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Residents of Hackney and Waltham Forest scoop six prestigious Churchill Travelling Fellowships

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Thursday 23 March, 2017

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust has awarded 150 travelling Fellowships across the UK.

Six of these grants, totalling over £41,000, have been awarded to people in Hackney and Waltham Forest. The Fellows will travel to 13 countries between them, across five continents, where they will carry out a wide range of projects. The average length of a Fellowship is six weeks.

This year’s Hackney and Waltham Forest Fellows are:

Alpa Depani, an architect from Hackney, who will be travelling to Hong Kong, Japan and the USA to explore approaches to the design of public realm in global cities.Sarah Gaughan, from Hoxton, and a Policy Adviser for the Home Office, who will be travelling to Canada and the USA to investigate psychological interventions to support child refugees.Faye McNulty, a textile designer from Hackney, who will be travelling to Australia and Japan to study traditional and sustainable textile print processes.Kate Jones, a Policy Advisor for the UK Government from Stoke Newington, who will be travelling to Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and the USA to investigate international initiatives aimed at supporting local leaders, such as Mayors.Tim Gill, an Independent Researcher from Walthamstow, who will be travelling to Belgium, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway to research child-friendly approaches to urban planning.Lindsey Gilbert-Crouch, Entrepreneurship Development Specialist from Walthamstow, who will be travelling to Burma and Columbia to explore the role of entrepreneurs in creating more cohesive and inclusive societies.

Since its inception in February 1965, 5,400 ordinary men and women have been awarded Churchill Fellowships, from over 100,000 applicants. The ethos remains the same five decades on – for individuals to visit different parts of the world in pursuit of new and better ways of tackling a wide range of social, environmental, medical and scientific issues. The new approaches and innovative ideas with which they return are shared to benefit their local and regional communities, and, in many cases, the nation.

Before his death in 1965, Sir Winston was adamant that he did not wish to have another statue as his memorial, so he approved the setting up of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (www.wcmt.org.uk) as his national memorial and living legacy, for the benefit of future generations. Millions of grateful people gave personal contributions to the public appeal.

“Churchill Fellows are motivated and talented individuals who travel globally and return with innovative ideas and a commitment to share their findings to help others in the UK,” says Julia Weston, Chief Executive of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust.

Churchill Fellows come from all over the UK and from many different backgrounds. They must be UK citizens aged 18 or over, but no qualifications are required. What Fellows share is a passion to make a difference and a desire to share their passion to inspire others.

Notes to Editors:

In total 150 Fellowships have been awarded across the UK in 2017, an investment of over £1,400,000 in UK citizens. The Fellows will be travelling to 49 countries between them, across 6 continents. The categories for the 2018 Winston Churchill Travelling Fellowships will be announced on 09 May 2017.

See www.wcmt.org.uk for more details.

We have many examples of Fellows’ stories of achievement from 1965 to the present day. If you would like one from a particular year or location, or would like to interview a Fellow, please contact The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Press Office on 020 7799 1660, or email press@wcmt.org.uk

Find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

No media attached. Please contact Winston Churchill Memorial Trust for more information.


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Maritime UK partners with the UK Government to launch Britain's first maritime trade mission to China

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Friday 24 March, 2017

Maritime UK partners with the UK Government to launch Britain's first maritime trade mission to China

Event to coincide with triggering of Article 50Cunard's Queen Mary 2 to act as centrepiece in Shanghai

As the Prime Minister triggers Article 50, Maritime UK and the UK Government will lead a first-of-its-kind three-day trade mission to Shanghai (28-30 March), aimed at boosting maritime ties between the UK and China.

Attended by senior industry and government leaders from both countries, including Shipping and Ports Minister, John Hayes MP, and Trade Minister, Mark Garnier MP, the mission has been timed to coincide with Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 calling in Shanghai. The legendary vessel will be used to promote the UK’s world-leading maritime position, and boost trade and investment between the two countries.

“The UK and China are two of the world’s leading maritime and trading powers, and our mission is designed to further strengthen relations between our two countries," says David Dingle CBE, Chairman of Maritime UK.

“On Wednesday the Prime Minister will trigger Article 50. More than any industry, maritime has a unique role to play in making Brexit a success.”

“As Britain goes out into the world, determined to increase exports and sign ambitious trade deals, we have a unique responsibility to make ‘Global Britain’ a reality, and are ready to do so,” added David Dingle.

The trade and investment relationship between the UK and China has deepened over recent years, and during the visit Maritime UK and the Department for International Trade will be collaborating with the Chinese government to identify new maritime trade and investment opportunities for both the UK and China.

David Dingle, who is also Chairman of Carnival UK adds, ”A significant number of world-leading British maritime companies are already working with China and we are looking forward to opening new chapters in these relationships, and beginning others.”

Following the Shanghai visit, the Maritime UK Chairman and Shipping and Ports Minister will visit Hong Kong to meet with the Hong Kong Shipowners Association.

Maritime critical to Brexit success

Leaving the European Union, the UK will have the opportunity to forge new trade deals with countries around the world, including some of the most exciting, dynamic, and fastest growing economies.

The maritime industry is the engine and enabler of international trade, and as other industries resolve to boost their own exports to make a success of Brexit, the UK maritime industry is ready to deliver British goods to the rest of the world on UK ships and through UK ports.

Directly supporting 500,000 jobs, the maritime industry contributes £22.2bn to UK GDP and drives exports and inward investment throughout the UK.

--Ends--

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW

Sino-UK Maritime Trade: The Golden Era Europe’s door may only be ajar, but China’s is wide open

Opportunity to speak to David Dingle – Chair of Maritime UK and Chairman of Carnival UK (parent company of Cunard and P & O Cruises) The UK may be concerned at the possible loss of trading opportunities in Europe, as the British government triggers Article 50 to formally begin Brexit proceedings, but a golden era for trade and investment is being heralded in China. China is currently looking for UK expertise in marine engineering and manufacturing, shipping, ports and business services to help them realise their ambitious objectives to develop the sector. What’s happening when: Tuesday March 28 – Maritime trade forum, Shanghai UK and Chinese government officials and business leaders are meeting in Shanghai on Tuesday March 28 (1300 Shanghai time, 2100 UK time) to plan how to build on the trade and investment between the two countries which has soared over the last few years. To enhance the relationship Maritime UK, led by the body’s chair David Dingle, and the UK government’s Department for International Trade are joining up with Pudong New Area for a maritime forum. UK Shipping Minister Mark Garnier MP and John Hayes MP will be amongst the expected 150 guests present. Wednesday March 29 – UK Maritime Showcase, on board Cunard ship, RMS Queen Mary 2 Chinese government officials and business leaders are being invited aboard RMS Queen Mary 2 for a lunch to showcase the UK’s shipping capabilities. A tour of the ship will be followed by speeches highlighting all the UK shipping industry has to offer its counterparts in China. David Dingle, Carnival UK Chairman, and Chair of Maritime UK says: “Today the British Prime Minister is triggering Article 50. More than any industry, maritime has a unique role to play in the global success of Britain following its departure from the European Union and its embracing once again a singular, unfettered role as a global trading leader. We have a unique responsibility to make “Global Britain” a reality, and our being here today demonstrates our commitment to doing so. Whilst leaving the EU the UK will have the opportunity to forge new trade deals including with some of the most dynamic and fastest growing economies. The fact that we stand here today demonstrates our commitment to strengthening the UK-China relationship as we prepare to leave the EU." DAVID DINGLE IS AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW IN SHANGHAI ON March 28 OR 29 OR IN HONG KONG ON MARCH 30.

