Stand back Blumenthal, Oliver and Ramsey! Fylde Rugby Football Club (www.fylderugby.co.uk) is launching its first-ever networking and fine dining evening on Friday 22nd April at 7.30pm.

The new evening was inspired by members of the Lytham and St Annes Business Development Association (BDA – www.thebda.co.uk). More than 70 people attended their own informal evening networking event at which they invited Fylde RFC head chef Craig Brown to showcase his culinary talents.

Craig said,

“People expect rugby club cuisine to be all about pie and peas. So I think we took a few people by surprise with the food we served. We put on quite a show. Guests enjoyed avocado and crab to start with, then Goosnargh duck followed by exotic fruit soup and some homemade petit fours. We had some entertainment too from local singer Emily Adams. The feedback was outstanding.

“We’ve decided to make the evening open to the business community in general. It would be wonderful if the success continued and it became a regular date in the calendar.”

Fylde RFC commercial representative and director of Questa Financial Services, Anthony Hoskisson, said,

“Craig is a hidden gem. His food is outstanding. And we were delighted to have him here at the club and that his first fine dining event was such a huge success.

“Local business people attended with their partners and enjoyed the informal conversation, fun and new contacts. We’re committed to the format and ‘keeping it local’. That way we can make sure any opportunities that arise benefit the Fylde community.”

Places are limited to 40. More information is available from Emily Nickson on 01253 734733 or email emily.nickson

ENDS
March 2010

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Questa Financial Services (www.questafs.co.uk) on Whitehills Business Park in Blackpool has enjoyed growth of almost 30% with turnover increasing from just over half a million to £650,000 in 2010. The figures confirm the best trading performance since the company was formed in 2007.

Questa managing director Anthony Hoskisson said,

“We’re absolutely delighted with last year’s performance. Like all businesses we were aware that the recession could present challenging trading conditions. We considered planning for consolidation, but in the end we went for growth. And the results are now there for all to see.”

In addition to the annual turnover record, the total value of customer funds controlled by Questa has risen from £60 million to £80 million. This growth represents the combined effect of both new client instructions and investment performance.

Questa, which employs 15 people, is now targeting further growth and a target client investment portfolio valued at more than £100 million over the next 2 years. This will reinforce Questa’s position as the Fylde coast’s largest independent financial services company.

Anthony added,

“We won a lot of new business last year because of our commitment to fee-based charges. Clients tell us they prefer the transparency in our charging structure. Our trading success is also testament to the skill and dedication of our staff – and the faith and trust our clients old and new have placed in them.

“We’re very grateful and can’t wait to try and beat it in 2011!”

ENDS
January 2011

45 year-old Neil Bowker – a director at Bowker Group based in Bamber Bridge – and Adrian West set off from Lands End on Tuesday 21st September hoping to arrive at John O’ Groats between 10 and 14 days later.

They have already conquered medium distance cycle rides previously including the coast to coast. But this is the first time that either of them has attempted to ride almost 1000 miles in such a short time.

Neil hopes his attempt will raise thousands of pounds for the North West Lady Taverners.

Neil said,

“I had the opportunity to take ten to twelve days out of work. I thought if I don’t do this now I might never do it. I was a keen cycle rider in my youth. And I’ve rekindled that recently with a couple of long rides for charity. But nothing like this.

“I’m cycling with Adrian. He’s a psychologist so one of the interesting things about us cycling together is that he’ll be able to work out what has possessed us to do this!!”

Local businesses have already rallied round including Motorhomes UK (www.motorhomesukltd.co.uk) who have supported the challenge by donating a four-berth motor home support vehicle to be driven by Neils father Ken.

Louise Degren from Motorhomes UK in Bamber Bridge said,

“We know the charity, The Lady Taverners does some wonderful work for local disabled and under-privileged children. It’s a sporting challenge and it’s a wonderful story about a regular businessman doing something extraordinary for the community. We wish him all the best.

Donations can be made by visiting www.justgiving.com/n-bowker with occasional progress updates available on www.rideofourlives.wordpress.com.

The survey confirms that young people perceive meeting up as much more important than many of the new social media communication platforms like Twitter and Facebook.

88% of the young people aged between 17 and 26 surveyed believed that face to face communication was quite or very important for friendship. The highest placed social media communication channel was Facebook with 61.2% of the vote. Only 8% believed Twitter was quite or very important.

Mobile phones were acknowledged as having an important communication role with SMS texts and mobile phone calls being acknowledged as quite or very important by 85.7% and 73% respectively.

The survey was completed by Ci Research (www.ci-research.com) on behalf of several UK marketing agencies, gathering views from 500 young people throughout the UK.

Colin Auton, Ci Research director, said,

“We read daily about a social media revolution, so we were keen to discover more about the level of penetration by new communications channels like Twitter. Our survey proves that communication between friends is a very personal issue best conducted face to face. Older mobile communication channels also have a clear strong hold.

“Perhaps the broadcast nature of Twitter makes personal conversations between friends less appealing, and Facebook performs more strongly because you can keep closer control on the friends who can access your updates.”

The Wilmslow-based agency is responding with a new range of digital delivery techniques including video, podcasts and screencasts which they predict will become as common place as pdf downloads and Powerpoint within months.

