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Mark King banned from snooker until 2028

Tom Rostance
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Mark King banned from snooker until 2028

Mark King has been banned from snooker for five years after being found guilty of match fixing.

An independent disciplinary committee found the 50-year-old former world number 11 guilty of one count of match fixing and one count of providing inside information on a match.

The former Northern Ireland Open champion was suspended by the sport’s world governing body, the WPBSA, in March 2023 after suspicious betting was reported on his match with Joe Perry in the previous month’s Welsh Open.

King, who denied the charges, has also been ordered to pay £68,299.50 in costs. He has until November 28 to appeal against the decision.

Two other charges relating to King’s match with John Higgins on December 13, 2022 were dismissed.

WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson said: “The global expansion of this sport brings with it great responsibility, both for our players and for the WPBSA as the sport’s world governing body.

“I have known Mark King since he was very young, he is a very experienced player who has enjoyed great success, and I am deeply saddened to read the finding in this case.

“However, the integrity of this sport will always be our number one priority.

“This case is testament to the fact that no stone will ever be left unturned in ensuring that the hundreds of millions of snooker fans worldwide, and our many global partners, can have full confidence in this incredible sport.”

King’s ban runs from March 18, 2023 to March 17, 2028.

EU Highlights European Food and Drink Excellence in UK

News Desk
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EU Highlights European Food and Drink Excellence in UK

The European Union has launched a communication campaign to highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of European food and drink products to UK food industry professionals. The initiative focuses on promoting the EU’s strengths in safety, sustainability, authenticity, and quality.

Named More Than Only Food and Drink, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the standout characteristics of EU food and beverages, distinguishing them from global competitors.

The campaign highlights six primary product categories: processed meats like charcuterie, salami, and sausages; fresh meats including poultry, beef, and lamb; dairy and cheese; fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables; bakery and confectionery; and wine, spirits, and beers.

A panel of UK-based category advisors has been appointed to communicate the EU’s commitment to food safety, high standards, and environmental care. They will also raise awareness of EU quality assurance labels, including Protected Denomination of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and EU Organic.

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The campaign offers UK professionals a variety of opportunities to engage with EU food and drink products, including trade exhibitions, seminars on sustainability, industry-focused roundtables, and innovation showcases. Study trips to EU countries will provide hands-on exposure to production processes.

A robust earned and paid media campaign will amplify the initiative’s messaging, ensuring it reaches a wide audience across the UK.

Patrick McGuigan, cheese writer and campaign advisor, explained: “This campaign aims to highlight the remarkable quality and diversity of food and drink made in the 27 Member States of the EU. From sustainable farming and traditional production practices to the EU Quality Labels scheme and strong food safety and traceability standards, the EU produces food and drink that is not only delicious, but is also rooted in cultural heritage, time-honoured traditions and innovation. As the campaign strapline says, it’s ‘More Than Only Food and Drink.’”

“The ultimate aim is to encourage the imports, use and sales of authentic EU agricultural food and beverage products in the UK.”

The Netherlands Enhances Its Position as a Hub for Global Talent

News Desk
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The Netherlands Enhances Its Position as a Hub for Global Talent

According to recent data from the Netherlands Statistical Office (CBS, 2024), the country remains a leading destination for highly skilled migrants (HSM). In 2023 alone, the Netherlands welcomed 21,500 skilled professionals, underlining its reliance on international talent to bolster its labour market.

The Netherlands is actively recruiting highly skilled professionals to address talent shortages through its Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) program. Recent data from CBS shows that 21,500 individuals moved to the Netherlands as highly skilled migrants last year (CBS, 2024). Unusual Payroll, a consultancy that specialises in HSM applications and payroll management for international employers, has analysed this data to provide insights into the changing landscape of Dutch immigration and the challenges associated with international hiring.

A 2024 report from the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment indicates that countries such as India, South Africa, and China remain key sources of skilled talent (Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, 2024). Despite new regulatory constraints, including a roughly 20% reduction in HSM admissions in 2023, the Netherlands continues to be a top destination for foreign talent. Seckin Canan, Managing Partner of Unusual Payroll stated, “The Dutch government’s tightened HSM requirements have introduced new challenges; however, the Netherlands still stands out as a strategic location for companies looking to build globally competitive teams. Our services are designed to streamline the HSM process for UK companies, ensuring full compliance with Dutch regulations.”