CONTACT: Shout! Communications on 020 7240 9980 or 020 7 240 8852 Other background facts:

The UK is ranked by The World Bank as one of the easiest countries to do with business with The UK has expertise in all areas of shipping: manufacturing, engineering, finance, law and ship broking services. The City of London is the world number one centre for maritime business – joined by dynamic clusters in Liverpool, Solent and Scotland as competitive global hubs for maritime business The UK government and history is committed to investing in the next generation of maritime professionals; for example the UK invests in the £15m Support for Maritime Training fund which contributes towards the cost of training Merchant Navy ratings and officer trainees.

* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Maritime UK.

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Live Innovations bolster leadership skills at advanced leaders meeting

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Friday 24 March, 2017

On March 18th, Managing Director at Live Innovations Tom Harris accompanied two of the firm's top performing contractors to an advanced leaders meeting held at the Hilton London Bankside hotel.

Situated on London’s popular South Bank, the Hilton London Bankside is just a short stroll from Borough Market and London Waterloo Train Station making it easily accessible to delegates travelling from all over the UK to attend the conference.

Find out more at www.liveinnovations.co.uk

Aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners from all over the UK were invited to London to attend the private meeting. Organised with the purpose to progress leadership development, the industry meeting comprised of keynote speakers and workshops filled with informative and educational information and materials to help assist and guide attendees on their entrepreneurial journey.

As one of the fastest growing industries in the world, the need for advanced leaders is imperative in the marketing and sales industry. At Live Innovations, they have a commitment to development, and they focus on building strong leadership foundations. The event-marketing specialists capitalise on every opportunity to attend events like the one held this past weekend as they provide invaluable information and the opportunity to be in a room filled with like-minded professionals with excellent networking opportunities. “Development of knowledge, skills and competencies leads to improved performance and goal achievement. Continued education is integral to success in any industry, and I would encourage any budding professional to commit to self-development and education if they want to get to the top,” said Mr Harris.

All successful organisations need highly skilled and advanced leaders. Great leaders are invaluable when it comes to formulating and implementing new strategies and directions, as well as motivating a team to work towards a common goal. Ongoing leadership skills training is essential to ensure that leaders don’t stay stagnant and are always expanding their knowledge and skill-set and leadership development is a prime focus at Live Innovations.

“Every successful business is built on good leadership. The ability to mentor, guide, coach and lead by example is what drives a business forward,” said Mr Harris.

Live Innovations is an event marketing company specialising in personalised marketing events which represent their clients’ brands directly to consumers. These individual event marketing campaigns give Live Innovations the chance to connect with consumers on a face-to-face basis, which often helps to establish long-lasting and personal business relationships between brand and consumer. Managing Director, Tom Harris is excited to start implementing the information acquired at the meeting and adapt some of the firms own training sessions.

###

SOURCE: http://www.ceoinstitute.com/leadership-training/the-importance-of-business-leadership/

* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Live Innovations.

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THIS MOTHER’S DAY HUNDREDS OF MUMS PAY IT FORWARD TO HELP MALAWIAN MOTHERS GIVE BIRTH SAFELY

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Friday 24 March, 2017

Ambassador Marina Fogle calls the initiative “best gift ever” as mums and mums-to-be ask for donations to maternal health charity for their Mother’s Day present.

Pregnancy Twinning, an initiative developed by charity Chasing Zero, encourages women in the UK to ‘twin’ themselves with their Malawian counterparts, so that pregnant women in Malawi can receive basic antenatal care. For a donation on £42 the project aims to provide support for one expectant mum which will significantly increase her chance of survival in a country where women are 70 times more likely to die during pregnancy and childbirth than their counterparts in the UK.

Malawi is the poorest country in the world and many women live far away from a hospital with little access to transport. Women miss out on antenatal care and often try to give birth in basic conditions at home.

This Mother’s Day Pregnancy Twinning are calling on pregnant women, their partners and friends to donate to twin a pregnancy as a gift and hundreds have already taken up the charge. One supporter said “[Mum] loved that she had passed on what would have been a Mother's Day gift she really didn't need to another mother who really does."

The full Pregnancy Twinning package costs £42 and pays for eight visits from a Mother Buddy, during pregnancy, delivery and aftercare. A supporter in the UK is allocated a vulnerable expectant mother in Malawi to ‘twin’ with, and then after birth they receive a Pregnancy Twinning certificate and a photo of their ‘mother twin’ with her new born child.

Pregnancy Twinning ambassador Marina Fogle, said, “This scheme isn’t about building shiny new hospitals or giving 3D scans to expectant mothers, it’s about giving a very basic level of care which makes a profound difference. £42 pays for a Mother Buddy to make eight visits and support an often isolated and vulnerable woman during her pregnancy. The Mother Buddy will provide education and advice, ensure she is taking appropriate medication and make a plan for getting her to a clinic to deliver her baby. And this seemingly simple process really does save lives.”

Marina concluded “A lot of women hear a statistic like 70 times more likely to die and think I can’t fix that so I’m going to ignore it, but this is a way of changing that so that we can give thousands of mothers the best Mothers’ Day gift they’ve ever had, a healthy baby born safely.”

To donate or ‘twin’ your pregnancy go to pregnancytwinning.org for more information.



http://pregnancytwinning.org Other: <iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/209799567" width="640" height="362" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe> Marina Fogle advocates for Pregnancy Twinning from Pregnancy Twinning on Vimeo.
* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Chasing Zero.

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Young brits take more care of their parents' car than the rest of Europe

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Friday 24 March, 2017

A survey of over 5,000 young drivers (17-24 years olds) across Europe reveals UK drivers are on their best behaviour when driving the family car.

Contrary to the rest of Europe, the study of 1,000 Brits finds that almost 8 in 10 (79 per cent) of 17-24 year olds seek permission when driving their parents vehicle. They also take more care while in their parents’ car compared to driving their own:

Instant messaging while at the wheel [(Parents car: 8% / own car: almost a quarter (24%)]Speeding [(Parents car: 14% / own car: over a third (37%)] Driving hungover (Parents car: 5% / own car: almost a quarter (22%)]

PRESS RELEASE

COLOGNE, Germany, March 23, 2017 –

Young drivers are taking risks behind the wheel of their parents’ cars – which many borrow without asking – including speeding, using mobile phones, and drink driving.These are the findings of a new survey commissioned by Ford that highlights the need for dedicated driver training in Europe, * where car crashes are the leading cause of death for young drivers, ** and where financial pressures mean young adults are living at home for longer. ***An overwhelming 82 per cent of those surveyed drive the family car, 39 per cent have broken the speed limit, 35 per cent drive it without asking, and 27 per cent use smartphones to make calls, send messages, or take selfies. A further 6 per cent drink drive. “Moving back home – or never moving out in the first place – can lead to friction between parents and young people who are no longer children,” said Jim Graham, manager, Ford Driving Skills for Life. “Young adults can see the family car as a gateway to freedom, a base for social activities. But for their safety, and that of other road users – especially if they are driving a more powerful car than they are used to – they need to ensure they drive responsibly.”In Europe, around half of 18 to 29‑year‑olds live at home with mum and dad.

*** High youth unemployment ****, soaring rents and difficulty getting on the property ladder all contribute. College students frequently return home after studies – the so-called “boomerang generation” phenomenon.Of those polled, 74 per cent actually have their own car but still drive the family car, some to save money – or impress friends. For the parents, it can be a financial test. Research suggests keeping a young adult at home can cost more than €4,300 per year – with car costs including additional insurance fees, fuel and repairs.

