insights on all manner of topics including imposter syndrome, succession planning, stepping in at a time of crisis, the importance of wellbeing, legacy, plans for the future and a whole lot more besides." "There really are some incredible experiences that will resonate with other family business leaders who may well have been through or are experiencing similar challenges too." As Sam adds, "As a family business leader myself I love hearing the experiences of others as it helps me to put into perspective my journey too. Each and every guest has shared some great insights with us and it has been a pleasure interviewing them all. The first series includes a wide range of individuals from diverse sectors and backgrounds but it is really interesting to me how some of the challenges transcend generations and sectors." As Sam adds, "Family businesses are so important to the national economy and make such a difference each and every day but it can be lonely at the top." "This podcast is all about the experience, making others aware of ways to address challenges and if nothing more, to share the fact that others may have the same thoughts and feelings as you are experiencing, and hopefully providing insights that may start a conversation too." The first episode features Bernie Matthews, Managing Director of Matthews Cotswold Flour, the eight generation to take the helm of a business that has been operating for over 200 years. As Bertie explains, "I joined at a pivotal moment for our family firm and joined a fight for survival, transforming the business into the operation it is today." "The journey was not easy but with a plan, motivation and desire to succeed, we are now set on a journey that will hopefully see the business continue for generations to come." LEGACY - The Family Business Podcast is available on numerous platforms including Spotify, Apple, Anchor and You Tube and can be watched or listened to on your platform of choice. Find out more here Further episodes will be shared in due course so do subscribe and follow the podcast so as not to miss future issues. As Paul concludes, "We are really excited about the journey that we are on with the podcast and would love to hear from anyone else working in a family business with a story to share." "It is all about the people that make family businesses what they are today and we really hope that LEGACY, The Family Business Podcast hits the mark."

According to the LinkedIn 2023 Global Green Skills Report, one-third of all jobs advertised in the UK required at least one ‘green skill’. This refers to skills that may be needed to develop and support a sustainable, resource-efficient society. It includes climate action planning, conservation, and sustainable design. At present, only one in eight British workers possess green skills, with the UK lagging behind several other major economies, including Germany and France. With skills gaps widening between employers’ requirements and available talent, recruitment software experts, Occupop , examine how employers can tackle the issue and future-proof their businesses for years to come. A Looming Crisis? From renewable energy to eco-friendly technologies, the call for professionals with green skills reverberates across industries. However, the talent supply is currently insufficient to meet demand. Most alarmingly, this is how the UK compares to its European counterparts. In the wind energy sector, if Britain performed as well as Denmark, it could create an additional 98,000 jobs. The Green Transformation Ahead The UK’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy will be extended far beyond lofty policy statements and involve tangible, on-the-ground changes. Consider the following: Infrastructure Overhaul: Thousands of miles of cables must be integrated into the national grid. Electric car battery factories need construction. Heat pumps must be installed. Wind, solar and other renewable energy farms will need expansion. Certified Welders and Engineers: Experts warn of a “critical shortage” of certified welders and electrical engineers. These skilled workers are the backbone of our green future, yet their scarcity threatens progress. Net Zero Ambitions: The UK aims to create a net zero carbon footprint by 2050. Achieving this goal hinges on a workforce equipped with green expertise. How Can Family Businesses Plug The Gaps? While the scale of the task may appear daunting, savvy green skills recruitment will bring economic opportunities for businesses. David Banaghan, Interim CEO at Occupop explains: “The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) estimates that the transition to a green economy could generate as many as 1.6 million new jobs. This potential job boom is both an economic opportunity and a prerequisite for achieving net-zero targets." “To thrive in a sustainable future, companies should invest in upskilling their workforce and nurturing talent with expertise in environmental practices. Additionally, they can leverage technology to level up their recruitment processes.” Here are some things to consider: Training and Upskilling Companies must proactively invest in training programs that equip existing employees with green skills. Apprenticeships, vocational courses, and certifications can bridge the gap and empower workers to contribute effectively to sustainability initiatives. Collaborate with Educational Institutions Partner with universities, colleges and vocational schools to design a curriculum that aligns with industry needs. Encourage students to pursue green careers by highlighting their opportunities and impact. Embrace Technology Harness the power of technology to meet your recruitment challenges head-on. David at Occupop said: “AI-driven recruitment platforms such as applicant tracking software (ATS) can help identify and attract candidates with the necessary green skills for your business." “ATS can provide efficient sourcing and screening, customised job postings, automated workflows and effective collaboration among hiring teams – all essential processes in plugging green skills gaps.” Promote Diversity and Inclusion Address social class, background, and gender disparities. A diverse workforce brings fresh perspectives and can accelerate innovation. Create pathways for underrepresented groups to access green training and employment. Digitised recruitment software can help you do this, eliminating any unconscious bias. Government Support and Policy Alignment Advocate for policies that incentivise green skills development. Engage with policymakers, if possible, to ensure funding for vocational training and apprenticeships. As the country transitions towards net zero, green skills are likely to continue to be one of the defining recruitment trends of the future. Family businesses that invest in their workforce’s green capabilities today will reap the rewards of a sustainable tomorrow.

