Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen will be sidelined for around a month after suffering a knee injury, but fellow Denmark international Rasmus Hojlund should return to action before the end of November.
Both Eriksen and Hojlund were substituted during Saturday’s 1-0 Premier League win over Luton Town with knocks, causing the duo to withdraw from Denmark’s squad for Euro 2024 qualifiers against Slovenia and Northern Ireland on Monday.
Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils have been beset by injury problems this season, with key defenders Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw still sidelined while Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Raphael Varane have also spent periods in the treatment room.
Casemiro is not expected to return before Christmas after sustaining a hamstring issue, and United will also be without fellow midfielder Eriksen until at least mid-December.
An injury update issued by the club on Monday confirmed Eriksen will be out for around a month after landing awkwardly during the first half of United’s win over Luton.
There is more positive news concerning the condition of Hojlund, however, with the striker hoping to return before the end of November after suffering a muscle strain.
United return to action after the international break with a trip to Everton in the Premier League on November 26, before taking on Galatasaray in a vital Champions League group-stage contest three days later.
Our Danish duo picked up knocks during Saturday’s match v Luton Town…#MUFC
North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) is urging people to ‘clear their clutter’ after reporting it responded to more than 100,000 emergency calls relating to falls last year.
The number of emergency calls it receives for falls is always high but the figure is increasing during winter periods.
The service responded to 60 per cent more falls-related calls across the North West from December 2021 to February 2022 compared with autumn of that year.
Falls that could be avoided
Community specialist paramedic Sara Harris says: “At home, we tend to move around without thinking about our safety as it is where we are comfortable and where we spend much of our time. Falls prevention in and around the home may seem like common sense, however, it isn’t always easy to recognise the things that can cause trips, slips and falls.
“In my role, I have seen clutter, poor lighting, uneven surfaces and slippery floors as being some of the main causes of falls that could have been avoided.
“Making a few small changes at home will make it easier to get around and carry out daily activities. An important first step toward preventing falls at home is to remove anything that could cause trips or slips while walking around.”
Having a fall will be nothing more than a bit embarrassing for many, however, a it can be startling, upsetting and life-changing, especially as people get older.
NWAS reported that 78% of its falls-related 999 calls in 2022 were for patients aged 65 and older, with this age group more likely to require hospital treatment than younger patients.
There are several reasons why people fall which can all intertwine. This can be down to personal risk factors such as weak muscles, sensory issues, poor balance and walking difficulties. It can also be down to chronic medical conditions, medication side effects, delirium and fall hazards around the home.
Tips from NWAS
• Clear clutter from floors or stairs – including small furniture, pet bowls, trailing cables, or other things that can cause you to trip
• Avoid leaving or storing items on stairs and hallways
• Arrange furniture to give plenty of room to walk freely
• Remove loose mats and rugs to reduce the risk of tripping accidentally
• Improve or add extra lighting
• Store frequently used items within easier reach
• Change or adapt furniture and furnishings to give more support.
Salford-headquartered Leep Utilities has helped raise more than £66,000 for four very worthy causes.
Fundraisers included taking part in two charity dragon boat races amongst the nation’s most iconic riverfronts and dock renovations, to which it provides electricity, water, and wastewater services.
Both events were hosted by partners and backers of the UK’s leading owner and operator of last-mile utility networks. They include Peel L&P, the regeneration arm of Peel Group, which is also a backer of the company and property developer and housebuilder the Berkey Group, with which Leep works closely on several projects across London, Birmingham, and the South of England.
Staff from Leep’s Salford office took the plunge at Liverpool Waters Dragon Boat Race.
They helped to raise over £35,000 for Claire House Children’s Hospice, with all donations from this race going to the Hospice’s second site in West Derby, Liverpool. It’s there that seriously and terminally ill children receive day-care, complementary therapies, clinics, play and music sessions, and counselling.
Here, the Leep team comprised colleagues from across the organisation – many of whom were dragon race first timers and yet only narrowly missed out on a spot in the final.
Meanwhile, nine-strong team from Leep Utilities’ Reading office joined 26 others and took to the water to compete in the Berkeley Foundation’s Annual Dragon Boat Race at London’s Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre. They competed in several hard-fought races whilst raising much-needed funds for such worthy causes.
Deserving charities
Lewis Croft, corporate fundraiser at Claire House Children’s Hospice, said: “We’re very grateful for the support of Leap Utilities team and everyone else who was involved in the very brilliant Liverpool Waters Dragon Boat Race event. The money raised will make a massive difference and mean we can be there for more seriously ill children and their families. We cannot thank everyone enough.”
