Leading UK offsite frame manufacturer, Donaldson Timber Systems (DTS), has published, third party accredited environmental product declarations (EPD) for its full wall panel range. In 2024, the DTS open panel Alpha system became the first off-site assembled timber frame wall panel in the UK to offer an approved EPD. DTS now also holds EPDs for its pre-insulated wall system, Delta; and the award-winning closed panel system, Sigma II solid stud and Sigma II I stud. The EPD, which transparently communicates the environmental performance of a product over its lifetime, allows customers to accurately measure their carbon footprint and make informed decisions on the best product choices to meet sustainability goals. It also improves transparency regarding product performance claims, making it easier to compare the impacts of different materials and build systems accurately. The use of EPDs is in line with the Government’s Timber in Construction Roadmap to get Britain building with the use of sustainable and low carbon building materials, which was announced in February. Originally launched in late 2023 under the Conservative Government, the Roadmap has been updated with more ambitious targets. The first priority theme is ‘improving data on timber and whole life carbon’. It is also a measurement which will become increasingly important if the proposed Part Z amendment to Building Regulations is accepted. Valid for five years, the EPD is based on current available and published data for end-of-life assumptions. DTS is working on EPDs for its full product range, with floor and roof systems to follow. John Smith, Technical Director at Donaldson Timber Systems, explains: “We always champion the use of offsite timber frame construction as the best way to achieve sustainable building practices and meet net zero targets but telling customers this is no longer enough. If we are to make meaningful change, all environmental claims need to be backed up with proof." "The only way to achieve zero carbon is to measure and reduce the whole-life carbon of buildings. The availability of environmental product declarations (EPDs) is an important step in recognising this." “We’re proud to be leading the industry with proof that timber frame is a carbon sink, and we’re thrilled that we’re already seeing significant improvements on the EPD we achieved for our Alpha system just six months ago.” Adam Gravely, Head of Technical and Innovation at the Future Homes Hub said: “Understanding embodied and whole life carbon is a crucial next step if we are to meet our net zero carbon ambitions as a sector. There is a challenge around getting product-specific embodied carbon data and homebuilders are increasingly calling on their supply chains to provide EPDs to support their whole life carbon assessments." “It’s great to see DTS’s commitment to supporting their customers and engaging with the Hub on how to drive down the embodied carbon impact of new homes.” Along with an EPD, Sigma® II has achieved a range of third-party approvals, including BOPAS Plus, BBA, NHBC Accepts and STA Gold Assure, delivering the confidence that it is durable, complies with building regulations and technical standards while being designed, manufactured and installed to last for at least 60 years. Sigma® II was also the first timber system verified by Cast to exceed Homes England (HE) Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) target of 55%, achieving up to 58.4%. As part of the Donaldson Group’s Offsite division, DTS prides itself on being highly sustainable, innovative and efficient. Celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year, DTS offers unrivalled experience and knowledge in offsite construction, with an established history of bringing new commercial and operational innovations to the market.

JCB hailed a monumental Government decision to change the law to give hydrogen diggers the green light to be driven on UK roads. Lilian Greenwood MP, Minister for the Future of Roads, has signed a statutory instrument allowing hydrogen fuelled construction and agricultural machinery to use the public highway. JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford - who instigated a £100 million project to develop a hydrogen combustion engine to power JCB’s machines - hailed the news as “historic”. Lord Bamford’s reaction came as a hydrogen powered JCB digger was driven around London’s roads to mark the momentous announcement – calling in at the Department for Transport yesterday afternoon to meet the Minister who made the legislative change happen. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Today shows once again we are on the side of British business, as we now allow hydrogen-powered diggers and tractors to be legally driven on UK roads for the first time." "We’re supporting the UK's Plan for Change by working closely with brilliant British companies like JCB to harness the opportunities of the net zero transition, driving innovation and creating jobs to put money in the pockets of hardworking people and secure our future.” Lord Bamford said: “The JCB team has done amazing work to develop a hydrogen combustion engine. It has already been given resounding backing from our customers who have been evaluating the technology; they say it is simple to use and performs as well as diesel counterparts. We are delighted that the Government has now endorsed the use of hydrogen in machinery." "There has been a lot of work to get to this point. It is truly a historic day for JCB and a milestone moment for the use of hydrogen as a zero-carbon fuel in the construction and agricultural machinery industries. We now have the legislation that allows hydrogen powered machines to drive on the road between sites and between farms.” Lilian Greenwood signed the statutory instrument in early April to pave the way for an amendment to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 to enable the road use of hydrogen-fuelled non-road mobile machinery. The change in legislation came into force yesterday. Other hydrogen powered vehicles, including cars, buses and trucks were already permitted by law to use UK roads, but hydrogen-fuelled construction and agricultural machinery could not – until yesterday. JCB has invested more than £100 million to produce a range of super-efficient zero-emission hydrogen engines. This pioneering project at JCB’s engine plant in Derbyshire has been personally driven by JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who challenged the company’s engineers to make a major breakthrough in the use of hydrogen as a fuel in a combustion engine. JCB has been operating prototype hydrogen-powered Loadall telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders and generators on sites near Birmingham and is now testing a range of equipment in partnership with rental companies and leading contractors across the UK.

