The LEGO Group’s U.S. factory site marked a major construction milestone with the placement of the final steel beam on the main production building’s frame. The symbolic ‘topping out’ moment signals the start of the next phase of construction for the state-of-the-art facility, which remains on track to begin production in 2027. Jesus Ibañez, General Manager of LEGO Manufacturing Virginia, said: “This steel topping out marks a significant moment in our journey to build and open our new U.S. factory, bringing creativity and LEGO® play closer to fans across the region. This achievement reflects the dedication of our team, partners, and local community, all working together to bring this vision to life.” Top Virginia state officials, Chesterfield County representatives, project leaders, local partners, LEGO employees and construction crews gathered on-site to mark the completion of the frame. In keeping with tradition, the final steel beam was signed by all 1,300 attendees before it was raised into place, topped with a symbolic 2.5-foot LEGO brick tree, a playful twist on the customary construction milestone evergreen. Also present at the celebration was Gray|Hourigan, the project’s general contractor which is responsible for delivering the new site. The joint venture between Gray and Richmond, Virginia-based Hourigan brings significant expertise in sustainable and innovative industrial facility design and construction, and a strong commitment to creating positive community impact. When complete, the site will include 13 buildings covering more than 1.7 million square feet (160,000 m²), with office spaces, molding, processing and packing facilities, and a high-bay automated warehouse. Production has been in operation at a temporary packing facility since 2023 and continues to support U.S. demand as construction progresses. More than 500 team members are currently employed across both locations, a number which will grow to more than 1,700 over the course of ten years. The site is designed to minimize energy use, in line with the company’s overall sustainability ambitions of reducing absolute global carbon emissions by 37% by 2032, compared to 2019 levels. The new facility aims to reduce emissions from electricity and fuel use (scope 1 and 2) using on-site or off-site renewable energy. Furthermore, the company is helping to revitalize parks across Chesterfield County by planting 17 species of trees native to the region as part of its commitment to minimize its environmental impact. LEGO Manufacturing Virginia partners with local organizations to deliver learning-through-play opportunities in Chesterfield County and the Greater Richmond area. In 2025, the company provided six grants to local partners, supporting programs that will reach nearly 400,000 children through hands-on learning and play experiences. The factory will be the LEGO Group’s seventh manufacturing site worldwide and second in the Americas. The company is also preparing to open a new regional distribution center in Virginia in 2027 to complement the factory and North American supply chains.

The outstanding contribution of JCB employees across the globe is being recognised with an extra day’s holiday to mark the company’s 80th anniversary. More than 19,000 people at 22 plants around the world will celebrate the family digger maker’s remarkable international success story with the holiday on Friday, October 24th. In the UK, more than 8,000 employees based at JCB’s plants in Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Wrexham will enjoy the extra day off – giving everyone a long weekend. It will be 80 years on Thursday, October 23rd since the late Joseph Cyril Bamford CBE founded JCB in a 12 ft x 15 ft lock up garage in Uttoxeter – on the same day his son Anthony was born. Lord Bamford took over from his father as Chairman in 1975 and has overseen the company’s expansion into a global manufacturer making more than 350 different products for the construction industry and agriculture. Lord Bamford said: “JCB would be nowhere if it wasn’t for the efforts of our employees around the world and this extra day’s holiday is a small token of my family’s gratitude as we mark our 80th birthday.”