Family Business United is delighted to announce that nominations are now open for the prestigious, National Family Business of the Year Awards 2025. As Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, organisers of these awards since 2012 explains, "These awards are the only national awards for the family business sector and really do shine a spotlight on family firms the length and breadth of the country." "Family firms of all sizes, generations and sectors come together to recognise the very best of British family firms with regional and sector categories up for grabs, as well as a people's choice that is always hotly contested and voted for by the public, and national titles in areas such as innovation, societal impact, community involvement and sustainability." "We also recognise the 'ones to watch' and crown a Small Family Business of the Year too." "And at the end of the night there is also a Supreme Champion and somebody will take home the crown that currently resides with Bagnalls, the specialist painting contractor founded in 1875 in Yorkshire." "Each year we uncover some incredible family firms, young and old, all of whom deserve recognition for what they do. Family firms are the engine room of the UK economy and deserve their moment in the spotlight." "It is always an absolute privilege to bring the national family business community together and to see the sheer delight on the faces of the winners too. We look forward to announcing the winners of the 2025 Family Business of the Year Awards in due course," concludes Paul. Entry is free and simple using the online form below with shortlists announced in January 2025, full submissions due by the end of March 2025 and the announcement of the winners at a gala reception in London in June 2025. If you would like to know more about the awards and how to get involved do not hesitate to get in touch but in the meantime enter your family business or nominate a family business who you believe is worthy of recognition and it could be the start of a journey to becoming a winner in June next year!

Four former employees were treated to a VIP visit to JCB to mark the 60th anniversary of their recruitment as the company’s first ever apprentices. A total of nine 15-year-old boys started as Craft Apprentices at the Rocester plant in 1964 and yesterday four of them - Chris Carnwell, Nigel Heinich, Mick Higgs, and Keith Hepden - retraced their footsteps to the factory to mark the diamond anniversary of the JCB apprenticeship programme. They were welcomed by JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who also started work at JCB in 1964. The quartet were trailblazers for JCB’s apprenticeship scheme, which currently has around 300 apprentices on scheme and in the last 12 years alone has seen JCB recruit 1,500 apprentices. When they started work, they were earning £3 a week. During their visit they were given a tour of the Story of JCB exhibition, met some of JCB’s newest apprentices and were given a special VIP lunch. Lord Bamford, who served an engineering apprenticeship in France before joining JCB in 1964, said: “The recruitment of our first apprentices 60 years ago laid very firm foundations for the future. We have recruited hundreds of apprentices since those early days and many of them have gone on to senior positions in the company. It really is a fantastic way to start a career.” Chris Carnwell, now 75, of Tean, near Cheadle, Staffordshire, retired from JCB in 2008 after nearly 45 years with the company. He qualified as a tool maker after his apprenticeship and ended his career as a senior engineer. He said: “When I was at school, I was always very good at woodwork and metalwork and used to come top of the class in that field. I wanted to do something to use those practical skills and enquired about getting a position at JCB which, in 1964, was still an up-and-coming company. I had two interviews and was lucky enough to be selected for an apprenticeship along with two others, Billy Brighouse, and John Millward." "I’m very proud of the fact that my apprenticeship indentures were signed by JCB’s founder Joseph Cyril Bamford and I still have them to this day. My apprenticeship really was superb and set me up for life.” Six other apprentices then joined JCB throughout 1964: John Smith, Mick Higgs, Geoff Mellor, Keith Hepden, Don Rushton, and Nigel Heinich. Nigel, 75, of Uttoxeter, joined JCB on August 31st, 