| TransPennine Express (TPE) is spreading festive cheer across its network with the unwrapping of a special Christmas train, designed to raise awareness and support for Cash for Kids’ Mission Christmas appeal. |
| The train company aims to inspire customers to get involved with the campaign, which supports disadvantaged children across the UK who may otherwise go without gifts this holiday season and will run across the train operator’s network until early next year.
The eye-catching design appears on one of TPE’s Class 185 trains and features vibrant seasonal imagery, with Santa being guided by his reindeers. Andrew McClements, customer experience and transformation director at TPE said: “We’re delighted to support Cash for Kids’ Mission Christmas appeal this year. Our festive train brings the spirit of Christmas to life and serves as a reminder to help those in need. “We hope the festive design encourages our customers to take part in this vital campaign and help make Christmas special for children across the UK. “Customers can keep an eye out for the special festive train while making their journeys.” Lauren Baxter, Cash for Kids Partnership manager, said: “Once again as cost-of-living pressures continues to hit families across the UK, we are anticipating a huge level of demand for support. This year-to-date application levels are already over 20% higher than in 2023. “We are absolutely thrilled to be working with TransPennine Express this year. The festive train wrap will drive great awareness for Mission Christmas, and we are delighted that staff are also supporting by wearing Christmas jumpers throughout December to support the cause.” Mission Christmas encourages people to buy an extra gift for a disadvantaged child, helping to ensure that no child wakes up without a present on Christmas morning. Cash for Kids, the charity behind the initiative, works to support children affected by poverty, illness, neglect, or additional needs. The charity, who have bases across the North and Scotland support many children every year across the TPE network who face a tough Christmas, with some waking up without gifts. This year, Mission Christmas aims to provide presents for 300,000 children, ensuring they don’t miss out on the magic of the season. The train operator is also supporting the campaign internally this year with its colleagues by encouraging them to sign up for Christmas jumper day and to donate to the cause. As the vibrant train moves around the network, it will act as a visual reminder to get involved and support the appeal. Customers can easily contribute to the campaign by purchasing an extra gift or making a cash donation to Mission Christmas by visiting cashforkids.org.uk/mission. |
TPE unwraps Christmas train to support Mission Christmas
Local solutions to local challenges: how SSE sees the future of decarbonisation
Chantal Adams (27) is a proud Mancunian.
She studied human geography at university but after a short spell working in telecoms, decided her future lay in renewable energy.
“It was quite nice for me to be able to go into a job that was actually related to my degree, because we studied renewables and I always found it really interesting,” said Chantal.
“When I was at university I wasn’t quite sure what a job in renewables would look like, but an ex-colleague worked for SSE and always said it was a good place to work. So, when this job came up in Manchester, I thought, oh, that’s brilliant. I’ve got all of the experience they’re looking for. I know Manchester and I have all the local connections and know how.
“The real appeal was feeling I could make a difference to the place I come from. I hope that one day I’ll work on a project that I’ll be able to say to future generations, my own kids and grandkids, that I worked on that.
“A lot of the people that I worked with in my first role have gone into energy now. I wanted to do more than just recycling at home or putting on a colder wash. It’s generally accepted that the infrastructure needs to improve before we can fully transition to net zero so I wanted to do something that paves the way and makes it easier for everyone to do more. My generation has been raised to understand what climate change is as part of our curriculum, but I think maybe there’s a challenge with some people slightly older than us that didn’t have that education in school.”
As the business development manager for Manchester at SSE Energy Solutions, Chantal works alongside another Manchester local, Eve Ashby, social value co-ordinator for SSE in the region. Together, they’ve been working with local schools and charities to encourage more people to consider a career in sustainable energy.
“We’ve been into a few schools and colleges to talk to kids about STEM education and we’ve been working closely with the Blair project, a social enterprise in Manchester that provides opportunities for marginalised young people to develop hands on electrification skills. It’s a part of the role I really enjoy because it’s good to give back.”
Chantal embodies SSE’s commitment to communities, believing that it’s important that local challenges are met with locally devised solutions, and taking the community with them on the journey to net zero.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) will unveil the details of its new five-year decarbonisation plan at this year’s Green Summit, but it is clear that it shares SSE’s view that collaboration at a local level is key if decarbonisation targets are to be met.
SSE’s director of regions and social value, Nehal Mehta, said: “We have long believed that working with communities is the best way forward and have developed a strong relationship with GMCA, precisely because they share that vision. I know their new five-year plan will be ambitious and our sponsorship of the 2024 Green Summit, our 3rd year of doing so, demonstrates our commitment to working with them to achieve their targets and drive low carbon investment, local supply chains, skills and jobs in the region.”
