London
Lancashire
Cheshire
2.2 C
Manchester
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Home Blog Page 159

French Open 2024 schedule: Draw pits Nadal v Zverev, Djokovic and Murray discover matches in first round

Ben Miller
-
0
French Open 2024 schedule: Draw pits Nadal v Zverev, Djokovic and Murray discover matches in first round

Rafael Nadal has been drawn against world number four Alexander Zverev in the first round of what is likely to be the 14-time champion’s final grand slam in Paris.

Modern great Nadal is ranked 272 places below Germany’s Zverev, who retired after suffering a gruesome ankle injury during the second set of a tight match between the pair at Roland Garros in 2022.

Nadal’s ranking reflects the 37-year-old’s long-term inactivity because of a succession of injury problems, although he reached the round of 16 at last month’s Madrid Open in a rare sustained run of appearances.

Read our other sports stories: 
IPL 2024: SRH v RR preview
Usyk dedicates Fury victory to late father
Verstappen wins at Imola

The most successful player in French Open history was forced to abandon his hopes of featuring at the Australian Open in January but has spoken of his desire to be competitive in the second grand slam of the year.

Elsewhere, Andy Murray has landed an eye-catching opener against fellow three-time grand slam title winner and veteran Stan Wawrinka. The tournament starts on Sunday, May 26.

Nadal, Djokovic French Open draw

Defending champion and top seed Novak Djokovic will start against home wildcard and world number 143 Pierre-Hugues Herbert, a 33-year-old two-time doubles champion at the tournament who has never gone beyond the third round of the singles competition.

Iga Swiatek, who is seeking a third straight women’s singles title, will face a qualifier or lucky lose in the first round and cannot meet world number two Aryna Sabalenka until the final.

Poland’s Swiatek could take on former world number one Naomi Osaka in the second round if the Japanese beats world number 48 Lucia Bronzetti.

Four-time grand slam title winner Osaka is continuing her return to the tour following maternity leave and is currently ranked 134th.

Men’s second seed Jannik Sinner will encounter American Chris Eubanks in the first round – a quarter-finalist at Wimbledon 2023 – and third seed Carlos Alcaraz will play a qualifier or lucky loser.

Djokovic will have the most grand slam trophies of any player in history if he wins one more major, eclipsing the record he shared with Margaret Court of 24.

Nadal was champion on that last appearance in 2022 but has only appeared at one major since, reaching the second round of the Australian Open 2023.

FTM UK Reveals Winners of Best Product Vote Award 2024

News Desk
-
0
FTM UK Reveals Winners of Best Product Vote Award 2024

First Time Mums UK is delighted to reveal the results of The Best Product Vote Award 2024, conducted in May 2024. Over 4,155 mums from our network participated, casting their votes to honour and celebrate their favourite baby brands and products.

With 38 award categories in total, hundreds of mum and baby brands took part, showcasing a diverse range of products designed to support new and expecting mothers. A founder of First Time Mums UK, Yana Abramova, commented: “This award aims to guide mums towards the best and most trusted products available on the market.” Congratulations to all the winners of The Best Product Vote Award 2024 across all categories.

