Department for Business response to AgustaWestland announcement on job losses

October 9, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: £33M boost for hauliers with longer lorries trial

Monday 10 October, 2011
Business Secretary Vince Cable said:

"The news of job losses at AgustaWestland will be upsetting for the individuals involved and the wider community in Yeovil."

"BIS is working with the company to help secure a long term future for the site by helping them to move in to civil helicopter work where there are strong opportunities for Growth. In July I announced £32 million of Government investment in AgustaWestland Yeovil to help introduce the civil AW169 aircraft and we hope that this will allow them to expand in the future."

You can find more details on the press release: nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421513&SubjectId=2.

Note to editors
BIS's online newsroom contains the latest press notices, speeches, as well as video and images for download. It also features an up to date list of BIS press office contacts. See www.bis.gov.uk/newsroom for more information.
Contacts

NDS Enquiries
Phone: For enquiries please contact the issuing dept ndsenquiries@coi.gsi.gov.uk

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£33M boost for hauliers with longer lorries trial

October 11, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: Review Totally Nourish on Review Centre and Enter a £50 Voucher Prize Draw

≪ Previous: Department for Business response to AgustaWestland announcement on job losses

Wednesday 12 October, 2011
Some hauliers will be allowed to use longer trailers under plans to boost growth published today by Roads Minister Mike Penning.

Following consultation on proposals to allow a two metre increase in the length of articulated lorries, the Department for Transport is allowing a ten-year trial of up to 900 trailers at an increased length of 2.05 metres, and 900 at an increase of one metre. The longer lorries will operate within the existing weight limit of 44 tonnes.

The trial is expected to provide a £33m boost to the haulage industry as the longer vehicles provide up to 13% more loading space - allowing fewer journeys to transport the same amount of goods - without compromising safety.

Mike Penning said:

"The road haulage industry is vital to the growth of our economy. By allowing companies to use one truck where they may have previously needed to send two, we can help the sector improve efficiency and save money - which should in turn benefit consumers.

Full article here

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Review Totally Nourish on Review Centre and Enter a £50 Voucher Prize Draw

October 12, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: Minister announces quality standard for National Careers Service

≪ Previous: £33M boost for hauliers with longer lorries trial

Thursday 13 October, 2011
Leading online health supplements and products site Totally Nourish have just launched their 'Review Totally Nourish on Review Centre' prize draw. All entrants who review Totally Nourish on Review Centre will automatically be entered into a prize draw and one lucky winner will receive a £50 voucher to spend on Totally Nourish supplements.

The Prize draw details have been sent to all customers of Totally Nourish. To enter they need to visit Totally Nourishs seller profile on Review Centre and leave a review.

Each review form does not take long to complete and will be required to contain a brief description about each customer's experience of the purchase they made from Totally Nourish. Leaving a review will also require the user to quickly register on Review Centre upon completion of their review in order for their review to be activated.

The prize will be a £50 voucher which the winning entrant can use to spend on Totally Nourish supplements.

The end date for entries will be the Monday 7th November 2011. A winner will be drawn from all the entries by the Totally Nourish team. The winning entrant and details of how to contact us to claim their prize will be announced on the Totally Nourish 'Health News and Articles' area.

It is advised that entrants check the site after the 7th November 2011 so they can come forward to claim their prize.
For terms and conditions please go to the competition page on our Totally Nourish site.

Contact Details:
Robert Stoubos, Digital Marketing Executive
Telephone: 0121 433 8762
Email: robert@totallynourish.com

About Totally Nourish:
Established since 2008, Totally Nourish is leading UK online health store specialising in health supplements and vitamins, health foods, dietary supplements for the Low GL diet, skin care, beauty care and make up, patrick holford supplements and more. Fast dispatch and delivery available. Also available onsite is FREE confidential expert nutrition advice, health news and articles and also a low GL diet recipes section.

Connect with Totally Nourish:
Facebook page - facebook.com/totallynourish
Twitter page - twitter.com/totallynourish
YouTube - youtube.com/totallynourish

Using This Press Release:
If you want to publish this press release on your own web site, please use the whole article up to and including the 'Connect with Totally Nourish' section of this press release.

