Rutland Hall Hotel welcomes Sunil Kanjanghat SJS as new Director GM

Rutland Hall Hotel is delighted to announce the appointment of Sunil Kanjanghat as the resort’s new Director General Manager. With over 20 years of global experience in the luxury hospitality sector, Sunil is set to bring his strategic expertise and focus on first class experiences to Rutland Hall after an exceptional tenure at Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa, part of the Hand Picked Hotels portfolio. Known for his impactful leadership, Sunil is eager to contribute his vast expertise to the resort’s development and to build on Rutland Hall’s growing reputation as a premier luxury destination in the UK. “I am thrilled to be joining Rutland Hall Hotel at this time of change and growth,” explains Sunil. “I look forward to working with the existing team and I am also eager to collaborate with the owners, Priyesh Patel MBE DL and Minesh Patel, on the exciting and innovative projects to come. I am looking forward to what the future holds.” Sunil’s arrival coincides with several new developments at Rutland Hall which include the refurbishment of the leisure facilities and the opening of Four Roots Wellbeing which will offer guests a unique, four-hour curated journey which includes bathing, treatment, relaxation and dining. Sunil’s career spans senior leadership roles across many luxury five star and four red star experiences in Asia and England, where he has developed a reputation for driving operational excellence. Throughout his 8 years with the Montagu Arms in Hampshire, the Terrace restaurant held a One Michelin star. His portfolio of 5-star hotel successes includes Lainston House, part of the Exclusive collections, Le Meridien luxury hotels and the Sheraton, a 5-star deluxe hotel in Asia. Sunil is a St Julian’s Scholar and a graduate of the prestigious Innholders Scholarship from Cranfield University. His outstanding success in delivering luxury experiences stems from his exceptional management style, which is characterised by a focus on leading, supporting, and inspiring. This makes him the perfect fit to guide Rutland Hall through this exciting period of investment and development. Sunil’s vision and experience in managing large-scale projects and historical properties will be instrumental in furthering the hotel’s commitment to excellence. Priyesh Patel MBE DL, co-owner of Rutland Hall Hotel, expressed his enthusiasm for Sunil’s appointment: “We are excited to have Sunil on board at such an important time for our hotel. His leadership style is nothing short of remarkable, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact he will have on our operations, our team, and, of course, our guests.”

Bank of England still too cautious in cutting rates, says IEA Economics Fellow

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Commenting on the Bank of England’s decision to cut interest rates to 4.75%, Julian Jessop, Economics Fellow at the free market think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs, said: “The Bank of England was right to cut interest rates again today but should move further and faster. Rates are still higher than necessary to keep bearing down on inflation, especially when the Bank is continuing to tighten policy by running down its holdings of government bonds. “Indeed, a majority of members of the IEA’s Shadow Monetary Policy Committee voted to cut rates by a half a point rather than a quarter. Inflation is now back close to target and expected to remain there, but the full effects of past increases in interest rates and the deceleration of money growth have yet to feed through. “The additional uncertainty and market volatility triggered by the Budget and Trump’s victory had prompted some to speculate that the MPC might hold off today. Delivering the rate cut that almost all had expected should therefore help to reassure households, businesses, and investors. “The Bank has also endorsed the OBR view that the additional spending and borrowing in the Budget will provide a temporary boost to growth and inflation. This could slow the pace of rate cuts in future, though the Bank stuck to its guidance that rates will fall ‘gradually’ (perhaps a quarter point every three months, taking the Bank rate to 3.75% by the end of next year). “However, the Bank’s forecasts are based on assumptions about the path of market interest rates which already look too optimistic. The increases in taxes and other business costs in the Budget, compounded by the hit to confidence, should also limit any upsides to growth or inflation. “The Bank acknowledged the uncertainties here, implying rates could still be cut more quickly. But there is a clear risk that the MPC is too slow to respond.”

Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance completes 30,000th mission

Life-saving charity, the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance has responded to its 30,000th call – in its 30th anniversary year. The helicopter and crew landed at the scene of an RTC near Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, in the hours of darkness last week (30 October). The doctor and paramedic crew treated two women and a child, who were then taken to hospital. It is the unique combination of a specialist crew with the speed and capability of the helicopter that gives patients the best chance of survival. LNAA CEO Karen Jobling sad: “This milestone during LNAA’s 30th anniversary year, was made possible because of the support of people living and working in the communities of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.” LNAA’s team of specialist paramedics, doctors and pilots have already responded to almost 1,500 life-saving missions this year. October proved to be extremely busy and the crews were called out to 141 incidents of which 58 of these were undertaken during the hours of darkness. With the aid of night vision goggles (NVGs) the crew are able to fly at night to reach patients involved in the most serious of incidents until 2am every day.
LINCS & NOTTS Air Ambulance photo shoot
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Each pair of NVGs cost £14,000 and it is thanks to the generosity of people living and working in the communities of Lincs & Notts that we can equip the crew with this state-of-the art equipment allowing them to provide pre-hospital emergency care to those in need whilst everyone is asleep. Karen added: “We need £13 million this year to provide this 24/7 service, every day of the year. We receive no direct Government funding, and have only come this far, thanks to everyone who continues to support us, giving our patients the best chance of survival and recovery.”

