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Warrington author knocks Sunday Times bestsellers off top Amazon Kindle spots

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Warrington author Louisa Herridge has launched a collaborative book “If I Could Tell Her” which has knocked four Sunday Times bestselling books off the top spots in their relevant categories in Amazon for Kindle.

The books in question are: Women & Power by Mary Beard, You’re not the Problem by Katie McKenna & Helen Villiers and The Devil you Know: Encounters in Forensic Psychiatry by Dr Gwen Adshead – which was also a Sunday Times, New Statesman and Irish Times book of the year.

Herridge’s new offering is also beating bestselling self-help book of all time in the UK, The Chimp Paradox by professor Steve Peters.

“If I Could Tell Her” features six other female entrepreneurs – Sophie Allen, Katie Mc, Indie Moon, Amanda Bettridge, Stacey Withington and Kate Brindley. They share their courage and strength collectively to inspire others to reframe and leave behind past challenges.

The book contains honest accounts which reveal the positivity and growth that can be found in trauma and adversity and are not about changing the past but being grateful for the lessons learned.

The five categories in Amazon Kindle “If I could tell her” is now number one in include –

  • Emotions and feelings
  • Psychoanalysis
  • Theory of psychoanalysis
  • Violence against women
  • Parenting emotions and feelings

Louisa Herridge (pictured) the Storytelling for Success coach, is a three-times best-selling author and TEDx speaker. She is a passionate and empowering coach who inspires and supports women to find their own power and success through their story in business, books and beyond.

She said: “Running a book collaboration for me isn’t just about hitting number one, it is about bringing together women, creating beautiful relationships, holding hands, space and hearts so that these women can tap into their past and tell it with confidence, pride and passion.”

“Each author has written her chapter to inspire people to see that none of us are alone in our adversity and we all have the inner strength and resilience to heal and grow. No matter how many times we are knocked down, we can get back up and these real-life experiences of lives lived with blood, sweat and tears will help you to see how anyone can change their thinking to live a life filled with hope and happiness.”

Louisa and fellow entrepreneur Jo Wildsmith are the co-founders of The Publishing Pod, who have brought this book to life.

Jo said: “At ‘The Publishing Pod’ we combine our talents to enable stories to be told and published with passion and precision and we are hugely grateful to the incredible women who have collaborated with us to create this.”

Louisa’s story within the book is named ‘Your story is your superpower’.  The other stories within the book explore the themes of childhood trauma, domestic abuse, grief, anxiety, cancer battles, people pleasing, self-sabotage, self-acceptance and self love.

If I Could Tell Her, is available now via Amazon for £0.99 on Kindle and £11.99 in paperback.

 

A Comprehensive Guide to Trademark Registration

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Your brand is the embodiment of your company’s reputation, values, and the trust you’ve built with your customers. A registered trademark acts as a legal shield, safeguarding that brand identity and ensuring you reap the rewards of your hard work. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of trademark registration, empowering you to understand its significance, navigate the process with confidence, and maximize the benefits for your business.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark (also sometimes referred to as a trade mark or brand mark) is a recognizable sign or symbol that distinguishes your source of goods or services from others. It can be a word, phrase, logo, design, sound, or even a combination of these elements.

Here are some key characteristics of trademarks:

  • Distinctive: A trademark must be sufficiently unique to avoid confusion with existing brands in the marketplace. Generic terms or descriptive phrases typically cannot be trademarked.
  • Used in Commerce: Your trademark must be actively used in the commercial sphere to identify your goods or services.
  • Legally Protected: Registering your trademark with the appropriate government agency grants you exclusive rights to its use within a specific category of goods or services.

Why Register Your Trademark?

Trade mark registration offers a multitude of advantages for businesses of all sizes:

  • Brand Protection: A registered trademark acts as a legal shield, deterring others from using similar marks that could confuse consumers and dilute your brand value.
  • Customer Trust: A recognizable trademark signifies quality, consistency, and reliability, fostering trust and loyalty among customers.
  • Competitive Advantage: A strong trademark can become a valuable asset, differentiating your brand and potentially increasing brand value.
  • Marketing Tool: Trademarks are powerful marketing tools, allowing you to build brand awareness and recognition.

