Plates4Less has introduced its latest Christmas Gift Guide, aimed at helping consumers pick personalised presents with lasting value. Highlighted within the guide is the rising trend of gifting private number plates, which now represent around 40 per cent of all purchases made through the company.
The guide offers practical advice on choosing the perfect plate, providing tips on style, emotional significance and budget. It also explains how registrations can be bought as gifts even when the recipient’s vehicle information is not yet available, making them ideal for concealed surprises or last-minute choices.
The guide showcases multiple presentation options, such as free printable certificates and premium, ready-to-wrap versions. Shoppers can also include physical plates, and many select the Done For You Transfer Service to guarantee a smooth transition when the recipient decides to assign the registration.
Backed by more than twenty-five thousand five-star reviews, Plates4Less is widely regarded as the UK’s most reliable registration specialist. The new guide is designed to help customers choose presents with personal meaning that can appreciate in value over time.
“Everybody has the power to shape their own destiny. I think it just comes down to who wants it the most.”
Entrepreneur and former close-protection specialist Ian Rutherford, originally from Blyth, has unveiled his first book, the autobiography ‘Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth.’
Detailing his rise from modest beginnings on council estates to building a multimillion-pound global operation, the book is a compelling account of resilience, aspiration, and the belief that second chances can change everything.
The self-published memoir, now on sale via Amazon in paperback, captures Ian’s remarkable story of overcoming setbacks through determination and hard work.
His relentless drive eventually led him into high-level personal protection, where he became a trusted bodyguard to major international figures, including former U.S. President George W. Bush.
“I have faced my fair share of challenges over the years but that’s just part of life’s journey,” said Ian. “You take the hits when they come your way. You keep pushing forward and eventually through all the trials you discover your true purpose.”
Ian Rutherford, Close Personal Protection Officer and Former U.S. President George W. Bush
In his autobiography, Ian shares his incredible rags-to-riches story and the personal stories that shaped who he is today, from his humble beginnings as an unemployed man in a small town to navigating the high-stakes world of international security.
He offers insights into the demands of his profession, the rigorous training he undertook, and the invaluable lessons he learned throughout his career.
Following his time in protective services, Ian successfully established a multimillion-pound security organisation, earning respect in the industry for its innovative practices and exceptional commitment to safety.
His unique path led him to collaborate with a former president of the United States, an experience that not only broadened his horizons but also provided him with invaluable insights into leadership and service on a global scale.
Moreover, his career took him into the critical realm of counter-terrorism training, where he operated in diverse locations around the world.
This multifaceted background underscores the impressive breadth and depth of his professional endeavours, highlighting not only his adaptability but also his commitment to making a significant impact on global security.
Among the deeply personal recollections included in the biography is a moving account of the 1989 Kegworth air disaster.
Rutherford’s then-girlfriend was due to be on the ill-fated flight, which tragically crashed and claimed 47 lives.
The event profoundly shaped his outlook, instilling a deep appreciation for resilience and purpose that would later guide his life and work.
By the mid-1990s, he had established one of London’s largest security companies. Yet, success was not without hardship, including being falsely implicated in a serious firearms case that nearly derailed his life. His eventual vindication became a turning point, reinforcing his determination.
In the years that followed, Ian’s work took him to some of the world’s most high-profile environments.
In 1999, he served as a bodyguard during U.S. President George W. Bush’s four-day visit to Monaco, an experience that included moments of high tension, such as being detained at gunpoint and managing security during critical diplomatic movements.
Bagley’s, King’s Cross, known as ‘London’s rave temple’, operated between the 1990s and 2000s.
After early stints in London’s security industry, Ian’s career took a defining turn when he joined Walkabout Inns under the mentorship of Michael, the organisation’s chairman.
Recognised for his discipline and leadership, Ian’s company quickly rose through the ranks, eventually managing security operations across the UK for nearly two decades.
At London’s legendary Bagleys Nightclub in King’s Cross, Rutherford oversaw operations at Britain’s largest dance venue, managing crowds of up to 5,000 people over each weekend for nearly a decade. The tragic murder of a team member underscored the dangers and gravity of his profession.