Yorkshire-based food group, Regal Food Products Group launches products from Regal Foods and Yorkshire Baking Company on Ocado.com, the world’s largest dedicated online supermarket. The listing with Ocado.com will see an extensive range of products listed on the online platform, covering both world food and mainstream cake. Regal Foods will offer a solid range of bakery, snacking and juice favourites, including Cake Rusk, Bombay Mix, mango juice, popcorn and cake, whilst the food groups mainstream cake brand, Yorkshire Baking Company, will allow customers of Ocado.com to enjoy the brands famous Mega Loaf range and Yorkshire Parkin. Arainn Cleland, Sales Director of Regal Foods, said: “We are thrilled to be further strengthening our product availability with Ocado Retail. With a selection of our core ranges growing at a rapid pace, the new listing will ensure wide availability for customers old and new” Amar Gohil at Ocado Retail, said: “We’re delighted to be launching a range of Regal bakery, snacking and juices on Ocado.com, offering our customers even more choice than before. Over the past couple of years, we’ve also noticed that customers are looking to enjoy the famous Mega Loaf and Yorkshire Parkin, bringing a taste of Yorkshire straight to our customers door.”

Members of Family Business United will be travelling across the UK for their annual road trip in electric style this year thanks once again to support from Hendy Group. The Family Business Road Trip is an annual event which aims to put the family business sector on the map, and this year the team will be arriving at a range of family-run businesses in style as they take to the road in a Lotus Eletre. Hendy Group chief executive Paul Hendy said he was delighted the group could once again support this road trip and enable the team to sample the very latest in electric cars. “As a family business now in its sixth generation, having traded for over 165 years, we are keen to support other family-run enterprises,” said Paul. “Family Business United is a fantastic organisation which champions the success of so many family businesses across the UK, amplifying the family business voice and doing so much to shine a light on family firms and all that they do, and we’re sure the team will enjoy this year’s road trip in the Lotus.” During the course of the 2025 Family Business Road Trip, there will be behind the scenes tours of family firms, interviews, dinners and plenty of photo opportunities and social media posts that all seek to raise the profile of the family business sector and all that it does on a daily basis to keep the nation going. The road trip will visit a wide range of companies, showcasing a range of success stories in industries as diverse as manufacturing, farming, hospitality, transport and distribution, property, food production, flour milling and food distribution. Companies set to feature in this year’s road trip include Potter Space, Massey Feeds, Hydraulics Online, TL Dallas, Regal food Products Group, AV Dawson, Potter Space, FH Brundle, Maldon Oysters, Dina Foods, Wyke Farms and Kellys Bronze. As Paul Andrews, founder and CEO of Family Business United explains, “The world of family business never ceases to surprise, delight and demonstrate positivity, be it in Bristol, Middlesbrough, Bradford or anywhere else for that matter. Families in business are different. They take the long-term view, they care and they know they have to innovate, invest and evolve to become sustainable for generations to come.” “Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy and each year the Family Business Road Trip affords us the opportunity to get behind the scenes, see what family businesses do what they do on a daily basis, where they do it and it is a real privilege to be welcomed and shown around by family business leaders that are justifiably proud of what they do, many from family businesses that have been doing it for generations.” "With over 5 million family firms across the UK employing more than 15 million people, this is a sector that makes a significant contribution to the national economy each and every day through the jobs they provide, the wealth they create and the income they generate, not forgetting the taxes they pay, the investments they make and the communities in which they support. Family business matters on so many levels." “Each and every business we visit cares about what they do, how they do it, the people that work for them and the broader community in which they operate. We are delighted to be on the road once again in a car provided by the Hendy Group and look forward to putting the family business sector on the map.” “As we sit here about to embark on our journey that will take us all over England, I cannot help wondering what incredible stories we will uncover this year as we shine a light on dozens of family firms across England, hear their stories and reflect on the legacy of previous generations and discover their plans for the future.” “Let the journey of family business discovery begin!” You can keep up to date with the journey as it unfolds on social media using the hashtag #FamilyBizRoadTrip2025 .