Category: Baby & Child Sleep Time Product
Category: Baby & Children’s Swimwear
Category: Baby & Toddler Book
Category: Baby Activity Mat/Gym/Centre
Category: Baby Bath Time Product or Accessory
Category: Baby Shower Gift/Newborn Keepsake
Category: Bedside/Co-sleeper Crib
Category: Biodegradable/Eco-friendly Disposable Nappy
Category: Biodegradable/Eco-friendly Wet Wipes
Category: Bottle-Feeding Accessory
Category: Child Car Seat
Category: Family Cleaning Product
Category: Family Travel/Holiday Product under £25
Category: Health/Wellbeing Product for Babies & Children
Category: Health/Wellbeing Product for Parents & Parents-to-be
Category: Lightweight Stroller
Category: Multi-stage Car Seat
Category: New Parent App
Category: Newborn/Infant Nappy – Sizes 1 or 2
Category: Nipple Cream/Balm
Category: Parenting Brand of the Year
Category: Pregnancy/Birth Product & Service
Category: Rental, Preloved & Marketplace Services
Category: Rotating Car Seat
Category: Everyday Parenting Essential
Category: Sleepsuits & Pajamas
Category: Sterilizer
Category: Stretchmark Cream/Oil/Lotion
Category: Sustainable/Eco-friendly Product for Babies
Category: Swaddle & Sleeping Bag
Category: Teether
Category: Toddler Car Seat
Category: Weaning & Feeding Product
 Category:  Game-changer Parenting Products
 Category:  Baby & Child Skincare Product
 Category: Baby & Child Bath & Body Wash
 Category: New Mum Skincare & Toiletries
 Category: Baby & Children’s Clothing Range
  1. The Baby O collection of rompers for newborn
  2. Clay Bear Bodysuits collection
  3. Lottie & Lysh Clothing collection
  4. The Baby O Organic Baby Clothing range
  5. Cherish Tees Babygrows collection
The full results and top winners can be found in our detailed blog post here: Best Product Vote Award 2024 Results & Winners.

About First Time Mums UK

Since its inception in 2020, First Time Mums UK has become the fastest-growing and most popular community for new mums in the UK. Our community boasts over 53,000 members on Facebook and more than 24,000 followers on Instagram, growing at a rate of 6% monthly on Instagram and adding over 150 new Facebook members daily. Our engagement rate of 2.44% significantly surpasses the industry average of 1.67%.

First Time Mums UK is dedicated to supporting new and expecting mothers from diverse backgrounds across the UK, with community members typically having children aged 0-4 years. We provide a platform for sharing experiences, advice, and support, fostering a nurturing environment for mums during this critical stage of motherhood.

For more information about First Time Mums UK and to stay updated with our latest news, visit our website: www.firsttimemumsuk.co.uk.

Official Sponsors & CSR Partners of First Time Mums UK
Mama Bamboo, Graco UK, Purer Mama, The Baby O, L&M Foundation.

Hancocks Jewellers Manchester Commemorates Manchester and Chelsea Flower Shows

News Desk
-
0
Hancocks Jewellers Manchester Commemorates Manchester and Chelsea Flower Shows

Hancocks Jewellers Manchester is delighted to showcase their curated Spring edit for the upcoming Manchester and Chelsea Flower Shows. This seasonal collection perfectly captures the beauty and symbolism of the expertly cultivated gardens that will be on display at the end of May.

Comprising a number of exceptional jewellery pieces across rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, the collection features a multitude of colours to represent the diversity of beautiful flowers on show. From sapphire’s celestial allure to emerald’s verdant vibrancy, the symphony of statement colours embodies the artistry of the Chelsea Flower Show. The collection also includes more understated pieces, which are equally beautiful and elegant, with some captivating diamond additions.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Spring Collection edit in honour of the Chelsea and Manchester Flower Shows to our customers in Manchester,” said Roy Lunt, Managing Director of Hancocks Jewellers Manchester. “The edit’s exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design perfectly complement the vibrant energy of spring, making it a wonderful way to celebrate the season.”

Each gemstone holds its own meaning, resonating strongly with the upcoming Chelsea and Manchester Flower Shows. The Chelsea show, a world-renowned event held annually at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, is a celebration of all things floral, showcasing stunning displays and innovative garden design. Diamonds and rubies are said to embody love and commitment, representing all the talented gardeners taking part. Emeralds have a strong association with rebirth and spring, making them the ultimate symbol of the season. Finally, sapphires symbolise wisdom and royalty, marking a royal location perfectly.

Hancocks’ Spring edit beautifully complements the elegance and artistry on display at the flower shows. The intricate details of the jewellery echo the delicate beauty of flowers, while the timeless design reflects the enduring appeal of nature’s artistry.