A rare painted record of a legendary boxing match that took place in Greta Green is coming up for auction in North Yorkshire. Whilst the artist is unknown, the naïve-style painting depicts the fight that took place between Carter and Oliver on 4th October 1816 and will be sold with an estimate of £3,000-5,000 in the British, European and Sporting Art Sale at Tennants Auctioneers on 15th November (all figures exclude buyer’s premium). The fight between Carter and Oliver was arranged at Gretna Green, in a field used by Mr Johnson, inn keeper, on the estate of Sir James Maxwell. The stakes were a hefty 100 guineas each, and the contest took place in a 24-foot roped ring in front of approximately 30,000 spectators, leaving the streets around Carlisle empty. Going into the match, Oliver was the favourite to win. Carter was seconded by Painter and Harmer, and Oliver by Cribb and Copper, whose names are painted on the bottom of the frame. Despite rumours of Carter’s lack of prowess, he launched a decisive attack and won the first round. Carter went on to dominate Oliver. According to the York Herald published a few days after, the 31-round fight lasted 48 minutes, and was intensely punishing. Carter reportedly crushed Oliver at the ropes with both hands. After the bout, Oliver was apparently taken from the ring in dire condition—insensible and with both eyes swollen shut—though he eventually revived with medical aid. Carter walked away relatively unscathed and in good spirits and saw his stature as a boxer grow. The sale will also offer a wide range of interesting works including an early work by Alfred Munnings (1878-1959) depicting Romani life at Norwich’s historic Tombland Fair (estimate: £20,000-30,000). During the early years of his career, one of his favourite subjects was the Romani people who ran travelling fairs in the area, becoming well acquainted with several families, having been captivated by the vibrance, colour and ruggedness of the people and caravans. In the present work, Munnings gives us a glimpse of their domestic life, with a meal being prepared before the steps of parked caravans on a cold, grey day. After the First World War, Munnings went on to concentrate on painting horses, becoming the most celebrated equestrian artist of the 20th century. An imposing large-scale depiction of The Incredulity of St Thomas is on offer with an estimate of £6,000-9,000 and is thought to have been painted by a Follower of Philippe de Champaigne (1602-1674), a Baroque artist working in France, possibly after a now-lost original by the artist. The painting is being sold on behalf of the Joint Administrators of Mount St. Mary’s College and Barlborough Hall School, the Catholic junior and senior schools in Derbyshire that closed earlier this year. Later works of note include a charming work of two young children by Dorothea Sharp (1874-1955). Sharp fell under the influence of the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters on a trip to Paris, and became known for her spontaneous, impressionistic style. Inspecting the Bird’s Nest is offered with an estimate of £10,000-15,000. There are also a number of good ornithological works by the renowned Archibald Thorburn (1860-1935), including a depiction of a bird of prey with its kill (estimate: £2,000-3,000).

UK Docks Marine Services has agreed a three-year contract with the owners of the Shields Ferry to ensure its vessels are kept ship-shape on the River Tyne. The agreement means that essential maintenance work will continue to be carried out on South Tyneside, benefiting the local economy, until at least 2028. UK Docks director Gary Wilson said: “We are delighted to have been trusted again with ensuring the smooth operation of this iconic service." “As a South Tyneside company, and with many of our staff drawn from the local workforce, we know exactly how important the Shields ferry is to its passengers - whether using it for work or simply to travel." “It’s also an important part of the local economy, and so it's equally important that the ferries continue to function at the top of their game." “We’re very familiar with both vessels having worked on them for many years previously and we look forward to using that expertise to ensure they’re operating to the highest standards in the wake of the new contract.” Nexus, the public body which runs the service, operates two passenger ferries on the North Shields-South Shields route. Both ferries - the Pride of the Tyne and the Spirit of the Tyne - underwent full services this year at UK Docks’ slipway in River Drive, South Shields, and the extended contract suits both organisations, with Nexus able to maintain its vessels without leaving Tyneside and a local company able to benefit from its neighbour. The 32-year-old Pride of the Tyne underwent her annual service this summer as well as a refit overhaul on her two propulsion units, while the newer Spirit of the Tyne passed her annual service. The works were extensive and required both vessels spending time out of the water on UK Docks’ slipway. Gary Wilson said: “Our great working relationship with the Nexus engineering team meant that even facing challenges, we achieved both ferry services within the allotted Nexus maintenance periods." "Both vessels were assessed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) certification and given a clean bill of health before returning to service. Maintenance of the ferries takes place annually to ensure they remain in safe and serviceable conditions at all times during passenger services.” Kevin Leonard, Customer Services Operations Manager at Nexus, said: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with UK Docks, who provide a vital role in delivering essential maintenance on the Shields Ferry." "This new deal ensures that essential repairs on our two vessels will continue to be carried out on the River Tyne.”