Willmott Dixon has been chosen by Oldham Council to build a new Visitor Centre and Forestry Skills Centre at Northern Roots, the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park. This is a key element of the project to transform 160 acres of green space in the heart of Oldham as part of the council’s ‘Green and Growing’ priority. The council has secured £12.9 million from the national government’s Town Deal and Levelling Up Fund Round 2 to deliver this transformative next phase. Set in the woodland at the northern end of the site, the Visitor Centre will feature a café, shop, production kitchen, exhibition and performance space, as well as learning and meeting facilities. Meanwhile, the Forestry Skills Centre, will provide residents with vocational learning opportunities linked to a range of technical and land-based skills and qualifications. Since 2023, 2,000 trees have been planted and six ponds created to support local wildlife on the Urban Farm, alongside a community garden and wildflower meadow. The Visitor Centre marks a significant step forward for the project, which also includes car parking, access improvements, an outdoor amphitheatre, and landscaping. Leader of Oldham Council, Councillor Arooj Shah commented: "Northern Roots is a ground-breaking project that will benefit our communities for generations to come – a place where nature, learning, and opportunity come together. Oldham Council is proud to be driving this project in partnership with Northern Roots, creating a thriving space for education, recreation, and enterprise, showcasing Oldham as a leader in green innovation." “The Visitor Centre will provide our residents with skills, support opportunities for businesses, and enhance the local environment. It’s a win-win for our borough.” Northern Roots CEO, Anna da Silva, added: “This is an exciting moment in the development of Northern Roots and a key step in unlocking the potential of the site. We are incredibly grateful to all the partners who have supported the vision for Northern Roots and helped bring the project to this stage, particularly Oldham Council, our local communities, and our funders." "Northern Roots is pioneering a new, sustainable approach to harnessing and nurturing urban greenspace that we hope will become a model for future generations.” Willmott Dixon aims to complete the Visitor Centre in summer 2026. Michael Poole-Sutherland, director for the North West at Willmott Dixon, said: “As an Oldham-based business we are excited to be shaping this invaluable community space, working in partnership with Oldham Council once again. In partnership with our proud local supply chain partners, we are committed to creating four new employment opportunities directly on the project." "Through our bespoke ‘Building Lives Academy’ pre-employability programme, we will support 10 previously unemployed Oldham residents with qualifications, skills and work experience." “We will continue to work with local schools and colleges through site visits, industry workshops and employability sessions. To date, our project team have also volunteered more than 115 hours supporting Oldham people, including with The Salvation Army and the Northern Roots charity.” Natalie Palframan, Key Account Manager (North) at Procure Partnerships: "We’re proud to have supported Oldham Council in the procurement of this transformative project. Northern Roots is a brilliant example of how sustainable infrastructure can be delivered hand-in-hand with real social value, from upskilling local people and creating employment opportunities, to supporting long-term placemaking and environmental regeneration." "We’re proud to be playing a small part in helping local authorities like Oldham Council drive forward high-impact projects that deliver for both people and place.”

Hendy Group has added the UK’s fastest-growing vehicle brand, BYD, to its portfolio, expanding its reach across the South Coast to 23 different marques. A vacant vehicle showroom in Tonbridge, Kent is being comprehensively redeveloped to accommodate the Chinese carmaker’s full electric and hybrid model range. Renovations of the 3,200 square foot showroom are due to be completed ahead of the first customers being welcomed in early June. Alongside extensive indoor and outdoor display areas for new and used BYD models the Tonbridge dealership will provide a service and MOT facility for vehicles from any brand, making use of a new, state-of-the-art nine-bay workshop. The opening has prompted the creation of 12 new jobs. Hendy is currently seeking new colleagues to fill roles in sales and aftersales at the site and is accepting applications via their website. Paul Hendy, Chief Executive of Hendy Group, said: “BYD is already the fastest-growing brand in the UK in 2024, and we share the brand’s ambition and customer-first ethos. Working with such an ambitious brand opens up many new opportunities for us, and for our customers. We’re anticipating strong demand in the coming months as those in and around Tonbridge visit to discover what BYD has to offer.” Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director, BYD UK added: “As BYD continues to grow rapidly in the UK, our trusted retailer partners are crucial to our ongoing success. Hendy Group is perfectly positioned to represent us on the south coast, and bring a huge amount of experience in the automotive retail market. I am delighted to welcome the team at Hendy Group to join BYD on its fast-paced and exciting journey."