Navigating Changing Conditions: Why HSM Support is Key
Today’s global talent market requires companies to recruit from a diverse range of international pools to meet skills demands and enhance workforce diversity. As the Netherlands increasingly raises the documentation and evidence requirements for Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) applicants, businesses are seeking professional support for efficient recruitment and compliance management (Netherlands Enterprise Agency, 2024).  “We recognise the challenges posed by these regulatory changes,” Canan explained. “Unusual Payroll provides an end-to-end solution for UK companies, handling payroll, legal, and regulatory requirements to ensure smooth onboarding for highly skilled migrants.”

Unusual Payroll, specialises in payroll and consultancy services specifically tailored for companies hiring HSMs. This includes comprehensive support in managing legal, administrative, and compliance requirements—critical aspects for UK companies interested in employing international talent in the Netherlands. Unusual Payroll ensures that both companies and their new hires navigate the immigration process with minimal friction, allowing for seamless integration and a rapid start in the Dutch market.

The growing international market, along with stricter migration regulations, highlights the need for expert guidance. Seckin Canan noted, “The complexities of Dutch immigration law require a thorough understanding of the extensive documentation involved. Unusual Payroll assists companies in navigating these challenges by offering expertise in payroll and HR management, which is crucial for a seamless transition.”

Why the Netherlands Attracts International Talent
The Netherlands is well-known for its strong business environment, strategic location and favourable regulatory framework, making it attractive to both businesses and professionals (Invest in Holland, 2023). The Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) has reported that the country’s economic stability, advanced infrastructure and high quality of life are key factors that draw skilled professionals (NFIA, 2023). For UK companies looking to leverage these advantages by recruiting top international talent, Unusual Payroll offers crucial support for managing the process from hiring to onboarding.

With a solid understanding of Dutch immigration laws and payroll regulations, Unusual Payroll helps UK-based businesses streamline their operations and gain a competitive edge in the global market. By handling the complexities of immigration, payroll and compliance, Unusual Payroll aims to eliminate barriers between global talent pools and UK employers, ensuring the efficient integration of highly skilled migrants into the Dutch workforce.

England seal Windies T20 series in style

Tom Rostance
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England seal Windies T20 series in style

England chased down 149 to seal a Twenty20 series victory over West Indies with two matches to spare in St Lucia after a nervy final-over win.

Following a lengthy rain delay, England seemed on course to cruise to victory, reducing the hosts to 37 for five as the West Indies top order again failed to deliver.

A half-century from skipper Rovman Powell ensured West Indies could at least post a respectable 145 for eight from their 20 overs, and England then slipped to 37-3 early on.

Wickets fell with regularity, but some late big hitting from Liam Livingstone – who was dropped three times – helped England seal a first white-ball series success in the Caribbean since 2019, with two more T20s still to come at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground this weekend.

“It was a real collective effort to win the series which is really pleasing,” England captain Jos Buttler said. “I’ve been so impressed with how we’ve set the tone in the powerplays in all three games so far.

“We’re in a really strong place as a team. We’ve got really good competition for places too, when you consider the players who aren’t here. I’ve really liked seeing different players step up at different times, throughout the whole series.”

Having already lost their ODI series on this tour, a youthful England, missing a host of their leading stars due to Test team commitments, continued their turnaround in the damp St Lucian conditions.

When play started after a 50-minute rain delay, Powell’s 73-run partnership with Romario Shepherd for the sixth wicket gave West Indies hope, but Jamie Overton took two wickets in three balls to put England firmly back in command.

Saqib Mahmood continued his fine form with the ball with bowling figures of three for 17, setting England up for their lowest run chase of the series so far.

“It’s a bit disappointing, we keep losing wickets in the powerplay and in clusters,” said West Indies captain Powell. “We need to be our natural selves. We know we are good stroke players but that little bit of smart was missing.