The Trademark Registration Process: Demystifying the Steps

The process for registering a trademark involves several key stages:

  1. Trademark Search: Conducting a thorough trademark search is crucial. This helps ensure your chosen mark is available for registration and doesn’t conflict with existing trademarks. Online databases and professional trademark search firms can assist with this search.
  2. Selection and Application: Choose a distinctive and suitable trademark that aligns with your brand identity and target audience. File an application with the relevant government agency (typically the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in the US).
  3. Examination and Approval: The trademark office will examine your application for compliance with legal requirements. This process may involve responses, clarifications, or potential rejections.
  4. Registration and Maintenance: Upon successful examination, your trademark will be registered, granting you exclusive rights. Maintaining your trademark typically involves periodic renewal fees.

Additional Considerations: Key Pointers for Success

  • Trademark Classes: Trademarks are registered for specific classes of goods or services. Understanding these classifications is essential when filing your application.
  • Common Law vs. Registered Trademarks: Even without formal registration, you may have some common law trademark rights based on prior use. However, registration offers significantly greater legal protection and clarity of ownership.
  • International Trademarks: For global protection, consider registering your trademark in each country where you intend to operate.
  • Enforcement: Trademark infringement occurs when someone uses a confusingly similar mark. Registered trademark holders can take legal action against infringers to protect their rights.

The Future of Trademarks: Embracing Evolving Trends

The landscape of trademarks is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and the ever-expanding online marketplace. Here are some key trends to be aware of:

  • Rise of Social Media Trademarks: With social media playing a prominent role in brand building, trademarks are increasingly encompassing non-traditional elements like sounds, hashtags, and even emojis.
  • Domain Name Protection: Domain names are often the first point of contact for consumers searching for a brand online. Protecting your trademark through domain name registration is crucial in the digital age.
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence: AI-powered tools are emerging to assist with trademark search and monitoring, helping businesses identify potential conflicts and enforce their rights more effectively.

By staying informed about these trends and adapting their trademark strategies accordingly, businesses can continue to leverage the power of trademarks in a dynamic and competitive global marketplace.

Conclusion: Building a Strong Brand Legacy

Investing in trademark registration is not just about legal protection; it’s about safeguarding the very essence of your brand. A strong trademark empowers you to communicate your brand values, differentiate yourself from competitors, and build lasting relationships with your customers. As you embark on your brand-building journey, remember that a well-protected trademark is a cornerstone for building a strong brand legacy and securing long-term success.

Antony celebration for Man United v Coventry was reaction to fans, winger says in FA Cup row

Manchester United winger Antony has defended himself over a photo which appeared to show the Brazil international goading Coventry City’s players while his team-mates were celebrating victory in Sunday’s epic FA Cup semi-final between the sides.

In the picture, which has been widely circulated on social media and led to criticism of Antony and United, the 24-year-old appears to react to Rasmus Hojlund’s decisive spot kick by taunting his crestfallen Coventry counterparts, who recovered from 3-0 behind with 19 minutes of normal time remaining and had a fourth goal ruled out shortly before extra time end.

“Coventry proved why they reached the semi-final,” Antony wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “We [wanted] this spot in the final for our fans and we achieved [it].

“The way our fans were treated by their player was not nice and I, in the heat of the moment, [have] reacted to the provocations in a natural defence of my club.”

Read our other Man Utd news stories here:
‘Not even I would do this’ – Maupay pokes fun at Antony’s FA Cup celebrations
Ten Hag calls criticism over semi-final ‘disgrace’

Mourinho suggests Ten Hag given more trust at Manchester United

Antony did not provide more specific information about the incident he was referring to, but United manager Erik ten Hag said earlier on Tuesday that the celebration from his £86 million signing in 2022 was related to defender Harry Maguire.

Man United v Coventry: Antony ‘should not do it’

“Did you see the reaction of Harry Maguire?” asked Ten Hag. “He was provoked – that’s why this was a reaction.

“You haven’t seen the provocation, only the reaction. But he should not do it. I have seen Harry Maguire straight after and others.”

The eighth-placed team in the Championship had taken the lead in the shootout after United midfielder Casemiro’s penalty was saved.

Callum O’Hare’s penalty was saved by Andre Onana and Ben Sheaf sent his effort over the crossbar as the Premier League side came back to set up a second consecutive final against Manchester City.

Former Aston Villa and England forward Gabriel Agbonlahor is said to have been particularly scathing of Antony, who is United’s second-most expensive signing of all time but has not scored in 29 appearances across the Premier League and Uefa Champions League this season.

“Is this guy the most shameless flop ever to grace our beautiful league?” Agbonlahor was quoted as saying by the Coventry Telegraph.

“Shame on you, Antony – you wouldn’t even start for Coventry, you prat.”

Harnessing the Power of Inflatables: Innovative Advertising Solutions for Your Brand

Inflatables for advertising have revolutionized the way brands capture attention and leave a lasting impression on their target audience. From towering replicas to whimsical characters, custom inflatables offer a unique and eye-catching way to showcase your brand message. In today’s competitive market, standing out is paramount, and inflatable advertising presents an opportunity to do just that. Let’s delve into the world of inflatable advertising and explore how it can be a game-changer for your brand.

The allure of inflatables lies in their ability to command attention. Whether strategically placed at events, festivals, or storefronts, these larger-than-life creations demand to be noticed. Picture a giant inflatable replica of your product towering over a trade show floor, drawing attendees like moths to a flame. The sheer scale and novelty of inflatables make them irresistible to onlookers, ensuring that your brand remains top of mind long after the event concludes.

One of the key advantages of inflatable advertising is its versatility. From custom shapes and sizes to vibrant colours and intricate designs, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking to promote a new product launch, create buzz around a special event, or simply enhance brand visibility, inflatables offer a creative canvas to bring your vision to life. Moreover, inflatables are highly customizable, allowing you to tailor them to suit your brand’s unique identity and messaging.

In addition to their visual impact, inflatables are also incredibly practical from a marketing perspective. Unlike traditional advertising mediums such as billboards or print ads, inflatables offer portability and ease of setup. This means that you can quickly deploy them at various locations to reach different target demographics, maximizing your brand’s exposure and engagement. Furthermore, inflatables are durable and weather-resistant, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

One of the most compelling aspects of inflatable advertising is its ability to foster brand engagement. Unlike passive forms of advertising, such as TV commercials or banner ads, inflatables invite interaction and participation from audiences. Whether it’s snapping photos with a larger-than-life mascot or exploring a branded inflatable structure, consumers are more likely to form positive associations with your brand when they have an immersive experience. This experiential aspect of inflatable advertising fosters deeper connections with your target audience, driving brand loyalty and advocacy.

Moreover, inflatable advertising offers excellent return on investment (ROI) for brands of all sizes. Compared to traditional forms of advertising, inflatables typically require a lower upfront investment while delivering higher visibility and engagement. Whether you’re a startup looking to make a splash in the market or an established brand seeking to revitalize your marketing efforts, inflatables offer a cost-effective solution to elevate your brand presence and drive business growth.

In conclusion, harnessing the power of inflatables for advertising presents a myriad of opportunities for brands to stand out in today’s crowded marketplace. From their ability to captivate audiences with their sheer size and novelty to their versatility and practicality, inflatables offer a compelling platform to amplify your brand message and drive meaningful engagement. Whether you’re looking to make a memorable impression at a trade show, festival, or retail space, custom inflatables are sure to leave a lasting impact on your target audience. So why wait? Embrace the power of inflatables and unlock new possibilities for your brand’s success.

Erik ten Hag calls criticism of Man Utd’s win over Coventry ‘a disgrace’

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A furious Erik ten Hag has hit out at the criticism of Manchester United which followed their FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry City, calling it “embarrassing” and a “disgrace”.

United teed up a second successive FA Cup final clash with Manchester City on Sunday, beating Coventry 4-2 on penalties at the end of a classic tie which finished 3-3 after 120 minutes, but pundits and fans have been unforgiving regarding their performance.

The Red Devils squandered a 3-0 lead and were only saved from a humiliating 4-3 defeat by the most marginal of offside calls in the last minute of extra time, as Victor Torp’s potential winner was chalked off.

Read our other Man Utd news stories here:
Mourinho suggests Ten Hag given more trust at Manchester United
Andy Cole and John Terry inducted into Premier League Hall of Fame
‘Not even I would do this’ – Maupay pokes fun at Antony’s FA Cup celebrations

Former United captain Roy Keane said Ten Hag’s players looked “embarrassed to win” the game, adding that the Red Devils’ current team is “hard to like”.

Speaking at a press conference to preview Wednesday’s Premier League game against Sheffield United, Ten Hag hit back at what he perceived as overly negative media coverage.

Asked if there was a hint of embarrassment about the way United beat Coventry, Ten Hag said: “No. Absolutely not.

“You made enough with the question; ‘is it embarrassing?’ No, the reaction from you was embarrassing. It is the comments.

“Top-level football is about results, we made it to a final and we deserved it, not only on this game but also the other games.

“We lost control for 20 minutes, we also had bad luck, then it’s 3-2 and 3-3. We were very lucky in the end, that’s clear.

“Our penalties were very good and we made it to the final, it is a huge achievement. Twice in two years, that is magnificent. For me as a manager, it’s four cup finals in four years.

“The comments are a disgrace.”

Ten Hag was also asked about Antony’s celebrations, after the winger was roundly criticised for cupping his ears to Coventry’s players at the end of the shoot-out.

Former United defender Rio Ferdinand is among those to have taken aim at Antony’s actions, but Ten Hag insists the Brazilian was provoked by Coventry’s players.

“He was provoked, this was a reaction to that. You haven’t seen the provocation, only the reaction. But he should not do it,” Ten Hag said.

“I saw Harry Maguire straight afterwards and the others, we should acknowledge the performance of Coventry and their comeback.

“We totally dominated the game for 70 minutes and at 3-0 the game should have been closed, but to come back from their side was very good.”

‘Not even I would do this’ – Maupay pokes fun at Antony’s FA Cup celebrations

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Neal Maupay has poked fun at Manchester United winger Antony for taunting Coventry City’s players in the aftermath of Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final win, saying: “Not even I would do this”.

United surrendered a 3-0 lead against second-tier opponents at Wembley Stadium and almost lost an incredible tie 4-3 in the dying moments of extra time, only for Victor Torp’s potential winner to be disallowed for offside following a VAR review.

The Red Devils then triumphed 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out, during which Antony – who came on a second-half substitute with United 3-0 up – did not step up to the spot.

Read our other football news stories here:
Euro 2024: Gordon hopes versatility a factor as Southgate prepares to name squad
Wolves planning permanent move for Manchester City loanee Doyle, O’Neil confirms
Mourinho suggests Ten Hag given more trust at Manchester United

While most United players celebrated in a muted fashion following their almighty scare, Antony turned around to the Coventry players and cupped his ears after Rasmus Hojlund scored the winning penalty.

Antony’s celebrations – and United’s overall performance – have attracted widespread criticism, with club legend Roy Keane saying the Red Devils’ current team is “hard to like”.

Brentford striker Maupay waded into the debate on Tuesday, as someone with plenty of form for getting under the skin of opposition players.

Maupay memorably copied James Maddison’s goal celebration after scoring against Tottenham in January, while he was also involved in a heated altercation with Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez earlier this season.

However, he says he would not have gone as far as Antony did.

Replying to a video of the Brazilian’s celebrations on X, formerly known as Twitter, Maupay wrote: “Just for the record, not even I would do this”, with a laughing emoji accompanying his message.

Antony has come in for criticism amid a difficult second campaign at Old Trafford, failing to score a single goal and only supplying one assist in 25 Premier League appearances in 2023-24.

Football Banning Order and £1,000 fine issued for tragedy chanting

A football supporter has been convicted for tragedy chanting during an FA Cup quarter final fixture.

Michael Bernard Avery (44) from Manchester, was charged with section 4a of the Public Order Act 1986 following the Manchester United vs Liverpool FC match at Old Trafford, in March.

Avery pleaded guilty to the offence yesterday at Salford Magistrates Court and received a three-year Football Banning Order (FBO) alongside costs of £85, a victim surcharge of £320 and a fine of £800, reduced due to an early guilty plea.

This was after police investigators carried out enquiries following a video of a man in the home section of the Old Trafford crowd making gestures, that was shared widely on social media.

Other arrests and charges were also made to other supporters relating to pyrotechnics.

Chief inspector Jamie Collins, said: “Following the understandable concern raised online following the video being shared of Avery’s actions, we undertook an investigation into this to ensure justice was brought.

“We are continuing to take a proactive action against those engaged in this type of behaviour, that is intent on causing distress to victims and supporters impacted by terrible football tragedies of the past. Any kind of gesture or comments in relation to tragedy chanting will not be tolerated and is totally unacceptable.”

Editorial credit: Debu55y / Shutterstock.com

Euro 2024: Gordon hopes versatility a factor as Southgate prepares to name England squad

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Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon hopes his versatility might be a major factor working in his favour when Gareth Southgate names his England squad for Euro 2024.

Gordon has enjoyed an impressive first full campaign at St James’ Park, scoring 10 goals and adding eight assists in 30 Premier League appearances as Newcastle chase a top-six finish.

Having helped England win the Under-21 European Championships last year, Gordon was handed his first call-up to the Three Lions’ senior squad in March.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Wolves planning permanent move for Manchester City loanee Doyle, O’Neil confirms
Mourinho suggests Ten Hag given more trust at Manchester United
Andy Cole and John Terry inducted into Premier League Hall of Fame

He started England’s 1-0 friendly defeat to Brazil at Wembley Stadium before coming off the bench in a 2-2 draw against Belgium three days later, heightening speculation that he will go to the Euros.

Speaking to Gary Neville in an appearance on The Overlap, Gordon – who has played on both wings and as a central striker this season – said his versatility might aid his cause.

“Versatility in tournaments is massive,” Gordon said. “The others [Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish] can play across the front line or in midfield, but I feel that I’ve done it a lot this season especially in big games, and I think that matters.

“I’ve played out of position in big games and done well, so I think that matters.‌ Playing as a centre-forward or on the right is out of position for me, the left is probably my main position.

“I’ve played number 10 at times, and I’ve proven in big games that no matter where I play, I can still perform, and having that trust from the manager and the players around me, I think is a massive thing.”

 

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Following complaints from several coaches, UEFA is set to increase squad sizes for this summer’s tournament from 23 players to 26, with an official announcement expected later this week.

That could further boost Gordon’s hopes of travelling to Germany, and the 23-year-old says he felt at home when first joining up with Southgate’s squad last month.

“I felt so comfortable there, and when I got there I thought, ‘this is my level’,” Gordon said. “You have to earn respect, football is an opinion-based sport and nobody will respect you if you don’t earn it.

“I knew I would do well on the pitch, but off the pitch, I was nervous, but the culture they’ve managed to create is so impressive; me, Kobbie [Mainoo] and Jarrod [Bowen] all said the same thing.”

The deadline for Southgate to name his final squad for the Euros is June 7, though he is due to select a preliminary squad on May 21, ahead of pre-tournament friendlies against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland.

 

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Manchester businesses championing region at Europe’s biggest security event

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The largest security event in Europe is making its triumphant return to the NEC this April, with six businesses flying the flag for Manchester at the prestigious show.

Held between April 30 – May 2, The Security Event aims to educate smaller businesses and industry professionals in all forms of security including; public safety, cyber security and creating a safe working environment.