The LEGO Group officially opened a major expansion at its manufacturing site in Nyíregyháza, Hungary. This expansion is the result of a two-year investment programme, which has seen the site’s production capacity increase by 30% to meet strong demand for its products. The company also announced it is investing in a geothermal heating system to support its long-term sustainability ambitions by enabling a shift away from using non-renewable natural gas to heat the factory. Niels B Christiansen, CEO of the LEGO Group, said: “Today marks a very important milestone for us as we proudly celebrate the successful completion of the expansion of our factory in Hungary. The site reflects our commitment to sustainability, and through increased manufacturing capacity we will be able to bring more LEGO® play to more children and fans in Europe and around the world.” Over the past two years, the factory expansion has created 300 new jobs, bringing the total number of employees to over 4,300, including the seasonal workforce, and making it one of the largest employers in the local region. All major manufacturing steps in the production of LEGO sets are carried out at the factory, including moulding, decoration, assembly, packing, and warehousing. The moulding hall now houses more than 1,000 injection moulding machines, and the number of packaging lines has increased by one third to a total of 73. New warehouse and administrative areas have also been added to the site, making it the second largest LEGO factory worldwide. With the completion of this latest expansion phase, the site is now twice the size it was when it originally opened in 2014 – growing from 120,000 square metres to 262,000 square metres today. Chresten Bruun, SVP of EMEA Manufacturing and General Manager of LEGO Manufacturing Kft, said: “We are very proud of the sustainability programmes we have implemented, including being the first in this region of Hungary to harness the power of geothermal energy to this scale in an industrial setting. We are deeply grateful for the support of our many partners who are helping us on our ambition to further reduce our environmental impact. We remain committed to the region, both as a major employer and an active player in the local community.” The LEGO Group has an ambition to reduce its reliance on fossil gas and to reduce absolute carbon emissions by 37% by 2032, compared to 2019 levels. To support this goal, the company has been exploring the use of geothermal energy to heat the factory in Nyíregyháza, aiming to stop the use of natural gas in its heating systems by 2028. Over the past two years, two wells have been drilled and a potential source of heat found more than two kilometres under the surface. In the next two years the infrastructure and technology needed to circulate hot water through the factory will be installed. The closed system, where extracted water will be pumped back into the ground towards the initial extraction location, is scheduled to be fully functional by 2028. The site currently has three solar parks which contain more than 24,000 solar panels. 8.61 MWp of capacity will be installed by the end of 2025, an increase of over 200% compared to last year. An extra 11,000 panels will be installed across the area and on the roofs of nine more buildings before the end of next year, bringing the overall capacity to more than 17 MWp. The company also supports biodiversity in an area of 50,000 square metres. It has planted over 46,000 drought-tolerant trees and shrubs to support local wildlife and planted 3,800 square meters with bee-friendly plants. Recognised several times as one of the most attractive workplaces of Hungary, LEGO Manufacturing Nyíregyháza remains committed to creating an inclusive and engaging workplace and supporting the community in which it operates. The company supports local institutions and initiatives and has formed long-term partnerships with local NGOs to make learning-through-play more accessible to children in need. LEGO Manufacturing Nyíregyháza is one of six LEGO factories worldwide, each located close to major markets. The LEGO Group continues to expand and upgrade its global manufacturing and distribution network to support long-term growth.