Environment Agency water company inspections across the Midlands set to increase as new staff arrive in post

The first 18 environment officers specifically focussed on water company regulation have started work across the East and West Midlands. By the end of the year a further 29 people will have joined the new water industry Enforcement team focused on the Midlands and Severn Trent Water. These new staff are in addition to existing local teams which will continue to contribute to the regulation of Severn Trent Water. Across the country the new Environment Agency staff will ramp up water company inspections, enforcement and regulation. The move is part of the national Water Industry Regulation Transformation programme that will see up to 500 new and experienced staff recruited across the country. Together, the new recruits will enable water company inspections to increase to 4,000 by the end of March 2025,10,000 in 2025/6 and 11,500 in 2026/27. The EA is already conducting the largest ever criminal investigation into potential widespread non-compliance by water and sewerage companies at thousands of sewage treatment works. Since 2015, the EA has concluded 63 prosecutions against water and sewerage companies securing fines of over £151 million. Geoff Craig, Water Industry Regulation Manager for the Midlands, said: “We share the public’s frustration about the levels of sewage in our waterways. Water company performance is not good enough and we are committed to cracking down on non-compliance. “More boots on the ground is a significant element of how we are improving the way we regulate the water sector. Nationally, over the next three years, we’re spending £15.8 million on improving water company enforcement and investing around £15 million on enhancing our digital systems and tools to help identify the cause of issues, not just the symptoms. “Taking this action will allow us to bring about a change in performance from the water industry that we all want to see.”

Midland Wealth Solutions Relocates To Sadler Bridge Studios

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Independent financial planning experts, Midland Wealth Solutions, have relocated to new offices at Sadler Bridge Studios, part of the Connect Derby portfolio of managed workspaces. Midland Wealth Solutions was founded in 2016 by David Bradley and has expanded to become a trusted name in the financial services sector in the Midlands, London, and the South East. The company provides independent advice to individuals, families, and businesses across a range of areas primarily focussing on lifestyle financial planning which often leads to advice on investments, savings, pensions, tax planning, and financial protection. Daviid and his team previously occupied a shared office space on St Mary’s Gate in the city and their relocation was driven by the need for a more professional environment that would support the firm’s expansion and cater for its growing client base. They checked out a number of managed workspaces across the city, but Sadler Bridge Studios came out on top, thanks to its central location, close to shops and car parking, and its high specification office space and complementary facilities, including meeting rooms and in-house café, RASK. Commenting on joining Sadler Bridge Studios, David Bradley, director of Midland Wealth Solutions, said: “We’d been on the lookout for a new office in Derby city centre for a while to support our expanding client base. “We considered several locations, but Sadler Bridge Studios stood out due to its central location and facilities, especially the in-house café, meeting rooms and super-fast broadband. “The facilities available here are already making a huge difference. The dedicated meeting rooms are perfect for client presentations, and the reception services and post handling are efficient and professional.”

Nottinghamshire businesswoman named Black Businessperson of the Year

After more than a decade of inking incredible tattoo designs to people across the UK, Nottingham’s Sarah Louise Powell has been named Black Businessperson of the Year by the Black Achievers Awards. With a fast-growing business, beloved by its many clients, Sarah has enjoyed rapid success since opening her studio in 2022, after completing residencies alongside other leading tattoo artists across the city. Taking the plunge she has gone on to create a successful business, which is attracting attention from peers and customers alike, who have fallen in love with her incredible work. Recently featured as part of a specialist exhibition at the National Maritime Museum in Cornwall, called Reclaiming the Narrative, Sarah’s work has led her to achieve national fame, with her work now followed by more than 11,000 on social media. Passionate to pass on her expertise to others, Sarah recently shared her knowledge to students at Nottingham Trent International College, who were enthralled by her experiences and knowledge. The success of her studio and her drive to help other entrepreneurs was recognised by the judges at these prestigious awards, which saw dozens of entries from across the Midlands. Speaking about her win at the Black Achievers gala event, Sarah said: “It is an overwhelming honour to be recognised for all of my accomplishments as a business owner. “I cannot thank everyone around me enough for the support and love they have shown me over the years. This achievement would not have been possible without my family, friends, mentors and clients who have helped me create a successful business.”

Lincolnshire eco waste shop supporting UK’s ambitions

Ahead of COP 29 next week, The Green Life Pantry in Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, has taken measures to make sure it is one of the small businesses helping to drive progress in the UK’s journey to Net Zero.

The zero waste eco store, which has been running since 2019, provides residents with an opportunity to stock up on day-to-day items in a more eco-friendly way by using ‘bring your own’ containers or paper bags. This includes dry goods, such as baking supplies, dried fruit, loose tea and coffee beans, as well as environmentally conscious replacement products such as wash detergents, shampoo and soaps.

Jenny Salvidge, founder of The Green Life Pantry, came up with the idea as a way of helping her community become cost effective, eco-logical and less reliant on plastic. After leaving full-time-employment, Jenny sought out a Start-Up Loan of £12,000 via programme partner Norfolk & Waveney Enterprise Services to help launch the business.