*****# # #Editor’s note:Ford of Europe has committed a total of €12 million in training through its acclaimed Ford Driving Skills for Life programme since 2013. Free, hands-on classes cover hazard recognition, vehicle handling, and speed and space management.

The programme also highlights the risks posed by social media distractions such as texting and taking selfies at the wheel, as well as the dangers of drinking and driving, or driving after taking drugs. This year, Ford will offer free training in Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom and, for the first time, Hungary and Norway.

Ford MyKey technology enables car owners to programme a key for other drivers to stop incoming phone calls; restrict top speed; and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts.* Survey of 5,003 young drivers, aged 17-24, in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the U.K.** http://www.dacota-project.eu/*** https://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2014/mar/24/young-adults-still-living-with-parents-europe-country-breakdown**** https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/sdn/2014/sdn1411.pdf***** http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2778850/Boomerang-children-cost-72-week-Quarter-50s-adult-offspring-living-home.html

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global automotive and mobility company based in Dearborn, Michigan. With about 201,000 employees and 62 plants worldwide, the company’s core business includes designing, manufacturing, marketing and servicing a full line of Ford cars, trucks and SUVs, as well as Lincoln luxury vehicles. To expand its business model, Ford is aggressively pursuing emerging opportunities with investments in electrification, autonomy and mobility. Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products and services, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

Ford of Europe is responsible for producing, selling and servicing Ford brand vehicles in 50 individual markets and employs approximately 52,000 employees at its wholly owned facilities and approximately 68,000 people when joint ventures and unconsolidated businesses are included. In addition to Ford Motor Credit Company, Ford Europe operations include Ford Customer Service Division and 24 manufacturing facilities (16 wholly owned or consolidated joint venture facilities and 8 unconsolidated joint venture facilities). The first Ford cars were shipped to Europe in 1903 – the same year Ford Motor Company was founded. European production started in 1911.

Contact:

Alessio Franco

Ford of Europe

+49 (0) 221 90 19039

afranco7@ford.com



https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/feu/en/news/2017/03/23/young-drivers-speed--use-smartphones-and-drink-drive-in-mum-and-.html
* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Ogilvy Public Relations.

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Concilio Solutions Investigate Why Compartmentalising is Crucial

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Saturday 25 March, 2017

The outsourced sales and marketing firm,
Concilio Solutions has exclusively revealed their research into
compartmentalising and have detailed how this important coping strategy is
integral to leading a successful life.

Based in the heart of Newcastle, Concilio
Solutions is a brand new sales and marketing company that specialise in
acquiring new customers for their clients and providing high-quality customer
service.

About Concilio Solutions: http://www.conciliosolutions.com/about-us/

Concilio Solutions have built a reputation in
the industry for their commitment to developing the next generation of industry
leaders. They offer optional meeting and workshops for their young workforce,
where they can improve their skills and develop their understanding of the
business sector.

Managing Director Paul Tapscott is renowned for
delivering insightful and inspiring talks to young professionals, and he
recently revealed that he would be discussing the importance of
compartmentalising in an upcoming meeting.

Compartmentalising can be described as a
psychological defence mechanism that enables the mind to process and deal with
conflicting issues simultaneously. Paul believes that compartmentalisation is a
crucial skill to have as a young entrepreneur.

He says “The Titanic was built in compartments
so that if the ship flooded, compartments could be closed to contain the water
and keep the ship afloat. However, due to the sheer number of passengers on board
- there was too much luggage crammed into the compartments, which prevented
many of the doors closing correctly. This resulted in water entering and
sinking the ship.”

Paul Tapscott plans to use this as the focus for this
meeting on compartmentalising. He hopes that this visual representation will
illustrate how damaging emotional ‘baggage’ can be if it is allowed to fill the
mind. Paul believes that if people go to work with this baggage filling and
distracting their minds, it prevents them from achieving their goals and
significantly risks their chances of success.

During this meeting, Mr Tapscott hopes to help
professionals understand that to achieve professional and personal success; it
is imperative to put unimportant things to the back of their minds and only focus
on the task at hand.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ryanblair/2012/06/26/5-steps-of-compartmentalization/#786a8acb1a62



* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Concilo Solutions.

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Tower Hamlets residents scoop five prestigious Churchill Travelling Fellowships

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Saturday 25 March, 2017

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust has awarded 150 travelling Fellowships across the UK.

Five of these grants, totalling almost £36,000, have been awarded to people in Tower Hamlets. The Fellows will travel to eight countries between them, across four continents, where they will carry out a wide range of projects. The average length of a Fellowship is six weeks.

This year’s Tower Hamlets Fellows are:

Ian Browne, an Advice and Information Officer from Bethnal Green, who will be travelling to the USA to investigate models of pro bono legal support.Peter Todd, from Bethnal Green, and the Director of an independent music company, who will be travelling to Brazil, Canada, Jamaica and the USA to study approaches to developing musicians from deprived backgrounds.Robin Hinks, from Bow, and a Research and Policy Officer at the Food Foundation, who will be travelling to Brazil and the USA to observe community programmes aimed at increasing vegetable and fruit consumption.Dr Rebecca Amissah, a medical doctor from Bow, who will be travelling to the USA to study approaches to using art and music to improve mental health outcomes for people with mental health conditions.Kelly Shaw, from Bethnal Green, and Design and Production Manager at a community arts charity, who will be travelling to Bangladesh, Denmark, India, Norway and the USA to investigate programmes supporting vulnerable women into employment.

Since its inception in February 1965, 5,400 ordinary men and women have been awarded Churchill Fellowships, from over 100,000 applicants. The ethos remains the same five decades on – for individuals to visit different parts of the world in pursuit of new and better ways of tackling a wide range of social, environmental, medical and scientific issues. The new approaches and innovative ideas with which they return are shared to benefit their local and regional communities, and, in many cases, the nation.

Before his death in 1965, Sir Winston was adamant that he did not wish to have another statue as his memorial, so he approved the setting up of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (www.wcmt.org.uk) as his national memorial and living legacy, for the benefit of future generations. Millions of grateful people gave personal contributions to the public appeal.

“Churchill Fellows are motivated and talented individuals who travel globally and return with innovative ideas and a commitment to share their findings to help others in the UK,” says Julia Weston, Chief Executive of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust.

Churchill Fellows come from all over the UK and from many different backgrounds. They must be UK citizens aged 18 or over, but no qualifications are required. What Fellows share is a passion to make a difference and a desire to share their passion to inspire others.

Notes to Editors:

In total 150 Fellowships have been awarded across the UK in 2017, an investment of over £1,400,000 in UK citizens. The Fellows will be travelling to 49 countries between them, across 6 continents. The categories for the 2018 Winston Churchill Travelling Fellowships will be announced on 09 May 2017.

See www.wcmt.org.uk for more details.

We have many examples of Fellows’ stories of achievement from 1965 to the present day. If you would like one from a particular year or location, or would like to interview a Fellow, please contact The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Press Office on 020 7799 1660, or email press@wcmt.org.uk

Find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

No media attached. Please contact Winston Churchill Memorial Trust for more information.


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BBC Trust Committee botches investigation into Watchdog’s report on Pets at Home

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Saturday 25 March, 2017

In its final task as the BBC’s main ‘complaints unit’, the BBC Trust Committee has criticised the highly respected consumer programme Watchdog for some aspects of its investigations into the nationwide pet dealership Pets at Home, but the Committee is now in the spotlight itself for running a shoddy investigation. The doomed BBC Trust Committee is being abolished next month after its operation was discredited by MPs and even by its own chairwoman.

