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BEC to Present Cutting-Edge Solutions at Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event in Manchester

News Desk
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BEC to Present Cutting-Edge Solutions at Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event in Manchester

BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd is set to participate in the highly anticipated Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event, taking place in Manchester. This event is a significant gathering for key players in the logistics, warehousing, and supply chain sectors, offering an ideal platform for businesses to discover the latest advancements in technology, network with industry leaders, and explore innovative solutions for optimising warehouse operations.

Who is BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd? 

BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd is a leading provider of data capture solutions and systems integration, with a focus on enhancing efficiency and visibility in warehouse operations. For over two decades, BEC has been at the forefront of delivering tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of businesses across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and retail.

Their expertise lies in streamlining business processes through the integration of hardware, software, and mobile devices, offering businesses end-to-end solutions that drive productivity and operational efficiency.

Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event 

Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event is recognised as one of the most important gatherings in the logistics and warehousing sector, providing a space for businesses to explore new technologies, gain insights from industry experts, and discuss emerging trends shaping the future of warehousing and distribution.

The event is designed to address the key challenges facing the industry today, including sustainability, automation, and the need for more flexible and responsive supply chain solutions. For BEC, participating in this event presents an opportunity to showcase their latest innovations, interact with potential customers, and demonstrate how their cutting-edge solutions can help businesses overcome these challenges.

What BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd Will Bring to the Event 

At Tomorrow’s Warehouse, BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd will highlight several of their key solutions that are transforming warehouse management and logistics processes. These include:

  1. Automated Data Capture Solutions

BEC specialises in automated data capture technologies that allow businesses to streamline processes such as inventory management, order fulfilment, and shipping. Their solutions integrate barcode scanning, RFID, and mobile computing to ensure real-time data accuracy, helping businesses reduce errors, improve stock control, and enhance overall efficiency. 

  1. Warehouse Management System (WMS) Integration

Effective warehouse management is essential to the smooth operation of any business. BEC provides WMS integration services that enable businesses to connect their warehouse management systems with other enterprise software, such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems. This integration ensures seamless data flow across different departments, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and respond quickly to changing market demands. 

  1. Voice-Directed Picking Systems

One of BEC’s standout solutions is their voice-directed picking technology. This system allows warehouse operatives to use voice commands to pick and pack orders, improving accuracy and productivity. Voice-directed picking reduces the need for handheld devices, freeing up workers’ hands and increasing the speed at which orders are processed. 

  1. Mobile Solutions for On-the-Go Operations

In today’s fast-paced environment, having access to data on the go is crucial. BEC offers mobile solutions that enable warehouse operatives to access real-time information from anywhere within the warehouse. Whether it’s managing inventory, tracking orders, or overseeing shipping processes, BEC’s mobile applications ensure that key data is always at your fingertips. 

  1. Consultancy and Bespoke Solutions

BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd doesn’t just provide off-the-shelf solutions; they pride themselves on offering bespoke services tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Their consultancy services help businesses identify pain points and develop solutions that address their unique challenges. This approach ensures that businesses not only get the right tools but also receive ongoing support to continuously improve their operations.

Why Visit BEC’s Stand at Tomorrow’s Warehouse? 

Attendees at Tomorrow’s Warehouse will have the opportunity to meet the BEC team and learn more about how their solutions can revolutionise warehouse operations. Whether you are looking to improve accuracy in your picking processes, reduce operational costs, or integrate cutting-edge technology into your existing systems, BEC’s experts will be on hand to provide guidance and showcase how their solutions can be applied to real-world challenges.

Visiting BEC’s stand will give you:

  • Live demonstrations of their data capture and integration technologies.
  • Personalised advice on how to improve warehouse efficiency and accuracy.
  • Insights into the latest trends in warehouse management and supply chain automation.
  • Networking opportunities with industry experts and other forward-thinking businesses. 

The Future of Warehousing with BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd 

As the warehousing and logistics sectors continue to evolve, businesses must adapt to stay competitive. Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event in Manchester will shine a light on the trends and technologies that are shaping the future, and BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd is proud to be part of this exciting journey. Their innovative solutions, combined with their commitment to customer satisfaction, position them as a key player in helping businesses navigate the challenges of modern warehouse management. 

If you’re attending Tomorrow’s Warehouse Event, make sure to visit BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd’s stand. Learn how their cutting-edge data capture, integration solutions, and consultancy services can help you optimise your warehouse operations and stay ahead of the competition.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with BEC at the forefront of warehouse innovation.