The Ives and Shand funeral business in Parkstone has grown following investment, with more staff joining. Belonging to the Douch Family Group, the branch is benefiting from its ceremony room that was installed several years ago. As well as being used for funerals and wakes, it has become a favourite venue of community groups. With the extra demand for the business’s services, staff from other branches are now assisting funeral director Marcella McDonagh and manager Debbie Brown. Kerry Crowson, a funeral director, Jedda Hunt, an office administrator, and funeral support manager Helen Dean are all supporting the branch. Debbie Brown, who also manages the group’s Ferndown branch, AE Jolliffe & Son, said: “Ives & Shand has been here for a long time and it is growing. The new staff are working between two branches which means we can offer an even better service." “The ceremony room is where people can have a cost-effective funeral and wake in the same place, but it is also available for community groups and others who might need the space.” Nick Douch, managing director of the family business, said: “The investment in our Parkstone branch in Ashley Road was part of a rolling programme of improvements across all our branches." “The community is making great use of the ceremony room and it has meant we have been able to grow and take on new team members.” Douch Family Funeral Directors other branches are in Wimborne, Corfe Mullen, Blandford, Parkstone, Wareham and Swanage. Photo: Debbie Brown, manager, centre right, with Marcella McDonagh, centre left, and behind them (l-r) Kerry Crowson, Jedda Hunt and Helen Dean.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has officially opened the award-winning Dorset Police Headquarters at Winfrith, marking a proud moment for everyone involved and recognising the project as a flagship example of sustainable blue light infrastructure. The royal opening celebrates the successful delivery of the cutting-edge 30,000 sq ft facility, which has achieved BREEAM 'Very Good' standards and sets a new benchmark for modern policing infrastructure. The striking three-storey headquarters combines innovative sustainable technology with contemporary design, featuring air source heat pumps, solar panels, and targeting 10% biodiversity net gain. Procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), the headquarters transforms how Dorset Police can serve their community, providing collaborative workspace designed for modern policing while demonstrating exceptional environmental responsibility. Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon's in the South: "Having The Princess Royal officially open the Dorset Police Headquarters is an incredible honour and we were delighted to be invited to join Dorset Police for the occasion. This isn't just a building – it's a sustainable foundation for community safety that will serve Dorset for decades. We are proud to have played a part in delivering another brilliant, environmentally responsible building." The new headquarters reinforce Willmott Dixon's position as one of the UK's leading specialists in blue light construction, with the company currently delivering transformational facilities for Thames Valley Police, Cambridgeshire Constabulary, and Hertfordshire Constabulary – all incorporating cutting-edge sustainability and operational excellence. For Dorset residents, the new headquarters represents enhanced police capability, bringing officers together in a modern, efficient environment that enables faster response times and more effective community policing.

Family businesses form the backbone of many economies, contributing significantly to employment and GDP. However, managing the intricate dynamics of family and business requires a well-structured governance framework. Effective family governance ensures stability, continuity, and harmony, helping these businesses thrive across generations. So what are the core components of family governance that underpin the success of family businesses? 1. Family Constitution A family constitution is a foundational document that outlines the family’s values, vision, and policies for managing the business. While not legally binding, it serves as a moral contract that guides family members in their interactions and decision-making processes. The family constitution typically includes: Mission and Vision Statements: Articulate the long-term goals and purpose of the family business. Core Values: Define the principles that guide the business and family interactions. Governance Structure: Detail the roles and responsibilities of family members, including the family council and other governing bodies. Succession Planning: Outline the process for transitioning leadership to the next generation. Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Establish procedures for addressing disputes within the family. Creating a family constitution involves collaborative discussions and consensus-building, ensuring that all family members are aligned with the business's mission and values. 2. Family Council The family council is a governance body that acts as a bridge between the family and the business. It facilitates communication, resolves conflicts, and makes strategic decisions that affect both the family and the business. The family council’s responsibilities include: Policy Development: Creating and updating policies related to family involvement in the business. Education and Development: Organizing training and development programs for family members. Succession Planning: Ensuring a smooth transition of leadership and ownership. Conflict Resolution: Addressing and mediating disputes among family members. The family council typically consists of family members representing different branches and generations, ensuring diverse perspectives and balanced decision-making. 3. Family Assembly The family assembly is a larger, more inclusive forum that includes all adult family members. It provides a platform for sharing information, discussing important issues, and building consensus on major decisions. The family assembly typically meets annually or biannually and covers topics such as: Business Performance: Reviewing the financial health and strategic direction of the business. Family Values and Vision: Reaffirming the family’s commitment to its mission and values. Education and Engagement: Providing updates on family member development programs and encouraging active participation. Future Planning: Discussing long-term goals and plans for the business and family. The family assembly fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that all family members are informed and engaged. 4. Board of Directors Incorporating a formal board of directors is essential for bringing professional oversight and strategic guidance to the family business. The board typically includes a mix of family members and independent directors who bring external expertise and objectivity. The board of directors’ responsibilities include: Strategic Planning: Developing and overseeing the implementation of the business’s strategic plan. Performance Monitoring: Reviewing financial performance and ensuring accountability. Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating business risks. Leadership Development: Supporting the development and succession of senior management. Independent directors play a crucial role in providing unbiased perspectives and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the business. 5. Advisory Board An advisory board is an informal group of external advisors who provide guidance and support to the family business. Unlike the board of directors, the advisory board does not have formal decision-making authority but offers valuable insights and expertise. The advisory board’s functions include: Strategic Advice: Offering recommendations on business strategy and growth opportunities. Operational Support: Providing expertise in specific areas such as marketing, finance, or technology. Mentorship: Mentoring family members and senior management. Networking: Facilitating connections with industry experts and potential partners. The advisory board can be a valuable resource for family businesses seeking external perspectives and specialised knowledge. 6. Succession Planning Succession planning is a critical component of family governance that ensures the smooth transition of leadership and ownership from one generation to the next. A robust succession plan includes: Leadership Development: Identifying and developing potential successors through training, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Transition Timeline: Establishing a clear timeline for leadership transitions, including retirement plans for current leaders. Ownership Transfer: Planning for the transfer of ownership, including legal and financial considerations. Communication Plan: Keeping all stakeholders informed about succession plans to ensure transparency and reduce uncertainty. Effective succession planning minimises disruption and preserves the family business’s legacy. 7. Family Office A family office is a dedicated entity that manages the family’s financial affairs, investments, and other non-business-related activities. The family office’s responsibilities include: Wealth Management: Overseeing investments, estate planning, and tax strategies. Philanthropy: Managing charitable activities and family foundations. Family Services: Providing support for family members’ personal and professional development. Record Keeping: Maintaining comprehensive records of family assets and activities. The family office allows the family to focus on the business while ensuring that their financial and personal affairs are managed professionally. The core components of family governance—family constitution, family council, family assembly, board of directors, advisory board, succession planning, and family office—provide a structured framework for managing the complexities of family and business dynamics. By embracing these components, family businesses can foster effective communication, strategic decision-making, and long-term sustainability. As family businesses continue to evolve and adapt to changing market conditions, robust governance structures will be key to their enduring success and legacy.

A Nottinghamshire charity dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating hedgehogs has received a welcome boost thanks to a £1,000 donation from global packaging firm, The Wilkins Group. The Beeston-based charity called Hedgepigs, founded by Deborah Brown in 2018, has used the funds to purchase an ultrasound scanner – helping it to diagnose and treat injured or sick hedgehogs more effectively, while also supporting other local animal rescue groups. The donation forms part of The Wilkins Group’s ‘12 Months of Giving’ campaign, which sees the Colwick-headquartered company donate £1,000 each month to a different Nottinghamshire charity or community organisation throughout 2025. Deborah said: “Our vet bills are always one of our biggest costs, so having our own ultrasound is a game-changer for us. It allows us to detect issues such as pregnancy or heart problems early, meaning faster treatment and better outcomes for the hedgehogs in our care." “We’re also sharing the scanner with other local rescue centres, including Brinsley Animal Rescue, Charlie’s Place and The Little Garden Farm Animal Rescue. It’s already helped diagnose everything from a pregnant guinea pig to a mother cat and her kittens!" “We’re incredibly grateful to The Wilkins Group for their support, and it’s lovely to see a local business taking such a genuine interest in the small creatures that share our environment.” Since its launch, Hedgepigs has rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of hedgehogs across Nottinghamshire, maintaining an impressive 75 per cent release rate. Hedgepigs also forms part of a close-knit network of wildlife rescuers across the East Midlands. Deborah often works alongside a former NHS wound care nurse in Stapleford, with the pair regularly exchanging animals needing specialist support. Deborah said: “If a hedgehog comes in with serious wounds, she’s the expert. And if one of hers needs an ultrasound or heart scan, it comes to me. It’s a brilliant example of the rescue community pulling together and using our different skills to give these little creatures the best possible chance.” Justin Wilkins, Joint Managing Director of The Wilkins Group, said: “We love helping our local wildlife, and supporting Hedgepigs is just one way we can give back to the creatures that share our community." “Hedgehogs are gentle, iconic animals whose numbers are sadly in decline. It’s easy to assume someone else is helping, but often it’s the small local charities doing the hardest work, with the fewest resources. “Hedgepigs provides exceptional care, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to know that our donation contributed to the purchase of an ultrasound scanner to detect pregnancies – along with supporting many other vital needs.” Justin added: “Sometimes the smallest creatures need the biggest help – and we’re proud to play our part. Nottingham is our home, and our year of giving is all about shining a light on the incredible local groups improving lives, protecting wildlife and supporting our communities.” The Wilkins Group, a family-run firm founded in 1963, produces food packaging for leading brands including Pukka, Pizza Express, Harrods and Cadbury. Alongside its Nottingham headquarters, the company operates sites in China, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and has won multiple awards for its innovations in reducing single-use plastics.

Workplace furniture manufacturer and supplier, AJ Products, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this week, marking five decades of designing, manufacturing and delivering end-to-end workplace solutions around the world. AJ Products started in a Swedish basement in 1975 and has since expanded across the globe. Last year, the company launched AJ Products Netherlands, bringing the total number of worldwide offices to 21. Their mission, to create happiness at work, through wellbeing and workplace health, whether in an office, warehouse, industrial facility or a school. Founded by 19-year-old Anders Johansson, and unable to get backing from a bank, he turned to his family, AJ Products thrived thanks to the support and belief of his family. Now led by Anders’ son, Enock Johansson, the company operates three European manufacturing facilities and boasts 54,000m2 a central hub in Halmstad, Sweden, which doubled in size in 2023 and features a range of over 14,000 products. UK Managing Director, Helen Beebe said: “The last 50 years have seen profound changes in how the workplace operates. The challenges have been continuous, from rigid conforming spaces to the growing need to create flexible spaces where employees genuinely thrive." "What sets AJ Products apart is our integrated commitment to solving these challenges. We don’t simply supply furniture, we partner with businesses to reimagine their entire workplace environment, ensuring that every element, from ergonomics to sustainability to investment, contributes to both productivity and wellbeing.” This anniversary coincides with global recognition that workplace design directly impacts employee satisfaction, retention and performance. A recent study from Cornell University found that ergonomic improvements can boost productivity by 10-15% in some sectors. Research from The Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors pushes that figure even higher, suggesting improvements of up to 25% are achievable in some sectors. Beebe continues, “Part of AJ Products' growth is down to commitment to consistency, quality and listening to what our customers need. Many of our products can be recycled, repaired and made from recycled products and all come with a seven-year guarantee.” As organisations navigate the ever changing workplace environment, the demand for flexible, modular workplace solutions has never been higher. AJ Products’ 50-year track record of listening to market needs and delivering quality solutions positions them well for the future; defined by sustainability, adaptability and the continued recognition that workplace design is a sound business investment.