As for Chantal, who is excited about heat network, solar and wind projects she’s developing in the Greater Manchester region, she has big plans for the future.
She added: “I feel like every day I learn something new, which is a good thing. I think the day I stop learning is the day it’s time to leave. My ambition is to have so many projects in Manchester that I’ve got a team under me, and we grow so big here that we need lots more resources and create lots more local jobs.”
Top 10 websites for an in-depth write-off check
Buying a used car can feel like a gamble. Without proper information, it’s difficult to know whether your dream car has a hidden past that could cost you. Fortunately, performing a write-off check can be your safety net.
Here are the top 10 websites that offer comprehensive write-off checks, starting with the trusted leader in vehicle history reports: Motorscan.
1. Motorscan
When it comes to exhaustive write-off checks, Motorscan wins. Using an intuitive user‐friendly interface, all‐pervading data from credible sources, as well as lightning‐fast reports, Motorscan provides all‐round information about the vehicle’s history before buying them.
Whatever details you might be after about past accidents, salvage condition, or anything red flaggy, Motorscan offers a full check through so you are in the know.
2. CarVertical
CarVertical is another well-known name for used car buyers. Their write-off check service leverages blockchain technology to guarantee that the data they share is true and not manipulated. They range from odometer readings to previous-writing off problems, which is a great option for the next test.
3. HPI Check
HPI Check offers a comprehensive write-off report that will help you understand whether a vehicle has ever been declared a total loss. Their reports further disclose outstanding finance, odometer mileage discrepancies, and other relevant things.
4. TotalCarCheck
TotalCarCheck provides free and paid write-off checks so buyers can easily check if a car’s history is worth a deeper look. Their premium report provides an in-depth analysis of insurance write-off categories and other key information.
5. VCheck
VCheck focuses on providing affordable, detailed write-off checks. Their reports contain data on stolen vehicles, mileage reporting, and insurance write-offs, which can empower you to make a well-informed decision.
6. Carfax
Carfax is a well-known provider of its data set, including North American automobiles. Carfax is a good option for checking any former write-off (also known as 1 owner cars) and salvage status on vehicles imported from overseas.
7. AA Vehicle Check
The AA Vehicle Check offers an in-depth write-off history in addition to information about the car’s history. This is a vetted service supported by one of the biggest motoring associations.
8. AutoCheck
AutoCheck offers a detailed write-off check using a large vehicle database. It helps potential buyers understand a car’s history, including any reported accidents or write-offs. AutoCheck’s scoring system is particularly helpful in comparing vehicles.
9. MyCarCheck
MyCarCheck includes simple write-off checks and standard vehicle information including tax status. It is quite a “to-the-point” way of acquiring the basic information of an old car.
10. RAC Car Passport
RAC Car Passport is meant to give you peace of mind. They provide for example, a comprehensive write-off history, who finance what, etc. RAC is a reputable name and their routine vehicle checks are in line with the reputation of the brand.
Conclusion
A write-off check is one of the most critical steps a used car buyer takes as they approach taking ownership of a used vehicle. By using one of these top 10 websites, starting with Motorscan, you can protect yourself from unexpected surprises and make sure you get the most value from your purchase.
Brilliant Harry Brook hundred puts England back in Test
Harry Brook scored a brilliant century to drag England right back into the first test in Christchurch on Friday, guiding the tourists to within 29 runs of New Zealand at the end of day two.
England slumped to 71-4 in the second session but Brook and Ollie Pope put together a battling partnership of 151 for the fifth wicket to cut the deficit in half by tea. England ended the day on 319-5 with Brrok unbeaten on 132.
Brook, having brought up his half century with one of two sixes, forged on to pass 2,000 career runs and secured his seventh century in 22 tests when he sent one of his 10 fours racing to the Hagley Oval boundary.
The 25-year-old has captain Ben Stokes alongside him on 37 not out and England’s hopes of taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series are very much revived.
“Obviously, I am very pleased to put together a partnership with Harry Brook out there,” said Pope, who was playing down the batting order as emergency wicketkeeper.
“They bowled really well early, some pretty good balls in there, so from where we were to where we’re finishing the day, the boys are really happy with what’s on the scoreboard.
“It should be a good day tomorrow to hopefully push a button in the morning and put them under some pressure.”
It had all looked bleak for England when, with opener Zak Crawley having already fallen for a duck, Jacob Bethell and Joe Root departed cheaply in the last over before lunch at the hands of all-rounder Nathan Smith.
Smith removed fellow Test debutant Bethell for 10 with an outside edge before Root, playing his 150th test, chopped on for a duck four balls later.