From a young man searching for his place in the world to becoming a globally recognised figure in counter-terrorism and intelligence training, his remarkable journey underscores the power of perseverance and courage.
Starting from modest beginnings, he faced numerous obstacles but refused to give in to adversity. His determination led him to acquire critical skills that would ultimately shape his career.
Later, Ian took on pivotal roles in major international security projects. During the London 2012 Olympic Games, his company delivered counter-terrorism training programmes to thousands of security personnel at the Olympics, and in Rio 2016, he worked with a Brazilian security contractor to deliver operational counter terrorism programmes.
He was widely esteemed for his profound expertise, particularly following his extensive endeavours in the Middle East region.
There, he adeptly collaborated with a diverse array of government agencies, forging partnerships that led to significant advancements in security protocols.
Over the course of his illustrious 30-year career in the security sector, his remarkable contributions have not only transformed his own career but have also positively impacted countless other individual careers, leaving a lasting imprint.
“Everybody has the power to shape their own destiny. I think it just comes down to who wants it the most.” Added Ian.
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your aunty… the woman who spoils you, sends slightly chaotic birthday texts, and always has snacks in her bag “just in case”?
You’ve come to the right place. Whether she’s the glam aunty, the cosy-home aunt, or the one who insists she “doesn’t need anything,” this guide is packed with gifts guaranteed to make her smile or proudly say, “Oh, you shouldn’t have!” (even though you absolutely should).
Here’s some help to find something fabulous!
Something special to drink
If she likes a tipple, how about a Bellamie cherry liqueur? Bellamie® is an elegant apéritif inspired by the French ‘Guignolet’ liqueur and its signature ripe cherry flavour.
Enhanced by a touch of cognac, cherry blossom, and the delicate bitterness of cherry and apricot stones, Bellamie reveals layers of bright red fruit, marzipan, and sweet spice – a lower-ABVcherry apéritif that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced.
For a luxurious spritzer simply add to prosecco and soda water with a sprig of rosemary for the festive feel.
Delight her with a beautiful hamper packed with luxurious wellbeing treats. From pampering biodegradable face masks, to natural aromatherapy candles, delicious fairtrade dark chocolate mini-bars, and luxury plastic-free Christmas tea temples, this extra special gift box allows her to enjoy some well-deserved “me-time.”
A Christmas gift for all year round with Racing Club
Give her the special thrill of becoming a racehorse owner with Racing Club!
For as little as £25, she’ll receive a share in a horse and step into the exciting world of racing. From the moment she opens her welcome pack, mum will enjoy regular updates on her horse’s training, progress, and race days… and even receive a share of any prize money.
Owners can apply for exclusive race day badges, enjoy luxury hospitality at venues like Newbury, and enter ballots for stable visits to meet trainers, jockeys, and their horse.
Each share includes full syndicate benefits, and Racing Club merchandise or gift cards let her celebrate or choose their own horse to support.
For some rather different offerings in the perfume world, how about these vegan-friendly scents. If she loves seeking our niche new smells and unleashing new powers, The Society of Alchemists is the place.
This luxurious EDP (The Auryn) comes in a black bottle with a velvet-lined luxury box. Scents change while you’re wearing them but generally the vibe was bergamot as a strong top note, interjected with some rose, violet and patchouli with some underlying vanilla tones.
Handmade in the UK using sustainable soya wax, the Yorkshire Rhubarb scented Candle is vegan, cruelty-free and free from synthetic fragrances. The tin is also recyclable.
Manufactured using solar power, the Yorkshire rhubarb fragrance emulates the sweet, tangy scent of Yorkshire rhubarb and was created in homage to Bio-D’s Yorkshire roots..
The Baby Brighton Retro Style Portable Radio is where timeless design meets modern function. Available in elegant grey or black, this compact piece echoes the sophistication of mid-century style, with smooth curves, chrome detailing, and a minimalist silhouette that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current.
Don’t let its vintage charm fool you — behind the classic exterior lies reliable AM/FM analogue tuning, a built-in rechargeable battery for seamless portability, and an auxiliary input for playing her own music with ease.