Jenny Salvidge, founder of The Green Life Pantry: “The Start Up Loan was pivotal in helping me to launch The Green Life Pantry and in turn, allowing me to support a community of eco-conscious people throughout Lincolnshire.

“I would certainly encourage other businesses to consider what steps they can take to become more sustainable, no matter how small they may be.”

Richard Bearman, Managing Director, Small Business Lending at the British Business Bank said: “We are immensely proud to support the entrepreneurial spirit within communities that traditionally face barriers to financing. It is our firm belief that by providing access to financing, we are not only fostering innovation but also empowering individuals to create sustainable enterprises that contribute positively to our economy and society.

The Green Life Pantry exemplifies our commitment to supporting sustainability-focused businesses. Jenny has now established a thriving, eco-conscious business, demonstrating the transformative impact of the Start Up Loans programme.”

Brackley Property Developments unveils new £6.25m light industrial scheme in Leicester

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A vacant former housing depot in Leicester has been transformed with the development of a new £6.25 million light industrial scheme. Commercial property developer, Brackley Property Developments, has completed the construction of Blackbird Industrial Park, which comprises more than 30,000 sq ft of new light industrial units at the site on Blackbird Road, on behalf of Leicester City Council. The scheme comprises four new and environmentally sustainable buildings which are subdivided to provide 21 high quality small units for start-ups and growing businesses, meeting a regional demand for commercial and industrial workspace. Units are EPC A-rated and range in size from 750 sq ft – 2,500 sq ft. Features include roof-mounted solar panels, super insulation and low-energy smart lighting, and the site provides on-site parking, EV charging and bicycle storage facilities. The brownfield site was previously home to the Ian Marlow Centre, a former housing depot used by Leicester City Council, which included vacant office, workshop and storage buildings. The scheme was financed by the government’s Levelling Up Fund following the city council’s successful bid for £19.4million of new investment in 2021 to support the growth of workspaces in Leicester. BPD won the remit from the council to redevelop the site, following a competitive tender. Wilten Construction was the main contractor and the professional team included Summers Inman LLP, Stephen George + Partners, BSP and BWB Consulting.

Leicester Business Festival 2024 officially launches

The Leicester Business Festival (LBF) 2024 officially kicked off on Monday, November 4, celebrating its 10 year milestone and the region’s creative and collaborative business community.

The opening event was held at the brand new Blackbird Industrial Park, situated on the site of a former housing depot on Blackbird Road. This state-of-the-art development features four buildings that offer over 30,000 square feet of light industrial workspace across 21 units, designed for local start-ups and growing businesses.

With a strong emphasis on sustainability, all the buildings include low carbon, energy-efficient features such as roof-mounted solar panels, excellent insulation, and smart lighting, along with electric vehicle charging stations and secure bicycle storage. The units will be available for lease starting in winter 2024, ranging in size from 750 to 2,500 square feet.

The festival’s opening highlighted Leicester’s recognition as the fifth most creative city in the UK. City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby underscored the importance of the festival and shared exciting upcoming initiatives, including a creative industry strategy launching on November 15 during the festival and exposed ambitious redevelopment plans for the city centre, such as a £22 million upgrade of the railway station and enhancements to the Leicester Waterside area.

Rajiv Popat, ITV news reporter, hosted the event, bringing together local businesses, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to showcase innovation, creativity and share insights. During the event, Rajiv interviewed Milan Gosai from Paani Bottles, a Leicester-based company that produces handcrafted copper water bottles. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, Paani Bottles combines traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern health benefits, such as improved digestion and antibacterial properties. Each bottle is made from over 99% pure copper, supports local artisans, and helps reduce plastic waste, appealing to customers who value authentic and sustainable products.

Nottingham Venues’ commitment to people recognised with award win

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The quality of Nottingham Venues training, professional development and support for its 290 team members has been recognised at this years East Midlands Chamber of Commerce Nottingham Business Awards. Nottingham Venues, the collection of hospitality destinations located on the University of Nottingham’s campuses, won the Commitment To People Development Award at the awards ceremony on Friday 1 November at The Nottingham Belfry. The Commitment to People Development Award recognises organisations demonstrating a firm commitment to people development and the implementation and promotion of a learning and development culture. It also considers how employee wellbeing is supported and how this culture contributes to the business’ overall success. The judges acknowledged the widespread professional development and leadership programmes Nottingham Venues has established, along with its commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of its staff. Stephanie Moss-Pearce, Director of Marketing at Nottingham Venues comments: “Our people reflect us, as a business, and the value we place on them. We want to ensure that our team have opportunities to develop in their careers and are supported, so we are delighted that our work has been recognised by The East Midlands Chamber. “Our commitment to our people is having a hugely positive impact on our business. The past year has been our best yet, both financially and in terms of business growth and internal promotions, staff engagement and positive guest feedback, all thanks to our dedicated team.” “Our focus on our people has been the biggest factor in driving our business success. Our people create our organisational culture which impacts on the atmosphere we create for our guests. Having satisfied guests brings repeat business and our teams’ excellent service builds our reputation, creating positive reviews, which drive our success.”