“I thought we bowled pretty well in periods but yeah, England batted well to get themselves into this position,” said Smith.
“A couple of catches go to hand there, and it’s a completely different story. They got a couple of good partnerships and we just need to break (this one) with the new ball tomorrow.”
Earlier, seamer Brydon Carse took 4-64 and spinner Shoaib Bashir 4-69 for England but an unbeaten 58 from Phillips helped New Zealand extend their overnight tally by 29 runs at the cost of their last two wickets.
Burj Khalifa’s Façade Sparkles with New Lighting Upgrade
- Dynamic RGBW system brings fresh vibrancy to the world’s tallest tower
- Debut scheduled for Eid Al Etihad celebrations
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Emaar Properties has completed a significant lighting transformation for the Burj Khalifa. The cutting-edge RGBW system, designed to integrate seamlessly with the tower’s architecture, will debut during the UAE’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations on 1 December 2024. This marks the countdown to the iconic tower’s 15th anniversary on 4 January 2025.
This enhanced system transforms the façade with a spectacular spectrum of colours and effects, elevating the experience for visitors while affirming Dubai’s global leadership in innovation and design.
The project required six months of detailed preparation and testing to ensure flawless execution. The RGBW technology replaces static lighting with adaptable fixtures capable of creating intricate, vibrant patterns for festive and everyday displays. These dynamic visuals work in harmony with the Burj Khalifa’s media screen, maintaining the structure’s celebrated aesthetic.
Mr Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Director of Emaar Properties, said: “Burj Khalifa has always stood as a beacon of what is possible when vision meets innovation. This lighting overhaul is a testament to our continuous pursuit of excellence and a tribute to the UAE’s spirit of progress. As we unveil this stunning upgrade during Eid Al Etihad celebrations and approach the tower’s 15th anniversary, this transformation marks a new chapter in its legacy, reaffirming Dubai as a city of boundless ambition.”
The lighting upgrade redefines standards in architectural innovation, showcasing the possibilities when technology and design come together to inspire future projects worldwide.
Follow Emaar on Facebook: www.facebook.com/emaardubai; X:www.twitter.com/emaardubai; Instagram: www.instagram.com/emaardubai
I’m a car expert… Check your vehicle insurance policy now
Vehicle owners in high-risk areas are being urged by motoring experts to take extra precautions in the wake of Storm Bert and continued flooding.
Storm Bert has unleashed more than 80% of November’s average rainfall in under 48 hours, wreaking havoc across the UK. Torrential rain and strong winds have led to widespread flooding and severe travel delays across the country.
Low-lying areas and major transport routes have been among the hardest hit. In Listowel, over 70 homes were evacuated, and more than 100 roads have become impassable in what has been described as the worst flooding in over 50 years.
When it comes to the cost of damages at the hands of Storm Bert, past events may provide some perspective. Though calculated over a longer period of time, Government figures show flooding between November 2019 and March 2020 resulted in economic losses of £333 million.
With Storm Bert’s unprecedented rainfall, many areas of the UK are now beginning to count the costs of the damages caused, and in Northern Ireland, the combined damage to property and infrastructure, as well as disruptions to Christmas trade, means the region expects losses of millions of Euro.
Vehicles are particularly vulnerable during flooding events, and vehicle expert and Regtransfers CEO Mark Trimbee urges drivers across the country to take precautions, sharing some key advice for motorists:
“Storm Bert has caused chaos across the UK, with heavy rainfall and rising floodwaters creating hazardous conditions for drivers. If you own a car, the best thing you can do is plan ahead. Don’t leave your vehicle parked in low-lying areas where it’s vulnerable, and never attempt to drive through floodwater – even if it looks shallow. It takes just 30cm of water to make a car float, and the damage from water getting into your engine or electronics can be catastrophic.
If your vehicle has already been caught in the flood, resist the urge to start it up, as this could cause irreversible damage. Instead, get it checked by a professional before doing anything else. With storms like this becoming more common, it’s also worth double-checking your insurance to ensure you’re covered for flood-related issues.
Stay safe, keep an eye on weather alerts, and take precautions now – a little effort could save you a lot of hassle in the long run.”
Drivers are reminded to review their car insurance policies to confirm flood damage coverage. While comprehensive insurance typically includes protection against flood damage, third-party or third-party, fire, and theft policies usually do not. Negligent behaviour, such as attempting to drive through floodwaters, may also void claims, even with comprehensive cover. Coverage providers may treat the impact of Storm Bert differently, so drivers are urged to check their policy if they have concerns.