A Stockport insolvency expert has outlined what businesses need to know in the wake of this week’s Budget.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves finally delivered her much-anticipated financial statement on Wednesday after months of speculation – and it’s brought a mixed picture for those across the region.
Insolvency practitioner Molly Monks, founder of Bramhall-based Parker Walsh, has supported hundreds of businesses in times of financial distress.
And she’s shared her advice on what business owners should be aware of so they can efficiently reassess their strategies.
Capital Gains Tax
One significant shift relates to Capital Gains Tax relief for Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) – historically one of the most tax-efficient ways to sell or implement succession plans.
Mrs Monks said: “For business owners planning succession or looking at disposal routes, this move narrows one of the most tax-efficient exit mechanisms.
“It suggests the government is increasingly willing to revisit long-standing CGT reliefs, and that inevitably prompts directors to reassess their timelines.”
Combined with the planned rise in Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) from 10% to 14% in April 2026, owners may now consider accelerating restructuring or Members’ Voluntary Liquidations to maximise current reliefs.
Business rates
The chancellor also announced major reforms to business rates – a move positioned as a boost for high-street operators and frontline sectors grappling with cost pressures.
Mrs Monks said: “High business rates are one of the main concerns for SME owners, so this announcement will be welcome news – but for those with properties above the £500,000 limit the policy could see them struggle to pay the bills.”
Smaller high-street businesses may feel genuine support, but larger premises could face cost increases.
Minimum wage increases
The Budget confirmed a rise in the National Living Wage, which is set to increase staffing costs across labour-intensive sectors such as retail, hospitality, care and logistics.
“For small businesses already under pressure from higher energy and borrowing costs, this may require rethinking pricing, staffing models, and productivity strategies to protect margins,” said Mrs Monks.
Uncertain future tax policies
Reeves’ selective tightening of reliefs – especially around business disposals – has created a sense of uncertainty about what may come next.
“Businesses may hold off long-term investment until there is clarity on future CGT policy, potential corporate tax adjustments, and further changes to reliefs,” Mrs Monks explained. “This could impact expansion, dealmaking and long-term planning.
“If you rely heavily on investors, you might need to look at other streams of revenue.”
Frozen tax thresholds
Choosing to freeze tax and National Insurance thresholds for three years means more employees will be pushed into paying income tax as wages increase.
Mrs Monks said: “Employers will feel increased payroll pressure. Employers will feel they are taking home less and this can cause complications with recruitment and retention, which can cost businesses.”
Kubicle, a world-leading provider of B2B training in data, tech and AI, has warned businesses globally that urgent upskilling is required to keep pace with the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence. According to Kubicle, many teams still lack basic digital competencies, with difficulties evident even in routine tools like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
The warning accompanies Kubicle’s new research on organisational AI and data readiness, which reveals substantial capability gaps at a time when competition for digitally skilled employees is reaching record levels. Below, we explore the AI deficiencies Kubicle has identified and the main drivers behind these challenges.
The International Race for AI and Data Proficiency
Through their research of Google search interest in data and AI literacy related terms like ‘chatgpt training’, ‘ai courses’ and ‘how to improve data literacy’ across the western countries with the highest English-speaking populations, and comparing the results to each country’s population, Kubicle can reveal that the most upskill-eager country is…
Rank | Country | Score 1 | Ireland | 1.14 2 | Australia | 0.91 3 | United Kingdom | 0.78 4 | United States | 0.29 5 | Netherlands | 0.28 6 | Germany | 0.23 7 | Canada | 0.17 8 | Spain | 0.11 9 | Sweden | 0.10 10 | France | 0.09
When asked about the results, Mark Henderson, Chief Executive Officer of Kubicle, said: “The findings highlight where the global workforce is most actively future proofing their skills. Ireland’s leading position reflects a national focus on digital readiness, while countries like Australia, the UK and the US continue to drive enterprise adoption of AI and analytics.”
What IT Skills are Learners Looking to Excel In?
By assessing subject completion data across their broad range of courses, Kubicle can reveal that the following subjects have been the most in demand between 2020-2025:
When asked about their skills shortage data, Marksaid: “Our own data shows that many organisations are lacking essential digital competencies, particularly across core tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Word. These are not niche skills; they form the foundation of effective digital communication and analysis. At the same time, we’re seeing a notable surge in demand for training in emerging areas like AI Fundamentals, signalling that businesses are actively seeking to build future-ready capabilities. Closing the gap in baseline IT proficiency must be a priority if organisations are to fully capitalise on new technologies and maintain competitive advantage.”
Elsewhere, by comparing their Fastest Growing Subjects (2020–2022 vs 2023–2025), Kubicle can reveal:
A 960% growth in the uptake of AI Fundamentals.
A 124% growth in Data Literacy.
A 27% uptake in their Power BI subject, Microsoft’s interactive data visualisation software.
Mark says that these results further back up the international eagerness for AI and data learning.
How the Data Was Gathered
Kubicle gathered information for this insightful release by assessing their own course subject completions and the World Population Review. Kubicle also researched which English-speaking countries ranked highest for IT subject interest, including Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, while the terms included ‘excel courses’, ‘chatgpt training’ and ‘how to improve data literacy’.
J&K Ross, based in Warrington and known for its specialist PPE and workwear solutions, has broadened its product portfolio with the introduction of a dedicated Cleaning and Hygiene range. This new addition complements its core PPE offering, giving customers access to a full suite of workplace protection solutions.
The decision to expand reflects the firm’s belief that safety is shaped not only by what employees wear but also by the environment in which they work. Maintaining clean, hygienic and well-managed spaces is essential for supporting health, confidence and performance across busy operational settings.
The new range is divided into four key areas: paper, cleaning, wipes and skincare. Paper includes workplace staples such as hand towels, hygiene roll and blue roll. Cleaning features essential products like floor and surface cleaners, bleaches, premium washing-up liquids and degreasers. Wipes covers industrial, disinfectant and hand wipes for fast and efficient cleaning across tools, machinery and shared workstations. Skincare includes hand cleaning solutions, protective skin products and sun protection.
The range features reputable brands including Espro, Kimberley Clark, Lucart, SC Johnson Professional and Dirteeze, selected for their market-trusted performance and suitability for professional environments.
Launching the new range, Neil Wilcock, Managing Director at J&K Ross, commented: “For over forty years, our focus has been keeping people safe at work. This new range extends that commitment. By bringing cleaning, hygiene and PPE together under one supplier, we’re helping organisations simplify ordering, streamline deliveries and maintain high standards of safety across every part of their workplace.”
The Cleaning and Hygiene line strengthens J&K Ross’s extensive PPE and workwear collection, which covers safety boots, high-vis clothing, gloves, goggles, trousers, vests and specialist maternity wear.
Customers can expect personalised service, expert advice and fast nationwide delivery, provided by a knowledgeable team experienced in the demands of real working environments.
Organisations looking to access the new range or request a introductory discount can contact J&K Ross on 01925 645645 or visit the website.
British entrepreneur and financial commentator Rio Kavanagh has released The Commodity Strategist, a succinct guide that equips readers with strategic insight into the increasingly important world of commodity markets.
Against the backdrop of higher inflation and geopolitical volatility, the book invites readers to rethink traditional investment habits and consider the long-term advantages of strategies rooted in real, essential resources.
“Most people are playing the wrong game,” said Rio Kavanagh. “They’re gambling on hype instead of positioning themselves in markets with real, tangible value. Commodities are the backbone of the global economy and understanding them is the difference between reacting to chaos and profiting from it.”
Kavanagh outlines the frameworks used by leading commodity experts, including cycle analysis, market imbalance identification, asymmetric positioning, and disciplined action when conditions shift.
Unlike generic financial motivation books, The Commodity Strategist offers direct, applicable advice aimed at entrepreneurs, self-directed investors and ambitious individuals looking for reliable, strategic methods rather than hype-driven narratives.
Drawing from both competitive sport and market strategy, Kavanagh explains how the mindset required for athletic performance under pressure translates naturally into the fast-paced reality of financial decision-making, underscoring discipline and independence.