The Animal Protection Agency (APA) has called into question the impartiality of the experts used by the BBC Trust Committee.

Following hundreds of complaints from the public about the conditions for animals at Pets at Home, Watchdog investigations in 2012 and 2015 reported welfare concerns for both reptiles and fish. The 2015 programme showed undercover footage taken at eight Pets at Home stores and found:

dead, dying and diseased fish in all eight storespromised health checks at point of sale were not being undertakena lizard being kept in a tank that was too small for itcustomers given incorrect advice regarding temperatures for lizards (which could ultimately have resulted in the death of the animals)

Lawyers representing Pets At Home contended that claims made by the programme regarding the health and welfare of some animals in Pets at Homes stores were inaccurate and unfair.

In their adjudication, the BBC Trust Committee backed the Watchdog investigation on several findings, including: “The Committee was also persuaded by the expert evidence that it should be possible to detect sickness or disease in a high proportion of fish before they die, such that they can be removed; the 53 dead fish discovered by the programme suggested that, however frequent the checks by Pets at Home staff, they were not fully effective.”

But the Committee upheld several complaints against Watchdog, including whether the programme-makers had correctly referred to a disease as ‘white-spot’ in some fish that may have been another problem. The Committee’s outside consultant challenged Watchdog’s finding and stated that: “The white spot on the fish is lymphocystitis, which is caused by a virus and is not highly contagious. It shows up under stress when fish are not well.” The fact that the disease may have been stress-related seems to APA to be the main issue, and not whether the pet store felt unhappy with the diagnosis!

Watchdog’s own forensic veterinary expert visited the stores in person as well as viewing footage and photos, and assisted Watchdog both during filming and afterwards. However, the BBC Trust Committee relied on the opinion of an outside veterinary consultant who viewed images and film of the fish, but did not see them first hand. The Committee even admitted that it could not be sure that Watchdog’s and the Committee’s vets were analysing the same fish. Yet the Committee in attempting to reinforce their brazen conclusion about ‘white spot’ resorted to the opinion of a non-expert who was part of their own team.

Worse still, the BBC Trust Committee’s ‘independent’ reptile vet, who gave Pets At Home a relatively clean bill of health demonstrated his lack of knowledge about reptile biology by completely wrongly claiming that ‘reptiles do not play’ and that bearded dragons are ‘very simple animals’ – statements that call into question the vet’s level of expertise.

Ironically, whilst the Committee also criticised Watchdog for a possible lack of impartiality based on the fact that they commissioned an expert who advises animal welfare charities including APA, among many organisations, the Committee itself relied on advice from vets known for their links to the exotic pet industry – including one who is a Director on the board of a pet industry association and another a regular promoter and even sponsor of exotic pet keeping events!

The Animal Protection Agency today called on the BBC Trust to provide an explanation for why the Committee thought it pertinent to question the impartiality of Watchdog’s forensic expert, yet themselves rely heavily on two vets with undeniable vested interests in the sale and keeping of exotic pets.

Kath MacLeod of the BBC Trust Committee replied: “I am afraid it’s not something we would provide a comment on for inclusion in your release.”

Says APA Director, Elaine Toland BSc(Hons) MRSB FRSPH

“It is very concerning that such a Committee can publish falsehoods based on so-called ‘experts’ who the Committee either already knew were biased or they were too incompetent to find out! The issue is not whether Pets at Home is unhappy with the Watchdog ‘diagnosis’ but whether animals in their stores are stressed and suffering. The important thing is the welfare of the animals, which this report has done nothing to improve.”

Media Contact:

Elaine Toland

01273-674253

07986-535024 (out of hours)

ISDN line for broadcast-quality interviews

Animal Protection Agency


15-17 Middle Street, Brighton, BN1 1AL


Email: info@apa.org.uk

Website: http://www.apa.org.uk

SOURCE Animal Protection Agency (APA)



* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Animal Protection Agency Foundation.

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Thameslea residents scoop five prestigious Churchill Travelling Fellowships

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Monday 27 March, 2017

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust has awarded 150 travelling Fellowships across the UK.

Five of these grants, totalling almost £34,270 have been awarded to people in Thameslea. The Fellows will travel to four countries between them, across three continents, where they will carry out a wide range of projects. The average length of a Fellowship is six weeks.

This year’s Thameslea Fellows are:

Caroline Hearst, an Autism Educator and Consultant from Reading, who will be travelling to Australia, New Zealand and the USA to to investigate autistic engagement in peer support and advocacy, and peer research into autism practice.Rosie Tressler, a charity Chief Executive from Oxford, who will be travelling to Australia and Canada to explore preventative mental health interventions for university students.Dr Jane Youell, a Chartered Psychologist from Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, who will be travelling to Australia and the USA to explore how care homes accommodate the diverse sexual identities of people with dementia.Dr Amit N. Pujari, a Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire, who will be travelling to Canada to explore the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to understand responses to vibration exercise.Dr Dush Mital, a Consultant Physician from Milton Keynes, who will be travelling to Canada to explore approaches to improving understanding of substance misuse for both healthcare professionals and patients.

Since its inception in February 1965, 5,400 ordinary UK men and women have been awarded Churchill Fellowships, from over 100,000 applicants. The ethos remains the same five decades on – for individuals to visit different parts of the world in pursuit of new and better ways of tackling a wide range of social, environmental, medical and scientific issues. The new approaches and innovative ideas with which they return are shared to benefit their local and regional communities, and, in many cases, the nation.

Before his death in 1965, Sir Winston was adamant that he did not wish to have another statue as his memorial, so he approved the setting up of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (www.wcmt.org.uk) as his national memorial and living legacy, for the benefit of future generations. Millions of grateful people gave personal contributions to the public appeal.

“Churchill Fellows are motivated and talented individuals who travel globally and return with innovative ideas and a commitment to share their findings to help others in the UK,” says Julia Weston, Chief Executive of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust.

Churchill Fellows come from all over the UK and from many different backgrounds. They must be UK citizens aged 18 or over, but no qualifications are required. What Fellows share is a passion to make a difference and a desire to share their passion to inspire others.

Notes to Editors:

In total 150 Fellowships have been awarded across the UK in 2017, an investment of over £1,400,000 in UK citizens. The Fellows will be travelling to 49 countries between them, across 6 continents. The categories for the 2018 Winston Churchill Travelling Fellowships will be announced on 09 May 2017.

See www.wcmt.org.uk for more details.

We have many examples of Fellows’ stories of achievement from 1965 to the present day. If you would like one from a particular year or location, or would like to interview a Fellow, please contact The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Press Office on 020 7799 1660, or email press@wcmt.org.uk

Find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

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Joint UK/US project named 2017 Soldiering On Award winners

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0
Monday 27 March, 2017

Project Gemini, a joint UK/U.S. support project for blind veterans, was named recipient of the International Award at the 2017 Soldiering On Awards, held Friday, 24 March in London in the presence of the charity’s patron the Rt Hon Earl Howe PC.

Sponsored by Airbus Defence and Space, the International Award recognises outstanding achievements, acts of personal sacrifice or comradeship demonstrated internationally, by individuals, groups or associations which have supported the British Armed Forces Community.