Malting capacity at the UK’s largest malting site has increased further following the commissioning of a new germination and kilning vessel (GKV) at Malt Limited’s Tweed Valley Maltings. The new GKV, which became fully operational in late 2024, has increased annual malt production capacity by up to 15,000 tonnes per year, bringing total production capacity at the Berwick-uponTweed site up to 260,000 tonnes per year – around 90% of which is destined for the distilling industry. Groundwork on the GKV, which is where the second and third stages of the active malting process – germination and kilning – take place, started in May 2023 as part of a £10 million investment. It is the tenth GKV to be built at the company’s Tweed Valley Maltings, with the total capacity of the vessel being 400 tonnes per batch. Malt produced in the new GKV – as well as the other nine GKVs on-site – has a significantly lower carbon footprint than the industry average, with energy for the kilning stage supplied by the site’s neighbouring Energy Centre. Developed in partnership with AMP Clean Energy, the Energy Centre – comprising three 6MW biomass boilers and one 12MW electric boiler powered by curtailed wind energy – reduces carbon emissions from kilning by 90%.Due to how energy-intensive the kilning stage of the malting process is, this equates to a reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions at the Tweed Valley Maltings site of up to 80%, and up to 55% company-wide. The company’s GKV project has been swiftly followed by another multi-million-pound investment in the shape of a new peated malt production plant with storage facilities. The £6 million plant has the capacity to produce 25,000 tonnes of peated malt per year, with its bespoke design providing the ability to seamlessly monitor and tweak phenol levels – the measurement of how lightly or heavily peated the malt is – to customers’ desired specifications. The development also includes an abatement technology in the form of air centrifuges which reduces particulate emissions by up to 90%. Tim McCreath, Managing Director at Simpsons Malt Limited, said: “We are delighted to have increased malting capacity at our Tweed Valley Maltings with the construction of a new GKV and peated malt production plant." “Investing regularly in our infrastructure is a key strategic and operational priority of our fifthgeneration, family business, helping us to drive the quality, consistency and sustainability of our products and processes." “In recent months, it has been fantastic to welcome many distillers to our Tweed Valley Maltings, where they have been able to witness not only the investments that have been made with the new GKV, but other projects including our Energy Centre development and the construction of ten new malt storage silos.”

A Nottinghamshire outdoor activity centre that has been enjoyed by thousands of scouts for decades has received a welcome financial boost from a global packaging firm. Walesby Forest, a not-for-profit organisation established in 1938, is an international outdoor adventure activity centre set in 250 acres of Nottinghamshire forest. The inclusive site, which works in partnership with the City of Nottingham Scouts, was named as the recipient of April’s charity donation by Colwick-based The Wilkins Group as part of the packaging giant’s ‘year of giving’ campaign. The family-owned firm's 12-month campaign is championing a different Nottinghamshire charity each month during 2025 and making donations to lessen the impact of the current challenging economic climate. Having already donated thousands of pounds to good causes across the city and county, including Green’s Windmill Trust in Sneinton, Papplewick Pumping Station in Ravenshead, and Stonebridge City Farm, this week staff at The Wilkins Group chose Walesby Forest to receive a £1,000 cheque having been inspired by the location's facilities, longevity and values. Justin Wilkins, joint managing director at The Wilkins Group, which makes food packaging for many of the UK's leading brands, said: “We have been deeply inspired by how this remarkable non-profit organisation embraces and upholds the strong heritage of scouting values, mission, and purpose." “It is a privilege to support them in such a worthwhile mission to bring outdoor activities and adventures to a multitude of visitor groups.” Walesby Forest is an internationally renowned outdoor activity centre among Scouts and Guides. It is also open to the public, with its main visitors coming from schools, colleges, and universities. Guy Laurie, CEO for Walesby Forest, said: “Huge thanks go to The Wilkins Group for its donation. We are the green lung for many young people in inner-city districts. As a not-for-profit organisation we offer bespoke and inclusive experiences aimed at educating our visitors in a fun and safe environment within the heart of the incredible Sherwood Forest in Robin Hood country.” “This donation means a lot to us and such an amount goes a long way. It will allow us to offer subsidised places to between 200–300 young people for a weekend.” The charity has over 30 adventure activities including outdoor climbing, kayaking, archery and air rifles, plus a range of accommodation and camping areas maintained and managed by dedicated staff, instructors and volunteers. Walesby Forest prides itself of offering equal opportunities regardless of economic background. Justin said: “We know times are hard for so many people and organisations across the country at the moment. With our roots in Nottinghamshire, we are taking the spirit of Robin Hood and spreading donations across the county throughout the year to worthy recipients." “Our donation is helping to promote the development of young people, giving them the opportunity to learn new skills, gain life experiences and grow as individuals.” The Wilkins Group announced its ‘year of giving' campaign in December. It kick-started the initiative with an innovative calendar and desk tidy that was sent to its customers. Each month, the calendar highlights a different Nottinghamshire charity, outlining its work and why The Wilkins Group would be donating towards each cause. The Wilkins Group is dedicated to improving its local community spaces and mitigating the environmental impact of industry. Creating packaging designs and innovations that aim to reduce and ultimately eradicate single-use plastics within the industry, it is already leading the way in alternatives such as board trays for food packaging, including the use of compostable materials, and 100 per cent plastic-free hangers. The Wilkins Group produces food packaging for the likes of Pukka Pies, Pizza Express, Harrods and Cadbury. It also is credited with producing bespoke and award-winning items such as eco-friendly coat hangers and the iconic M&S light-up glitter gin bottles.