A Glasgow charity is expanding its reach to support even more people living with mental health challenges, thanks to a new initiative that’s already making a difference. Every Friday, the sound of laughter, music, and creativity fills the halls of Common Wheel, a local charity known for its transformative work with people recovering from significant mental health trauma. The newly launched Friday Drop-In sessions offer a lifeline to those seeking connection, purpose, and healing. For years, Common Wheel has quietly but powerfully supported over 250 individuals annually, all referred by mental health professionals including psychologists, psychiatrists, GPs, and addiction units. Through 12-week programmes in music, art, photography, gardening, climbing, and cycling, the charity has helped participants rediscover joy, build confidence, and reconnect with their communities. Now, in response to feedback from participants, Common Wheel has gone a step further, introducing a weekly drop-in session that opens the door to even more activities, from yoga and cooking to crafts and monthly excursions. “Hosting the drop-ins is a very new thing to Common Wheel,” said Wendy Shaw, Art & Activity Coordinator. “It's an exciting time for us with such a varied new programme of workshops including languages, printmaking, sewing, photography, jewellery making, yoga and Tai Chi to name but a few." “We also have several excursions planned, such as a visit to the Japanese Gardens in Dollar, a variety of museum and art gallery workshops, the Botanic Gardens and National Trust tours. We are really looking forward to the months ahead - this is a very positive time for us.” The expansion was made possible by a generous £6,900 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, which stepped in to cover the final portion of the £24,760 programme cost after Common Wheel raised nearly £18,000 through its own fundraising efforts. David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, shared his thoughts in supporting the initiative: “Common Wheel creates a safe, encouraging space for people to reconnect with themselves and others after experiencing some very difficult circumstances. They truly make a difference to people’s lives, and the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is proud to support their work and the positive impact it brings to the community.” Photos: • Wendy Shaw beside Common Wheel sign • Common Wheel community gardening group • David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles

Popular Ayrshire restaurant and bar, Vic’s & The Vine, has unveiled its new autumn menu this week, with a collection of hearty dishes and bold flavours designed to celebrate the best of the season. Owned by award-winning hospitality brand, Buzzworks, the talented kitchen team at The Vine has drawn inspiration from seasonal produce and classic comforts with a modern twist to craft an array of tempting dishes, from Asian-inspired plates and speciality sharing boards to indulgent favourites, steaks, and more from the showstopping Robata and rotisserie grill. Among the new highlights at The Vine are the chorizo and Manchego tostada starter, featuring glazed Manchego, pinto bean and a vibrant chilli and avocado salsa, as well as an indulgent slow-cooked beef bourguignon, served with woodland mushrooms, bacon, baby onions, pomme purée and a rich burgundy red wine sauce. For grill lovers, the grilled Asian 7oz fillet mignon from the robata, accompanied by fine noodles, sautéed bok choy, garlic, ginger and soy sauce, is set to impress. Those with a sweet tooth will also be well catered for, with the new menu boasting a decadent Dark & White Chocolate Delice, complete with honeycomb, raspberry and vanilla ice cream, providing the perfect way to finish a sumptuous meal. The Vine’s Fork Out Less menus also offer customers the perfect excuse to treat themselves this autumn. With light lunches from just £9.95, featuring comforting soups and freshly made sandwiches, or tempting options like Gambas Prawn Pil Pil, Stone Baked Goats Cheese with fries, or artisan Pizzettes – make it ideal for a relaxed midday bite. Diners can enjoy two delicious courses from just £18.95, with standout options like crispy vegetable gyoza, Goan curry, or Swiss chicken fondue, followed by indulgent desserts such as the mini mess, sticky toffee pudding, or a classic affogato showing that flavour and value can go hand in hand. John Kennedy, Vic’s & The Vine GM, said: “Our team has embraced the best of autumn’s flavours with a menu designed to bring people together over comforting, memorable dishes. From refined classics to innovative flavour combinations, our new menu really captures the season, and we look forward to welcoming new and returning customers to try our latest creations.” In addition to its new menu, Fork Out Less offering and Sunday Roast options, Vic’s & The Vine has a busy calendar of events in the lead-up to the festive season, including a fabulous Festive Ladies Lunch in aid of Ayrshire Cancer Support, Supper Club and festive Bingo among the highlights - making it the perfect spot to enjoy the longer evenings with friends and family. With festive dates filling fast, guests are encouraged to book early to secure their spot for autumn dining and Christmas celebrations. Buzzworks currently operates 22 bars and restaurants across Scotland and was recently crowned Best Managed Pub Company in the UK (Under 51 sites) at The Publican Awards – the first Scottish operator to achieve this accolade.