“The middle overs become so much harder when you have lost those early wickets. But we did feel like we could defend that total after the recovery from myself and Romario.”

Embrace Autumn: Meatballs in Cardamom-Infused Broth

News Desk
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Embrace Autumn: Meatballs in Cardamom-Infused Broth

This November, we’re delighted to share a comforting recipe: Meatballs with Rice in Cardamom Soup. Inspired by the flavours of the Middle East, this dish is ideal for showcasing the bounty of the British harvest. Prepared with premium Japonica rice from the EU, it’s a deliciously aromatic and hearty choice.

These flavourful meatballs, made with minced beef and Japonica rice, are packed with fragrant spices and fresh herbs. The cardamom-spiked soup, blended with spinach, creates a luxuriously smooth and warming base, perfect for the season.

Recipe Details: Meatballs with Rice in Cardamom Soup

Ingredients (for 30 meatballs):

  • 200g Japonica rice
  • 1kg minced beef
  • 50g fresh coriander, chopped
  • 150g red onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 eggs
  • 50g olive oil
  • 30g breadcrumbs
  • 400g fresh cardamom pods, crushed
  • 1kg fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • Juice of 3 lemons
  • 200g plain flour
  • 200g green onions, chopped
  • Yogurt, for serving

Method:

  1. In a large bowl, combine minced beef, Japonica rice, red onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape into small meatballs.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the meatballs, and let simmer for around 25 minutes. Reserve the broth.
  3. In a separate pot, warm the olive oil and sauté the cardamom, spinach, flour, and green onions until fragrant.
  4. Gradually add the reserved broth, blend until smooth, and then add the meatballs.
  5. Serve in bowls, topped with a spoonful of yogurt.

Ideal for gatherings or quiet nights in, this dish lets you savour the spirit of autumn in every bite. Celebrate the high-quality EU rice with this heart-warming, delicious meal.

Learn more about the “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign, upcoming events, and social media activity by visiting:

Website link: www.europeanrice.eu

About the “EUROPEAN RICE” Campaign:

The “EUROPEAN RICE” campaign is an EU-funded initiative focused on promoting the benefits, sustainability, and versatility of European rice in the UK and other markets. The campaign aligns with the goals of enhancing the competitiveness and market presence of EU agri-food products globally, emphasizing sustainable practices and high-quality standards.
THE EUROPEAN UNION SUPPORTS CAMPAIGNS THAT PROMOTE HIGH QUALITY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

England vs South Africa lineups: Hosts change four for Autumn Nations Series match

Ben Miller
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England vs South Africa lineups: Hosts change four for Autumn Nations Series match

Leicester pair Jack van Poortvliet and Freddie Steward will start for England as part of four changes to head coach Steve Borthwick’s lineup against South Africa in the Autumn Nations Series on Saturday (5.40pm)

Scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet and full-back Freddie Steward start for England against South Africa as head coach Steve Borthwick makes four changes to his starting XV.

The Leicester pair have yet to feature in the Autumn Nations Series but come straight into the line-up in place of Ben Spencer and George Furbank.

Ollie Sleightholme makes his first England start on the wing in place of the injured Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, while Bath’s Sam Underhill replaces Tom Curry, who is out through concussion.

England vs South Africa: Borthwick ‘excited’

Scrum-half Van Poortvliet and full-back Steward will make their first appearances of the series at the Allianz Stadium in place of Ben Spencer and George Furbank.

Northampton wing Ollie Sleightholme, who scored twice in the 42-37 defeat to Australia on Saturday, will make his first start in the absence of the injured Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and Bath flanker Sam Underhill replaces Tom Curry, who is missing through concussion.

England are seeking their first home win since the Six Nations in April and revenge for their 2023 World Cup semi-final defeat against the Springboks.

They had been 15-6 ahead with ten minutes remaining at the Stade de France and within sight of a significant upset before South Africa ultimately triumphed with a 77th-minute Handre Pollard penalty.

“We’re excited to challenge ourselves against the world’s top-ranked team and back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions,” said Borthwick.

“Test matches against South Africa are always thrilling contests, and I’m sure Saturday will be no exception.”