“We’re entering a new age where average thinking is punished,” Kavanagh added. “This book exists to create people who think sharper, move faster, and operate with real strategy — not hope.”
The book targets readers who are serious about building wealth grounded in discipline and strategy, those who want to avoid speculation, individuals focused on leverage and long-term thinking, and anyone who sees uncertainty as a strategic advantage.
Rio Kavanagh — The Commodity Strategist is now available through major bookstores and online retailers.
A new survey by Jitty has revealed that more than a quarter of Brits (28%) have admitted that they browse property sites just to see inside their neighbours’ homes, confirming the UK’s favourite guilty pleasure is having a good old nose around other people’s houses.
Regionally, the nation’s biggest nosey neighbours are found in the North East and South West (both 36%), followed closely by the South East (35%).
Other hotspots for neighbourly snooping include the East of England (31%), Yorkshire and the Humber (30%) and Wales (29%). London (24%) and the West Midlands (24%) sit nearer the bottom of the list, while Northern Ireland (19%) is the least nosey region of all.
The poll* of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by Jitty, the UK’s AI-driven property portal, shows that property browsing has become a major national pastime, with people using it not just to find homes, but for entertainment, curiosity and escapism. While 25 percent say they browse homes ‘purely out of nosiness’, 27 percent do it to figure out what they might one day be able to afford, even if they have no plans to move.
This “home browsing culture” goes well beyond checking prices. Brits say the first things they notice in a listing are the interior styling (41%), the character of the building (38%), and the layout (33%) – indicating people are treating the property market more like Pinterest than a postcode search.
Three in ten people (30%) regularly share property links with friends and family on WhatsApp, and 25 percent enjoy receiving surprise listings from others, turning property browsing into a shared form of entertainment. Many say the activity makes them feel excited (31%), inspired (23%) or motivated (20%), with far fewer associating it with stress or pressure.
But the research also highlights a deep frustration with the limitations of traditional property websites. Over a third of Brits (35%) say they wish searching for homes felt more intuitive, while 26% say they routinely end up looking at properties far outside their intended criteria – a sign that static filters and clunky interfaces haven’t kept pace with how people actually browse.
Graham Paterson, CEO and co-founder of Jitty, said: “The fact that so many people are peeking inside their neighbours’ homes tells you everything you need to know about how Britain feels about property – it fascinates us, it entertains us, and it connects us. But it also shows why traditional search tools don’t cut it anymore. People don’t think in filters; they think in feelings, styles and lifestyles. AI finally bridges that gap by letting you describe exactly what you imagine – and instantly seeing homes that match. That’s the future people clearly want.”
The findings come as Jitty continues its rapid growth, on track to exceed half a million monthly property searches. Its AI-powered natural-language search now accounts for the majority of user interactions, with 75% of people preferring it over traditional filtering.
Backed by REA Group and Gradient Ventures (Google’s AI fund), Jitty offers an AI-powered, image-first way to browse the property market, allowing users to search naturally, visually and intuitively. As the UK’s property browsing habit accelerates, Jitty is leading a new era of smarter, more conversational discovery.
Bolton’s entrepreneurs, business leaders, councillors and more, recently came together to celebrate the official launch of The Wellsprings, the town’s new office, meeting and co-working innovation space.
Dignitaries including the Bolton mayor and leader of Bolton council were invited to tour the centre to learn more about the huge range of benefits it offers to its users and the wider region.
The Wellsprings is based in the heart of the town centre and boasts a wealth of high-quality features, including a welcoming business lounge, fully-kitted meeting rooms and a relaxing wellness space.
Alongside the centre manager and team who will manage the day-to-day running of the centre, innovation director Ian Balderson will provide strategic growth and innovation support to businesses who use the space. Businesses and members will also benefit from a calendar of networking events and workshops.
The centre aims to build a collective of creative, collaborative and technology-driven enterprises, and is part of Bolton Council’s wider strategy to drive investment, encourage innovation and create more quality jobs.