Project Gemini was set up in 2011 for British and American former service personnel who had lost their sight. Its objective is to share knowledge of rehabilitation and training and to strengthen relations between Blind Veterans UK and Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) as well as the veterans they support. Every year participants meet for a week in both the United Kingdom and the U.S., to take part in local activities, share stories, and learn from each other to improve the lives of blind veterans in both countries. It is the perfect example of international cooperation being fostered and grown to benefit both countries' armed forces communities.

Project Gemini was 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.

Earl Howe said: “The Soldiering On Awards recognise the amazing contribution that former members of the Armed Forces continue to make to society and also those individuals, charities, groups and animals 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.”

Hosted by award-winning journalist Angela Rippon and former Royal Marine medic Cassidy Little, the 2017 Soldiering On Awards recognized 46 finalists in 10 categories, naming each category winner.

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.

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 2017 Soldiering On Awards visit: www.soldieringon.org



www.soldieringon.org www.blindveterans.org.uk http://bva.org/ http://www.airbus.com/company/worldwide-presence/airbus-in-uk/
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What Car? reveals the biggest car tax risers ahead of new VED rules due on 1 April

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Monday 27 March, 2017

Imminent changes to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) mean consumers have just over a week to secure a deal on a new car before tax rates soar by up to 2475%.

Analysis by What Car? has shown that the cost of taxing a car purchased after 1 April 2017 could be up to 25 times more, with even some of the most environmentally friendly plug-in hybrids commanding sharp tax increases.

It’s conventional hybrids such as the Lexus GS300h and RX450h that will be hit hardest, however. These have traditionally been an attractive option for those seeking a luxury car with small-car emissions, because under the outgoing legislation, the GS300h and RX450h cost owners as little as £40 to tax over three years. But under the new rules, that increases to £1,030.

Under the new legislation, only zero-emissions cars costing less than £40,000 will be free to tax, but buyers still have a few days to make significant savings by purchasing before the 1 April deadline, using the new What Car? New Car Buyer Marketplace, which lets people compare discounts from dealers in their area.

In the case of the GS300h hybrid, the near-£1000 hike in the three-year tax bill is made up of a £150 first-year rate based on its CO2 emissions, followed by two subsequent payments of the new hybrid flat rate of £130 per year, which applies to all vehicles with emissions above 0g/km CO2.

In addition, all vehicles that cost more than £40,000 are subject to a further £310 a year charge between years two and six. As a result, three-year tax bills on the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Volvo XC90 T8 and Audi Q7 E-tron will also jump from zero to as much as £1,000.

On the up side, the Audi, Mitsubishi and Volvo remain eligible for a government grant of £2,500 thanks to their low CO2 emissions of less than 75g/km, and if buyers order before the tax hike they could save almost half as much again.

Motorists who flocked to buy one of Britain’s top sellers in the first months of 2017 are also likely to have avoided a hefty tax premium and could still do so if they move quickly. Six of 2017’s top 10 sellers are among the highest risers. Certain derivatives of the Vauxhall Astra, Ford Focus, Nissan Qashqai, Mercedes C-Class, Audi A3 and BMW 3-Series will command an extra tax bill of between £400 and £1,000 over three years.

What Car? editor Steve Huntingford said: “The new tax laws are designed to increase the advantage of running a zero emissions car, but they make things much more complicated and push up the price of many ‘bread and butter’ models. Fortunately, there are still opportunities to get a great deal.

“Buyers still have a small window to snap up a bargain before 1 April, and there are a number of grants for plug-in hybrids at their disposal. Tax aside, valuable savings can be made by using the What Car? New Car Marketplace to get the best possible price.”

The latest deals can be found at www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals.

Top 10 tax increases

Make/Model

Segment

Fuel type

Cost of tax for three years – 2016/17

Cost of tax for three years – 2017/18

Cost increase over three years

Percentage Change over three years

Lexus RC 300h 2.5 F-Sport 2dr CVT Auto

Coupe

Petrol Hybrid

£40

£1,030

£990

2475%

Mercedes-Benz C250d AMG Line Premium 2dr Auto

Coupe

Diesel

£60

£1,060

£1,000

1667%

Mercedes-Benz S300h L AMG Line 4dr Auto

Luxury

Petrol Hybrid

£40

£1,030

£1,000

2475%

Lexus RX 450h 3.5 SE 5dr CVT Auto

Large SUV

Petrol Hybrid

£40

£1,030

£990

2475%

Audi A6 3.0 TDI S Line 4dr S Tronic

Executive

Diesel

£60

£1,060

£1,000

1667%

Mercedes-Benz C250d AMG Line Premium Plus 4dr 9G-Tronic

Executive

Diesel

£60

£1,060

£1,000

1667%

Mercedes-Benz E200d AMG Line Premium 4dr 9G-Tronic

Executive

Diesel

£60

£1,060

£1,000

1667%

Lexus GS300h 2.5 F-Sport 4dr CVT

Executive

Petrol Hybrid

£40

£1,030

£990

2475%

Audi A5 2.0 TDI Sport 2dr S Tronic

Convertible

Diesel

£60

£1,060

£1,000

1667%

Mercedes- Benz C220d AMG Line 2dr

Convertible

Diesel

£60

£1,060

£1,000

1667%

Hybrid tax increases

Make/Model

Segment

Fuel type

Cost of tax for three years – 2016/17

Cost of tax for three years – 2017/18

Cost increase over three years

Percentage Change over three years**

Lexus RX 450h 3.5 SE 5dr CVT Auto

Large SUV

Petrol Hybrid

£40

£1,030

£990

2475%

BMW X5 xDrive40e SE 5dr Auto

Large SUV

Petrol Hybrid

£0

£970

£970

N/A

Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid 5dr Tiptronic S

Large SUV

Petrol Hybrid

£0

£895

£895

N/A

Audi Q7 3.0 TDI Quattro e-tron 5dr Tip Auto

Large SUV

Diesel

Hybrid

£0

£880

£880

N/A

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 PHEV 4hs 5dr Auto

Large SUV

Petrol Hybrid

£0

£880

£880

N/A

Volvo XC90 2.0 T8 Hybrid Inscription 5dr Geartronic

Large SUV

Petrol Hybrid

£0

£880

£880

N/A

UK top sellers

Make/Model

Type

Model’s overall UK sales chart position*

Fuel

Cost of tax for three years – 2016/17

Cost of tax for three years – 2017/18

Cost increase over three years

% Change over three years**

Vauxhall Astra Astra 1.0T 12V ecoFLEX Design 5dr Easytronic

Hatchback

3

Petrol

£0

£400

£400

N/A

Ford Focus FOCUS 1.5 TDCi 120 ST-Line Navigation 5dr Powershift

Hatchback

4

Diesel

£0

£400

£400

N/A

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta [Comfort Pack/Tech Pack] 5dr

Small SUV

5

Diesel

£0

£400

£400

N/A

Mercedes-Benz C350e Sport Premium 4dr Auto

Executive

6

Petrol Hybrid

£0

£895

£895

N/A

Audi A3 1.6 TDI SE 5dr S Tronic

Hatchback

8

Diesel

£0

£400

£400

N/A

BMW 340i M Sport 5dr Step Auto [Business Media]

Executive

10

Petrol

£555

£1,400

£845

152%

ENDS



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World’s Press Calls on President Trump to Stop Targeting Media

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Monday 27 March, 2017

International media leaders have
signalled their deep concern with the US administration’s persistent
attacks on the press by calling on US President Donald Trump to halt his
‘fake news’
accusations and to ensure White House briefings remain accessible to all
media. A letter, sent to the US administration, firmly rejects
President Trump’s repeated accusation that media is the ‘enemy of the
American People’, and calls on his administration to build a better
professional relationship with the media.