Rose hopeful Rahm will retain Tour membership to protect Ryder Cup eligibility

Mitch Fretton
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Rose hopeful Rahm will retain Tour membership to protect Ryder Cup eligibility

Justin Rose has urged Jon Rahm to renew his DP World Tour membership to ensure the Spanish golfer remains eligible for the Ryder Cup next year.

The LIV golfer must play in three events on the European Tour before the end of the season to ensure his availability.

Europe will defend their title at Bethpage in September 2025, and coach Luke Donald will be hoping to see the big hitter on the team.

Rose is close friends with the Spaniard and admits he has spoken to him about linking up again next year.

He said: “No matter where the world rankings say he is or the golf that he is competing against, we know what a great player he is.

“My point is you want him on the team. There is a pathway for him to play the Ryder Cup if he wants it.

“I think that’s all the DP World Tour can do, and they have their interests to protect, and I still think that it is a doable situation should the player want to choose to do it.”

Rose has recently been announced as captain of the Great Britain and Ireland Team Cup in October.

It is being viewed as the first step towards becoming Ryder Cup captain and he could achieve that honour by 2024.

He added: “First and foremost I’d love to do the job at some point.

“It is a huge honour – 2027 would certainly be a special Ryder Cup. We all know what a special place Adare Manor is, we all know JP McManus and what his love for the sport is, and how much he has given back to golf.

“Timing the Ryder Cup captaincy is something you don’t have a huge amount of control over, because your opportunity might just happen to come at a certain time.

“In 2027 I hope that I am still a strong contender to be playing in the team. I think front and centre is 2025, and see how I go there.”

Ryan Air Conditioning partners with PushON to drive online growth

Helen Greaney
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Ryan Air Conditioning partners with PushON to drive online growth

Ryan Air Conditioning, the UK’s leading supplier of air conditioning spares, accessories, pipes, and tools, has partnered with eCommerce consultancy PushON to transform its online presence and drive significant growth. 

As a family-run business based in Irlam, Ryan Air Conditioning is taking bold steps to ensure its eCommerce platforms remain competitive and meet the demands of an evolving customer base.

The retained partnership, which began in August, involves a comprehensive audit and overhaul of Ryan Air Conditioning’s two Magento websites, aimed at enhancing site speed, improving the customer experience, and boosting conversion rates. 

In addition to technical upgrades, PushON is delivering a full-service digital marketing strategy, including SEO, PPC, and email marketing to drive online traffic and sales.

To ensure long-term success, PushON is also providing training to upskill Ryan Air Conditioning’s in-house team so they can make the most of the new technology and strategies.

Mark Tomlinson (pictured left), managing director of Ryan Air Conditioning, said: “We needed a partner who could help us maximise our online presence, provide an excellent B2B purchasing experience and deliver real results. PushON’s expertise and holistic approach made them the ideal choice to help us reach our goals. We’re excited to see what we can achieve together.”

Simon Wharton (pictured right), founder of PushON, said: “Ryan Air Conditioning is well-positioned to capture a larger market share with its quality products and service offering. By leveraging the latest eCommerce technologies and implementing a robust digital marketing strategy, we are confident that Ryan Air Conditioning will see substantial growth in both their online sales and overall market presence.”

Buttler ruled out of T20 Series against Australia, Lancashire team-mate Salt named captain

Jon Fisher
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Buttler ruled out of T20 Series against Australia, Lancashire team-mate Salt named captain

England white-ball captain Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the T20 series against Australia due to a calf problem.

Buttler has not played a competitive game since the T20 World Cup after sustaining the injury while running on a beach on holiday and his participation in the ODIs that follow the T20 games is also in doubt.

His Lancashire colleague Phil Salt will skipper England in the shortest format with Surrey all-rounder Jamie Overton called up as his replacement.

Essex batter Jordan Cox has been added to the ODI squad as cover.

Marcus Trescothick will coach England for both series against Australia and a tour of the Caribbean in November before Test coach Brendon McCullum assumes responsibility for all three formats in the new year.

The first T20 is in Southampton next Wednesday.