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Minister announces quality standard for National Careers Service

October 12, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: Greater choice for NHS patients across the country

≪ Previous: Review Totally Nourish on Review Centre and Enter a £50 Voucher Prize Draw

Thursday 13 October, 2011
Skills Minister John Hayes today unveils an upgraded and improved standard to underpin the new National Careers Service. The Matrix Standard will promote effective delivery of information, advice and guidance to millions of people through the new National Careers Service, which launches next April.

National Careers Service providers will be assessed against a range of criteria including service delivery, quality improvement, resources and leadership and management.

The new standard will reassure people about the quality of advice they can expect to receive, and ensure providers plan, deliver, review, evaluate and develop their service.

All National Careers Service providers will need to be accredited to the new standard by April 2013

More Information nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421556&SubjectId=2

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Greater choice for NHS patients across the country

October 12, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: New help for manufacturers could generate £1.5bn growth and create 23,000 jobs

≪ Previous: Minister announces quality standard for National Careers Service

Thursday 13 October, 2011
NHS patients in England will have the freedom to choose, not only where, but who provides their hospital care from April 2012, Health Secretary Andrew Lansley announced today.

A survey carried out on behalf of the Department of Health shows that this is in line with what patients want:

over 80 per cent of patients want more choice over how and where they are treated in the NHS; and
nearly three quarters of patients want more choice in who provides their hospital care.

As part of the Governments plans to modernise the NHS and improve patient choice, new guidance published today sets out how all NHS providers of care will have to accept all clinically appropriate referrals to named hospital consultant-led teams.

In addition, NHS providers will have to publish relevant information about their consultants and the services they provide, ensuring greater transparency in the NHS and enabling patients to make informed choices about their care.

Read More nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421546&SubjectId=2t

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New help for manufacturers could generate £1.5bn growth and create 23,000 jobs

October 14, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: SWAYS Presents The Electrification of Salford II

≪ Previous: Greater choice for NHS patients across the country

Saturday 15 October, 2011
A new nationally operated Manufacturing Advisory Service will focus on helping small and medium sized manufacturers to grow, Business Minister Mark Prisk announced today.

The new service will be delivered by the Manufacturing Advisory Consortium (MAC) and will help create an estimated £1.5bn in economic growth, 23,000 jobs and safeguard 50,000 jobs.

The Manufacturing Advisory Service will continue to deliver a national service to all manufacturing businesses in England but the new consortium now means that there will be a specific focus on:

Read More nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421601&SubjectId=2

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SWAYS Presents The Electrification of Salford II

October 14, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: UK space strategy boosted by new role for Keith Mason

≪ Previous: New help for manufacturers could generate £1.5bn growth and create 23,000 jobs

Saturday 15 October, 2011
Manchester's most talked about record label SWAYS presents "The Electrification II of Salford" at the The Kings Arms, home to Channel 4's new comedy FRESH MEAT.

The highly sought after event is jammed with some of the finest up and coming bands. From the unmissable Louche FC, a four-piece which can be "beguiling, sometimes disorientating, experience" - City Life, to the the warm brooding yarbols of Leeds band POST WAR GLAMOUR GIRLS and stars of Underachievers, VICTORIES AT SEA.

The event is being held on Saturday 22nd October at the glorious Kings Arms a stones throw from Manchester City Centre and entrance fee is £3.

Note to Editors:

Event is taking place on Saturday 22 October 2011

Entrance fee is £3

Event presented by Sways Records

Sways Records

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UK space strategy boosted by new role for Keith Mason

October 18, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: Introducing the new Home Hub seating system from Furniture Village

≪ Previous: SWAYS Presents The Electrification of Salford II

Wednesday 19 October, 2011
David Willetts today announced the secondment of Professor Keith Mason to the UK Space Agency. He will advise on steps needed to leverage the research base to maximise the economic growth of the space sector.

Minister for Universities and Science David Willetts said:

"I am delighted that Professor Mason has agreed to take up this important work with the UK Space Agency. His expertise will help ensure we realise the full commercial potential of our space sector to drive growth."

Professor Mason said:

"I am passionate about the scientific and commercial opportunities that space offers, and am excited by the Minister's invitation to make an important contribution to delivering key aspects of the Space Innovation and Growth Strategy."

Read More

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Introducing the new Home Hub seating system from Furniture Village

October 19, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: No holiday havens for wealthy tax cheats

≪ Previous: UK space strategy boosted by new role for Keith Mason

Thursday 20 October, 2011
Furniture Village is excited to announce the arrival of the new Home Hub luxury range of sofas and chairs - the perfect addition for the ultimate bachelor pad!

Made exclusively for Furniture Village, then Home Hub range includes a 4 seater corner sofa with chaise which boasts a futuristic secret cooling or storage compartment and if thats not enough, the range also includes a state of the art leather swivel chair with an in-built integrated Bluetooth speaker system.

Ideal for the modern man, the Home Hub range has been designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The swivel chair allows the customer to wirelessly listen to music or audiobooks in the comfort of their own home via a speaker system which is astutely hidden under stylish leather, ensuring the contemporary design of the chair is not compromised.

As well as having in-built surround sound, the new seating system allows people to grab a chilled drink without even leaving the comfort of their sofa. The sophisticated cooling compartment within the sofa includes a cup holder - ideal for chilling a beer or two!

The range is available in more than 30 different colours and can be purchased in individual modular units or as a complete set.
The normal retail price of the Home Hub swivel chair is £999; however, in the Furniture Village sale which launched last week, there is 35% off this price - making it just £649.

The Home Hub 4 seater corner sofa with chaise normally retails at £2,899, but with 30% off in the sale, its now just £1,955.

To view the whole range, visit one of the 39 Furniture Village stores nationwide or visit the sofas and chairs section online at www.furniturevillage.co.uk

-Ends-

Notes to editor:

For further information or image requests contact:

Eshe Brown, Online PR Consultant 01273 760 959 eshe@propellernet.co.uk
Isa Lavahun, Online PR Consultant 01273 760 969 isa@propellernet.co.uk

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No holiday havens for wealthy tax cheats

October 31, 2011, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: Win a free party for you and your friends with Blacka Acoustics

≪ Previous: Introducing the new Home Hub seating system from Furniture Village

Tuesday 1 November, 2011
Wealthy tax cheats with overseas property are now being targeted by a new 200-strong team of investigators and specialists, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) announced today.

The newly-formed team started work this month, bringing together experts from across the department who will use new and innovative risk assessment techniques to identify areas where wealthy individuals are avoiding and evading taxes and duties.

One of the first groups being targeted is wealthy individuals who own land and property abroad. Sophisticated data mining techniques have been applied to publicly available information to identify individuals who own property abroad. HMRC risk assessment tools are then being used to highlight those people who do not appear able legitimately to afford the property, as well as those who do not appear to be declaring the correct income and gains from the property.

Read More

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Win a free party for you and your friends with Blacka Acoustics

November 14, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: thinkbanking says `make budgeting your New Year`s resolution`

≪ Previous: No holiday havens for wealthy tax cheats

Tuesday 15 November, 2011
To celebrate their 11th Anniversary leading North West Sound, Audio and visual specialist Blacka Acoustics is giving one lucky twitter follower the chance to host there own party.

The prize includes a leading Manchester DJ from Unity Radio 92.8 FM and all equipment hire and installation courtesy of Blacka Acoustics.

This could be the perfect prize for your and your friends this Winter, all you need is a venue and the rest is provided.

To enter the competition simply follow Blacka Acoustics on their official Twitter channel twitter.com/blackaacoustics and mention them in a tweet.

Or Follow and Retweet this standard Message:

WIN a Free Party(DJ + Equip) Follow @blackaacoustics & RT to Enter #competition

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thinkbanking says `make budgeting your New Year`s resolution`

November 18, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Return to Glory partner with Neals Yard Remedies to take Organic Health and Beauty Philosophy into London Homes

≪ Previous: Win a free party for you and your friends with Blacka Acoustics

Saturday 19 November, 2011
Christmas is an expensive time of year for most people, with many of us spending more than we usually would on food, drink, decorations, parties and gatherings, not to mention presents. If you want to set yourself on the best financial footing in the New Year, a budget is a good place to start, says budgeting bank account provider thinkbanking.

A recent report by moneysupermarket.com says that while one in five will rely on savings for the festivities and 38% have disposable income that can cover the cost of Christmas, as many as one in ten will be relying on credit or store cards to fund the holiday season. They could be saddling themselves with years of debt.

Borrowing is certainly not the cheapest way to pay for Christmas. A £500 balance on a credit card with an APR of around 18% could take close to twelve years to repay in full when you only make the minimum repayments of 2.5% per month.

However, in the current economic climate, many of us have to borrow. We are seeing the biggest squeeze on incomes for a generation. Not everyone has `spare` or disposable income for Christmas expenses. Many people don't have savings - in fact the situation with the economy is making it even harder for many to save at the moment, which can be a problem as saving can help to make Christmas more affordable.

Another way to make Christmas more affordable is by spreading the cost over the year, although it does take some planning. If you`re organised, you can begin shopping for Christmas 2012 in the January sales next year, where you'll find all sorts of festive goods at knocked-down prices. Buying presents throughout the year will also spread the cost.

And never underestimate the power of a well thought-out budget which allows you to set aside money every month. Savings soon add up and after twelve months you`re likely to have a nice amount for Christmas next year!

A spokesperson for thinkbanking commented: `We would like everybody to think about how they budget for the expenses in their lives coming up to big events like Christmas. At a time of year when it's likely most of us will be spending more money than usual, it's important to watch where our money is going and if at all possible, avoid getting into debt.

`Borrowing money to fund Christmas festivities might be a necessity for some, but we strongly believe that timely financial planning and effective budgeting could help some avoid, or at least limit, borrowing.

`While this Christmas is fast approaching, there is still time to set aside some money, especially if you're paid weekly. Putting away £20 a week between now and Christmas Eve would build a pot of £120, which could go a long way towards gifts and other expenses.

`If you begin saving at the start of next year, you wouldn`t need to put away as much money every month to grow a fairly decent pot by Christmas 2012. Say you put away £40 every month, over 12 months you'll have saved £480. The New Year is a great time for fresh starts and it`s certainly worthwhile setting up a monthly savings Direct Debit from your bank this New Year of an amount you can afford.`

Notes to Editors

thinkbanking provides access to a current bank account that makes it easier to budget, by ring-fencing money needed for regular commitments, including savings. The `Money Manager` service helps customers to manage their accounts effectively. The account comes with predictive banking which can let customers know if they are running short for their necessary expenses. thinkbanking accounts don`t require a credit check and are available to UK residents over the age of 18.

For more information, visit the thinkbanking website at www.thinkbanking.co.uk.

Contact:
Ian Williams
thinkbanking
ian.williams@thinkbanking.com
Tel: 0845 056 6005

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Return to Glory partner with Neals Yard Remedies to take Organic Health and Beauty Philosophy into London Homes

November 21, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Safestyle UK smashes sales record

≪ Previous: thinkbanking says `make budgeting your New Year`s resolution`

Tuesday 22 November, 2011
Return to Glory - providers of Londons favourite at-home luxury spa experience - have this week partnered with the equally-passionate team from Neals Yard Remedies to offer the benefits of their organic health and beauty products exclusively for all home massage and beauty treatments.

Return to Glory currently help over 6,000 busy Londoners balance a hectic diary with regular at-home private pampering sessions at a convenient time and will now solely treat clients with the extensive range of Neals Yard Therapies products, incorporating the popular Aromatherapy range for massage. Return to Glory will be the only mobile massage and beauty company in London to offer this natural & organic product range exclusively.

It isnt just the Neals Yard Remedies products that are being incorporated into the treatments of the elite team of Return to Glory therapists, clients all across London will also be informed of the importance of organic health and beauty as each therapist will be completing specialist training with Neals Yard Remedies.

It was important for us to choose a partner who shares our philosophy on natural health and wellness, and were proud to be working with the award-winning products that Neals Yard Remedies has been producing here in the UK for 30 years, said Natasha Dwyer, founder and managing director of Return to Glory.

Over thirty years Neals Yard Remedies have pioneered a more natural, holistic way of health, beauty and wellbeing and have achieved a number of firsts including beings the UKs 1st certified organic health and Beauty Company and the UKs 1# high street retailer to launch certified organic essential oils.

The benefits of the natural and organic Neals Yard Therapies can now be experienced in London homes with the help of the team from Return to Glory.