Vehicle owners in high-risk areas are encouraged to take proactive steps, such as parking on higher ground, avoiding flood-prone routes, and staying informed through weather alerts.
Manchester not-for-profit transforms worker from warehouse to IT wizard at global firm
A pioneering not-for-profit marks a major milestone today as it celebrates a decade of empowering diverse talent in Manchester digital, creative, and tech industries.
Dawid Urbanski (29) embarked on Agent Academy’s Rise programme just two years ago.
Originally from Poland, Dawid moved to the UK when he was just 11 years old. Today, he reflects on his journey from a participant to a thriving project manager at CGI, a global IT and business consultancy firm.
He joined Agent Academy’s Rise, a 12-week initiative where learners work on live real life client challenges, to help them get industry-ready to hit the ground running once they get a job. This hands-on approach allowed him to showcase his potential and led to his current role.
Founded in 2014, Agent Academy was born out of a mission to address the problem of individuals leaving education and being locked out of industry opportunities due to a lack of connections and experience.
Since its inception, it has created a staggering impact of £35 million worth of salaries into the UK workforce, with over 500 North West companies growing as a result of the talent it has developed. The organisation achieved this by creating a practical, industry-designed curriculum with real-life client briefs, which has so far empowered over 5,000 young people, with a staggering 72% coming from underrepresented backgrounds.
Initially working as a warehouse operative while he contemplated his future, Dawid was interested in an IT career but felt locked out of the industry as he lacked the connections and experience. “I was in a position where I just wasn’t feeling fulfilled, but with bills to pay, I needed to work,” he said.
“Discovering Rise was like a breath of fresh air – I immediately applied and was so set on the programme, I told my boss at the warehouse I would quit if they wouldn’t give me two days off per week to do it.
“It was a great environment filled with likeminded people who all wanted to be creative and do the best job.
“The 12 weeks went by incredibly quickly, but it was perfect for getting my foot in the door. I wouldn’t have secured my dream job without Agent Academy, and for that, I am incredibly thankful.”
Open Media, an out-of-home advertising agency, has recruited eight team members from Agent Academy since its inception 10 years ago.
Mike Smith, CEO at Open Media, said: “The talent from Agent Academy is truly exceptional. The candidates we have recruited have shown a high level of creativity, enthusiasm and a real willingness to learn. We’re hugely grateful and look forward to working with them for many more years!”
Paul Corcoran, founder of Agent Academy, said: “Our anniversary is not just a celebration of our past, but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to the future.
“Ten years ago, a vision to create a hub for diverse talent was brought to life, with a view to solving a real industry problem. Over the years, Agent Academy has evolved significantly, forming industry-leading partnerships that have paved the way for young individuals to thrive in their chosen careers.”
As Agent Academy looks to the future, it remains committed to empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to succeed in the ever-evolving digital, creative, and tech sectors in the North West.
Stagecoach Performing Arts teams up with Mason Williams PR
Mason Williams Manchester says plans are underway to ensure the spotlight is firmly on Stagecoach Performing Arts – covering creative campaigns, press office across the Stagecoach network, influencer relations, and partnerships.
The agency went up against five others in a bid to represent the brand.
Stagecoach Performing Arts has selected Mason Williams to handle all PR with immediate effect and is the UK’s largest network of part-time performing arts schools for children and teens aged 4-18 yrs with over 60,000 enrolled.
The campaign will highlight the work of the company, the opportunities for upcoming students and the full year of performance activities of the group.
Alumni of Stagecoach include, Emma Watson, Jamie Bell, Eleanor Tomlinson, Tuppence Middleton, Tom Fletcher, Danny Mac and Charlotte Jaconelli.
Dijanna Radisevic, Stagecoach Performing Arts head of marketing, said: “We are thrilled about the opportunity to collaborate with Mason Williams. Given their extensive experience in this sector, coupled with their love of the arts including having an actress working on our account – we are confident that this partnership will greatly enhance our brand exposure.”
Heading up the account is the formidable duo of senior account directors, Sarah Grindley and Lynsey Sizer, supported by executive Clara Parr and MD Rita Rowe. Sarah’s PR career spans 12 years and three continents.
With consumer, fashion and hotel and hospitality experience. She has headed up the Asmodee Games account, as well as a number of hotel and hospitality brands at the agency for two years, alongside spear heading a wide spread brand campaign for the Elf on the Shelf.
Lynsey has worked side by side with Sarah and also attended theatre school during her formative years. She is also ex-Mattel brand PR with experience heading up accounts for Fisher Price, Scrabble and Hot Wheels alongside leading the PR team at WW (previously Weight Watchers) and managing National and Regional PR campaigns at Safeway (now Morrisons).