Over 40 editors in chief,
CEOs and publishers representing media from around the world have signed a letter addressed to President Trump

outlining how his regular labelling of mainstream news outlets as ‘fake
news’ as well as the exclusion of critical media outlets from a recent
White House press briefing signalled a worrying decline in
accountability for his administration.

“It is deeply unhelpful to see the President of
the United States of America fuelling antagonism towards news outlets by
labelling them – misleadingly - as ‘fake news’,” the letter to
President Trump said. “We fear that the overall climate for media
freedom currently being fostered by your presidency seriously
jeopardises the on-going ability of a free press to hold power to
account in the United States.”

The letter, sent to the US administration on
behalf of the Executive Committee, World Editors
Forum and Media Freedom boards of the Paris-based World Association of Newspapers and News
Publishers
(WAN-IFRA), highlighted the damage the president’s comments – regularly
made using the social media platform Twitter – are having on an industry
attempting to respond to the phenomenon of disinformation and ‘fake
news’.

Signalling
growing concern from among the international press community, the letter
highlighted the United States’ historic relationship with a free press
to underline how the president’s actions since coming to office risk
inspiring leaders in countries with weaker press freedom safeguards to
repress or stifle essential freedoms. The letter also firmly rejected
President Trump’s repeated accusation that media is the ‘enemy of the
American People’.

“At a
time when journalists and news media are being
increasingly targeted for violent reprisal (and, in too many cases,
often deadly retribution as a result of the work they do), the tone of
your comment is highly inflammatory,” said the letter. “In a deeply
divided America, a country facing many challenges on numerous fronts,
the need for a vocal and critical press to act as the watchdog over
essential freedoms on behalf of society seems more urgent than ever.”

WAN-IFRA urged the president
to “welcome and encourage the kind of rigorous self-criticism a free
media upholds as a means of ensuring the highest attainable standards of
governance,” calling for a meeting between his administration and
representatives from the global media to discuss rebuilding a better
relationship.

Read
the full
letter here: http://www.wan-ifra.org/node/170915/

Contact / Inquiries

For more information, contact Andrew Heslop,
Director Press Freedom, WAN-IFRA.
andrew.heslop@wan-ifra.org

More information
about WAN-IFRA’s media freedom work:
www.wan-ifra.org/pressfreedom



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Absolute Digital Media Reviews How Paid Social Complements Organic Social Media Marketing

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Monday 27 March, 2017

The award winning creative digital marketing agency are reviewing the benefits of both organic and paid social media marketing, taking into account the trends of the platforms. This will help them to create effective social media campaigns for their clients to help them increase brand awareness and build their profiles on a local, national and international level.

Absolute Digital Media have been running client campaigns on social media for a number of years, but it is only recently that they have begun to see a major shift towards paid social media marketing. Due to a change in Facebook’s news feed algorithm and other major factors such as the shift towards paid advertising on the channel, Absolute Digital Media are weighing up the benefits of combining both paid social and organic social media marketing when developing their clients’ campaigns.

Ben Austin, CEO, stated: “There has been an ongoing argument about the benefits of both paid and organic social media marketing for a number of years, but we have found that with social channels developing a stricter policy against business promotion, paid social has benefited our clients.”

He added: “Paid social media marketing allows businesses to target their audience far more specifically, and allows them to reach a much broader market than ever before. This is particularly important for niche businesses, who may need a boost when it comes to attracting clientele in the first place.”

Paid social media allows Absolute Digital Media’s clients the chance to enhance their brand’s visibility, by correctly targeting the right audience, on the right device, at the right time. Absolute Digital Media noticed a decline in organic traffic to their client’s sites through social media channels like Facebook, and noted that this was down to a change in Facebook’s news feed algorithm. This targeted businesses in a negative way, pushing any promotional status updates further down a user’s timeline, ultimately decreasing the reach and impressions that the status would organically receive.

Absolute Digital Media further noted that a paid social strategy that posted specific, organic content at appropriate times would reach the correct audience on the devices that they wanted.

Absolute Digital Media concluded through their in-house research that in order to generate the best results for their clients, a small budget paid social media campaign combined with an effective organic campaign could have a beneficial effect on the objectives of the businesses. Through combining organic, high quality blog content on a social media channel, and targeting a specific audience with a paid social budget, Absolute Digital Media found that the most effective social media strategy was a combination of the two.

Absolute Digital Media are an award winning, digital marketing creative agency based in the heart of Essex. Through a combination of a hardworking, professional team in all departments within the business, and by generating innovative processes, they are able to develop campaigns that meet and exceed their clients’ requirements.



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Running down the Aisle

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Tuesday 28 March, 2017

Cancer survivor and bride-to-be prepares for first ever Marathon wedding on the Cutty Sark

34 year old Jackie Scully and fiancé Duncan Sloan, both from London, will become the first couple to get married on the Cutty Sark on the morning of the London Marathon. Following the official ceremony at 7.30am on Sunday 23 April, 2017, the newlyweds, along with the father of the bride and other members of the wedding party, will head to the start line to run the Virgin London Marathon.

Jackie was 32 when she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, just days following Duncan’s proposal on Christmas Day 2013. Their thoughts turned from guest lists and venues, to fertility preservation and mastectomies. Jackie had already been through a lot, having learnt to walk again following a metal plate fitted in her hip, but she chose to run during cancer treatment.

Jackie explains: “I wanted to show my body that it can take a lot of things - forcing me to learn to walk again in my 20s and having a mastectomy in my 30s - but that it couldn’t define me. I chose running because I knew it would be hard. I chose running because I needed to find a reason to get out of bed and feel the sun on my face. I chose running because I wanted to feel alive at a time when my body had other ideas.”

She continues: “With my nurse mum as carer, Duncan could be my running partner (by which I mean running in the same races miles ahead of me). It kept us going when circumstances could have so easily ripped us apart. Running changed the course of my days and, in doing so, changed my life.”

During this difficult time, Jackie turned to Willow – the only national charity working with seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds to fulfil uplifting and unforgettable Special Days.

Jackie says: “I was so thrilled to hear that there was an organisation set up in recognition of the fact that quality of life is, in many ways, as important as life-saving treatment (we all need something to look forward to). After all, the next chapter has got to be one worth fighting for. I jumped at the chance of being able to escape the conveyor belt of hospital appointments and waiting rooms for just one day and do something that put our relationship centre stage once more. That’s why I applied for a trip on the Orient Express. It was something that had been on the wish list, but life had managed to get in the way.”

This is why Jackie is dedicating her special day to Willow, by running the London Marathon and raising funds to help other young people coping with a life threatening illness to have a Willow Special Day.

Jackie says: “Our wedding isn’t just a celebration of love and life. It’s a chance for us to thank the people who helped us find our way back to happiness. Cancer can take a lot of things, but it doesn't have to take your smile. I want to offer a message of hope to all those waking up to face serious illness. Thanks to Willow, thousands of people, just like me, can find a way back to their smile.”

Their honeymoon will be a trek along the Great Wall of China, in aid of Breast Cancer Care. Jackie explains: “Every day someone is diagnosed with a serious illness and charities like Willow and Breast Cancer Care are proof that you can go further than you ever thought possible with the right people by your side. This is why we have chosen our wedding day and honeymoon to give something back.”