About Return to Glory
Return to Glory is the leading home spa - delivering massage and beauty treatments to clients in homes, hotels and offices across London. With a team of over 100 experienced and highly-qualified visiting therapists the company has grown year on year from its first year through word of mouth.

Return to Glory now has over 6,000 repeating male and female clients; celebrities, VIPs, professionals and busy London mothers. In November they are launching their first partnership with an exciting product brand to be the first to exclusively bring branded home treatments to discerning London men and women.

***********************************************************
Home Treatments Include
Rejuvenating frankincense Face and Neck Treatment in Home £80 - 1.5 hours
Aromatherapy Massage In Home £65 - 1 hour
Pregnancy Massage In Home with Neals Yard Baby Massage Oil £65 - 1 hour

Christmas Package Vouchers for Busy Londoners
If vouchers are bought as a pack of 10 they have a 20% discount (£520 for 10 rather than £650) and clients give one voucher each to 10 friends. We schedule the delivery of the vouchers so our clients dont have to.

Telephone: 0845 337 4933
Website: www.returntoglory.co.uk
Link: Mobile Massage London

***********************************************************
For more information contact Natasha Dwyer on natasha@returntoglory.co.uk or call 0845 337 4933 / 0780 1966829

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Safestyle UK smashes sales record

November 24, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Recently launched BrocklebankPenn recruits new staff in response to recent influx of new business wins

≪ Previous: Return to Glory partner with Neals Yard Remedies to take Organic Health and Beauty Philosophy into London Homes

Friday 25 November, 2011
Double glazing specialist Safestyle UK has broken its own sales record by chalking up over £750,000 of business in just one day.

The previous record for daily takings, set in 2006, was just under the three quarter million mark.

The news coincides with the launch of its biggest sale - 60% off all premium energy efficient windows and doors in the run-up to Christmas, a promotion which has been supported by a new television advertising campaign.

The Bradford-based company last month announced a 10% growth compared to last year and a 20% increase in market share, following reports of a 0.5% growth in the UK economy for the third quarter of 2011 from the Office for National Statistics.

Safestyle believes its success during challenging economic conditions is thanks to higher quality products with improved energy efficiency ratings, like its A-rated windows and composite doors.

A spokesman said: Its extremely heartening for a British business to perform well after so much dismal economic news in recent years and the current financial crises in Europe.

We are trying our best to finish the year more strongly than ever and looking forward to launching some fantastic new products next year.

The UKs biggest and best-known double glazing specialist, Safestyle UK provides windows and doors to thousands of homes across the country. All products are manufactured in the UK at the companys Barnsley factory.

For more information, visit www.safestyle-windows.co.uk

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Recently launched BrocklebankPenn recruits new staff in response to recent influx of new business wins

November 28, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: New liquid refillable electronic cigarette launch from ROK Universal

≪ Previous: Safestyle UK smashes sales record

Tuesday 29 November, 2011
BrocklebankPenn has moved into prestigious offices next door to the iconic Sanderson Hotel. The move to the new office follows the recent appointment of six new members of staff. Four join the studio, two each in creative and digital, and two further experienced staff join client services. Backed by Gary Brine, founder of international agency Gyro which sold for $120m in 2008, BrocklebankPenn was set up by an executive team of five experienced partners with the mantra that clients should always have access to key partners within the business.

The agency has already taken on several new accounts in recent months, including Vestel, the major manufacturer of white goods. Vestel UK has appointed BrocklebankPenn to launch its Servis brand in the UK with rollout across Europe. Product categories expected to be included in the launch include laundry, cooking, refrigeration and dishwashing.

Managing Director of BrocklebankPenn, Peter Brocklebank commented; This office move marks a significant milestone in our plans for growth. Through our unique approach, One Brand World, which charts the Zero Moment - when customers first start looking for a new purchase - through to the Last Ten Feet - where the customer is ready to make the purchase - we have already successfully won several new accounts. We have also recruited new staff to ensure that we continue to supply marketing solutions that work on every level where every element is designed to do a job and deliver real results to the client.

As part of their continual expansion strategy, BrocklebankPenn has also recently joined the Marketing Agencies Association, which provides support, training and development to growing agencies.