England vs South Africa starting lineups

Jamie George is Borthwick’s captain, with Maro Itoje, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, and George Ford his vice-captains.

Sale wing Tom Roebuck, who made his debut against Japan in the Summer Series, is on the bench for the first time this autumn.

South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus has made 12 changes to his starting line-up from his side’s 32-15 win over Scotland on Sunday.

Skipper Siya Kolisi and ex-world player of the year Pieter-Steph du Toit are among the names to come in, with Pollard a replacement.

“England pose a completely different challenge to Scotland,” observed Erasmus. “We selected our squad based on what we would like to do in the match and also what we think will be best to counter [their] challenge.”

England: Steward; Freeman, Lawrence, Slade, Sleightholme; M Smith, Van Poortvliet; Genge, George (c), Stuart, Itoje, Martin, Cunningham-South, Underhill, Earl

Replacements: Cowan-Dickie, Baxter, Cole, Isiekwe, Dombrandt, Randall, Ford, Roebuck

South Africa: Fassi; Kolbe, Kriel, De Allende, Arendse; Libbok, Williams; Nche, Mbonambi, Loux, Etzebeth, Snyman, Kolisi (c), Du Toit, Wiese

Replacements: Marx, Steenekamp, Koch, Louw, Smith, Reinach, Pollard, Am

EU Rice Sector Paves the Way in Sustainable Agriculture

News Desk
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EU Rice Sector Paves the Way in Sustainable Agriculture

The European rice industry is redefining sustainable farming, offering both environmental and consumer health benefits. By adopting innovative farming techniques, EU rice production now uses less water, reduces chemical inputs, and fosters biodiversity. These methods produce not only high-quality rice but also contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and the protection of natural landscapes.

The EU-funded European Rice campaign is designed to raise awareness about the sustainability, benefits, and adaptability of European rice in the UK and global markets. This campaign supports EU agri-food products by enhancing their competitiveness and promoting environmentally responsible practices and superior quality.

By utilising renewable resources, practising crop rotation, and implementing eco-friendly pest control, EU rice farmers are helping to create a positive environmental impact. Prioritising both people and the planet, the EU rice industry offers a model for sustainable modern agriculture, enabling consumers to enjoy nutritious rice grown with respect for the environment.

To learn more about the European Rice campaign, upcoming events, and social media activities, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

Top award for brave Tactical Aid Unit trio

Helen Greaney
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Top award for brave Tactical Aid Unit trio

Three officers from the Tactical Aid Unit at Greater Manchester Police were proud to receive a Bravery Award at the Chief Constable’s Awards.

The recognition was given for an incident in October 2023, when they attended a call regarding a woman in the water at Salford Quays.

Close to midnight, PC Colin Harrison, PC Joseph Dearnaley and PC Nicholas Leach were forced to act quickly, with low visibility and sub-zero freezing water temperatures.

They came to the rescue of the woman in the water and also dealt with her concerned husband, as well as distressed members of the public.

With no life support rings available in the immediate vicinity, the men tried to reach her with emergency rescue lines but were unsuccessful.

With crucial time ticking PCs Dearnaley and Leach got into the water and swam 60 meters in freezing temperatures to help the woman, who by this point was unable to assist in her own recovery.

PC Harrison, the designated TAU team leader, maintained command and control and ensured both officers had emergency rescue lines to subsequently keep them safe too.

Members of the public assisted in pulling the officers and the woman towards the edge of the quay, using the emergency lines.

Chief inspector Paul Bray from the Specialist Operations Branch said: “All three officers deserve this recognition for their selfless actions on that night. As officers we are always wanting to keep the public safe but, on this occasion, they went above and beyond that put their lives at danger.

“Their heroic efforts saved that woman’s life that night and meant she got the help and support she needed afterwards.

“As Tactical Aid Unit officers they attend a variety of high-risk incidents and warrants to provide specialist support to colleagues and the public when needed. They are terrific individuals who we are proud to have as part of our team.”

In the officers’ awards citation from senior leaders it stated: “All three officers acted in the finest traditions of British policing and their actions underpinned the attestation they took when they joined GMP.”