Hancocks Jewellers Manchester invites you to discover the Chelsea and Manchester Flower Show edit and celebrate the beginning of spring in style. Visit the Hancocks store at King Street, Manchester, or browse our Spring selection online at https://www.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/spring-collection/ or view the entire store at https://www.hancocksjewellers.co.uk/ to find your perfect piece.

Kloud9 Brings High-Speed Broadband to Rural Shropshire

News Desk
-
0
Kloud9 Brings High-Speed Broadband to Rural Shropshire

Kloud9, in partnership with BDUK and Connecting Shropshire, is transforming broadband connectivity in rural Shropshire. Following the installation of FTTP for over 200 properties in Ditton Priors, Kloud9 has rolled out its ultrafast gigabit broadband services to further areas in Shropshire, including Cleehill, Cressage, and Clun.

Each village now has 300 to 400 properties with access to ultrafast fibre broadband. Kloud9 delivered these projects at an impressive pace, completing them all within six months.

This achievement was enabled by Kloud9’s expertise, government support, and local collaboration, leveraging initiatives like the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.

Julie Bushell, Kloud9’s Community Engagement Manager, commented: “Providing rural communities with access to gigabit broadband is now a necessity in today’s digital landscape. It’s a privilege to collaborate closely with the communities and stakeholders across Shropshire to make this vision a reality.”

Kloud9 remains committed to advancing digital connectivity across Shropshire and the UK. With ongoing installations and connections in Cleehill, Cressage, and now Clun, Kloud9 continues to lead in delivering reliable, high-speed internet solutions to underserved communities.

Mandy Newton, the first resident connected in Clun, shared her experience with Kloud9: “For the past few months in Clun, we have seen a lot of installation work going on for the new high-speed fibre communications systems. We signed up with Kloud9 and are happy to say we were connected yesterday – the first house in Clun to be connected to Kloud9! The engineers and all the staff have been very efficient and friendly, and whenever you need to call them the good thing is that you get through straight away to someone in the UK.”

Kloud9’s efforts in these rural communities are part of a broader commitment to enhancing digital connectivity across Shropshire and the UK. With numerous projects in the pipeline, Kloud9 is eager to continue its work in Shropshire and beyond under the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme.

Cllr. Robert Macey, Portfolio Holder for Culture & Digital at Shropshire Council, said: “I’m pleased that AJ Technology has benefitted from Shropshire Council top-up funding of DSIT’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme. This additional funding has enabled AJ Technology to work at pace to install their full-fibre broadband network in some of Shropshire’s more rural communities, bringing them into the digital fast lane.”

Dallas Mavericks v Minnesota Timberwolves: Irving says failure a factor in NBA Western Conference Finals win

Ben Miller
-
0
Dallas Mavericks v Minnesota Timberwolves: Irving says failure a factor in NBA Western Conference Finals win

Kyrie Irving has said the memory of watching last season’s play-offs on television was a motivating factor as the guard scored 30 points to help the Dallas Mavericks beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 108-105 in the opening game of the NBA’s Western Conference Finals.

Luka Doncic top-scored for Dallas, contributing 15 of his 33 points during the final quarter after Irving has scored 24 of his during the first half at Minneapolis’ Target Centre.

“Last summer, when we got exited from play-off contention, I was watching my peers have the chance to win the golden trophy,” Irving told Inside the Game.

“You get motivation from failure, you get inspired. I was watching at home and taking notes on some of the greatest leaders in our league.

“They do little things that don’t show up on the stats sheet for their teams to win. I really just focused on doing the little things and if my points came, they came. I wanted to make sure we felt good as a team after every single game and we were honest with each other.”

Read our other sports stories: 
Buttler: England games should avoid IPL clash
Usyk dedicates Fury victory to late father
Verstappen wins at Imola

The Timberwolves led 102-98 with four minutes remaining, only for a late surge from the Mavericks to give them the win at the start of the seven-game series.