-ends

NOTES TO EDITORS

About BrocklebankPenn
A team of highly experienced individuals with diverse marketing backgrounds yet shared values, including serial entrepreneur Gary Brine. BrocklebankPenn was founded to ensure that clients always get direct, honest dialogue with the key people driving each project.

The executive team at BrocklebankPenn has together more than 100 years of client and agency experience. Whether working on a comprehensive international marketing strategy or delivering a multi-channel tactical campaign, BrocklebankPenn brings the same big agency processes, standards and capacity while holding onto small agency adaptability, responsiveness and nimbleness.

One Brand World
No matter where customers see, hear, discuss or touch a brand, it must leave an immediate and lasting impression. BrocklebankPenn understands that every form of media has a relevant part to play, and all must come together to build confidence, drive awareness, open engagement, answer any questions, entertain, help and of course sell product/service.

From the Zero Moment when a customer first starts looking and researching a new purchase, to the Last Ten Feet, when they make a decision about what and where to buy, BrocklebankPenn builds campaigns that will engage with the customer at every touch point.
From Zero to Ten, the customer sees the brand all at once - its what BrocklebankPenn call a One Brand World.

For more information and inspiration please visit: www.brocklebankpenn.com

Editors Contacts
Craig Penn
BrocklebankPenn
Tel: +44 (0) 20 3137 7034
Email: craig@brocklebankpenn.com

Andreina West
PR Artistry
Tel: +44 (0) 1491 639500
Email: Andreina@pra-ltd.co.uk

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New liquid refillable electronic cigarette launch from ROK Universal

November 28, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: The Leveson Inquiry changing the face of the UK media landscape for the better?

≪ Previous: Recently launched BrocklebankPenn recruits new staff in response to recent influx of new business wins

Tuesday 29 November, 2011
The ROK Star e cigarette brings a range of new features to the UK

St Albans, U.K. - 22nd November 2011 - ROK Universal has today announced the full launch of their first liquid refillable performance electronic cigarette for e-smokers in the UK and Europe.

Designed to offer a simple, genuinely satisfying balanced alternative to smoking traditional tobacco-based cigarettes, The ROK Star e cigarette delivers nicotine in a smoke-like vapour, without any of the tobacco or tar. E-cigarettes are legal to be used indoors to beat the ban and can provide smokers with huge savings compared to regular cigarettes.

With the ROK Star e-cigarette we wanted to take the success of our core ROK Original range and produce something that is ideal for our more frequent e-smokers who are looking for a wider choice of flavours, more control, and even greater savings in the long term. says Greg Forster, Managing Director of ROK Universal. It was essential that we brought something new and pioneering to the UK.

Each ROK Star electronic cigarette kit incorporates
-Two rechargeable batteries with power level indicators
-Battery protection systems to prevent accidental activation
-An air flow band allowing users to choose the level of vapour delivered
-Two stealth e liquid chambers with fluid level indicator windows
-Two patented robust atomisers for vapour generation

The accompanying e-liquids are all made in the UK with the highest quality pharmaceutical grade nicotine, using flavours sourced from within the EU. In addition, ROK Star smokers can select from a range of nicotine strengths and six great flavours - original tobacco, Virginian tobacco, mountain menthol, bursting blackcurrant, milk chocolate and even absinthe for the more adventurous.

ROK Universal

ROK Universal is the leading electronic cigarette brand from Smoke Without Sin Ltd, an established limited company in the UK, specialising in the retailing of quality electronic cigarettes.

Smoke Without Sin is a member of ECITA (the Electronic Cigarette Industry Trade Association) and is an Internet Shopping is Safe (ISIS) and Internet Delivery is Safe (IDIS) accredited retailer.

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The Leveson Inquiry changing the face of the UK media landscape for the better?

November 30, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: StumbleUpons Redesign Offers Opportunities for Brands, according to Punch Communications

≪ Previous: New liquid refillable electronic cigarette launch from ROK Universal

Thursday 1 December, 2011
The daily updates of celebrities and Politicians, who have taken the stand as part of the Leveson Inquiry, are everywhere with minute-by-minute accounts and findings being released in real-time. At the end of this withdrawn process, however, who will the real winners be, questions public relations agency, Punch Communications.