Stockport’s Satsecure, which manufactures alarms, CCTV, access control, anti-intrusion and fire solutions, will be demonstrating the UR Fog Compact 390 which is an innovative piece of security which will fill up to 390 m³ of space with dense fog in just 50 seconds – reducing visibility to less than a metre and effectively disorienting intruders.

Daniel Allen, marketing graphic designer at Satsecure, said: “Attending the Security Event is really important for Satsecure, as it allows us to re-connect with buyers, suppliers, and experts from across the industry. Basing the show in Birmingham makes it easily commutable for us, and we’re thrilled to be standing alongside some of the world’s best and most recognisable brands. The Security Event is the first one we put on the calendar every year, and would recommend all security professionals pay it a visit.

“Our base in the Manchester area is an important location for the business, and we’re proud to be supporting the North West economy, whilst providing the best security solutions for our clients.”

More than 14,000 visitors are expected to attend the three day event, which also offers seminars delivered by security experts, product demonstrations and will host the regional qualifiers of the World Skills competition.

Tristan Norman, group event director of the Nineteen Group, added: “This year sees the show return bigger and better than ever before, but that wouldn’t be possible without our incredible exhibitors. Technology is developing at a rapid rate, so it’s really important that businesses owners, decision makers and end users get the chance to see those advancements in person. We’re thrilled that nearly every region across the UK is represented at the show, with smaller independent businesses getting the chance to rub shoulders with industry giants.

“The future of this sector is incredibly exciting and we have some of the best young talent on display at the World Skills competition. There really hasn’t been a better time to work in security”.

Other businesses from the region include: TYCO, P&R Security Systems Limited, Weststone Limited T.A Cop UK, Digital ID, and Paradox IT Limited.

The Security Event is open to all security professionals working in the commercial and residential market, and students of undergraduate level and above on relevant courses of study are welcome to attend the show.

To register for a FREE ticket, click here.

Duerr’s Foundation funds programme to get Wythenshawe girls into sport

Duerr & Sons has teamed up with not-for-profit Our Goal to help provide sport mentoring for teenage girls who have fallen out of love with physical education.

Our Goal, founded by Ella Williams (pictured), was set up in July 2023 to help empower girls across Greater Manchester with physical education and sports. The organisation offers community football coaching sessions, as well as mentoring programmes in secondary schools.

Starting this month, The Duerr’s Foundation will fund a 12-month ‘Our Goal’ mentoring programme in two Wythenshawe schools – Manchester Enterprise Academy and Dixons Newall Green Academy.

The sweet spreads business donated £4,200 for the two programmes which will help more than 24 girls with one-to-one mentoring and training.

The programme sessions are designed with the girls, based on what they enjoy, so each one is unique; activities can include wellbeing walks, ball games, boxing, yoga, and dance.

Ella, who has previously worked for Manchester City Football Club, believes physical activity can empower women. Her mentoring programmes in schools are already proving to boost engagement at school and even have a positive impact on pupil attendance.

Shemsaid: “At secondary school age girls are going through so many changes in their bodies that P.E. can often highlight, leaving them feeling exposed and insecure, which means they miss lessons or skip school to avoid taking the class. It’s time we changed this narrative and help girls to break down the barriers they face to being physically active.

“The Duerr’s Foundation donation is a huge support; it helps the schools to run the programmes and gets young girls moving. Getting girls active has long-term mental health benefits. It is hugely important we foster this love of physical activity and self-care in young women, as it is something they will carry with them into adulthood.”

The Duerr’s Foundation was set up by the family business in 2019 and supports charities and organisations in the heart of its Wythenshawe community, where the head office and factory are based.

The Duerr’s Foundation is dedicated to giving back to worthy causes, whether through monetary gifting or product donations from its extensive range of jams, marmalades, peanut butters and condiments. The foundation supports youth clubs, schools, charitable causes and community events across the city.

Managing director of the foundation, Richard Duerr, said: “We pride ourselves on being an integral part of the Manchester community and being able to offer our support to organisations and charities that need it.

“Our Goal is an incredible not-for-profit initiative which can really change how girls feel about sport in their formative teenage years, it is great to be involved.”