The result was the first time in six attempts that Dallas have won their first game of the finals under coach Jason Kidd, leading Doncic to observe that they had been “trying to make a point” by changing that form.

Mavericks v Timberwolves: Irving ‘aggressive’

Irving praised Doncic and said that his own approach had been to play boldly with the hope of enhancing his team-mates’ confidence.

“I knew that a few of our guys hadn’t been in the Western Conference Finals, so nerves were getting to them a little bit,” he said.

“For me personally, I know going offensively settles our guys. When they see the ball going in the rim for me, it opens up opportunities for them.

“In this series, in order to give Luka enough breaks and stuff like that, I’ve got to stay aggressive the whole time.

“Every single day, I remind those guys of what it’s like to get to that mountain top, be very close and then fail. I try to encourage my guys as much as I can.”

The teams meet again at the same venue on Saturday.

Belgium Sleep Systems Expands into French Market

News Desk
-
0
Belgium Sleep Systems Expands into French Market

Leading European bedding supplier Belgium Sleep Systems is set to introduce its innovative products and services, along with its unparalleled supply speed, to the important French market, and is poised to exponentially grow its sales volumes.

Belgium Sleep Systems (BSS), a leading wholesale and own-brand supplier in the bedding and mattress industry with a strong presence across Europe, is proud to announce its expansion into the French market. With over 25 years of expertise in delivering top-quality bedding solutions, BSS has built a reputation for excellence and reliability. The company features a portfolio of over 100 retailers across Europe, including well-known brands such as Vivense, Bambi of Türkiye, and its own house brands, all of which are meticulously inspected and certified for quality assurance.

Known for its commitment to providing fast and quality service, Belgium Sleep Systems traces its rapid growth to its ability to combine fair pricing, speed of delivery, and superior customer service. The company’s success has propelled its growth not only in Europe but also internationally.

Expanding horizons to Europe’s largest markets beginning with France

The decision to enter the French market comes on the heels of BSS’ record success in the Benelux region. With a promise of 72-hour delivery to anywhere in Western Europe, the company is set to introduce its award-winning bedding and furniture products to French consumers. Among these products are the acclaimed BSS bedding mattress line, renowned for its comfort and quality, as well as other leading brands like Bambi and Vivense.

Belgium Sleep Systems is committed to providing exclusive customer support to ensure a seamless transition for French consumers seeking to upgrade their bedding needs. With a focus on major French cities initially, the company aims to cater to urban centres known for high consumer demand in quality home goods. Products will be available through selected local retailers and an enhanced e-commerce platform designed to meet the needs of online shoppers.

ldtskldsiydrnfq4sze4nvz2is23

Strategic vision is to broaden BSS’ footprint to reach a larger base

The expansion into the French market reflects BSS’ strategic vision to broaden its footprint and reach a larger, diverse consumer base. Responding to the growing demand in France for high-quality bedding solutions, the company aims to capitalize on its successful track record in other European markets.

Bekir Atabey, Founder & Managing Director of Belgium Sleep Systems, expresses his enthusiasm for the expansion commenting, “We are very excited to introduce BSS to the French market, where we see tremendous potential for our innovative bedding products. This expansion reflects our commitment to providing unparalleled sleep experiences and our dedication to meeting the growing demand for quality sleep solutions across Europe.”

Belgium Sleep Systems plans to leverage its proven business model and operational strategies to penetrate the French market successfully. The company will employ a mix of direct sales, partnerships with established French retailers, and robust marketing campaigns to introduce its brand and products. Special launch events and promotional offers will be deployed to attract initial customer interest and build brand recognition.

For further information about Belgium Sleep Systems and its expansion into the French market, please visit https://bss.be.

CloudGuard Introduces Free Monthly Cyber Clinics in Manchester

News Desk
-
0
CloudGuard Introduces Free Monthly Cyber Clinics in Manchester

CloudGuard is excited to announce the launch of its Manchester Cyber Clinics by offering free, 20-minute consultations with cybersecurity experts starting in June 2024. These no-obligation sessions are designed to address your cybersecurity questions, concerns, or challenges. There is no set agenda, and they are available at no cost.

Why You Should Join Our Cyber Clinics

  • Gain one-on-one access to top-tier cybersecurity expertise to address your specific needs and concerns.
  • Contribute to a stronger, more informed cybersecurity community by participating in these sessions.
  • Learn actionable steps to improve your security operations.
  • Whether you’re new to cybersecurity or an experienced professional, our clinics cater to all skill levels.
  • Receive free advice with no sales pitch and complete confidentiality.

The Power of Community

In the cyber world, the greatest advantage we have over cybercriminals is the power of community. Cybersecurity professionals thrive in a mission-driven community, while attackers often work in isolation. The more we share knowledge and collaborate, the stronger we become, enabling us to detect, respond, and protect more effectively.

This community spirit is the driving force behind the CloudGuard Cyber Clinics. By visiting schools, colleges, universities, businesses, and local communities, we aim to raise awareness and empower individuals to take control of their digital security. These sessions have already proven successful in helping attendees implement meaningful changes to their security operations.

Building on this success, we are expanding our initiative with monthly drop-in sessions at our central Manchester headquarters.

Our Commitment to Security
CloudGuard CEO, Matt Lovell, said: “Security is at the heart of everything we do at CloudGuard. We’re here to protect individuals and businesses while sharing our expertise to build a safer digital world. By nurturing the next generation of cyber professionals through collective knowledge sharing, we believe we can make a significant impact.”

Join Us
We invite you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. To book your free Cyber Clinic, please contact us via our website with your preferred date, and we will schedule your session.
For more information, visit https://cloudguard.ai/resources/cyber-clinics

Jos Buttler thinks England games should avoid clash with IPL

Alex Hoad
-
0
Jos Buttler thinks England games should avoid clash with IPL

England captain Jos Buttler says international cricket should not be scheduled at the same time as the IPL.

Buttler flew back from India to join up with the England T20 squad in Leeds on Saturday ahead of a four match series against Pakistan.

The first match on Wednesday evening at Headingley was washed-out, meaning the T20Is at Edgbaston, Sophia Gardens and The Oval will be England’s only preparation before flying to the Caribbean on May 31 to begin the defence of their World Cup title four days later.

Read our other sports stories: 
Usyk dedicates Fury victory to late father
Verstappen wins at Imola
Atalanta v Bayer Leverkusen – betting preview

Buttler was one of eight members of England’s provisional T20 World Cup squad who flew back before the end of the IPL group stage last week, while he, Will Jacks, Reece Topley and Phil Salt saw their franchises qualify for this week’s knockout stages

Buttler is a star for the Rajasthan Royals who edged to a four-wicket victory with six balls remaining in their Eliminator against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Wednesday without him.

The Royals will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the qualifier on Friday for a place in the final against Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday – the day after England’s second match of the series in Birmingham.

Wednesday’s abandonment made the early return even more frustrating, Buttler told Sky Sports, adding: “We’ve had a couple of really good couple of days prep and everyone was excited for the series. Just putting the England kit back on and playing cricket in England is amazing so it’s really disappointing not to be playing, but there’s still three matches to look forward to.

“It’s a unique build-up (for the World Cup) – I think that’s why we felt it was a good to try and get the players all together for this series.

“It’s my personal opinion that there should never be any international cricket which clashes with the IPL, but my first priority at the moment is being England captain and trying to prepare as best we can for a world tournament.

“I always said to (England supremo) Rob Key I would definitely be coming back as England captain and he’s made the call on the rest of the players.”

Buttler said his message to his England squad would be ‘to play with confidence and clarity.’

He added: “We have a nice blended squad – a lot of experience but some guys who are on an upward curve, Phil Salt, Will Jacks, Harry Brook is still very early in his international career – these guys you see really trending in the right direction and pushing this team forward.

“Trying not to confuse freedom with a lack of clarity, that’s been a big learning for me. Sometimes you are trying to let players play with freedom and don’t want to step in too much. Maybe more communication (is needed) at times.”

England suffered a dismal defence of their 50-over World Cup crown before Christmas and Buttler admitted: “It was obviously a really disappointing World Cup, your pride gets dented and your confidence gets dented from those things a bit.

“We just didn’t play well enough, even if there was a lack of clarity you’d still expect us to perform better than we did.”

Rishi Sunak announces general election for July 4

Helen Greaney
-
0
Rishi Sunak announces general election for July 4

Rishi Sunak has told the nation that a general election will be held on July 4.

The Prime Minister made the announcement after briefing the cabinet this afternoon.

As he stood getting soaked outside Downing Street, he told the public it was time for “Britain to choose its future”.

But as he made the big statement, the Labour anthem, Things can only get better by D:Ream was blaring outside the gates.

Sunak said he had stuck with his plan and been honest with the country when difficult choices needed to be taken and had a clear plan going forward.

He listed what the government has done, including giving “record funding” to the NHS, improving children’s reading and increasing defence spending.

He said: “I will prove to you a Conservative government led by me will not put our economic stability at risk.

“It is the moment to decide Britain’s future. To decide whether you want to build on the future you’ve made or risk going back to square one.

“I don’t know want they (Labour) offer – and in truth, I don’t think you do either.”

Sunak said on July 5 – the day after the election – either he or Sir Keir Starmer will be prime minister, and accused his rival of doing “anything” to achieve power.

Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer responded: “Our offer is to reset our economy and our politics so they serve working people.

“A vote for Labour is a vote for change. We have a long term to rebuild Britain, it is full costed. We can cut the NHS waiting times, secure our borders, tackle anti-social behaviour and get the teachers we need in your children’s classrooms.

“I believe with patience, determination and commitment to service there is so much pride and potential we can unlock across our country. Here it is, the future of the country is in your hands.

“On July 4 you have a choice. Together we can stop the chaos, turn the page and start to rebuild Britain and change our country.”

 

 

 

England v Pakistan: first T20I at Headingley washed out

Alex Hoad
-
0
England v Pakistan: first T20I at Headingley washed out

The opening T20 international of Pakistan’s tour of England has been abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Headingley was set to host the first of a four-match T20 series on Wednesday evening as the countdown to England’s defence of their World Cup title begins.

However heavy rain over Leeds throughout the day, and the prospect of more to come into the evening, meant it would not have been possible to fulfil even the shortest possible encounter of five overs aside.

Read our other sports stories: 
Usyk dedicates Fury victory to late father
Verstappen wins at Imola
Atalanta v Bayer Leverkusen – betting preview

The series will now be decided over three matches, starting at Edgbaston on Saturday afternoon and heading to Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Tuesday, May 28, and finishing at The Oval on Thursday, May 30.

The series is England’s only preparation before flying out on May 31 ahead of the World Cup in the Caribbean and USA.

England have recalled eight of their 15-man squad early from IPL duty, which has raised some eyebrows in India, as they step-up preparations for their tournament opener on June 4 in Barbados against Scotland.

Jofra Archer is hoping to use this series to prove his fitness after a 14-month absence due to a chronic elbow problem.

The 29-year-old made a wicket-taking comeback for Sussex 2nds last week and is expected to play in at least two matches against Pakistan, the side England beat to land the 2022 title in Melbourne.

Skipper Jos Buttler is on standby as he is expecting the birth of his third child soon.

Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, go into the series off the back of securing a 2-1 win over Ireland in a three-match T20I series, last week.

1...158159160...1,055Page 159 of 1,055
About us

Business Manchester is the leading Manchester Business magazine covering all the important Business stories in the Manchester area.

Company

Terms and Conditions

Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.

© 2026 BusinessManchester.co.uk | All Rights Reserved.