Understandably the phone hacking scandal has had a devastating impact on peoples lives, predominantly on those who have been part of criminal investigations that have been muddied by the hacking, including innocent bystanders such as the parents of Milly Dowler and the McCanns. But as we enter the second week of questioning, the inquiry appears to be taking on a more sensational charade, explains Georgina Dunkley, account director at the online PR consultancy.

The breach of anyones human rights is totally unacceptable and the Leveson Inquiry comes as a welcome relief to ensure that from the ashes, some positive changes surrounding regulation of the media are made. However, for some celebrities, the inquiry appears to be another publicity stunt and a wider opportunity to fight back against the red tops, an outcome I consider to be in bad taste for celebrities who happily make an income from being in the public eye.

My concern now is what lasting impact the inquiry will have on the media landscape? Over the past few years we have watched the devastating effect the recession has had on the media with many job losses and paper closures; will the Leveson Inquiry now discourage investigative journalism and in turn, switch readers off?

Since the establishment of the first newspaper in the 17th century, entertaining readers with sensationalised news has been part of the media agenda, expertly summed up by the famous get me a murder a day quote that Lord Northcliffe founder of the Daily Mail uttered back in 1896. In those 115 years very little has changed in terms of what is deemed a scoop.

Some of the findings of the inquiry, although unspeakable and disgusting, beg the question - why did the media go to such great lengths to get the scoop over their competitors and is this due to the pushiness of a newspaper tyrant or the meeting of a consumer need? Either way it is an interesting debate and will shape the way news is gathered and reported from now on.

Punch Communications is a leading PR, SEO and social media agency, for further information visit punchcomms.com.

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StumbleUpons Redesign Offers Opportunities for Brands, according to Punch Communications

December 8, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: New Year new financial approach?

≪ Previous: The Leveson Inquiry changing the face of the UK media landscape for the better?

Friday 9 December, 2011
Social media, SEO and PR agency Punch Communications is advising brands to take advantage of internet discovery tool StumbleUpons redesign to help market themselves to the services ever-growing user base.

2011 has proven to be a successful year for StumbleUpon as its user base surpassed 20 million in October of this year. A report from StatCounter highlighted how important the tool can be in driving online traffic to a given site, claiming that the service can drive 50 percent of all social media traffic; more than both Facebook and Twitter. However, although the service has appeared increasingly useful in sharing content, prior to ITS redesign there were no avenues for brands to pursue to market themselves to a wider Internet audience.

StumbleUpon has introduced a channels feature. Channels will allow brands to participate on the platform without spamming users uninterested in brand content. Channels can be created as either brand or user specific, thereby allowing an individual or brand to create content which not only appeals to StumbleUpon users, but also has promotional opportunities. Previously, StumbleUpon would ban users who solely used the service to market themselves and their brand, but this new feature allows brands to use the service in this manner without being intrusive.

Pete Goold, managing director of Punch Communications, a specialist technology PR agency, commented: The combination of the new channels feature and continued growth of StumbleUpon means brands not already using the service should consider doing so to help increase online visibility. As online marketers continue to vie with each other for the attention of internet users, finding and mastering new outreach opportunities is imperative. An early adoption of these new sharing features will allow a brand to test the water and determine what appeals to the users of this service, allowing for successful planning moving forward.

Whilst it is important that brands look to adopt these new features, selecting the correct material to share with StumbleUpon users is essential. Creating interesting and engaging content will ensure users are keen to return to a brand or users channel and continue to read and share published material.

Punch Communications is an integrated PR, social media and SEO agency. For advice on how Punchs expertise can assist your brand, please visit www.punchcomms.com or call 01858 411600.

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New Year new financial approach?

December 22, 2011, 4:00 pm

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Friday 23 December, 2011
Come January 1st, 2012, many of us will have made New Year's resolutions to improve our lives in some way - whether it's taking up a new hobby, quitting smoking or losing those extra pounds we've put on over Christmas.

Budgeting bank account provider thinkbanking has urged people to take stock of their spending and get in control of their finances in 2012 - and work towards achieving their financial goals.

Research from American Express has revealed the financial pressure many people may find themselves under after the seasonal spend - estimating that UK adults plan to spend an average of £210 each on 'extra costs' over the festive season, collectively adding up to £10.2 billion.

Christmas is known to be a time of indulgence, and many of us may find we've spent more than we planned for. However, the New Year offers an ideal opportunity for getting our finances back into shape and turning our back on bad habits.

A spokesperson for thinkbanking commented:

"The New Year is traditionally a time for people to reflect and make changes to their life for the better - and our finances are an important area where we could make improvements.

"Christmas is usually a particularly costly time of year, and people who have borrowed money over the festive period will have to think about repaying what they owe come January - along with keeping on top of all their other monthly costs.

"There are some practical steps you could take to master your money in the year ahead. Taking some time to draw up a financial plan could make a big difference. Look at all your important outgoings over the year, and draw up a monthly schedule of all your costs. For example, you could plan the exact date your road tax needs renewing, your water bill is due, or for family birthdays, so you can budget accordingly and make sure the costs are safely covered.

"If you're repaying debts, think about 'overpaying' them wherever possible, so you could repay everything you owe sooner rather than later. If you need to give your cash flow a bit of a boost to do this, try thinking frugally for the New Year. You don't have to make huge changes to make a difference: use coupons when you're buying food to reduce your shopping bills, for example, or have a few 'car-free' days every month to save on petrol costs.

"Reviewing your finances regularly should help you to spot any patterns in your spending habits that you need to change - or stick with, if they're helping you to manage your money well. And if you need an extra bit of motivation, remember that taking charge of your finances could help you to achieve your goals for 2012 - whether it's that holiday you're saving up for, or repaying your debts."

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors

thinkbanking provides access to a current bank account that makes it easier to budget, by ring-fencing money needed for regular commitments, including savings. The 'Money Manager' service helps customers to manage their accounts effectively. The account comes with predictive banking which can let customers know if they are running short for their necessary expenses. thinkbanking accounts don't require a credit check and are available to UK residents over the age of 18, who can prove their identity.

For more information, visit the thinkbanking website at www.thinkbanking.co.uk

Contact:
Ian Williams
thinkbanking
ian.williams@thinkbanking.com
Tel: 0845 056 6005

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Always On PR Does Not Stop For Christmas, According To Punch Communications

December 26, 2011, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: ATMEDIA Launches Dynamic Online news service in the UK

≪ Previous: New Year new financial approach?

Tuesday 27 December, 2011
Thanks to the growing role of social media within the PR skill set, PR practitioners need to be switched on continually, according to leading PR, social media and SEO agency, Punch Communications.

As the PR sector has evolved significantly over the last few years to incorporate the developing B2C communication channels of search and social media, so too has the requirement for PR campaign teams to remain always on, providing monitoring and management services to clients the year round.

Philip Keightley, Account Director at Punch Communications, said: The reality for PR teams, especially during highly competitive times, is that thanks to the advent of social media and its success as a key communications vehicle for clients, there is a requirement to ensure client profiles and platforms are continually monitored regardless of the season.

The nature of social media is always on and therefore those monitoring B2C comms on behalf of clients need to do likewise to ensure any potential issues are crises are monitored, managed and reported as appropriate.

As brands have rapidly adopted and developed detailed and engaging social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Google+, there is an expectation from users that those social media platforms are a continually open door to direct communication with the brand.

Philip Keightley continued: Brands have worked tirelessly and invested significant resource in building highly interactive and developed profiles so that they can communicate transparently and effectively with their fans and consumers. As a result, there is an expectation that those channels are two-way and continually open, rather than just a channel for brands to push messages to an audience on their terms - and this means not simply closing the shop whenever there is a holiday.

That said, there is of course a level of inferred understanding that during key holiday periods, brands may be slightly less responsive than at other times of the year. From an agency perspective, clear communication and good forward planning is key, ensuring that content schedules are developed and agreed in advance, signed off and ready for execution in addition to a rota system for outreach, monitoring, management and reporting.

As PR businesses have benefited from the advent of social media as a new string to its bow, there is a requirement for PR practitioners to adapt and evolve to the sectors requirements and DNA and at a primary level, this means ensuring PR teams and campaign managers are always-on regardless of the time of year.

For more information about integrated PR agency Punch Communications, visit www.punchcomms.com and connect with the team through twitter.com/punchcomms, facebook.com/punchcommunications and gPlusNick.com/punchcomms.

Ends

Contact - info@punchcomms.com - 01858 411 600

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