Professional ice skater, Dancing on Ice star, costume-designer and Willow ambassador, Frankie Seaman has designed and made the bride’s dress. Frankie says: “I’ve been designing dresses since I was ten, but this was a unique challenge. I love the fancy dress element of the London Marathon, but it was important to me that Jackie’s outfit didn’t make her look like the purple dinosaurs, Elvises or pantomime horses. This isn’t a gimmick, it’s her actual wedding day and I wanted her to look like a bride.”

Jackie’s mum and bridesmaids haven’t been let off the hook - they all ran a 10K for her hen do in February. Jackie and Duncan and the running wedding party hope to raise £15k. To sponsor them go to: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/charitywedding

Ends

Notes to Editor:

Jackie, Duncan and Eamonn Scully (Jackie’s father) are available for interviews and further images are available, please contact:

Willow press office

Jenny.davies@willowfoundation.org.uk 01707 259 777 ext 848

Lynda.barrow@willowfoundation.org.uk 07968 595 928

About Willow

To date Willow has provided more than 13,500 Special Days for people living with cancer, cystic fibrosis, motor neurone disease, muscular dystrophy and Huntington’s, amongst other conditions.

Willow was founded in 1999 by former Arsenal goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife, Megs, as a lasting memorial to their daughter, Anna, who died of cancer aged just 31.

The Charity receives no government or lottery funding and is totally reliant on the generosity of individuals, companies and trusts to fund its work.

For more information about Willow visit www.willowfoundation.org.uk or telephone 01707 259777.



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Own An Egg Masterpiece, from the UK’s most celebrated artists & save a hen this Easter!

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Tuesday 28 March, 2017

‘’Hens and eggs aren't just for Easter they are for life!’’ - Stuart Semple

28th MARCH 2017 LONDON: Launching on the 3rd April 2017 CultureLabel.com are excited to announce the Online Easter Egg Auction, with a twist, in association with The British Hen Welfare Trust.

The Egg Masterpiece Online Auction will see a dozen well known artists create original Egg Masterpieces, which will be auctioned off on CultureLabel.com, to raise awareness and money for the British Hen Welfare Trust. Starting on the 3rd April and running until the 30th April.

The charity was set up to raise awareness about laying hen welfare. Best known for their re-homing initiative, they have found pet homes for over 550,000 commercial laying hens destined for slaughter since being established in 2005. After appearing with Jamie Oliver on Jamie’s Fowl Dinners, the enlightening Channel 4 programme about the chicken industry, there was a huge surge in interest and adoption.

“I'm really happy to be painting the Rainbowiest Rainbow Egg to support the British hen Welfare Trust. Hens and eggs aren't just for Easter they are for life! It's time to take the happiness of the beautiful animals that provide our food seriously. I love a good dippy egg and I'm hoping the funds from my rainbowiest rainbow egg will give some hens the happy retirement they deserve.”

Stuart Semple – Artist

“We wanted to do something different this Easter. Breaking with tradition of just offering a range of chocolate Easter eggs we are instead offering our customers the chance to bid on one of a kind hand decorated wooden eggs, designed by 12 amazing artists. These eggs are truly unique and the perfect addition to any collection.”

Lucy Baxter – Director CultureLabel

Jane Howorth MBE, Founder of the British Hen Welfare Trust, said: “We are blown away by CultureLabel’s offer to raise money for us by auctioning off what we’re sure will be incredible, unique pieces of art. We’re also hugely grateful to the artists themselves, and we’re so excited to see what designs they come up with. The money raised from the auction will be put towards building the very first BHWT Welfare and Education Centre which will serve as a dedicated re-homing point for us in Devon as well as a space for educating school children, businesses, veterinary professionals and individuals about our feathered friends. After all, everything we do is for them!”

For more information and high res imagery of the egg masterpieces please contact Lucy Baxter

lucy.baxter@culturelabel.com 020 7907 1627



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WC0_2lzTB4I
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Despite BREXIT we are Expanding to the UK!

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0
Tuesday 28 March, 2017

Founded 2014 in Berlin, now opening our London office!

Our Moonshine is produced with traditional techniques, only using natural ingredients.

After 3 years in business O'Donnell Moonshine has grown from the living room of the founders, August and Philip, to a small company, employing a total of 9 people at their headquarters in Berlin. O'Donnell Moonshine has been selling to many independent wine and spirits retailers all over Germany. Following the trend of craft breweries and distilleries the brand quickly made a name for itself by producing pleasing, creative and sweet flavoured liqueurs.

Moonshine refers to alcohol produced illegally during the American prohibition (1919-1933). Farmers all over the country used to produce and then fill Moonshine into jars to be sold in the cities all across the US. Symbolic of this past are the traditional “Mason jars“ which were used as containers for Moonshine. O'Donnell Moonshine is also bottled in original American Mason jars. They are not only a reminder of the past, but a symbol for the simplicity and purity of its content. The quality of our ingredients and the craftsmanship of our drink always come first.

Namesack for our Moonshine is the South Side O'Donnell Gang. They became famous during the Chicago Beer Wars of 1923. Edward “Spike” O'Donnell, the gang leader and adversary of Al Capone, survived this era unharmed.

O'Donnell Moonshine is available in four flavours. “Original” O'Donnell Moonshine is a Barrelaged wheat spirit with 38 % vol. “Bitter Rose“, a fresh mix of grapefruit, rose hip and elderberry. To be drunk neat or with tonic, it's the perfect summer drink. “Roasted Apple” is a blend of apple, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla and almond. Finally our newest creation “Tough Nut” (our best seller) is a hazelnut, nougat liqueur, refined with the flavours of creamy caramel and whiskey aroma.

ENDS



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Online Bathroom Specialists - Big Bathroom Shop - Celebrate 10 Year Anniversary

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0
Tuesday 28 March, 2017

10 years and over 10,000 reviews later, online bathroom specialists, Big Bathroom Shop are still going strong. To celebrate this milestone, they are offering 10% off orders over £250, plus free delivery with voucher code 10YEARS.

Back in 2007, Big Bathroom Shop started out with just 8 members of staff, today, the business employs over 180 people. As experts in affordable bathroom luxury, Big Bathroom Shop’s wide product range covers baths, showers, taps, bathroom furniture, toilets, basins and accessories, as well as lighting, designer radiators and heated towel rails, all in a huge variety of styles to suit all tastes and interiors. All products are stocked at their 48,000 sq. feet and 30,000 sq. feet warehouses ensuring quick dispatch and delivery times.

Big Bathroom Shop’s E-commerce Manager, Jeff Whitfield,
says: “BigBathroomShop.co.uk has gone from strength to strength since it was
launched ten years ago, starting off with just a small selection of bathroom
products. We have now ventured into selling towel warmers, radiators and
lighting products on the website, and there’s more exciting product launches to
come in 2017, so watch this space!”

Big Bathroom Shop, are dedicated to providing an excellent customer experience, and have helped thousands of customers create their dream bathroom at surprisingly reasonable prices. They take all reviews seriously - good and bad. On Trustpilot you can hear it straight from their customers, where you can find over 8,800 honest and insightful reviews. As well as Trustpilot, more reviews can be found across the site’s product pages and on Google Trusted Stores, with each and every one helping customers make an informed decision when shopping for new bathroom products.

To ensure their bathroom and heating products are affordable and accessible to everyone, customers have the option to apply for finance on orders over £500, and for anyone who has their own plumbing or heating business, exclusive trade only discounts are available.