Louise Manfredi, CEO of Leep Utilities, said: “These races have become somewhat of an annual tradition for us, and we’re delighted, once again, to be able to help raise such a significant amount of money for these very important and deserving causes.
“Not only that, but they provide a perfect opportunity for us to come together with colleagues, partners, financial backers and our wider regional business communities to enjoy some fun and teambuilding on the water. The atmosphere at both events was great and we always enjoy taking part – whilst raising much needed funds at the same time.”
Starlight-Digital is poised to compete at the SME National Business Awards, hoping to secure the ‘Best New Business’ title in the UK. After their unexpected success at the SME Northamptonshire Awards in July, founder Steven and his team have been immersed in meeting the increased demand for their digital marketing services. Steven reflects, “It’s been a great year. Busy, but great!”
The agency, established by Steven Mikellides, a seasoned digital marketing expert with a Drum award and over 12 years of agency experience, was founded in 2021, post-pandemic. Starlight-Digital began with a single client and a vision to meld extensive agency experience with a tailored, boutique service approach, driven by Steven’s resolute determination.
Achieving Google and Microsoft Partner status within their first half-year, Steven has since focused on expanding the team and attracting a broad client base, spanning sectors from ecommerce to finance.
Now in its third operational year, boasting a team of seven digital professionals and an award win, Starlight-Digital continues to excel in providing dynamic digital solutions.
Steven looks forward to the awards with a hopeful outlook. “We’re up against some stiff competition,” he acknowledges, “but we’re really inspired by our fellow SMEs who have been celebrated for their graft and grit. The energy around that pursuit of progress – it’s infectious.”
He firmly believes in the agency’s approach: “For us, it comes down to two things; a proven method for digital performance and outstanding client experience. That blend is core to who we are and how we work.”
With a hopeful grin, Steven adds, “Let’s be honest, we all dream of a win at Wembley. But to be named the Best New Business in the UK… that would just be the cherry on the cake.”
The prestigious SME National Business Awards will be held on Friday 1st December 2023 at Wembley Stadium.
India have won every game so far at the World Cup, rounding out the group phase with a convincing victory over the Netherlands to make it nine from nine. They also possess the bulk of the leading individuals with captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli starring with the bat and Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami with the ball. The only potential pitfall is the expectation that is reaching fever pitch from their army of supporters.
New Zealand are looking to reach their third successive World Cup final, and then go one better than the defeats they suffered to Australia in 2015 and England four years ago. Their form in India has been mixed, winning their first four games before losing the next four. The victory over Sri Lanka on November 9 was enough to put them through to the knockout phase, as well as rebuild confidence levels ahead of the ultimate test in white-ball cricket.
India were expected to rest several players for Sunday’s final group game against the Netherlands – particularly in their pace attack – but opted to keep the same XI. Another resounding win, and the chance for some of their part-time bowlers to turn their arms over, meant it was the perfect preparation. It’s difficult to see India diverting from the tried and trusted against the Black Caps.
The injuries that blighted New Zealand earlier in the tournament have largely dissipated. Captain Kane Williamson, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Southee are all fit. And in Rachin Ravindra, New Zealand possess the third-highest run-scorer in the tournament with 565 from nine innings. For many of their more experienced players, this could be their final crack at World Cup glory.
Expected Line-ups
India: Sharma (c), Gill, Kohli, Iyer, Rahul (wk), S Yadav, Jadeja, Bumrah, Shami, K Yadav, Siraj
Former India captain and current member of the coaching team, Rahul Dravid, accepts there is pressure on the team to succeed on home soil
“I think it would be inauthentic to say it’s just another game. Yes, of course, it’s a semi-final but I think our processes are not going to change. We do recognise that it’s an important game; it’s a knockout game. We have to accept the fact that there will be a certain amount of pressure.
“I think the way we have responded to pressure so far gives us a lot of belief and a lot of confidence. I don’t think we will change anything in the way we prepare or the way we train. I am really confident; just the vibe in the group and the energy in the group are really good at this point in time. “All we can do is play what is in front of us. Staying in the moment. Plan well, prepare well, and play a good game of cricket.”
New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra on the prospect of playing India in Mumbai
“You dream of playing against a full crowd against India, who have gone unbeaten at Wankhede, a ground with so much history.
“We’ll stay level, we’ll try our best. We know we can’t win every game of cricket…but we’ll see how it plays out.”
Prediction
India have dominated every game they’ve played at the 2023 Cricket World Cup. Yes, they are under pressure but the expectation has not hindered Rohit Sharma’s men so far. Expect them to have too much firepower for New Zealand, although don’t be surprised if it’s closer than many of India’s games in this tournament.
Rochdale Borough Council is now collecting donations to this year’s Christmas Toy Appeal, to help children less fortunate this December 25.
The annual appeal, organised by the council’s staff-run ‘Giving Back’ charity for the past nine years, is accepting donations for local kids until December 13.
Councillor Rachel Massey said: “Our appeal helps to provide local children and families with gifts on Christmas day who would otherwise likely go without. Sadly our Christmas Toy Appeal is needed more than ever, with the cost of living crisis impacting so many.
“The requests for help we have already received reflect the daily challenges that many children and young people are facing. Every year we see so much heart-warming generosity – if you can buy at least one extra present, you’ll really bring some joy to a local young person.”
Donate an unwrapped gift
To help, all you need to do is donate an unwrapped, new gift suitable for a child up to age leave it at a library in Rochdale or Your Trust leisure centre by December 13.
There are also extra collection points open at the Rochdale Riverside retail and leisure destination (management office on first floor) The Beach pub in Littleborough and Rochdale Football Club.
Gifts for babies and teenagers are especially welcome as fewer were received for these age groups last year.
Council staff, who distributed over 5,000 toys last year, will make sure they reach the borough’s less fortunate children in time for Christmas Day. Toys are matched with the age and interests of the recipient. Since 2014 the appeal has provided much needed festive cheer for thousands of children and teenagers.
Council policy advisor Helen Walton, from the Giving Back charity, added: “Every donation we receive goes to a child who would otherwise be likely not to have any presents to unwrap on Christmas Day. The appeal depends on the generosity of people and businesses in our borough, and every year I am so proud of how many care enough to donate. Together we can make a difference for the borough’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged children at a time when it is most needed.”
As Christmas raises awareness of the excess and waste created, once again organisers are asking people to consider donating a more environmentally friendly gift and support local shops where they can.
You can also order a gift online and send it straight to the appeal. The address is: Giving Back – Christmas Toy Appeal, Rochdale Borough Council, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU.
Businesses and organisations have already stepped up to support the appeal, including JGM Agency, Hunter Price, Rochdale Football Club and Rochdale Riverside.
If your business can support the appeal, contact the team: [email protected]
At the UK Property Awards held at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square on November 10, Montreaux Homes made a remarkable impression, securing three awards for its innovative property developments.
Alexander Gardens in Binfield was honored with the five-star award for Best Residential Development 20+ Units in Berkshire. This development is composed of 15 private homes and 6 affordable apartments, all built with an eye for architectural elegance, sustainability, and biodiversity. The private houses feature attic-trussed lofts, which provide additional space for potential expansion, adhering to relevant planning regulations.
Urban Picturehouse in Sidcup received the Award Winning Apartment Development in London. The project includes 31 apartments divided into two blocks with a shared residents’ garden. The development is designed to maximise light and space, incorporating unique elements that pay tribute to the site’s former Art Deco cinema. Notably, the use of glazed green bricks and broad windows reflects the Art Deco style.
St Albans’ Viciniti was awarded the five-star accolade for Best Residential Development 20+ Units in Hertfordshire. The development features 12 townhouses, 18 private apartments, and 7 affordable apartments, all emphasising community, sustainability, and biodiversity. Noteworthy aspects include air source heating in townhouses, hidden in the monopitch roof design, communal gardens, and private gardens for the townhouses.
Commenting on the success, James Rowntree, Managing Director of Montreaux Homes, stated, “We are delighted that our passion for Building Back Better has come through in our presentations to the judges. But more importantly, we look forward to continuing to provide well-designed and ecologically healthier homes to both homeowners and tenants of the developments we build.”
British ski enthusiasts looking for a unique winter escape will find Scandinavia to be an unparalleled destination. Celebrated for its flawless snow, well-maintained slopes, and a longer skiing season, Scandinavia stands out as a top choice. The recent launch of skiScandinavia‘s exclusive flights from London Gatwick to Scandinavian Mountains Airport makes it Europe’s most accessible ski region, boasting a mere 10-minute transfer to the closest resort.
Given the recent unpredictable ski conditions in the Alps, Scandinavia is fast becoming the preferred destination for knowledgeable skiers. It offers a dependable ski season extending from mid-November to late April. The ‘Five Peaks’ region in Scandinavia, encompassing resorts across Norway and Sweden, presents a massive skiing adventure with over 250 pistes, including the challenging slopes of Trysil and the expansive ski areas in Sälen.
The friendliness of the locals and the expert skiing etiquette make Scandinavia an inviting destination. The ease of travel, with direct flights from London Gatwick and short transfer times, adds to the appeal.
For more information call 020 7199 6015 and to book your Scandinavian ski holiday, visit www.ski-scandinavia.co.uk. The site offers a range of packages, including flights from London Heathrow with Scandinavian Airlines and stays in various resorts in Norway and Sweden, with prices and dates to suit different preferences.
From £829 per person staying in a self-catered cabin in the Fageråsen Hytteområde area in Trysil, Norway based on 2 adults sharing for 7 nights.
Departing Saturday 10th February 2024 from London Gatwick to Scandinavian Mountains Airport on our direct exclusive flight. skiScandinavia transfers included.
From £1688 per person staying in a self-catered two bedroom apartment at the SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället, in Sälen, Sweden based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing for 7 nights.
Departing Sunday 7th April 2024 from London Gatwick to Scandinavian Mountains Airport on our direct exclusive flight. skiScandinavia transfers included.
From £1348 per person staying in a self-catered standard two bedroom apartment at the SkiStar Lodge Trysil, Norway, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing for 7 nights.
Alpine Property Services, renowned for its expertise in construction, design, and renovation, has embarked on a technological evolution by integrating Virtual Reality (VR) services into their client offerings. This initiative is part of their commitment to enhancing customer experiences and staying ahead in the technological landscape. Additionally, Alpine is delving into the potential applications of Blockchain technology in their operations.
The incorporation of VR into their services allows clients to virtually step into their future spaces, providing a dynamic and in-depth preview of the projects. This immersive approach aims to deepen client understanding and engagement before the actual construction starts.
Ayden, the Founder and CEO of Alpine Property Services, emphasised, “At Alpine Property Services, we’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in construction and design. Our utilisation of VR services is designed to offer clients an immersive and unparalleled experience, allowing them to envision their projects with unprecedented clarity,”
Moreover, the exploration of Blockchain technology underscores Alpine’s initiative to enhance aspects of transparency, security, and efficiency in their projects. This exploration is expected to revolutionise the company’s approach from design inception to project completion.
Alpine Property Services is committed to merging the immersive capabilities of VR with the promising prospects of Blockchain technology, aiming to deliver projects with enhanced precision and innovation. For more information and to experience these technologies, visit their website at www.AlpineProperty.Services.
Fuelius, a leading UK-based consultancy specialising in digital transformation, marketing automation, and CRM implementation, is excited to announce its latest venture – expanding its operations into the United States. Celebrating a 26-year history of excellence in digital transformation and customer acquisition, this expansion is a key step in Fuelius’ ambition to become a globally recognised digital partner for mid-market and enterprise clients.
Fuelius, acclaimed as a HubSpot Elite Partner and an Umbraco Gold Partner, boasts extensive expertise in complex digital use cases, transformation, integration with third-party systems, and customer acquisition. The move to the US will enable Fuelius to extend its exceptional services to a growing list of international clients.
Paul Earnden, Managing Director at Fuelius, comments, “The United States offers a multitude of opportunities for innovation and growth, which we have been lucky enough to explore over the last few years. We’re not just opening a new office; we’re laying the foundation for what we believe will be a transformative phase for Fuelius and our clients. This expansion represents an exhilarating chapter in our journey to become a pivotal digital partner for businesses across the globe. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with even more global organisations to shape the future of digital transformation and CRM strategies.”
Fuelius’ expansion into the US is driven by the increasing demand for their specialised services among American companies. As an Elite HubSpot Partner, Fuelius offers extensive experience in inbound marketing, sales, and customer service. Their status as an Umbraco Gold Partner reinforces their proficiency in content management and digital platforms.
Additionally, Fuelius prioritises security and quality management, holding certifications like ISO 27001, ISO 9001, and Cyber Essentials. These certifications highlight the consultancy’s commitment to data security, quality control, and cyber safety, making them a prime choice for mid-market and enterprise American companies looking to navigate the digital world.