As one of the UK’s largest food and agriculture businesses - and a female-owned company - Noble Foods is proud to be actively supporting the next generation of women leaders through its Women in Leadership Apprenticeship programme. Launched as part of Noble’s wider 2050 Impact Strategy, the initiative is designed to help talented colleagues develop the skills, confidence and practical experience needed to grow into leadership roles across the business, from operations and logistics to technical, farming and commercial teams. Now well underway, the programme has already created valuable opportunities for colleagues like Lucie Wilson and Lauren Robertson, who are using the course to build professional capabilities while gaining perspective from both inside and outside the industry. “The course has had a positive impact on my knowledge and confidence, setting me up with tools and real-world challenges that will benefit me for years to come,” said Lucie. “It’s also allowed me to network with likeminded women – sharing stories and learning from each other.” Lauren added: “The apprenticeship taught me not just about managing departments, but about how to lead and encourage others. I’ve been lucky to have brilliant support at Noble, and this course has pushed me even further.” Delivered in partnership with Raise the Bar, the scheme includes two pathways - a Level 3 Team Leader and a Level 5 Senior Manager programme - tailored to meet women at different points in their careers. Each pathway blends expert coaching, one-to-one development and practical leadership training, while also addressing gender-specific challenges such as imposter syndrome and confidence in communication. There are no formal qualifications required to join, just a passion for growth and a commitment to lead with authenticity. For Noble Foods, the ambition is clear: to nurture a more inclusive, innovative and progressive workplace. One that reflects the future of British food production. With industries like agriculture, food manufacturing and logistics historically less accessible to women, the business sees education and career development as vital areas to champion. Louisa Hogarty, Group HR Director at Noble Foods: “Developing women leaders isn't simply about representation - it's a strategic necessity that unlocks fresh perspectives and innovation. Our Women in Leadership programme goes beyond professional development. By investing in these pathways today, we're building a stronger business and a more equitable industry that better serves our people, animals and planet." Noble’s support for women in the sector goes beyond its own walls. The company has recently played an active role in wider industry efforts, including through Women in Poultry Production, and is proud to see two of its team members shortlisted as finalists in the upcoming National Women in Agriculture Awards.

Trojan, the trusted name in quality workwear, has launched its most advanced product range to date, a high-performance, multifunctional collection of trousers, jackets, gilets, fleeces and footwear, all Engineered to Perform. With decades of experience manufacturing performance workwear for tradespeople, contractors and professionals, Trojan has adapted its range to suit modern demands. This insight has been woven into every seam, stitch and fibre of the new range, designed to be functional yet stylish. The Trojan range also comes with more sustainable options made from durable fabric and reinforced features to increase the longevity of workwear that is used in tough working conditions. It also has extended washability meaning it can withstand more washes, retaining colour stability and not shrinking. From lightweight layers to weatherproof outerwear, breathable fleeces to rugged footwear, each item in the collection has been expertly engineered for durability, comfort and performance, helping the garments withstand the strain on and off site, every single day. The new range includes: · Performance Trousers – Designed for durability, flexibility and all-day comfort, with reinforced stitching and movement-enhancing panels. · Jackets & Gilets – Featuring weatherproof insulation and breathable linings for year-round protection. · Fleeces – Lightweight and warm, crafted to layer effortlessly without restricting movement. · Footwear – Built tough with comfort-first technologies, including advanced sole grip, shock absorption and GORE-TEX® options. All Trojan products are designed to meet the needs of today’s tradespeople, combining fabric technology, rigorous testing, and clever design features to ensure high performance with no compromise on comfort or style. Simon Allan-Brooks, Chief Commercial Officer at Arco said: “Performance starts with what you wear, that’s why this range goes beyond the basics. We haven’t just made workwear – we’ve engineered every piece of clothing to elevate the wearer’s experience, combining innovative materials with Trojan’s deep understanding of the needs of workers. This range is designed to perform while providing more stylish options for workers nationally.”