For those who need some inspiration and help with designing their new bathroom, the Big Bathroom Shop blog features an extensive collection of style guides, buyer’s guides and how-to guides. With such a wealth of bathroom inspiration, creating the perfect space has never been easier.



http://www.bigbathroomshop.co.uk/info/blog/ https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/www.bigbathroomshop.co.uk pinterest.com/bigbathroomshop/ https://www.bigbathroomshop.co.uk/trade_scheme.php http://www.bigbathroomshop.co.uk/static/finance.htm
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Author sets a 'crazy' pace

0
0
Tuesday 28 March, 2017

Man Booker longlisted, award-winning author Louise Dean has been described by Whitbread prize winner Tim Lott as 'xxxxing' crazy for setting a public challenge to write a novel in 90 days and at the same time coaching over 30 writers en route to do the same. The Arvon Foundation, for whom Louise has been a tutor, has hailed the online course as 'the marathon training method'. Louise works full time and has teenage children, but she's gung-ho and she's getting up in the early hours every day to provide the materials for the day's work to her writer pupils. Members of her gang - Kritikme - get guidance daily, a direction to write to, video blogging, a blog, and individual encouragement from Louise by email, Facebook messenger, and on the phone. The group gives each other feedback and encouragement on the work as it progresses. 'Yes it's crazy, it's a once in a lifetime experience for all of us,' says Louise.

If you want to go from 'what if' to 'the end' in 90 days join Louise and the other writers at www.kritikme.com.

Because, as Louise says, there's never a good time, so it's time to get that novel done!



Other:
https://www.kritikme.com/
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Exclusive Interview with Rego Interactions CEO Alex Davies

0
0
Wednesday 29 March, 2017

The Newcastle-based, customer acquisitions and events marketing firm Rego Interactions is an ambitious startup with even big goals. The company are planning international business trips to acquire new clients and are looking to have worldwide offices within the next five years. In this interview, CEO Alex Davies explains some of the essential elements needed to be a successful entrepreneur and states some of the key attributes he looks for in candidates when recruiting. About Rego Interactions: http://www.regointeractions.com/about-us/

What motivated you to start your business?

When I finished my degree in architecture, I realised that I didn't want to go down a career path, where I wouldn't be in charge of the outcome. Being in charge of my own growth was something that was critical to me, which is what essentially motivated me to start my own business.

What would you say is the number one misconception of the sales industry and what are you doing to dispel that?

I think a common misconception of the sales industry is that there’s a set hierarchal system where it’s only the people at the top who reap the rewards of what the people at the bottom do. That is not the case at Rego Interactions. We give everyone the equal opportunity to succeed.

What sets your company apart from others in the industry?

I think transparency is probably the number one thing that sets us apart. I am always honest with everyone we take on board. I brief them on the level of work and effort that is required. I also make them aware of a number of professional development opportunities that we offer. Everyone at Rego Interactions started at the same point - entry level. We don't bring people on at senior levels, so everyone has gone through the same progression process, and we offer people the opportunity to progress within six to eight months if they display the qualities needed to succeed.

What are your company's goals for the next five years?

We have big ambitions for the next five years. I want to open an office in Oxfordshire, where I’m from. I also want to open new offices across the UK. The Asian market is also something that I’m looking to tap into so would be looking to expand into that territory within the next five years.

How do you generate new ideas?

I get a lot of inspiration from people who I consider to be successful in their field. I think it's imperative to surround yourself with successful people and look at ways that you can emulate their success. You then have something to work from, and you can build on that, put your own spin on it and use that to inspire new ideas of your own. It is also really important to use the resources that are open to you. Reading industry publications, listening to podcasts and going to network events are all ways that you can conceive new ideas and spur yourself on to reach the next level.

Do you believe that there is one set formula for success as an entrepreneur?

I don’t think there is one set formula, but I do believe there are some common denominators. In my experience, the most successful people all have a strong work ethic, great discipline and work from negative feedback.

What types of attributes do you look for in a candidate when you are recruiting?

One key thing we look for when interviewing candidates is something we call student mentality. We find that a lot of people you talk to just nod and agree when you’re talking to them but can’t show you that they’ve understood what you have said by putting it into practice. Someone with student mentality can take on what has been explained to them and go out and put it into practice. We believe that applied knowledge is power. If someone can retain information and implement it, then they already have the key frameworks for success, and that is a precious attribute in this industry.

Rego Interactions will soon be travelling to the US for a business rally to gain new business partners. They are also planning a few business trips around the UK and will be focussing on integrating new clients.



* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact Rego Interactions.

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Parents Of Baby Predicted Not To Survive 48hrs Back Charity’s Big Chocolate Tea Campaign

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Wednesday 29 March, 2017

The parents of a baby boy who was not expected to survive more than 48 hours are calling on their local community to support The Sick Children’s Trust’s Big Chocolate Tea fundraiser this April.

Natasha and Ashley Elley, from Basildon, were given free ‘Home from Home’ accommodation by The Sick Children’s Trust when their son, Toby, was born 15 weeks early and needed lifesaving treatment at The Rosie Hospital, Cambridge. When Toby was just two days old, his parents were told to consider turning off their son’s life-support machine. But thankfully, Toby started to show signs of recovery and, after a gruelling 105 days in hospital, he was finally allowed home.

During his time in The Rosie Hospital, Natasha and Ashley were just a few minutes’ walk from their son’s bedside thanks to free ‘Home from Home’ accommodation run by The Sick Children’s Trust. The couple are now calling on others to support the charity’s biggest annual fundraising campaign and get involved with Big Chocolate Tea from Friday 21 April to Monday 1 May. Big Chocolate Tea raises money to support families with free ‘Home from Home’ accommodation when their child is seriously ill in hospital. Natasha, who stayed at Chestnut House, says:

“Basildon is miles away from The Rosie Hospital, so I don't know what we would’ve done without Chestnut House. There was nowhere else we wanted to be but by our son's side. It was a huge worry, but thankfully Chestnut House took care of that worry for us by giving us free ‘Home from Home accommodation just minutes from Toby’s hospital bedside.

"Since our stay in Chestnut House, Toby has been back in hospital for a further operation due to some complications. But he’s doing really well and is back to his normal smiley self. And every day Ashley and I are amazed by how far he’s come.

“We want to raise awareness of this amazing charity because they supported us when we needed it the most. And by getting involved in Big Chocolate Tea and raising £30, we know that we can help another family who is going through every parent’s worst nightmare by giving them a ‘Home from Home’ so they can be there for their seriously ill child.”

It costs £30 to support a family for one night with a private room in one of the charity’s ten ‘Homes from Home’, which include access to communal kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms and dining rooms alongside a direct telephone line from each bedroom to the hospital ward. Chestnut House Manager, Abi Abdel-aal, says:

“We’re delighted that Natasha and Ashley are helping to spread the word about Big Chocolate Tea, we really appreciate it when families stay in touch and support us in helping others whose lives have been thrown into turmoil.

“Big Chocolate Tea is all about getting together with friends, family and colleagues over tea and chocolate. At the same time, it’s a chance to make a difference to families with seriously ill children. If you can raise £30 by holding a Big Chocolate Tea event, your money will go towards supporting a family, keeping them together when it matters most.”

Supporters can choose to take part in Big Chocolate Tea at any point during the year and will receive a free fundraising pack full of goodies to hold the perfect event. For more information and to request your pack, please visit: http://www.sickchildrenstrust.org/bigchoctea.



* For more information regarding media usage, ownership and rights please contact The Sick Children's Trust.

Distributed by http://www.pressat.co.uk/
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