The Jewish human rights charity René Cassin1 is urging Theresa May to abandon plans2 to withdraw the UK from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) 3.

In a letter to the Prime Minister Mia Hasenson-Gross, Director of René Cassin, argues that:

For further information or comment, contact Mia Hasenson-Gross, via mia.hasenson-gross@renecassin.org or 020 3621 5464 or 07939 130 286

Notes for editors

[full text of letter]

Dear Prime Minister

Last April, speaking as Home Secretary on the UK’s place in the world, you said: “Looking back at history – and not very distant history at that – we know what a world without international, multilateral institutions looks like”. You then went on to say: The United Nations may be a flawed organisation … but nobody should want an end to a rules-based international system”.

As a Jewish human rights organisation, your words have particular resonance. Last month, Holocaust Memorial Day remembered the horrors committed by the Nazis in a world that had no effective political or legal response to totalitarianism. Determined never again to allow such inhumanity, the civilised nations moved quickly to establish the United Nations and that first great proclamation of basic, global, human values – the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is from the history of this landmark document that we derive our name – René Cassin, a French-Jewish lawyer and later Nobel Laureate, was one of the co-authors of the UDHR.

Here in Europe, sensing a resurgent threat of totalitarianism from Stalin’s Soviet Union, Winston Churchill pressed for a ‘Council of Europe’ and a charter of human rights “guarded by freedom and sustained by law”. Churchill’s vision – the European Convention on Human Rights – was realised through the medium of the Convention’s drafter David Maxwell-Fyfe, a Conservative former Home Secretary who was Deputy Chief Prosecutor at the Nuremburg trials.

The European Convention is fundamentally both Conservative and British in origin, having “its intellectual roots in the English common law, going back to the 13th century”, according to your colleague Jesse Norman MP. Given this, we are surprised to read of your desire to withdraw the UK from the Convention and we ask you to reconsider. We believe that turning our back on this essential international agreement runs counter to your vision of a ‘Global Britain’ and will diminish this country’s standing in the world. Perhaps more worryingly, it will send a message to less enlightened regimes that Britain does not value an internationalist approach to human rights violations.

As a more isolationist United States withdraws from the world stage, a growing share of the burden of leadership of the free world passes to you and other senior European leaders. At a time when an increasingly authoritarian Russia is threatening European security in a manner that Churchill would have recognised, surely the UK’s unambiguous support for the European Convention on Human Rights is more important than ever.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Mia Hasenson-Gross

Director

Sailing in the wake of the great explorers, international friendship and understanding is at the core of this once in a lifetime adventure - The Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta, organised to celebrate Canada 150, the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation.

The Regatta covers 7,000 nautical miles, visits seven different countries – UK, Portugal, Canary Islands, Bermuda, USA, Canada, France - and cruises to over 30 beautiful Canadian guest ports.

This is an experience of a lifetime, available to anyone with an adventurous spirit; no experience necessary. Thousands of people from all walks of life, from different countries and cultures, all with their own stories to tell, are invited to sail on board the 40 ships in the fleet.

Depending on availability adventurers can choose to take part in a voyage lasting just a few days, or up to four weeks to sail across the Atlantic Ocean.

As well as the chance to sail a Tall Ship as a complete novice, there will be festivals in every port. Starting in Royal Greenwich, UK over the April Easter weekend (13-16 April), festivals are also being planned in Sines, Portugal (29 April–1 May); a 48-hour stop-over in Las Palmas, Canary Islands; Bermuda (at the same time as the 35th America’s Cup 1–5 June); Boston, USA (17-22 June); Québec, Canada (18-23 July); Halifax, Canada (29 July–1 August), finishing in Le Havre, France (31 August-3 September).

These events will give millions of visitors around the world the opportunity to see the impressive international Tall Ships fleet up close. Or the unique opportunity to be part of the action, as a participant, not just as a spectator!

Doug Prothero, Race Chairman, Sail Training International said, “Organising a major Transatlantic Tall Ships event takes a lot of planning, years in advance, so we only schedule one every eight to 10 years – the last one took place in 2009.

“Our ethos is the promotion of international friendship and understanding and the development and education of young people (and those young at heart) through the Tall Ships experience. This is regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background.

“This Regatta is a unique, international celebration, bringing countries together and offering all participants and festival visitors an amazing, once in a lifetime experience.”

Sail to Canadian Guest Ports

As well as the race ports across and around the Atlantic, the fleet will be spread across 30 Canadian ‘guest’ ports, with each ship visiting at least four, some visiting up to ten, with the entire fleet of over 40 ships converging on Quebec City for one big party!

Away from the energy of racing and port festivities, the guest ports offer a chance for crew to explore the beautiful maritime provinces of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, as well as the provinces of Québec and Ontario.

Participants can choose which Tall Ships and ports they’d like to visit to take full advantage of the diverse maritime heritage that Canada has to offer. During these stops they will treated to a programme of events and special crew facilities which are being provided to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary milestone this year.

About the Regatta

The Regatta has been organised to celebrate Canada’s rich sailing history and support international friendship and understanding.

Tall Ships from Canada, Chile, Cook Islands, Ecuador, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Peru, Russia, Spain, UK and the USA have already signed up to take part - and they are looking for people to sail them. Sailing with the support of professional crew gives people the opportunity to sail the ship with instruction, and get involved as much or as little as they feel comfortable with.

The event is organised by registered UK based charity Sail Training International, working in partnership with the City of Québec, in association with Le Rendez-Vous Naval de Québec.

How to Book

Visit www.sailonboard.com for lots more information. Places on the Tall Ships are limited, so please book your place directly with the ship. If you need help email our support team on enquiries@sailonboard.com – they can help you choose the right voyage and ship for you, help find funding and support you through the booking process.

Editor’s Notes:

Sail Training International is a not-for-profit organisation based in the UK. It organises Tall Ship Races and Regattas and has been helping young people – in age and at heart – have an adventure under sail for 60 years.

Sailing Tall Ships (known as sail training) inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility, and people find it a positive, life-changing experience.

Sail Training International, Charles House, Gosport Marina, Mumby Road, Gosport, Hampshire, United Kingdom PO12 1AH.

Tel: +44 (0) 23 9258 6367

Email: media@sailonboard.com

Sail on Board Video here

Media Berths: A limited number of media berths are available across the fleet, on different race legs. Enquiries by email to media@sailonboard.com

Photos: Our online photo library has images of the Tall Ships taking part, ports and people sailing. All images are available for free download. To download the images go to ‘media registration’ on the left hand side, agree to the terms and conditions, fill in the online form and click ‘register’ You can then browse the library and select images.

If you can’t find what you are looking for call +44(0)23 9258 6367 or email: photos@sailonboard.com

This year Ashley Community Housing (ACH) are supporting the resettlement needs of approximately 230 refugees in Sandwell, Birmingham and Wolverhampton.

The Building Better Opportunities programme, funded by the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund, provides support for those furthest from the labour market to become employment ready and to develop their pre-employment skills. ACH has secured funding through two Building Better Opportunities programme streams. The Community Matters Programme helps people move into work, training or to become economically active and Black Country Click Start provides support to help people develop their personal financial and digital skills.

Community Matters is designed to help people who are furthest away from the labour market, and who face some of the toughest challenges, to move closer to securing paid work and get into work where possible.

Under this strand we will be providing support around:

Black Country Click Start is designed to provide wraparound support to improve digital and financial inclusion. The project, which is jointly led by whg and Accord, will specifically work with social housing tenants who will be affected by the roll out of Universal Credit and other welfare reforms, and offer clear progression routes onto skills and employment provisions.

Under this strand we will be providing support around:

The brand new Sandwell BBO team comprises Clarine Powell (Team Leader), Andreea Chelaru (Office Coordinator), both in post, and James Haughtey (Outreach & Training Officer, Community Matters). We are currently seeking a second Outreach & Training Officer to take responsibility for Click Start.

We have now relocated to the Victoria Park Skills Centre, Corbett Street, Smethwick, B66 3PU. For more information about the project please contact us on 07956 177913 or email clarine.powell@ashleyhousing.com

Editor’s Notes:

For further information please contact:

Clarine Powell, Training & Development Team Leader Email: clarine.powell@ashleyhousing.com Tel: 07956 177 913 Website: www.ashleyhousing.com

About Ashley Community Housing

Ashley Community Housing (ACH) has been running since 2008. We are a Refugee Resettlement Service working in Bristol, Birmingham and Wolverhampton.

We know our beneficiaries very well - many staff and board members were themselves refugees to the UK. We provide supportive housing in a culturally sensitive manner, bringing stability to each beneficiary arriving at ACH.

We run a unique programme that we have developed in language, culture, health and personal finance to further resettle our tenants, enabling them to contribute positively to society and moving them on into UK life.

We currently have 126 beds in Bristol, 207 beds in Birmingham, 35 beds in Wolverhampton.

Ashley Community Housing has received up to £380,000 of funding from the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund as part of the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme in England. The Department for Work and Pensions is the Managing Authority for the England European Social Fund programme. Established by the European Union, the European Social Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support skills development, employment and job creation, social inclusion and local community regenerations. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding

whg is one of the largest and most successful providers of high quality housing in the West Midlands. whg houses in excess of 40,000 people in around 19,000 properties and has invested more than £350million in homes and communities since its launch in 2003. Visit www.whg.uk.com to find out more.

About the Accord Group:

The Accord Group provides 13,000 homes and a range of services, including health and social care, to over 80,000 people across the Midlands and beyond. The Group is one the largest housing associations within region, employing almost 4,600 people.

Accord is not-for-profit and specialises in involving customers and communities in shaping the homes and services it provides. The Accord Group is a member of PlaceShapers, a national alliance of more than 100 community-focused housing associations. Find out more at placeshapers.org

Building Better Opportunities

The project has received up to £3,880,000 of funding from the Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund as part of the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme in England. The Department for Work and Pensions is the Managing Authority for the England European Social Fund programme. Established by the European Union, the European Social Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support skills development, employment and job creation, social inclusion and local community regenerations. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding.

On February 9th, the SELECT for Cities Initiative launched its call to support the development of an Internet-of-Everything platform for open innovation in Europe. Selected organisations will receive support and funding from EUR 36,000 to EUR 800,000 each. The grants are funded by three cities – Antwerp, Copenhagen and Helsinki - with support from the European Commission Horizon 2020 programme.

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The SELECT for Cities initiative is premised on the fact that modern cities generate vast amounts of data daily thanks to the ubiquity of smart phones and use of sensors in public service management. This ever-growing wealth of data provides unlimited opportunities for intelligence extraction from combining and analysing different sources. The resulting intelligence has the power to boost the effectiveness of existing services, enhance operational decisions and kick-start innovation. However, due to competing demands, many Public Administrations lack the capacity, let alone the tools and techniques required to make sense of this new data tsunami.

Overcoming this challenge through collaboration with their greatest source of innovation – entrepreneurial citizens and organisations – the European Cities of Antwerp, Copenhagen and Helsinki, have joined forces to launch SELECT for Cities, a research and development procurement. Launching a call for tenders across Europe, the cities seek to harness the power of the Internet-of-Everything (IoE) to create large-scale IoE platforms for city service innovation. “For us, the Internet of Everything (IoE) is one of the main drivers transforming the way people live and work in our urban environments” stated Hugo Goncalves of Forum Virium Helsinki. “We believe that by harnessing the power of IoE on a city-wide scale, we can foster a vibrant innovation ecosystem that will result in co-created public services and businesses based upon real-time need and demand”

“However, to realise the true potential of IoE for new service delivery we need to overcome several barriers including a fragmented marketplace, lack of common standards and ways to systematically test and introduce new solutions within the cities” he continued.

To address these barriers, SELECT for Cities lays forth a challenge open to all companies across Europe to design and develop an open, standardized, data-driven, service-oriented and user centric platform that enables large-scale co-creation, testing and validation of urban IoE applications and services. By working together, cities will receive the benefits of innovative research and development, and potential contractors can rapidly develop and test a new product that can be taken to market.

Full details of the tendering and selection process can be found online (www.select4cities.eu/tender). Proposals must be received by the SELECT for Cities team before 10am CET on the 14th April 2017.

“Connecting urban data will open up unlimited opportunities for cities, citizens and commerce” said Goncalves, “We can’t wait to collaborate with the best talent from across Europe to turn our vision into reality”.

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NOTE FOR EDITORS:

SELECT for Cities is a 4-year project co-funded by the participant cities themselves (Helsinki, Antwerp and Copenhagen) as well as the European Commission through the Horizon 2020 Programme.

The Internet-of-Everything is born from the more widely known Internet of Things (IoT) movement which connects devices over the internet so they can speak to each other and to us. IoE however now adds people, process and data into to the network to generate millions more connections than ever before. The ability to harness and utilise data from across a whole city unleashes the potential to transform urban life forever, connecting and impacting areas such as smart mobility, city planning and healthcare.

Consortium members are Forum Virium Helsinki (project coordinator and contracting authority), Digipolis (main contracting authority), imec, City of Copenhagen (contracting authority), Stad Antwerpen, and 21C Consultancy Limited (partners presented in alphabetical order).

MEDIA contacts for SELECT are:

Susie Ruston McAleer – Susie@21cConsultancy.com

and

Laura Gavrilut – Laura@21cConsultancy.com

York-based Minster Cosmetics today announced the launch of its brand new online store: www.minstercosmetics.com.

The new website is a key part of a wider growth strategy into the luxury cosmetics industry, targeting consumers seeking unique wedding, anniversary and birthday gifts. All of which are personalisable.

The platform provides an intuitive user interface that is simple and easy to use, together with a responsive design that also allows for ease of use across various tablet and mobile devices, including the iPad and iPhone.

Visitors can also stay informed about the latest news from Minster Cosmetics via the newly introduced company blog. This features company announcements, product innovations and opinion pieces, including cosmetics application tutorials and tips.

Comprehensive product information on the website, with a key focus on skin types, also ensures customers will be able to select products that work best with their skin type.

After two years of active development, the platform and products on it are now available to the public.

Customers can now quickly and easily purchase specialist beauty products, including facial cleansers, body lotions and moisturisers, all of which are also available in gift form.

Kathryn Smith, Managing Director at Minster Cosmetics, said: “We are excited to now launch our online store after our brand has been in development for the past two years.”

“The products we have developed are targeted at consumers looking for true luxury cosmetics products of the utmost quality.”

Minster offers a range of luxury spa beauty products for the face, body and skin.

Known as the “moonpig of cosmetics”, Minster prides itself in offering a fast and fully personalised gifting service, where customers can write their own message cards and ship directly to the recipient.

- ENDS -

Media Contact:

Max Smith

enquiries@minstercosemtics.com

01904 891381

London – Actors Tom Hardy, Casey Affleck, and Edie Falco have teamed up for a new PETA US video to encourage others to treat their dogs like family by never leaving them chained up outside to suffer in the cold, hungry and alone. TV host Bill Maher, actor Priyanka Chopra, rapper D.R.A.M., Latina superstar Kate del Castillo, and reality star Courtney Stodden also lent their voices to the project, which features real-life footage of neglected animals recorded by PETA US fieldworkers.

The video begins with a shot of a chained dog sitting alone in the snow, while Hardy asks, "When you first got me, did you know that you were going to chain me up and leave me outside? Even in the cold and snow?" And as a dog stands helpless to escape the confines of a large puddle, Manchester by the Sea star Affleck adds, "Did you know that you would leave me to fend for myself, even when it was pouring down rain and I had no way of keeping dry?" At the video's end, Hardy asks, "If you did, then why did you get me at all?" before this message appears: "Treat dogs like family".

The dogs featured in the video were filmed near PETA US' headquarters in Norfolk, Virginia, where the group's fieldworkers serve as a 24/7 resource for animals in need in more than 250 surrounding communities. They provide dogs and many other animals who are forced to live outdoors with free shelter, straw bedding, food, water, veterinary care, and other necessities.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.uk.

In a bid to ensure cup recyclability stays centre stage in 2017, Costa is today officially launching its much anticipated nationwide cup recycling scheme – promising to recycle 'any cup'. Continuing to explore new ways of investing in and tackling recyclability, the UK's favourite coffee shop will launch a number of new initiatives in the first quarter of 2017.

Aiming to increase the number of takeaway cups recovered and recycled across the country, customers will be encouraged to partake in a new recycling scheme in stores now. The scheme, available in over 2,000 Costa stores nationwide*, aims to recover and guarantee the recycling of any paper takeaway cup – from Costa or any of its competitors.

Once deposited at a Costa store, the cups will be collected by Costa team members and stored in cup racks, back of house. Costa will then work alongside its waste partner, Veolia, to transport them to specialist waste processing plants. The scheme, which is the first of its kind amongst coffee shop retailers, follows a successful trial which took place across over 45 stores in London and Manchester, during 2016.

In addition to today's launch, Costa now offers 25p off a handcrafted hot or cold drink*** when using a reusable cup at Costa or franchised owned store.

Finally, Costa will introduce two new, multipurpose, reusable cups** (available to purchase in stores in April, 2017).

*Not currently including Ireland or the Channel Islands

**Costa Reusable Red Cup (£3) and Costa Foundation Travel Mug (£9.95) - £1 from every Costa Foundation Travel mug will be donated to the Costa Foundation. Products will be available from April in both equity and partner stores.

*** T&Cs; for 25p incentive

For more information, please email Esme Knight, Communications Manager. Email:Esme.Knight@whitbread.com

ENDS

Notes to editors

Costa is conducting independent research with Sheffield University to further investigate cup recyclability. Research results to be shared Q1/Q2

Cup Innovation

Costa is working in conjunction with several environmentally friendly packaging companies, including our long term partner Huhtamaki, as well as Delipac, Frugalpac and reCUP. We will shortly begin investigating manufacturing processes and test materials for a potential new takeaway cup. Research is currently limited to out of store testing only.

Healthy and Humane Dishes Are Great News for Compassionate Celebrities

London
– PETA just received word from Anton Manganaro, head chef of the
British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), that organisers of
the annual awards ceremony (the BAFTAs) have created an extraordinary,
mouth-watering, animal-free menu sure to delight vegan A-listers such as
Casey Affleck, Alan Cumming, Woody Harrelson, Thandie Newton, Joaquin Phoenix, and Natalie Portman .

The
plant-based menu will feature a mixed-grain salad with pickled
vegetables, beetroot relish, and pea shoots – and that's just the tip of
the iceberg! Guests will also be offered a chickpea masala served with a
croquette and coriander cress, and dessert is a coconut panna cotta
with a fresh raspberry and basil salad.

"We're
hailing the plant-based menu at this year's BAFTA ceremony as
outstanding", says PETA Director Elisa Allen. "Nominees who don't win on
the night can still be awarded a gorgeous vegan meal – which is golden
for their health, animals, and the environment."

PETA
– whose motto reads, in part, that "animals are not ours to eat" –
notes that, in addition to sparing many animals every year the horrors
of the abattoir, vegans are less prone to suffering from cancer,
obesity, and diabetes than meat-eaters are. They also have a lower
carbon footprint. These are just some of the reasons why millions of
British people are going vegan and why the number of requests for PETA's
free vegan starter kit increases every year.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.uk.

Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) has today launched a recruitment drive for staff to help deliver a new specialist service to provide targeted help for women with complex mental health problems.

NSFT was recently awarded nearly £2.5m to develop the Community Perinatal Mental Health Service to care for pregnant women and new mothers with serious mental health difficulties, as well as providing support for the rest of the family and training for other healthcare professionals.

And the recruitment drive coincides with Children’s Mental Health Week that aims to raise awareness of issues which, as early as during pregnancy, can have an impact on the mental health and wellbeing of children and a lifelong impact on their everyday life.

The new service will provide care and support for people with conditions such as severe post-natal depression and will also offer pre-conception counselling to women who already have a mental health condition. Its aim will be to provide timely support which is specially-tailored to meet each person’s individual needs.

The funding was awarded after figures showed an estimated 500 women in Norfolk and Waveney have severe perinatal mental health need, with a further 3,000 to 5,000 with mild to moderate needs. Currently, these women receive care from midwives, health visitors and secondary mental health services.

Now, the Trust is recruiting a wide-ranging specialist team of consultant psychiatrists, mental health nurses, a psychologist, occupational therapist, social worker, nursery nurse and administrators.

Michael Scott, Chief Executive of NSFT, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received this funding, which will transform the care which mums-to-be and new mothers with mental health difficulties receive.

“This will allow them to bond more successfully with their baby, strengthening the family unit and ensuring their child gets the best possible start in life.”

Andy Goff, Locality Operations Manager, for NSFT’s Children’s, Families and Young People’s services (Norfolk and Waveney) said: “We are delighted to be able to build on the already great multi agency work going on in Norfolk to support new mothers and their families and this investment demonstrates the confidence the commissioners have in the Norfolk system.

“The new team will work collaboratively with already established teams and providers and can only enhance existing services. The additional capacity and range of skills this will bring, will help transform the system and allow greater access.

“Working with Get Me Out The Four Walls, a local charity that will offer support to new mums, will enhance the service by making sure mothers voices are heard and will be central to the design.”

For more details on the recruitment email Shoky Carter shoky.carter@nsft.nhs.uk and all positions will be advertised on NHS Jobs.

Ends

Chelmsford charity Dementia Adventure is delighted to have attended the 2017 People’s Postcode Lottery annual Charity Gala where it was announced that £66.3 million was awarded to charities and good causes in 2016 - thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Dementia Adventure is one of 69 charities that benefitted from this incredible funding having been awarded £650,000 to date.

The news of the funding total was shared at the annual event, on Tuesday 24 January, at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh. The Charity Gala celebrated the phenomenal achievements of charities working across Great Britain and internationally that are supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

The event was attended by HRH Prince Charles, Sir David Attenborough, broadcaster Dermot Murnghan and TV presenter Fiona Philips. Entertainment on the night was provided by Mica Paris and Soul Nation.

Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery has enabled the charity to support people living with dementia, and their carers, to go on supported holidays, to get outside and connect with nature and themselves.

Lucy Harding, Chief Operating Officer at Dementia Adventure said: "The help that players of People's Postcode Lottery have given us over the last 3 years has been hugely significant in our continued growth and ability to help more people with dementia live better with the condition, year on year. Thanks to the players, we are hoping to help around 200 people have a supported break this summer, and Dementia Adventure promises to be around to help many more people in the future."

Clara Govier, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “Our Gala is such a special time in People’s Postcode Lottery’s calendar where we come together and celebrate the incredible amount of money raised by our players and the fantastic work carried out by the supported charities as a result of the support. We continue to be overwhelmed by the incredible support of our players and thank them for their funding.”

-ENDS-

For further information about this news story, please contact Joanne Lambert Smith, Dementia Adventure on 01245 237548 or jo@dementiaadventure.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITORS

Dementia Adventure

People’s Postcode Lottery

Record numbers of three dolphin species off Scotland’s west coast were recorded by conservation charity Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust in its marine research expeditions in 2016.

From the trust’s specialized research yacht Silurian, volunteers and scientists recorded 2,303 individual common dolphins, 42 bottlenose dolphins and 94 Risso’s dolphins – the figures for all three species being the highest ever recorded in its annual survey seasons.

Average annual figures documented over the previous 14 years were 463 individual common dolphins, 14 bottlenose dolphins and 12 Risso’s dolphins. For common dolphins, these records range from 0 individuals encountered in a couple of the earlier field seasons to 1,862 during the 2007 season.

Dr. Lauren Hartny-Mills, Science Officer of Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, said: “The reasons for the high number of sightings of these charismatic dolphin species – and the broader effects on the marine environment and other species – remain unclear. But the intriguing findings highlight the importance of on-going monitoring and research – to strengthen our understanding of what is taking place in Hebridean waters, and to ensure well-informed conservation action.”

The latest findings were made in a research season lasting from May to October 2016, as part of the trust’s unique long-term citizen science project monitoring whales, dolphins and porpoises – collectively known as cetaceans – as well as basking sharks in the Hebrides.

These annual research surveys depend on paying volunteers, with 71 welcomed aboard in 2016 – working with marine scientists on visual surveys and acoustic monitoring with underwater microphones or hydrophones, and identifying individual cetaceans through photography.

The Isle of Mull-based organisation now holds data from more than 95,000km of survey effort. It aims to pass the 100,000km milestone during 2017, and it is currently recruiting volunteers to support this by working as citizen scientists onboard Silurian for periods of almost two weeks from April to September.

Alison Lomax, Director of Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, said: “The impressive range of species documented in our at-sea surveys last year is a powerful reminder that Scotland’s west coast ocean environment is home to remarkable marine life. Long-term scientific studies of this globally-important habitat and its inhabitants are crucial if we are to ensure a secure future for the Hebrides’ spectacular cetaceans.”

During 2016, Silurian – previously used in filming of the BBC’s The Blue Planet series – covered more than 5,000 nautical miles, compared to an average of almost 4,000 miles annually over the previous 14 years. Its crew documented more than 1,300 cetaceans and basking sharks, and recorded almost 700 hours of underwater detections of cetaceans using specialist listening equipment.

Notable highlights included a wonderful encounter with a humpback whale in the northern Minch – an hour was spent with the massive creature lunge feeding, tail slapping and swimming under Silurian, alongside a large group of common dolphins.

2016 also saw Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust’s first expeditions running out of Ullapool, allowing for surveys in the more northern and western parts of the charity’s study area.

Western Scotland’s seas are one of Europe’s most important cetacean habitats. With a long, complex coastline, strong ocean currents and a variety of habitats, the Hebrides is one of the UK’s most biologically productive areas. So far 24 of the world’s estimated 92 cetacean species have been recorded in the region – many being national and international conservation priority species.

Yet marine ecosystems are fragile, and cetaceans face increasing stress from human activities – including climate change, entanglement, pollution, underwater noise and habitat degradation.

Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust has been monitoring marine mega fauna in the Hebrides since 1994, and from Silurian since 2002. Its surveys are partly funded by a generous grant from Scottish Natural Heritage, which supports the training of future mammal scientists.

The charity is the only organisation collecting long-term data on such a large scale on Scotland’s west coast, and its volunteers and scientists have now recorded more than 12,000 cetaceans. A short film about surveys can be seen at https://youtu.be/M_3r-GKfh8o.

Participation costs for the forthcoming 2017 surveys cover boat expenses, accommodation, training, food and insurance, and support the trust’s research. For details of how to take part, contact volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org, call 01688 302620, or visit www.hwdt.org.

PRESS RELEASE: IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WEDNESDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2017

Altrincham launch of the World’s first restaurant dedicated to desserts.

The first in a chain of dessert restaurants, originating in the North West.

A restaurant focused on revolutionising the way dessert is appreciated, inspiring people to embrace dessert as the main course.

Fireworks Ice Cream & Desserts is the World’s first restaurant dedicated to desserts, and desserts alone. Created by a group of dessert lovers, the founders had noticed a huge gap in the market; they saw the need for great desserts, both in Altrincham and nationally. So, they created a company to suit a nation which has been inspired by dessert focused TV shows, to fall in love with something sweet, and founded their restaurant on one simple philosophy: WOW!

In the week running up to the launch, Fireworks ran a competition with Altrincham Grammar School for Girls. Early years were asked to design their own dessert. Our production manager chose the winner, Sophia Zhang and her dessert was created on the night. Sophia opened the restaurant along with Alex McCann from Altrincham HQ.

Launch party guests were a combination of celebrities, influencers, media, local families. A large group of bloggers and dessert lovers were introduced to the world’s first dessert restaurant. Fireworks were excited to have Altrincham HQ’s Alex McCann as one of our key guests. The local social media whizz and popular news source has been a great supporter of Fireworks from day one, his speech at the launch introduced Fireworks to the community in Altrincham and encouraged people to interact on Social Media.

Magali Gorre was a key guest at the event, along with Harry Potter actress Afshan Azad, Chris Welbeck (brother of footballer Danny Welbeck), and popular blogger Totes Inappropes.

Became clear on the launch night just how perfect of an addition to Altrincham the restaurant is. It’s a desperately needed place for teens to socialise. A positive and safe environment for under 18’s to enjoy a sociable dessert, without needing ID to get in. There was a great number of children and teens sampling desserts at the launch party, enjoying the live jazz band.

Fireworks is a restaurant that strives to be accessible for all, a family focused environment that can be adjusted to suit every need. They have a large range of Vegan and Gluten Free desserts and ice creams. The restaurant is composed of different sections, appealing to the masses. The private areas and purposefully designed booths ensure that Fireworks is the ideal place to host business meetings.

However, their specialty is Carte blanc party. An exclusive bespoke event tailored to suit your every need. Despite the restaurant having only just introduced itself to the public, its already receiving event bookings!

The launch party was a great success with over 200 guests, the busiest launch party the area has ever seen. Fireworks is ready for our official opening day on Monday 13th February 2017.

CONTACT

Head of Marketing: Harriet Acton

Mobile: 07701 003285

Email: harriet@fireworksdesserts.co.uk

Facebook: @fireworksdesserts

Instagram: @fireworksdesserts

Twitter: @fireworksdsrt

Gold Rush- deluxe triple toffee sundae, with salted caramel chocolate cake, toffee popcorn, pretzel pieces, salted caramel ice cream, and 24 carat gold leaf.

Having just completed filming for his first one-off TV show, "Adam Patel: Real Magic", Yorkshire-born magician Adam Patel is now performing a companion live theatre show that's set to tour the country.

"It's an exciting new challenge for me," says Patel, who now lives in North West London but is originally from West Yorkshire. "Performing in a stage show is substantially different from doing magic for television. But it's the way that I think magic is meant to be experienced - live and undeniable."

The show is currently scheduled to play two warm-up dates. The first on March 24th at Batley Town Hall, near Adam's home town of Dewsbury and the second, two weeks later, at Harrow Arts Centre in his adopted home of North West London.

If these are successful, it is expected that the show will play at the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August before embarking on a national tour.

Adam's magic, as seen on his YouTube channel, has wowed crowds all over the country, causing hysteria on the streets of almost every major British city. The question now is whether he will experience the same success on the stage.

For more information or to book an interview or guest appearance, call Adam's team on 07403 360198.

The family of a baby girl who spent the majority of her first year of life in hospital are delighted to be celebrating her first birthday at home.

Little Emma Gulliver, from Beccles, spent her first Christmas and New Year in Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), but is celebrating her biggest milestone at home today.

Just a week after Emma was born last February, she was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease a nerve condition which causes serious chronic constipation. Her family’s lives were turned upside down when a week later doctors suspected Emma had a breathing condition called congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS), which caused her to take shallow breaths and hypoventilate. Her parents Claire and Chris were told she needed to be transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) for a lifesaving tracheostomy and ventilation. For the following four months, Emma was treated in GOSH – over 125 miles away from home. During this time, Emma’s mum Claire was supported with free ‘Home from Home’ accommodation provided by The Sick Children’s Trust. In November, Emma underwent further surgery at GOSH and although the procedure went well, she has had numerous infections and remained in hospital until January.

Mum Claire says: “It’s been lovely having Emma home and settling into a routine with her. The boys have loved having their mummy and sister around again and have been playing with Emma a lot more now she can sit up and interact with them! We've invited friends to join us for tea and cake to celebrate her birthday today and to say thank you for their support, then we have a big family celebration planned on Sunday.”

Looking back on the year, Claire adds: “We had to wait a month at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital before we could be transferred to GOSH. The thought of going to another hospital so far away from our home was very scary. We knew we could be there for months and I worried about how our family would be able to support each other during this extremely difficult time. My husband Chris is a businessman, and could not take time off work for months on end, and our little boys, aged just five and two, needed to stay at home to go to school. I knew I would have to go with Emma to London alone. Miles away from home and with a very sick child, I felt very lonely, upset and confused. I couldn’t bear the thought that our family would have to spend months apart, but we couldn’t afford to keep the whole family together in central London hotels either.

“Thankfully, it wasn’t long before I was offered a room at Guilford Street House – free ‘Home from Home’ accommodation run by The Sick Children’s Trust. Having a room at Guilford Street throughout Emma’s treatment was amazing; it enabled me to be near Emma so I could be trained in her care and bond with her. It also meant the rest of the family could visit her regularly and her brothers could understand her condition and get to know their little sister better.

“Although Emma has spent the majority of her first year in hospital, we really are hoping that she makes some great improvements this year.”

The Sick Children’s Trust runs ten free ‘Homes from Home’ across the country supporting over 4,000 families with seriously ill children in hospital. Guilford Street House Manager, Tina Thake, says:

“We wish Emma a very happy first birthday at home! We’re so pleased we could be there for her family when they needed to be just minutes from her hospital bedside.

“The Sick Children’s Trust will support thousands of families in its ten ‘Homes from Home’ across the country, helping them stay close to their seriously ill child. Although the accommodation is provided free to families, it costs the charity £30 to support a family for one night, and we rely entirely on kind donations from individuals.”

For further information on The Sick Children’s Trust, please visit: www.sickchildrenstrust.org

LONDON 10 February 2017 – The 2017 Soldiering On Awards honoured 46 finalists in ten categories at a reception at the House of Lords on 9 February.

Hosted by the charity’s patron, the Rt Hon Earl Howe PC, the evening celebrated the achievements of individuals and organisations for their inspirational and outstanding achievements in support of the Armed Forces Community.

“In times of need the British Armed Forces are tasked with the defence of our country, its overseas and Crown dependencies - and there is none better” said Earl Howe.

“The Soldiering On Awards recognise the amazing contribution that former members of the Armed Forces – and animal partners – continue to make to society and also those individuals, charities and groups in the wider community who support their journey. We believe that we are all part of one community and are stronger together supporting each other.”

Soldiering On Awards Ambassador, actress Vicki Michelle MBE, was on hand to toast all the Awards finalists with a glass of Taittinger champagne. The finalists were nominated by members of the public and more than 40 charities and not-for-profit organisations either representing or associated with the wider Armed Forces Community.

2016 Inspiration Award Winner Battling On CIC, CEO Nikki Markham spoke to guests about how much winning an award had helped the charity raise awareness and support for their work.

"Winning the Soldiering On Award opened doors for us which had previously been closed."

Winners are selected by a distinguished Independent Judges Panel, co-chaired by General the Lord Dannatt GCB CBE MC DL and Debra Allcock Tyler, Chief Executive of the Directory of Social Change. The Pets at Home Animal Partnership and Sunday Express People’s Choice awards finalists are selected by the judges from among all nominations and the winners are selected by the public via the charity’s media partner, the Sunday Express.

This year’s overall winners will be announced at the 2017 Soldiering On Awards on Friday, 24 March at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel, London.

The finalists are:

ANIMAL PARTNER AWARD – Sponsored by Pets at Home

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE AWARD – Sponsored by telent Technology Services

FAMILY VALUES AWARD – Sponsored by NetApp

HEALTHCARE & REHABILITATION AWARD – sponsored by Redwood Technologies Group,

INSPIRATION AWARD – Sponsored by Skanska

INTERNATIONAL AWARD – Sponsored by Airbus Defence and Space

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – Sponsored by Square Mile Salute and CSARN, City & Security Resilience Networks

THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD – Sponsored by media partner Sunday Express

SPORTING EXCELLENCE AWARD – Sponsored by Spectra Group UK

WORKING TOGETHER AWARD – Sponsored by Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT)

The Soldiering On Through Life Trust encourages support for the UK’s Armed Forces Community by nationally recognising the achievements of groups or individuals supporting this Community through the annual Soldiering On Awards.

Soldiering On Awards: National Recognition for the Armed Forces Community.

For highlights of the 2016 Soldiering On Awards visit: www.soldieringon.org

The Run for All Lincoln 10K will take place on Sunday 2nd April, and the charity - which operates the county’s only emergency night shelter - is seeking support from those wanting to take part, as well as those already signed up.

Helen Lloyd from Homelet, part of Barbon Insurance Group, has arranged a team to take part, in support of the charity;

‘We have 25 employees who have signed up to run the 10K and raise awareness and funds for The Nomad Trust’

‘Barbon has sponsored their entry fee and will, as usual; double all the funds they raise, so we are hoping to kick of this year’s fund raising with some big numbers. So far, we also have ten people sleeping easy in March too!’

The Nomad Trust, which is part of YMCA Lincolnshire, are offering a free pre-event training programme with YMCA Lincolnshire’s Fitness Centre on St. Rumbold’s Street, Lincoln, to those who pledge to fundraise.

Funds raised through sponsorship will go towards funding the build of The Nomad Centre; a new facility with on-site support services in aid of the homeless, to include a day centre and single room emergency overnight accommodation.

Plans for the new build have been met with excitement and support from the local community, being seen as a much-needed provision for Lincoln.

Dawn Barron, local businesswomen and Trustee for YMCA Lincolnshire, will also be taking part on behalf of The Nomad Trust.

‘The new Nomad Centre is a project I’m very passionate about’ said Dawn;

Dawn also acts as chair of YMCA Lincolnshire’s Board Fundraising sub-committee, responsible for the capital appeal which will ensure the build of the centre.

‘It will be a fabulous addition to the city, to be able to help the homeless as much in the day as at night. We are not just trying to put a plaster on the problem; we’re not just getting people off the streets, we’re trying to help tackle the root causes of homelessness, and ultimately get them back in to regular accommodation.’

‘Last year took part in Sleep Easy and spent my first night ‘camping out’ – I have never camped before; those that know me well know it was a big challenge for me to spend the night in a sleeping bag, let alone on the streets.’

‘This year, I wanted another challenge; I’ve never run a race, never even walked a race before, so the Lincoln 10K will be another big challenge for me. I hope people know that and support me through the event’

If you are interested in joining The Nomad Trust’s Lincoln 10K Team, or if you are already signed up to take part but would be willing to run on behalf of The Nomad Trust, please email: fundraising@nomadtrust.org.uk

Ooba Creative, marketing and creative consultants in the Thames Valley, UK have launched their new "Marketing Mastery" programme - a completely new approach in marketing learning to deliver Fearless Marketing for the region's entrepreneurs and SMEs.

"Being an entrepreneur and running a business seems to be more popular than ever. However, I have always been astounded about just how little clients actually know about business and marketing.", enthused Adam Clark, Ooba's Managing Director, "There are so many myths, mis-truths and bad advice bouncing about, it's incredible that business owners are asking for investment or investing their own hard-earned money into an adventure that they are quite clearly unprepared for. If SMEs are going to survive, it's time to step up."

The statistics of SME business success are not healthy:

And yet, business owners continue to stumble about when it comes to the core skill of attracting the right customers, making profits and innovating to survive the future. i.e. marketing.

The inspiration for Ooba's new marketing training programme came about because we heard so many business owners saying things like, "Oh, I'm not technical" or "I haven't got time for that, I outsource it to my agency" as if it was acceptable to be deficient on the topic of marketing. It became clear that many business owners have a significantly weak marketing capability. Ooba believe that business owners are simply shirking the responsibility and that many have no idea whether their marketing is being executed at the highest possible levels or not. They get a designer in or hire an agency and put all their trust in the supplier and what they're being told without having much of an idea how to gauge credibility or results.

"Here's a food analogy", Adam quipped, "It's like walking into a Martian restaurant. You know you need to eat. You know that you can eat Martian food. You know if you don't eat, you'll not survive. You have no idea which restaurant to choose because you don't know what you're buying. You pick the first one that seems OK. You look at the menu and you have no idea what the food actually is, what the costs genuinely are, how long items will take to cook and, when it arrives, you have no idea if it was cooked correctly, if the food tastes how it was meant to - or even how to go about eating it properly. Of course, you usually get a reasonably edible meal. And it will probably work out 'OK'. And you don't starve. That day. But is 'OK' good enough when it comes to your business? Ooba don't think so and the statistics prove business owners are falling short by trading with this knowledge gap. It's time for SMEs to get up-skilled in Marketing. Simple."

The new Marketing Mastery programme walks clients through The 10 Elements of Marketing Clarity and sets them up with mastering The 14 Successes of a Marketing Master. It's an incredibly powerful programme designed to provide granular, hands-on, tangible results and huge practical value whilst enlightening people about the top-level, strategic insights so they can make informed decisions.

To discover your marketing fearlessness, visit the Ooba Creative website or sign up to one of their free online webinars.

Shnuggle made their TV debut on Dragons’ Den on Sunday 12th February where viewers saw husband and wife Adam and Sinead pitch for investment in front of the fearsome five!

Shnuggle began when Adam and Sinead’s first daughter Rose, was born with Mosaic Down Syndrome and needed a more hygienic sleeping space which led to the couple developing the world’s first modern Moses Basket. The Shnuggle basket is hypoallergenic and easily cleaned and the wickerless design is virtually silent so doesn’t disturb a sleeping baby or parents.

Shnuggle was started in the family garage, but quickly grew meaning that bigger premises and a bigger team were needed. The company now hires 8 people and has offices in Northern Ireland and a warehouse in Great Britain. Sinead and Adam are still at the heart of the business, managing product development and day to day operations, while juggling a busy home life with their 3 children.

“Filming started very, very early and the day was long” said Sinead. “As we weren’t called to film until mid-afternoon, we were worried we may encounter grumpy Dragons. We were really well looked after by staff – who kept us fed and watered and did their best to keep the nerves at bay.”

Adam and Sinead were interviewed before heading upstairs to the Den. They recall noticing the famous clock as they waited for the lift doors to open and realised there would be no backing out at that point, the only way was up!

After what felt like a lifetime of silence, Adam and Sinead delivered their pitch before inviting questions from the dragons. This was when Touker Suleyman asked if he could come and see the products – and without warning, took a run-up and launched himself into ‘Dreami – The Clever Baby Sleeper’ which has been designed as baby’s first bed.

Sinead explains what happened next;

The Dragons took turns to grill Adam and Sinead, with Peter being the most challenging by questioning the company valuation, but Adam confidently defended the valuation, which was based on current revenue from successful sales in the UK and exports to over 22 countries.

Nick and Peter both said they didn’t get that customers “love the Shnuggle Story” and declared themselves out.

Deborah commented that the packaging was unclear, but Adam explained that the packages on display were still in development. Deborah went on to say, that she has a series of check boxes that tells her if it’s a good investment, and that we ticked them all – but that she just doesn’t get excited by baby products.

Sarah said the products were aesthetically pleasing but questioned whether they could be easily copied. Thankfully, Shnuggle have a wide range of protection including patents, design registrations and trademarks.

Finally, having recovered from his “Dreami” episode, Touker made an exciting offer, which after the customary walk to the back of the room and a brief negotiation, was accepted.

The feedback that Shnuggle received in the den was very positive, despite the grilling - but then it wouldn’t be Dragon’s Den if it was easy. Following the Dragons Den, Shnuggle have received two more offers of investment and are currently deciding the next steps in their exciting journey.

----------------- ENDS -----------------

Editors notes:

1. All Shnuggle products are vigorously tested to the highest standards and specifications. All Shnuggle baskets and stands, including the Dreami, are fully compliant with the British and European standard; BS EN 1466:2014. This requires the basket and stand to withstand a weight of 38kg for 6 hours with no damage.

2. Sinead and Adam are available for interview and for radio or television appearances regarding their experience in the Den and their story of starting a business while raising a child with learning difficulties.

3. For press enquiries, please contact kelly@thebutterflyconsultancy.co.uk

4. For investment enquiries, please contact adam@shnuggle.co.uk

5. www.shnuggle.com | 028 9181 5169

Global Distribution System for Meetings & Events Ibookedin Launches at Confex International and bids R.I.P. to RFP’s.

Online Venue Booking platform ibookedin announces its BETA launch at International Confex, at London Olympia on the 1st March 2017. ibookedin is the first global distribution system (GDS) for meetings and events space that allows customers to search, compare and book.

Ibookedin’s platform connects directly to hotel and venue property management systems allowing for real time pricing and availability therefore reducing the sales and purchase lead times. The platform has over 2000 spaces catering for functions from meetings, weddings to conferences. It aims to integrate 20000 spaces by the end of the 2017.

Gee Mann, CEO of ibookedin said: “We live in a world where instant results are fast becoming the norm. All you need to do is look to Uber, AirBnb or Skyscanner where you can instantly book. Unfortunately the events industry as far as booking is concerned is stuck in the 1980’s.”

Founded in 2015 in London, the British startup has partnered with Oracle Hospitality and IATA in order to work directly with hotel and venue chains. Its online booking engine allows venues to reach new audiences and boost their online presence. Corporate planners, agencies, event organiser and wedding planners use ibookedin to cater for their needs.

“We will continue adding new features to ibookedin, expand its offering to support venues, planners and customers alike. Unqualified leads has been a major problem for venues as they get inundated with enormous amount of proposals. With its data-driven technology, direct integration to venues and automation, ibookedin is leading the sector in booking systems and venue finding services. It’s Rest in Peace for Requests for Proposals” added Gee.

ibookedin has financed growth via a mix of angel investment from private direct investors, existing contacts and direct investment from the Founder Gee Mann. ibookedin’s team is now over 15 people strong and expanding rapidly, with expansion into Europe and the US planned for late 2017.

Hope for Children, an international charity is delighted to announce that it has been chosen by Maggie & Rose, the leading family members’ club to be their charity partner in 2017.

They will be organising a series of events engaging both their own staff and the families who belong to the club. These will include such creative fundraising activities as Art Saturdays, a Hope Super-Hero Day, getting staff and children dressing up as their heroes and an “Around The World” day where the children can learn more about different countries and sample local foods. They will also be promoting the charity’s Big Playdate campaign among their members.

Hope for Children’s work helps those in Africa, Asia and the UK, including orphans and those living on the streets, by improving their access to education and healthcare, whilst empowering families to build a sustainable future for their children.

By working closely with organisations at a local level, Hope for Children empowers those communities to increase the ability to give their own children the childhood they deserve. Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, last year it was able to transform the lives of over 37,000 children and their families.

Maggie & Rose was set up 10 years ago providing a purpose-designed calm, creative and inspiring space where both children and parents can be creative, socialise and learn. It now has centres in Kensington, Chiswick and Hong Kong.

Maggie Bolger, CEO commented “At Maggie & Rose we believe in never giving up on what you want - that's how the company started. We aim that through our work in supporting Hope for Children, we'll be able to give others the ability to fight hard for their beliefs, to never take no for an answer, and to always push the boundaries. One of our core values is to 'Support & Nurture' and we'd love to carry that across in the way we approach our collaboration with this incredible charity. We can't wait to invite staff and members alike onto the charity committee so that they can give their two-cents on how we can continually push ourselves to support our partnership in the most extraordinary ways possible”

Murielle Maupoint, Hope for Children’s Chief Executive added “We put children at the centre of everything we do, therefore Maggie & Rose is an ideal organisation to be working alongside to help increase awareness of issues affecting children across the world.”

Ends

Notes to the editor

About Hope for Children

Hope for Children was founded by Dr Bob Parsons OBE in 1994, to help those children who fell through the gaps left by both society in general and the larger charitable organisations.

Almost half of the world’s children are vulnerable and living in poverty. We are changing this by making a safe and fulfilling childhood a reality for more of the world’s children.

We work in Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Kenya, India, Sri Lanka, The Philippines and the UK, improving children’s access to education and healthcare, empowering their families to support themselves whilst developing their confidence and self-esteem. Most importantly we are giving them hope.

About Maggie & Rose

Maggie & Rose is THE original Family Members Club. Founder Maggie Bolger was a young mum with 3 kids under the age of 4 and felt uninspired by venues and children’s activities on offer, and places in which the whole family could cherish and enjoy ’together’ time. After meeting Rose and dreaming of such a place that children and grown-ups could enjoy alike, the concept of a Family Members Club was born in 2007 with the opening of the first site in Kensington, London. In 2013 Maggie & Rose opened its doors with a second site in London, this time in Chiswick housing a ‘Super Club’ and Day Nursery for 1-5year olds. In 2015 the first global site opened in Hong Kong, with the Beach Club overlooking the shores of Repulse Bay.

Over the years members, guests and like-minded brands have all experienced what family life can be, and it is no wonder that the word has spread globally and now families everywhere are desiring such surroundings where childhood memories are created.

Images available on request.