Prior to her PR career, which spans 38 years – Rita handled publicity for local theatres (Library Theatre Company and Forum, Manchester) managing outreach for two Repertory companies and transfers to London West End during that time.
Rita was also responsible (along with the Artistic Director) for shaping the creative programme based on community needs, educational curriculum and initiative to bring young people into theatre.
Rita Rowe, Mason Williams MD, said: “This is best early Christmas present that any agency could have; a fabulous client who wants to make some noise with an incredible network of schools and students.
“We are so delighted with this win more so as the agency account team involved are from a performing arts background with two members ex-Stagecoach students. The account will be dynamic, theatrical and a bit bonkers given the nature of the beast. We can’t wait to get started and could not be more excited.”
Image: Stagecoach Frimley Students at The New Wimbledon Theatre
UK Food and Drink Sector Stays Strong on EU Imports
New research confirms the UK food and drink sector’s determination to maintain close ties with EU suppliers, despite the complexities introduced by Brexit.
The survey, conducted on behalf of the European Commission, gathered responses from wholesalers, importers, producers, and HORECA professionals across seven food and beverage categories. It found that a majority remain committed to EU imports in the year ahead.
Wine and dairy/cheese sectors showed the strongest allegiance, with 100% of respondents planning to source additional SKUs from the EU. Beer and spirits (80%), charcuterie and meat (80%), and bakery (70%) also indicated a clear commitment to maintaining EU import connections.
By contrast, confectionery and fruit & vegetable sectors exhibited the highest uncertainty, with just 30% planning to source additional SKUs from the EU by 2025.
UK industry professionals cited quality (95%), pricing (81%), authenticity (78%), and sustainability (77%) as their most critical considerations when selecting products. EU products were especially appreciated for their authenticity (79%) and tradition (70%), with diversity (64%), taste (62%), safety (59%), and high quality (54%) also ranking as significant factors.
EU certifications such as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and Organic labels were deemed important by 66% of respondents. Recognition of these certifications remains high, with the European Organic Products label most widely recognised (93%) and the PGI label familiar to 78%.
The research, conducted in April 2024, aligns with the UK Government’s implementation of the Border Trading Operating Model (BTOM), designed to optimise border processes while maintaining security.
“These insights demonstrate that despite the challenges and complexities of new cross-border trade agreements, the EU remains a valued partner and important resource for the UK’s food and drink industry and is likely to remain that way,” said Andrew Crumpton, founder of AMC Consulting and advisor to the ‘More Than Only Food & Drink’ campaign.
Veryan Bliss, Managing Director of Food Intelligence and fresh produce advisor to the EU’s ‘More Than Only Food & Drink’ campaign, supported these findings: “It is clear that the relationship between the UK and EU is incredibly important. In 2023 the UK was the number one destination for EU agri-food, accounting for 22% of exports and with a value of €51.3 billion.”
Bliss also stressed the value of EU imports for year-round produce supply: “The geographical diversity of the EU ensures a steady supply of seasonal produce and often complements the UK’s own growing patterns. When certain crops are out of season in the UK, EU producers support the offer, ensuring that UK retailers can offer a consistent, high-quality selection to consumers throughout the year.”
Luna Investment Management appoints Paul Finnan as Senior Investment Manager
Luna Investment Management (Luna IM), a specialist investment management firm, and the North West’s largest independent discretionary fund manager, today announced the appointment of Paul Finnan as Senior Investment Manager.
Finnan joins Luna IM with 18 years of investment experience having managed a diverse range of portfolios for individuals, SIPP/SSAS and Trusts. Paul began his career at James Brearly & Sons in 2006, working his way up to regional office manager. Following this he spent nine years at Brown Shipley as an Investment Manager and most recently, prior to joining Luna, he spent almost three years at Charles Stanley. He becomes a member of the Luna Investment Committee and is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
Paul Finnan, Senior Investment Manager, said: “The opportunity to join the Luna IM team with whom I share the same core values, namely maintaining client connections whilst providing personal flexible and proactive investment management strategy, was key in my decision to join. Luna is 100% focused on the client relationship and outcomes and I’m excited to add my experience to the team.”
James Carter, Director of Luna Investment Management, said: “It’s been a fantastic year of growth for the business and outcomes for our clients. Adding Paul to the senior management team further strengthens our offering.”
Luna Investment Management, which is located in Spinningfields in Manchester, provides bespoke investment solutions to a range of clients throughout the UK. Through agreements with providers and advisers, these tailored investment services are available within personal and corporate accounts, charitable foundations, trusts, pensions and offshore bond structures.