The England T20 squad is: Phil Salt (Lancashire, captain), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Jacob Bethell (Warwickshire), Brydon Carse (Durham), Jordan Cox (Essex), Sam Curran (Surrey), Josh Hull (Leicestershire), Will Jacks (Surrey), Liam Livingstone (Lancashire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Dan Mousley (Warwickshire), Jamie Overton (Surrey), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Reece Topley (Surrey), John Turner (Hampshire)

The England ODI squad is: Jos Buttler (Lancashire, captain), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Gus Atkinson (Surrey), Jacob Bethell (Warwickshire), Harry Brook (Yorkshire), Brydon Carse (Durham), Jordan Cox (Essex), Ben Duckett (Nottinghamshire), Josh Hull (Leicestershire), Will Jacks (Surrey), Matthew Potts (Durham), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Phil Salt (Lancashire), Jamie Smith (Surrey), Reece Topley (Surrey), John Turner (Hampshire)

How to protect your employee from social media threats

Helen Greaney
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How to protect your employee from social media threats

In a world where sharing moments on social media is second nature, it’s easy to forget that some things are better kept private. One of these things is your ID card. Whether it’s a company ID, driver’s licence, or any other identification, sharing pictures of your ID online can lead to serious risks like card cloning or duplication.

Here’s why you should think twice before posting that picture and how you can protect yourself from these risks.

The risks of sharing ID pictures online

When you share a picture of your ID on social media, you might be giving away more than you think. Even if you believe your profile is secure, there’s always a chance that someone with bad intentions could get hold of your personal information. Here are some of the risks involved:

You could face identity theft

Identity theft is one of the biggest threats when it comes to sharing ID photos online. If someone gets hold of your ID information, they could use it to impersonate you. This could lead to a variety of problems, including fraudulent activities in your name, accessing your bank accounts, or even applying for loans under your identity.

Potential card cloning

Potential card cloning happens when someone copies the information from your ID card and creates a duplicate. This duplicate can be used to gain access to places or systems where your original card would be accepted.

For instance, if your company ID is cloned, the duplicate could be used by someone to enter your workplace, putting not just you but your colleagues and company at risk.

Phishing scams

If your ID photo is shared online, it might be used in phishing scams. Scammers can use your information to create fake profiles or send convincing emails pretending to be you. This could trick your friends, family, or colleagues into sharing more sensitive information or even money.

How to prevent card cloning or duplication

Now that you know the risks, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some practical tips to keep your ID safe from cloning or duplication.

1. Please think before you share

The most straightforward way to protect your ID is by not sharing it online in the first place. Before posting anything on social media, think about whether it’s something that could be used against you. Even if you think the photo is harmless, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

2. Blur or cover sensitive information

If you absolutely must share a picture of your ID, make sure to blur or cover up any sensitive information. This includes your name, photo, ID number, and any barcodes or QR codes. There are several apps and tools available that can help you do this quickly and easily.

3. Adjust your privacy settings

Review your social media privacy settings regularly to make sure that only trusted people can see what you post. Limit the audience of your posts and make sure that your profiles are not accessible to the public. This reduces the chance of your ID photo falling into the wrong hands.

4. Report any stolen or lost ID cards immediately

If your ID card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the relevant authorities. For company IDs, inform your employer as soon as possible. The quicker you act, the less chance there is for someone to misuse your information.

5. Stay up-to-date about security threats

Finally, it’s a good idea to stay informed about the latest security threats and scams.
Cybercriminals are always coming up with new ways to exploit personal information, so it’s important to stay one step ahead. Follow reliable sources and keep up to date with any news related to identity theft and card cloning.

In closing

Sharing pictures of your ID on social media might seem like a harmless act, but it can open you up to serious risks. From identity theft to card cloning, the consequences can be severe. By being cautious and following the tips above, you can protect yourself and your personal information from falling into the wrong hands. Remember, some things are better

Joe Martin-Bindley’s guide to becoming a successful letting agent in the UK

Helen Greaney
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Joe Martin-Bindley’s guide to becoming a successful letting agent in the UK

Becoming a successful letting agent in the UK can be a rewarding career, offering both financial stability and the satisfaction of helping people find their perfect home.

Joe Martin-Bindley, founder of Peninsular Property, shares his comprehensive guide to becoming a successful letting agent. His advice covers essential skills, best practices, and strategies for excelling in this competitive field.

Understanding the role of a letting agent

A letting agent acts as an intermediary between landlords and tenants. The role involves marketing properties, conducting viewings, handling tenancy agreements, and ensuring both parties comply with legal regulations. Joe highlights that a successful letting agent must be organised, detail-oriented, and possess excellent communication skills.