After being given the award PCs Leach and Dearnaley said: “It’s our biggest achievement to date within our policing careers, due to the nature of the incident and the recognition it’s received.

“We were excited to share the award with our families, friends and other colleagues who were in attendance at the incident on the evening – it was a real team effort including PCs Thind and Felton, who were both involved in the incident as well and crucial to the incident in speaking with emergency service colleagues and members of the public.”

Homeowner who touted planning law must rip down extension

Helen Greaney
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Homeowner who touted planning law must rip down extension
An illegal extension must be torn down after a homeowner was brought before a District Judge following a three-year refusal to comply with the law.
In May 2021, Manchester Council’s planning enforcement team became aware of a potentially illegal two-storey extension being built onto a property on Birchfields Road, Manchester.

On further investigation officers discovered that the owner of the property – Michelle Naimah Sharif (56) – had not obtained any planning permission for this development, and was ordered to cease construction immediately.

However, works continued into the summer leading to the council issuing a Planning Enforcement Notice, ordering that the works be demolished. An option was included that would allow a single-storey extension to be built, in line with previously granted planning permission.

The council rejected a subsequent application for the retention of the development, which was then appealed by the homeowner. This appeal, however, was dismissed by the planning inspector in February 2022.

In their notes, the inspector said the unauthorised development “…is out of keeping and it is poorly related to the rear [of the property]. It is visually obtrusive and discordant and it is not sympathetic to its host or the surrounding built environment. It does not contribute positively to a strong sense of place and it detracts from the overall quality of the townscape.”

The inspector also noted harm caused to the living conditions of neighbours because of the works.

Despite this extensive engagement and the ruling of the planning inspector, the owners of the property still refused to comply with the Planning Enforcement Notice, resulting in the council taking legal action.

At a hearing held at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, Sharif pleaded guilty to an offence under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

The sitting district judge fined Sharif £5,000 and ordered them to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000. They were also ordered to pay Manchester City Council £12,745 in respect to legal and investigatory costs.

The requirement that the extension must be demolished is still in place.

Councillor Gavin White said: “This has been a long-running saga caused by the inexplicable refusal of this homeowner to comply with a legal order.

“Planning law is incredibly important and is put in place to protect the rights of residents as well as preserve the amenity of communities which could be negatively impacted by a rogue development. In this case, the council’s position was fully vindicated by the planning inspector and then the district judge.

“We will continue to ensure this extension is demolished and that this case is finally resolved.”

Invisible Cities signs deal with Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel

Helen Greaney
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Invisible Cities signs deal with Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel

Invisible Cities is excited to announce a significant partnership with the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel.

The social enterprise trains people affected by homelessness to become walking tour guides of their own city and offer these alternative tours to tourists and locals.

Mercure Manchester Piccadilly has agreed to provide complimentary accommodation for Invisible Cities team members during their visits.

This support helps reduce overhead costs, allowing the enterprise to spend more time in the city with guides and stakeholders and further its mission to give back to the local community and challenge stereotypes about homelessness.

Over the past 18 months, the hotel has undergone a complete transformation, including a £3 million renovation to modernise 280 bedrooms, the reception area, and the creation of new event spaces, most notably the Garden View Room.

Andrew Krawec, general manager, said: “With our new vision underway, we are committed to giving back to our local community. We are incredibly proud to partner with Invisible Cities in Manchester and support the important work they do in empowering individuals who have experienced homelessness to open up meaningful employment opportunities – a cause that resonates deeply with our values as a hotel and community partner.

“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our efforts to tackle homelessness and promote inclusivity. We look forward to working closely with Invisible Cities and supporting their mission.”

Founder of Invisible Cities,  Zakia Moulaoui Guery said: “This help will mean that we can train and support more guides, and more people looking for positive and meaningful employment opportunities and a way out of homelessness – it’s huge for us and we are incredible grateful.

“The support of Mercure Manchester Piccadilly means that we can allocated more of our funds back into the community by removing the cost of visiting Manchester to meet guides and partners as well as aligning with our shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate community, flying the flag for all of the incredible Mancunian people we have the privilege of working with.”

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