Oxford Innovation Space will manage The Wellsprings on behalf of Bolton Council. Users of The Wellsprings will further benefit from The Wire – a new digital platform that aims to connect people from across Oxford Innovation Space’s national network of ambitious businesses and entrepreneurs.
Cllr Nick peel, leader of Bolton Council, said: “It was a pleasure to be part of the launch event at The Wellsprings, and to welcome our business community into this wonderful new space. The centre reflects Bolton Council’s ongoing commitment to investing in the borough and creating first-class spaces where businesses and residents can thrive.”
Elaine McKechnie, commercial director of Oxford Innovation Space, which manages The Wellsprings, said: “We’re immensely proud to be partnering with Bolton Council, whose bold vision has brought to life a truly inspiring innovation space for the town’s businesses and entrepreneurs. Walking through the centre today fills me with excitement – it’s clear the team will drive it forward and make it the key destination for business in Bolton.
“Spaces like this are gaining momentum across the UK. Innovation hubs are about far more than bricks and square footage – they’re about the communities that grow within them, the collaboration between businesses, the support networks we build, and the expertise we share. That’s what makes the difference, and today, it genuinely feels like Bolton’s business community has found its home.”
The Wellsprings renovation was backed by £6.9m from the Towns Fund with a further £1.4m from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It was part of wider ongoing regeneration work to make Bolton town centre the ideal place to live, work, study, visit and invest.
Fablr and The Modernist Society have been named finalists at the Manchester Culture Awards 2025 – an achievement in its own right – in the ‘Making it Happen – Best Business Partnership’ category.
This is in recognition of their collaboration on The Modernist App, a free location-based guide opening up modernist architecture to audiences across the UK.
Presented at the annual ceremony hosted by Reece Williams and DJ Paulette, this achievement places the partnership amongst Manchester’s leading cultural innovators.
While Fablr and The Modernist Society finished just behind Skills Bootcamp, Reform Radio & Partners, very deserved winners on the night, the nomination highlights how digital tools are reshaping cultural access – breaking down barriers, sparking curiosity and offering innovative new ways for people to explore and learn about places across the UK.
Developed using Fablr’s Pinpoint framework and supported by Greater Manchester Combined Authority funding, The Modernist App offers curated tours, layered histories and editorial features built to make architecture more interactive and accessible. Since launch, the app has continued to grow, with new cities and neighbourhood trails planned.
Philip Bennison, founder at Fablr, said: “Being named finalists among such an impressive field is a huge honour. The Modernist App reflects what we believe the future of cultural engagement looks like – free, accessible and woven into everyday life.
“While we congratulate this year’s winners, we’re also incredibly proud of what this partnership represents for Manchester’s digital and cultural communities. We’re excited to see what comes next.”
Jack Hale, co-founder at The Modernist Society, said: “We’re proud to stand alongside Fablr as finalists for a project that helps people explore and appreciate architecture in a fresh, accessible way.
“The Modernist App has opened up new opportunities for people to discover stories hidden in plain sight, and this recognition shows just how important digital platforms are becoming in helping the public engage with heritage and culture.”
The Manchester Culture Awards – now a key fixture in the city’s cultural calendar – celebrate the partnerships and organisations driving Manchester’s creative identity forward. This year’s finalists underscore how digital innovation continues to expand cultural access not only across the city, but nationwide.
Industry observers note that tools like The Modernist App are signalling the next chapter for UK cultural engagement: tech-enabled, AR-focussed, free at the point of use, and designed to open up the UKs world-class culture to anyone with a smartphone. As galleries, museums and cultural organisations explore new ways to reach audiences, Fablr’s work points to a future where digital platforms become central to how we experience our surroundings.
Speaking on how the heritage and culture industry is increasing engagement with audiences through tech, Philip Bennison, Founder at Fablr, continues: “by next year’s awards, we predict that the industry will embrace location-based experiences like ours.
“We foresee AI tour guides guiding people around cities, VR and AR enhancing experiences, and all sorts of new and exciting collaborations between the innovative creative sector and tech companies like Fablr. Apps like this one just let you reach much broader audiences, but they also allow you to measure impact and drive further growth off the back of that.”