1964 said: “Mr Bamford was very proud of that first apprentice intake and he paid particular interest in our progress. For most of us, out of our first wage packet, we had to buy our first pair of steel-capped, toe-tector boots, which we had to wear in the college workshops or the factory. To identify that we were apprentices, we all had to wear white overalls emblazoned with a large red JCB logo on the back, with another on the pocket. I also remember were given a book of one-shilling daily tickets (five pence in today’s money) towards our canteen lunch. This covered half the cost of a main course and a pudding. I went on to work for JCB for more than 35 years in many different roles including service technical clerk, training instructor, service supervisor. Sixty years on, it’s a route I’d highly recommend any young person to follow. It sets you up for life.” Mick Higgs, 75, of Wetley Rocks, Stoke-on-Trent, went on to work for JCB 38 years and rose to the position of Director and worked for several years for JCB in India. He said: “Starting an apprenticeship at JCB really did lay some fantastic foundations for my career and opened up a world of opportunity for me including working for the company in both India and Germany." "Apprenticeships are a route I would recommend to any young person without any hesitation.” Keith Hepden, 75, of Foxt, near Cheadle, said: “When I started work at JCB there were around 500 people working there and we all knew one another." "One of my favourite memories of those early days was actually a time when I was off ill and my mother spotted Mr JCB’s Cadillac coming up the drive and it turned out to be one of the company’s chauffeurs delivering my wages which were paid in cash those days!”

In a heart warming move to support local talent and inclusivity in sports, Allied Mobility, part of the Allied Vehicles Group, has sponsored a young powerchair football team to the sum on £16,900, enabling them to compete in an international tournament in Geneva, Switzerland. The decision to sponsor the team was inspired by a chance encounter between David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, and a young boy named Kaiden, who is already being recognized as one of the top powerchair football players in the UK despite being only eight years old. The story began in 2023 when David Facenna and Kieran McFarlane, manager of Allied’s Mobility Solutions brand, were testing a new power add-on wheelchair attachment. As they whizzed around the streets of Possilpark, near the old site of Allied founder Gerry Facenna’s first garage, they encountered Kaiden and his mother. As a young wheelchair user himself Kaiden was excited by the add-on, and David Facenna offered the lad a chance to try out the new device, sparking an ongoing connection with the family. Kaiden’s father, Peter, who has since joined Allied Vehicles as a panel beater, initially discussed the possibility of Allied sponsoring Kaiden, or simply offering a raffle prize to aid fundraising efforts and discussed concerns about the financial burden to other players of attending the competition in Geneva. Recognizing the potential impact and the importance of supporting athletes with disabilities, David Facenna discussed the matter with his father, Gerry, and they decided to sponsor the entire team’s trip. David Facenna said: “We’re not just supporting a team, we’re investing in the dreams of young athletes like Kaiden and we’re excited to help him, and his teammates, achieve their goals on the international stage.” This sponsorship underscores the Allied Vehicles Group’s commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusivity in all aspects of life. The team, known as FC United Powerchair Football Club , consists of players of all ages and abilities, showcases the incredible talent and spirit that powerchair football fosters. Speaking about the impact of the Allied sponsorship, Kaiden’s mother Laura said, “When we initially came to ask for a donation, we were only hoping for something to raffle like speedway tickets or something, we were never expecting the whole team to be fully sponsored." “The team are over the moon because, some of them work, some of them don't work, so, to be able to go without having to worry about how they were going to afford it is a huge weight lifted off everybody's shoulders. We cannot thank the Facennas and Allied Mobility enough for their amazing generosity.”