“You need to understand the needs of both landlords and tenants, ensuring a smooth and satisfactory transaction for all involved,” Joe explains.

Building essential skills

To thrive as a letting agent, several key skills are essential:

  • Communication: Clear and effective communication is crucial for interacting with clients, negotiating terms, and resolving conflicts.
  • Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills help in securing the best deals for landlords while keeping tenants satisfied.
  • Organisation: Managing multiple properties and clients requires exceptional organisational skills.
  • Legal knowledge: Understanding property laws and regulations is vital to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.

Joe advises aspiring letting agents to continually improve these skills through training and practical experience.

Getting qualified

While there are no mandatory qualifications to become a letting agent in the UK, obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your credibility and career prospects. Joe recommends courses offered by professional bodies such as ARLA Propertymark (Association of Residential Letting Agents).

“Formal qualifications demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and provide valuable knowledge that can set you apart from the competition,” Joe says.

Gaining experience

Experience is invaluable in the property industry. Joe suggests starting in an entry-level position within a letting agency to gain hands-on experience. This can provide insights into the daily operations and challenges of the role.

“Working under experienced professionals allows you to learn best practices and develop the confidence needed to manage properties independently,” Joe advises.

Building a network

Networking is a powerful tool for any letting agent. Establishing connections with landlords, property developers, and other professionals in the industry can open doors to new opportunities and referrals.

“Attend industry events, join professional associations, and actively engage with peers and potential clients. Building a strong network can significantly enhance your career,” Joe recommends.

Marketing and branding

Effective marketing is essential for attracting clients. Joe emphasises the importance of a strong online presence, including a professional website and active social media profiles. Showcasing your expertise through blog posts, property listings, and client testimonials can build trust and attract potential clients.

“Your personal brand is your business card. Ensure it reflects your professionalism and expertise,” Joe explains.

Providing excellent customer service

Customer service is at the heart of a successful letting agency. Joe advises letting agents to prioritise client satisfaction by being responsive, reliable, and transparent.

“Happy clients are more likely to refer you to others and leave positive reviews, which can significantly boost your reputation and business,” Joe notes.

Staying up-to-date

The property market is dynamic, with frequent changes in laws, regulations, and market trends. Joe stresses the importance of staying informed about these changes to provide accurate advice and maintain compliance.

“Continuous learning is essential. Regularly attend industry seminars, read relevant publications, and stay updated with market news,” Joe suggests.

Managing properties the right way

Efficient property management is crucial for retaining clients and ensuring tenant satisfaction. Joe recommends using property management software to streamline tasks such as rent collection, maintenance scheduling, and tenant communication.

“Technology can greatly enhance your efficiency, allowing you to manage more properties with ease,” Joe advises.

Long-term strategy and growth

Finally, Joe encourages letting agents to have a long-term strategy for growth. This includes setting clear goals, regularly reviewing performance, and adapting to market changes.

“Success in the letting industry requires a strategic approach. Continuously evaluate your methods, seek feedback, and be prepared to innovate,” Joe concludes.

By following Joe Martin-Bindley’s guide, aspiring letting agents can navigate the complexities of the property market, build a successful career, and make a lasting impact in the industry.

England vs Sri Lanka: Josh Hull to make debut in third Test

Ben Miller
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England vs Sri Lanka: Josh Hull to make debut in third Test

Stand-in England captain Ollie Pope has described surprise newcomer Josh Hull as having “massive” potential after the towering left-arm seamer was named as a debutant for the third Test against Sri Lanka at The Oval, which starts on Friday.

Leicestershire prospect Hull, who posted 5-74 on his England Lions bow in August and has taken 11 wickets in nine County Championship appearances for Leicestershire, will replace Matthew Potts when the hosts start with an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series after a 190-run win at Lord’s.

“When you’re 6ft 7in and you can get it down pushing up to the 85-90mph mark, and with a bit of swing with the left-arm angle, there’s a lot to like about it,” said Pope, who is deputising for the injured Ben Stokes.

“It’s a really exciting week for him. With the height, you can draw in some more edges with that extra bounce.

“It makes it a lot harder to drive the ball, especially if there is a little bit of bounce at The Oval – which there can be, especially early in the game.”