After being leased for the last 50 years a ‘secret’ Christchurch marina is back under the control of the family who own it. Little Avon Marina is tucked away behind the Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre and is now being overseen by Charles Wallrock and his sister Jo Turnage. Their father, the war hero Commander Michael Wallrock, bought what was then an ornamental pond in 1969. He dug out the marina and created an attractive little haven in the shadow of Christchurch Priory on the River Avon. Since 1975 it has been leased, but now it has returned to the family who have plans to invest in it. It will be managed by Saviour Aquilina who also runs the country’s second oldest paddleboarding shop there and hires our paddleboards and kayaks. Charles said: “I was brought up here and remember my father digging it out. It is a wonderful little marina with room for more than 30 boats – with several berths available this year." “Most people, even locals, don’t know it exists because it is like a secret – tucked away behind the leisure centre’s rear car park. Some boat owners have been with us for decades and we want to create that sense of community that I remember from my childhood." “There is a lovely iconic boat shed and slipway so anyone can carry out repairs in the dry. Having been leased for many years we decided the time was right to take it back and return it to a lovely place to spend down time." “Saviour has been running his business – The SUP Store – here for years and there is a great shop and teas and coffees for sale." “He hires kayaks and paddleboards and also does repairs and sells some great brands. It is a beautiful and stunning location and we have plans to invest in it to further enhance the site.” Saviour said: “Paddleboarding and kayaking are increasingly popular and we teach people, hire equipment, repair boards and we are also one of the pioneers of paddleboard racing. We also offer storage for kayaks and other watercraft." “We’re open every day of the week through the summer and we plan to have BBQs and create a relaxing haven for everyone.” Above Photo: Charles Wallrock and Saviour Aquilina at Little Avon Marina

Big Shots, the furnishing industry’s favourite clay pigeon shoot in aid of industry charity The Furniture Makers’ Company, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this summer. The milestone fundraiser will once again be held at Holland and Holland, Middlesex – one of the UK’s premier shooting destinations – on Wednesday 11 June 2025. Kicking off with a hearty breakfast, the fun-filled day will begin with a safety briefing before the traditional cannon signals the start of the 100-bird shooting competition. Teams will make their way around 10 stands spread across 60 acres of stunning open countryside. Alongside the main competition, guests can look forward to some novelty stands, including the ever-popular flash clays and a thrilling eight straight stand. After the shoot, a three-course lunch with wine will be served, followed by prize-giving, a charity raffle, and a lively auction. As ever, Big Shots provides plenty of opportunities to raise funds for The Furniture Makers’ Company, which supports people in the trade facing hardship and champions new talent entering the industry. Now in its 30th year, Big Shots is a brilliant day out for experienced and novice shooters alike – ideal for entertaining clients or suppliers, team building with colleagues, or simply enjoying a unique experience with friends. The event is proudly sponsored by Furniture Village, which has supported the fundraiser for many years, with managing director Charlie Harrison once again helping to organise the day. Charlie Harrison, managing director at Furniture Village, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be the main sponsor of Big Shots again this year – especially as it celebrates its 30th anniversary. It’s always a great day out, and the fact that it supports such a meaningful cause makes it even more special. We’re looking forward to seeing both new and familiar faces at Holland and Holland in June.” Jonny Westbrooke, CEO of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “Reaching 30 years is a fantastic achievement for Big Shots, and it is testament to the ongoing generosity and camaraderie of the furnishing industry. We’re immensely grateful to Furniture Village for their continued sponsorship and support. The funds raised help us continue our vital work, and we can’t wait to celebrate this landmark year with our guests.” To enter a team or find out more details available here: