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Manchester City star De Bruyne happy to be back after taxi stint

Jon Fisher
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Manchester City star De Bruyne happy to be back after taxi stint

Kevin De Bruyne has enjoyed being ‘Dad’s Taxi’ for the past four months but is now ready to contribute on the field as Manchester City look to replicate last season’s treble.

The Belgium playmaker had been sidelined since the opening-day win at Burnley due to a serious hamstring injury but made his long-awaited return to a hero’s reception when he came off the bench in yesterday’s 5-0 FA Cup win over Huddersfield.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Scotland captain Berrington excited to be paired with England at T20 World Cup
Norman appreciated McIlroy “falling on his sword”
Manchester City boss Guardiola cautious over returning trio

De Bruyne has relished his time off – and the sense of normality it afforded him – but is now eager to get back to what he does best.

He told reporters: “To be honest, I enjoyed it in a way

“At the beginning it was a big blow but I knew I was going to be out for four or five months so I thought to myself: I could enjoy the things that I’ve not been able to do with my family and friends. I turned a disadvantage into an advantage.

“When you have three kids between the ages of three and seven, you don’t get time to do a lot.

“I was basically a taxi driver, but I enjoyed it. I worked hard on the side [to stay fit] also.

“It was nice to bring my son and daughter to their practices and see their games. I think they enjoyed that Daddy could watch the games and now it will be harder for the missus and everyone to work around the programme.”

City appear to have overcome a sticky run of results prior to Christmas, and head into Saturday’s trip to Newcastle having banked the FIFA Club World Cup and on a run of five straight wins in all competitions.

De Bruyne added: “They [City] have obviously been alright. After the year we had last year there will be ups and downs but most of the games except for Villa and maybe Wolves we did fairly well. We are where we need to be, but we need to try and continue that.

“I’m happy to be back and I felt good so I’m pleased about that but I’m still nowhere near where I need to be.

“There will be moments where I want to play every game, but I know in the back of my mind I need to take care of myself.

“I don’t expect to be playing too many games and Newcastle next week is a big game so I’ll expect to be back on the bench.”

ESP Play celebrates record-breaking year with 40% growth for £9.1m turnover

Helen Greaney
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ESP Play celebrates record-breaking year with 40% growth for £9.1m turnover

ESP Play, the UK’s leading playground equipment specialist, is starting 2024 on the back of a record-breaking 12 months, after turning over an impressive £9.1m.

This figure represents a remarkable 40% growth from the previous year, having completed work on 712 playgrounds in 2023 versus 579 in 2022.

And for 2024 the business has set an ambitious target of achieving an aspirational 25% growth, with the projection of £12.5m in turnover.

Founded in 2003, ESP Play specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of playground equipment, and is considered the fastest-growing company in the UK play industry.

In addition, they also operate a commercial division, catering for a variety of playground equipment for businesses, housing developers, local authorities and public play areas.

Tremendous success

Andrew Wood, ESP Play’s managing director, said: “2023 was a tremendous success for the company as a whole and for our people. The substantial growth we’ve achieved needs to be attributed to our dedicated team, who not only contribute to the business’s expansion but also thrive on continuous development and achievement.”

ESP Play’s person-centred business model is based on celebrating and rewarding exceptional performance and recognises both individual and collective achievements through a high-performance, high-reward culture.

“The way we acknowledge high performance and nurture and retain top talent is something we are very proud of at ESP Play,” added Andrew. “Professional development, health and wellbeing, and employee engagement play a huge part in our culture and it’s no surprise that our latest HR survey reveals that 100% of staff find their role both exciting and challenging.”

But despite their success and growth, Andrew says there’s still plenty of work to be done in the industry. He said, “Providing appropriate play provision for children with special educational needs is a huge challenge. The demand for SEN support both in and out of the classroom is on the rise yet many don’t have access to the correct outdoor environment. Our goal is to help all children enjoy physical activity with the correct and appropriate equipment.”

Police appeal for information after car and motorbike collision in Oldham

Helen Greaney
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Police appeal for information after car and motorbike collision in Oldham

Police are appealing for information following a serious collision between a car and a motorcycle that left a 23-year-old man in a critical condition.

At around 4.15pm yesterday (Sunday), officers were called to the incident on Whitby Road in Oldham.

It is believed that a motorcycle was travelling south along Whitby Road and collided with a car that was turning into April Close.

Emergency services attended and took the rider (23) to hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

No arrests have been made at this stage. The driver of the vehicle is assisting police with their enquiries.

Officers are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident – or may have dashcam, CCTV or mobile footage from the area at the time of the incident – to share it with officers to assist their enquiries.

Information can be reported to the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting incident number 2066 of 07/01/2024. Reports can also be sent in via www.gmp.police.uk.

NRG Riverside’s Commitment to Employee Well-being

News Desk
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NRG Riverside’s Commitment to Employee Well-being

NRG Riverside, a prominent advocate for employee well-being, has achieved a remarkable feat. Recently, the organisation proudly commemorated the successful culmination of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training program for ten of its committed team members, facilitated by Cheshire First Aid. This noteworthy endeavour signifies a substantial advancement in NRG Riverside’s commitment to mental health, bolstering its team of MHFA-certified experts to an impressive total of 24.

The Rise of MHFA-Certified Professionals

The MHFA training program at NRG Riverside has thrived under the expert guidance of Simon Osbourne, a highly regarded First Aid Instructor at Cheshire First Aid. Simon’s extensive knowledge and unwavering commitment have played a crucial role in equipping the team with indispensable skills. He expresses his gratitude towards the MHFAiders, acknowledging their dedication and stating, “Facilitating the Mental Health First Aid courses for NRG Riverside is a privilege. With a team of 24 MHFAiders, we are well-prepared to provide comprehensive support within the organisation.” This statement emphasises the significant contribution these professionals make in fostering a supportive work environment.

The Crucial Role of MHFAiders in Workplace Well-being

MHFAiders play a crucial role in cultivating a safe and compassionate work environment. Through their attentive listening and guidance towards relevant resources, they establish themselves as reliable sources of support. Simon Osbourne’s statement reinforces this notion, emphasising the significance of self-care as the foundation for assisting others. It encourages individuals to prioritise their well-being, remain authentic, and maintain open lines of communication. This perspective highlights the essentiality of self-care in upholding a positive and thriving workplace.

NRG Riverside’s Ethos

NRG Riverside places great importance on creating a nurturing and compassionate atmosphere, which goes beyond being a mere policy and is deeply ingrained as a fundamental value. The organisation is fully dedicated to ensuring that every member of the team feels empowered and supported, particularly during difficult periods. By expanding its team of MHFA-certified individuals, NRG Riverside has significantly strengthened its ability to provide essential mental health support. This initiative serves as a clear demonstration of the organisation’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a work environment that places employee well-being at the forefront.

United in Fostering Resilience and Empathy

NRG Riverside’s commitment to fostering a supportive work environment extends far beyond mere words. It is a tangible dedication that is evident in the organisation’s ongoing endeavours to cultivate a culture of compassion, understanding, and strength. The addition of an expanded team of MHFA-certified experts serves as a clear testament to NRG Riverside’s proactive stance on prioritising the mental well-being of its employees.

NRG Riverside’s dedication to placing employee well-being at the forefront through the MHFA training program serves as an exemplary model for other companies. It emphasises the vital significance of mental health assistance within the workplace and establishes a standard for nurturing a culture of compassion and concern. As eloquently expressed by Simon Osbourne, it is unreasonable to expect individuals to manage on their own. In line with this ethos, NRG Riverside remains at the forefront of supporting its staff, demonstrating that a thriving work environment is undeniably fundamental to achieving organisational triumph.

How to pick the best UK SEO agency for you

Helen Greaney
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How to pick the best UK SEO agency for you

When looking for the right SEO agency for your business in the UK, you need to make a good choice. After all, this is going beyond a return of your investment.

A great SEO agency can be the difference in business growth or failure in a long term, organic manner. So let’s look into what you can do to make this choice easier for you and find the right people to work with. 

Some things you should check beforehand

Here’s what to consider while you’re in the early stages of vetting an agency. 

  •   Check their reputation by looking at independent reviews that can’t be altered by the company. 
  •     The website should already contain case studies from prior clients and have testimonials, but if you want more you should be comfortable to ask as needed. 
  •     Make sure they’re up to date with the latest search engine algorithm changes on the market. 
  •     Ask about their experience with businesses in your area and if they can’t give you this immediately it’s a red flag. 
  •     They should be frank about their pricing structure so you know just from the website itself if it’s going to work for your individual needs. 
  •     Make sure that practices are in place to learn more about your industry if they haven’t worked with clients in your niche before. 
  •     See how they communicate with clients and make sure their mode of communications works with your preferences. 
  •     Don’t buy into immediate results or magical solutions, these are red flags If mentioned on a business’s website. 
  •     Be aware of hidden costs that are lurking in the fine print or somewhere you haven’t considered looking. 

Avoid these common mistakes to find the right people

Skipping research

It might feel like a waste of time, but looking into a company is one of the best ways to find out more about them, and most of this information shouldn’t come from the company themselves. You need to see what their past clients, current clients and even what their business partners are saying about them. This will prevent you from finding a person who isn’t a good fit for your business. 

Forgetting your goals

It’s so easy to get swept up in the bells and whistles of SEO that you forget what your original reason for engaging in digital marketing even was. You need to keep your goals on the forefront so that your campaign has something to work towards and this way you’re more likely to see more direct success.

Choosing the cheapest 

We all want to save money through business operations, but SEO isn’t the place to cut corners. Of course, you should stick to your budget, but that doesn’t mean going for the very cheapest options. This can be a mistake as it leads to you getting lesser quality work overall, and this is the opposite of what you want. 

Ignoring red flags

If something seems too good to be true, it’s because it usually is. So, trust your gut, take red flags seriously and if you have to, it’s better to hold out and find someone you trust rather than settling for someone who’s second best.

Not asking enough questions

If you don’t ask questions, you won’t find any answers, so don’t feel awkward about picking the agency’s brain about what they’re processes are, what their company goals are, how they intend to communicate with you, when they generate reports. These questions are all valid and if they don’t want to answer your questions it’s a red flag. 

Choose the best in the business

When you want to find the best SEO agency in the UK, you should skip the effort and just go for Perfect Link Building, an award-winning global SEO agency who can help you grow in ways you’ve never considered before.  

Check out the UK SEO providers page here and see what they have to offer in terms of robust SEO processes for UK businesses of all sizes. What are you waiting for, get in contact with them now! 

 

 

Arighi Bianchi’s Anniversary Year Begins with Record-Breaking January Sale and Store-Wide Superdeals

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Arighi Bianchi’s Anniversary Year Begins with Record-Breaking January Sale and Store-Wide Superdeals

Celebrating 170 years of excellence, Arighi Bianchi, a prestigious luxury furnishings retailer in the North West, based in Macclesfield, launches its largest annual sale. The event features discounts of up to 30% on an array of items, including furniture, mattresses, rugs, and designer accessories, accessible both in-store and online.

This exceptional sale marks the commencement of a year-long series of celebratory events for Arighi Bianchi’s 170th anniversary. As part of the celebrations, the store introduces special “Superdeals” available for the duration of the sale, concluding on 26th February. These exclusive discounts are limited and subject to stock availability.

For those updating their homes with the latest furniture designs and modern accessories in 2024, Arighi Bianchi’s Winter sale presents a not-to-be-missed opportunity, offering substantial store-wide discounts.

The retailer’s iconic five-floor store, which also houses an exquisite, newly refurbished Café Bar, has established Arighi Bianchi as a premier shopping destination. Customers can also shop online, enjoying convenient delivery and financing options.

January Sale Highlights at Arighi Bianchi:

  • Furniture Selection: A vast array of luxurious furniture for every space, including 20% off on contemporary curved bouclé sofas, popular velvet couches, and classic Chesterfields, all featured in the newly designed ground floor showroom.
  • Dining Room Specials: A broad selection of dining table sets with up to 30% off on top-tier brands such as Cattelan Italia, Calligaris, and Ercol.

Designer Accessories at Discounted Prices:

  • A range of unique and stylish home accessories, featuring products from Jonathan Adler, Le Creuset, and exclusive, fun decorative speakers.

Affordable Luxurious Touches:

  • Up to 30% off on a selection of rugs, cushions, throws, coffee tables, sideboards, and other home essentials.

Bedroom Essentials:

  • A diverse range of bed frames, top-brand mattresses like Tempur, Emma, ViSpring, and Hypnos, and bedroom furniture, all available with delivery and installation by Arighi Bianchi’s dedicated team.

Arighi Bianchi is celebrated for its exceptional, 5* Trustpilot-rated service, a testament to its reputation as a furniture retail leader for 170 years.

The Winter sale can be experienced at the Macclesfield store in Cheshire or online at www.arighibianchi.co.uk.

How Digital Marketing Contributes to Business Development: PRNEWS.IO and AWEB Announce Partnership

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How Digital Marketing Contributes to Business Development: PRNEWS.IO and AWEB Announce Partnership

Almost 6 billion people around the world are Internet users. This number is growing every day as the internet has become an integral part of our lives. With this widespread influence, businesses are increasingly recognizing the need to bolster their online footprint.

Yet, for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of managing an online enterprise, navigating this terrain can prove challenging. To assist with this, there are specialized companies that offer a range of services to enhance a business’ position. Among these are PRNEWS.IO, a content marketing platform, and AWEB, a digital marketing agency, whose recent collaboration has garnered attention. They’re linked by the PRNEWS.IO Rewards Program, ensuring special perks just for their clients.

These collaborations aren’t just about announcements; they’re about real advantages. Partnering with these entities equips freelancers, small enterprises, and larger corporations alike with the tools necessary to establish and expand their online presence.

What services does the content marketing platform PRNEWS.IO provide?

It is the world’s first online store for sponsored content. The company specializes in placing a variety of materials (from press releases and news to columns and advertisements) on many websites and information platforms worldwide.

The PRNEWS.IO team analyses the client’s audience and helps to select the perfect tools and content for that audience. Additionally, PRNEWS.IO offers fixed and affordable prices, a user-friendly interface, and online customer support.

What services does the digital marketing agency AWEB provide?

The Ukrainian-Polish company specializes in website promotion, helping to increase the number of new clients from search engines and optimize advertising budgets.

To achieve this, AWEB`s certified specialists conduct SEO audits, and optimize web pages according to Google requirements. Their work is aimed at increasing targeted traffic (both organic and paid) from the Google search engine using keywords suitable for the client’s business.

Additionally, the company’s experts set up and optimize contextual advertising, improve conversion rates, manage social media campaigns, and create lead-generation ads that do not require a website visit. A unique service offered is the suppression of negative reviews about a company or individual from search results.

AWEB is a certified Google premium partner and boasts over 17 years of experience in SEO and PPC (Pay-Per-Click) advertising.

What are the advantages of conducting business online?

The World Wide Web provides businesses the opportunity to reach a wider target audience and promote their products or services beyond their geographical location. This enables companies to engage in online sales and e-commerce. Online platforms, virtual stores, and marketplaces are instrumental in this regard.

To improve their position and interact with customers, businesses can collect information about potential clients online, analyze it, and tailor their products and marketing strategies to enhance effectiveness.

Online advertising and web marketing help adapt strategies to meet the potential customers’ needs. Here, businesses will need SEO, contextual advertising, social media engagement, etc.

The online component of a business allows for improved interaction with customers through social media, various online chats, and online support services. This enables quick and efficient resolution of user issues and gathering feedback.

Additionally, businesses benefit from reduced expenses on paper documentation and time savings.

“Nowadays, you can’t find a successful company that isn’t present online. Businesses have their websites, mobile applications, or at least social media pages. The World Wide Web opens up borders, fostering business growth and development. And, by partnering with the digital marketing agency AWEB, we strive to help businesses do this as effectively and productively as possible,” said Alexander Storozhuk, a member of the Forbes Business Council and founder of the PRNEWS.IO platform.

What bonus have PRNEWS.IO and AWEB prepared for their clients?

The content marketing platform PRNEWS.IO has prepared a special offer for all AWEB clients, a two-month free access to the PRO version of its catalog, a benefit valued at $200.

To enhance the partnership further, AWEB offers all PRNEWS.IO’s users a free session to identify the right marketing tools to grow their businesses.

“We are pleased to extend an invitation for a consultation with our experts through the PRNEWS.IO Rewards Program! I am confident that the PRNEWS.IO audience will appreciate our professionalism and will be satisfied. Let’s do business!” said Maxim Levchuk, COO of AWEB.

More information regarding the Rewards Program, including its terms and conditions, can be found in the dedicated PRNEWS.IO’s Rewards section.

About AWEB

AWEB is a Ukrainian-Polish Digital Marketing Agency with a focus on SEO and PPC, offering over 17 years of experience in the field. As a Certified Premium Google Partner, the agency aims to assist entrepreneurs in understanding the impact of Internet marketing on business growth. AWEB provides professional and customized digital marketing solutions, emphasizing the practical aspects of online marketing strategies.

About PRNEWS.IO

PRNEWS.IO simplifies the seamless sharing of news and stories between companies and journalists, bloggers, and media outlets worldwide. Through its on-demand content marketing platform, businesses can directly purchase slots for their native format articles on over 100,000 reputable news websites across 198 countries, with no hiring process or long-term commitments.

Gateway to Malaysia: Step-by-step process for a tourist visa application from Bangladesh

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Gateway to Malaysia: Step-by-step process for a tourist visa application from Bangladesh

Malaysia, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and modern attractions, is a sought-after destination for travellers around the world.

If you’re a tourist visa Malaysia from Bangladesh citizen eager to explore the beauty of Malaysia, you’ll need to follow a straightforward process to obtain a tourist visa.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application.

Step 1: Determine the type of visa you need

Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to determine the type of visa that suits your travel plans. For a short-term visit, the tourist visa is the most appropriate option. Make sure you have a clear
understanding of the purpose and duration of your stay to choose the correct visa type.

Step 2: Prepare required documents

Once you’ve identified the type of visa you need, gather all the necessary documents for your application. Typically, the following documents are required:
a. Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Malaysia.
b. Visa application form: Complete the visa application form accurately and legibly. You can download
the form from the official website of the High Commission of Malaysia.
c. Passport-sized photographs: Attach recent passport-sized photographs with a white background
according to the specifications provided in the application form.
d. Flight itinerary: Provide a copy of your round-trip flight reservation to and from Malaysia.
e. Hotel reservation: Include proof of your accommodation arrangements for the entire duration of your
stay in Malaysia.
f. Financial proof: Demonstrate your ability to cover the costs of your trip by providing bank statements for the last six months and a letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and duration of employment.
g. Travel itinerary: Outline your travel plans within Malaysia, including the places you intend to visit and activities you plan to engage in.
h. Travel insurance: Obtain travel insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Malaysia, covering medical emergencies and repatriation.

It’s essential to double-check the specific requirements, as they may be subject to change. Visit the official website of the High Commission of Malaysia for the most up-to-date information.

Step 3: Visit the High Commission of Malaysia

With all your documents in order, visit the High Commission of Malaysia in Dhaka, Bangladesh, to submit your visa application.

Be sure to check the office hours and any public holidays that might affect your
visit. Upon arrival, submit your application form and all required documents to the visa section.

Step 4: Pay the visa fee

Pay the applicable visa fee at the designated payment counter. The fee may vary based on the type and duration of the visa. Ensure you have the exact amount in the local currency or as specified by the High Commission.

Step 5: Collect the visa receipt

After submitting your application and paying the fee, you will receive a receipt confirming your application. Keep this receipt safe, as you’ll need it to collect your passport once the visa is processed.

Step 6: Wait for processing

The visa processing time can vary, so be patient. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any unforeseen delays Biman Bangladesh Airlines. You can check the status of your application online or by contacting the High Commission.

Step 7: Collect your passport

Once your visa is approved, return to the High Commission of Malaysia to collect your passport. Ensure all the details on the visa sticker are accurate and match the information on your application.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to Malaysia is an exciting prospect, and obtaining a tourist visa is a crucial step in making that dream a reality. By following this step-by-step guide, Bangladeshi citizens can navigate the visa application process with ease. Remember to stay informed, plan ahead, and adhere to the requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in Malaysia. Safe travels!

Editorial credit: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com

Search continues for missing Timperley man

Helen Greaney
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Search continues for missing Timperley man

Police are still searching for missing Anthony Williamson (62) from Timperley who went missing before Christmas.

The last known sighting of Tony is in CCTV footage walking down Greenway towards Park Road in Timperley at 11.12am on Tuesday, December 19.

In this footage, he is wearing blue cargo pants, a blue Berghaus fleece and a black coat. Tony is 6 feet 1 inch tall and was carrying a backpack at the time he went missing.

Detectives and specialist resources have been deployed since the report; however, following detailed local searches and enquires Tony remains missing.

Family liaison officers are in place to support Tony’s family at this difficult time.

Detective inspector Paul Costello said: “Our investigation into Tony’s disappearance remains active and fulsome.

“We have been conducting thorough searches of the areas Tony was last seen, as well as areas he is known to frequent and enjoy.

“As well as expert search officers and high visibility patrols, resources from our Specialist Operations branch, such as our police dogs, underwater search and drone teams have been assisting to ensure every enquiry is explored, as with any high risk missing person investigation.

“We understand that this time has been and continues to be incredibly difficult for the family, and we continue to provide them with specialist support whilst the investigation continues.

“We would continue to appeal for the public to share our appeals, and share any information, no matter how small, with us, if you believe you have seen or know where Tony is.”

If anyone has information regarding Tony’s whereabouts, they can contact GMP on 101 or by using the report tool and LiveChat function on the Greater Manchester Police website, quoting log 1367 of 19/12/2023.

AGI Technology Unveils Revolutionary 2TB microSD Card in Global First

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AGI Technology Unveils Revolutionary 2TB microSD Card in Global First

As the year 2023 draws to a close, AGI Technology, a renowned storage brand from Taiwan, is set to revolutionise the storage product industry with a groundbreaking launch. They are introducing the world’s highest capacity microSD card, the Supreme Pro TF138 2TB microSD card, a perfect blend of efficiency and extraordinary capacity.

The Supreme Pro TF138 2TB is a pioneering product from AGI Technology, being the world’s first microSD card to boast a 2TB capacity. It features advanced specifications such as UHS-I U3 V30 A2, supporting 4K UHD video recording and enhanced app performance. The card integrates the latest SA3309 controller model from StorArt, providing stable and rapid read-write speeds. Using AGI’s bespoke card reader, it achieves remarkable transfer speeds up to 170MB/s read and 160MB/s write, exceeding UHS-I limits.

This 2TB memory card addresses the increasing digital storage needs, making it ideal for advanced handheld gaming, iPhone 15 external use, and high-resolution recording on Android smartphones.

AGI Technology continues to lead the way in digital storage innovation, with this mass-produced 2TB microSD memory card reinforcing their position in the global storage market.

Specifications of the Supreme Pro TF138:

  • Standard: SD6.1
  • Speed Classification: UHS-I U3 / V30 / A2
  • Capacity: 2TB
  • Speed: Up to 170/160 MB/s read/write speeds with specialised card reader.

For more information or to make a purchase in the United Kingdom, visit AGI Technology’s official site at www.agi-gear.com or contact [email protected].

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