Josh Hull ‘different’ for England

“We’ve played four right-arm seamers for the first two games, so it’s just something different for the batters to think about in the opposition, with the ball coming into the right-hander, and obviously away from the left-hander with that swing,” added Pope.

“It’s a point of difference and he’s got some good pace as well when he’s clicking in the nets.”

Josh Hull stats

Hull is in England’s white-ball squads to face Australia later in September and will become the first left-arm seamer to play a Test for England since Sam Curran in 2021.

The 20-year-old made his first-class debut last year and was initially added to the squad before the second Test following an injury to Mark Wood.

In one early show of his promise, academy product Hull bowled as Leicestershire successfully defended eight in the final over to win the One Day Cup last September by beating Hampshire in the final.

England team vs Sri Lanka

“The numbers sometimes speak… but there’s obviously a bigger picture with some of the guys,” said Pope, praising coach Brendon McCullum for his selections.

“Shoaib Bashir, with the way he’s done, and Josh Hull coming in, and the ceiling that he has, just shows there’s a little bit more to the numbers.

“It’s a credit to the way the guys have gone about it and the boldness from Brendon and Ben to get these guys in the squad at such a young age as well.”

England XI vs Sri Lanka: 1 Dan Lawrence, 2 Ben Duckett, 3 Ollie Pope (c), 4 Joe Root, 5 Harry Brook, 6 Jamie Smith (wk), 7 Chris Woakes, 8 Gus Atkinson, 9 Olly Stone, 10 Josh Hull, 11 Shoaib Bashir

Pair jailed for more than 34 years for drug offences

Helen Greaney
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Pair jailed for more than 34 years for drug offences

Two drug dealers – whose ‘Adam’ operation was featured on BBC show The Detectives – have been jailed following a long investigation.

Laraib Irshad (28) and Tariq Muneeb (33), both of Sumar Close in Rochdale, were sentenced at Leeds Crown Court, thanks to the Greater Manchester Police’s County Lines Team.

It carried out a raid at a house in Millfield Grove in April last year, where officers caught the pair red-handed, manufacturing large amounts of crack cocaine.

In their panic, the duo attempted to flush the crack cocaine down the toilet but this was recovered by officers. A female in the address was convicted for allowing her premises to be used for such purposes.

Seized materials provided valuable insights into the organisation’s activities, particularly the use of ‘flare messages’ from mobile phones to advertise the sale of crack cocaine and heroin to a large established network of recipients involved in both distribution and supply.

Searches conducted during the investigation resulted in the seizure of £30,000 worth of crack cocaine, £10,500 in cash along with other assets of value such as Sur-ron E-Bikes and vehicles used by Irshad and Muneeb.

muneeb irshad At the time of their arrest, both Irshad (pictured right) and Muneeb (pictured left) were on bail for an investigation led by the National Crime Agency into large scale importation and supply of class A drugs utilising ‘Encro’ phones. Irshad was linked to over one tonne of cocaine being imported and distributed nationwide. Muneeb was linked to the supply of 35 kilograms of cocaine.

Following their guilty verdicts at court in relation to the Adam county line investigation, both Irshad and Muneeb pleaded guilty to their remaining charges in the NCA led investigation.

Irshad was jailed for 22 years, nine months, following his guilty plea for supply of crack cocaine and heroin, possession with intent to supply crack cocaine, possession of heroin, and conspiracy to supply cocaine.

A jury found Muneeb guilty of possession with intent to supply crack cocaine and conspiracy to supply cocaine. He has been jailed for 12 years.

These sentences were served alongside those connected to an investigation conducted by the National Crime Agency into the importation and supply of over one tonne of cocaine.

DI Zoe MacDonald of GMP County Lines Team said: “This successful operation underscores our commitment to tackling drug-related crime and protecting our communities. Throughout this investigation we have been closely monitoring the activities of the ADAM line and thanks to our officer’s hard work and dedication we have been able to take two people out of the equation.

“Those involved within this illegal operation are dangerous individuals with no remorse for their criminality, they operate to exploit the most vulnerable in our societies and I’m proud to say that our team have been able to take more individuals like this from our communities to face justice for their actions.

“County lines drugs operations often have a life changing impact on the lives involved and those who are most vulnerable, and we will continue to move at pace to tackle those who are involved within those activities and protect our communities from this illegal activity.

“Our Challenger teams across Greater Manchester are committed to tackling county lines and we will act upon any concerns or information the community give to us to tackle serious and organised crime for good.”

If you are concerned about criminal activity within your area, you can report this to  police on 101 or by reporting via the online report tool: www.gmp.police.uk. 

Revamped back-to-school treat open for Manchester kids

News Desk
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Revamped back-to-school treat open for Manchester kids

A Manchester inflatable theme park is offering parents the perfect back-to-school treat for kids returning to the classroom this week.

Schools across the region are opening their doors again after a six-week break for the summer holidays.

The time off has left many parents worn-out as they’ve juggled work with keeping their offspring entertained – so they will be glad to see the new term get underway.

But the start of the academic year can be a stressful time, with lots of new things to adapt to.

So Inflata Nation in Trafford Park is offering an ideal way to reward those first few days back.

Matt Ball, co-founder of Inflata Nation, said: “This time of year is always a mixture of excitement and stress, for both children and parents.

“There are lots of new things to get used to – teachers, classmates and even a new school altogether.

“Most pupils will have a shorter week, which means they can get used to things before having a few days off.

“It’s likely many parents will be keen to reward them for their efforts – and what better way than whizzing down huge drop slides, diving into a massive ball pool or racing friends on an inflatable assault course?”

According to the Child Mind Institute: “Going back to school is exciting for some kids, but others have trouble with anxiety heading into the new school year.

“This is especially true of kids who are starting at a new school or are already anxious about being away from parents.”

Key tactics include rehearsing the morning drop-off and praising kids for overcoming any worries. Rewards also play a key role in easing everyone into a new routine.

Matt Ball added: “Exercise can be a great way to ease any anxiety about a new school year.

“That’s because it can release endorphins, the feel-good hormones, and also take children’s minds off any worries they might have.

“Bouncing around our bespoke inflata arena for an hour-long session can burn up to 850 calories, which shows it is pretty full-on. Just ask any parents trying to keep up with their kids!

“That should help children get a good night’s sleep as they start the new school year.”

Inflata Nation Manchester offers recently revamped huge ball pit with more than 400,000 balls. There are also other attractions including spiralling slides, games and obstacle courses – plus a dedicated area for younger bouncers.

A one-hour bounce session costs £6.99 for under-fours and £13.99 for everyone else.

Wigan and Leigh Community Charity celebrates 25 years of impact

Helen Greaney
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Wigan and Leigh Community Charity celebrates 25 years of impact
Wigan and Leigh Community Charity (WLCC) is celebrating 25 years of contributing to the education, employment and enterprise provision in the area.
The journey began in 1999 when a small group secured a pot of lottery funding to transform a disused block of flats on Ribble Road into a vital community resource: the Platt Bridge Youth Zone.
The vision was to create a space that would serve as a youth zone but also house business start units, a nursery, a café, and a dedicated space for local residents.
By 2001, the project – Platt Bridge Community Zone – had gained enough momentum to come under the ownership of Wigan Council but in 2012, it announced plans to close the facility.
It was saved by a successful application to Wigan Council’s Community Investment Fund in 2013, whereby Abram Ward Community Cooperative was first established.
In 2017, the organisation relaunched Platt Bridge Community Zone as a community business hub.
In the same year, it introduced the “Made in Wigan” brand, a bold initiative aimed at reducing inequality through the growth of community businesses. But today, now known as Wigan and Leigh Community Charity, the team is committed to serving the area with ambitious plans on the horizon..
Founder, David Baxter (pictured front), said: “Looking ahead, we don’t want to lose the grassroots of where we started, such as developing a neighbourhood plan in Abram Ward which is due to go to referendum.
“We want to continue to grow the local Social Enterprise Network and ultimately start to see more places and hubs pop up in other neighbourhoods that might not be as fully engaged yet in this sector, so we’d like to support those.
“We want to do more community organising, get more people into work, increase our school offer working with young people. We led Wigan borough into being registered as a Social Enterprise Town, but there’s still a lot of work to do in the sector.
“Wigan borough just has that entrepreneurial spirit! There’s something special about us, we have passion for our neighbourhoods. We saw that really come out during the pandemic and it continues to grow every year.”
Eunice Smethurst, councillor of Abram Ward, said: “I have been part of the Platt Bridge community building since its conception. Over the years I have seen the building change, many groups, offering different opportunities to the community have been part of the building. I am so proud of being part of the Platt Bridge Community Zone.”
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