The agency has launched a new YouTube channel showcasing some of its latest client video reports at www.youtube.com/ciresearch

And now, Ci Research is challenging clients old and new to claim a free executive summary MP3 podcast for any new projects briefed or commissioned in September 2010.

Ci Research marketing director Richard Walker said,

“Let’s face it, no-one has time to wade through pages and pages of statistical information. As an industry our skill must be in distilling the information down into inspirational bite-sized chunks – in a format that can be readily digested.

“Traditionally the information overload comes from an urgency amongst some agencies to prove the volume of work undertaken. At best this is counter-productive. At worst it causes real damage to – and obscures – the value of the insights that the research delivers.

“Here at Ci Research, we believe the true value of our research comes from the interpretation and delivery of the results. It’s not simply about broadcasting, but delivering them in a way which engages with staff and audiences who need to understand the impact of the research the most.”

Ci Research has increasingly been using podcast and video technology. But the new range of delivery options puts this technology at the centre of the agency’s results delivery process.

Ci Research executive summary podcasts feature a 5-minute overview voiced over by a project manager. The podcast can also include focus group sound bytes and verbatim comments as appropriate.

Richard adds,

“A crucial part of our service now includes understanding how we can deliver our results to engage each client with maximum effect. Podcasts are a great example of how Clients can synchronise their itunes to upload our latest MP3s and listen at a time that is most convenient to them.”

More information about the free podcast offer is available from Richard Walker on 01625 628000.

ENDS
September 2010

Bowker MINI (www.bowkermini.com) in Channel Way in Blackburn, and on Channel Way on the Docks in Preston, are both seeking a new young video presenter to celebrate the launch of the MINI Countryman this month.

The winners will each be invited to present the dealerships’ first video reviews of the new MINI Countryman once it is launched on September 18th. The video will then be broadcast on the Bowker Youtube channel (www.youtube.com/bowkerbmw) and the winning presenter will win MINI merchandise and the weekend hire of a new MINI Countryman for a parent or guardian.

Anyone 18 years old or under living in Lancashire is invited to enter. The entry should be a short digital video between one and three minutes in length featuring a review of a car of their choice.

For Bowker MINI in Blackburn, Graham McMurray said,

“The MINI Countryman is an important launch for us and we wanted to do something special to celebrate. We’re looking for original presenting talent – so we don’t don’t mind if the video is recorded on a phone or using the video function on a camera. We really don’t mind. If the review features a MINI that’s great. But we’re more interested in the presenter than the car at this stage.

For Bowker Preston, Tony Dillon adds,

“It’s a fun competition so the winning presenter will be the one that shows a bit of personality. We won’t be too worried about mechanical knowledge – but I think the best entries will come from people who can capture a passion for cars.”

Video entries are accepted by email or by simply posting the website address of any video already uploaded (e.g. Youtube address) to info no later than Friday 17th September. Digital video files can also be dropped off at the dealership at Trident Park, Off Whitebirk Drive, Blackburn, Lancashire BB1 3NU or t Channel Way Preston Lancashire PR2 2YA
on a CD, DVD or via a USB memory stick.

ENDS

September 2010

Bowker MINI (www.bowkermini.com) customer Austin Mortimer from Chorley has dedicated his MINI Cooper to Paddy Hopkirk – winner of the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964. Austin’s authentic red paint work features race logos and a chequered-flag roof.

And now, it is the only MINI in the UK to feature Paddy Hopkirk’s name with the racing legend’s personal and exclusive blessing.

Austin said,

“I love MINIs. But Paddy is the guy who really put MINIs on the map. Everyone wanted a Mini Cooper after his victory. I recently requested his permission to add his name to the car. And he graciously granted it. So it makes it very unique. I sent him photos of the car and he said: ‘that MINI can carry my name only – no others!’ I’m very honoured.

“It’s a great story. I’ve got the Cooper name on there too. John Cooper persuaded them to let him improve the Mini engines. I don’t think they were convinced they could take the big boys in the rally circuit. But they proved them wrong. I think it’s fitting that I’ve celebrated their achievements together in the right place – on a MINI!”

Paddy Hopkirk won the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally alongside Henry Liddon in a Mini Cooper S – car number 37. They remain the most recent all-British crew to have won the event. Hopkirk also travelled to Australia during his career to drive for the BMC Works Team in the annual Bathurst 500 race for standard production cars at the Mount Panorama Circuit. He drove at Bathurst in a Morris Cooper S from 1965-1967.

Paddy was elected as a life member of the British Racing Drivers’ Club in 1967, and is also president of the Historic Rally Car Register. He is now patron of disability charity WheelPower.

Austin adds,

“I’ve been driving MINIs since 1966. I’ve owned classics through the years. And now I’ve moved on to the next generation. I love the fun look of them. The really put a smile on your face there’s no other car that gives you that fun feel. Because everything got so high tech. It all looks the same. The fun’s gone out of it. You might as well ride a bus or a train. If you want to enjoy what our driving get a MINI. And you can put your own personal stamp on it too.”

ENDS
August 2010

Team captain Stuart Reid led by example last season, with victories at the Leazes Criterium and in Otley, and a second place in the Bob Swailes Memorial road race. This season Stuart leads an expanded line-up in the Premier Calendar and Elite Criterium series races. The five-man junior squad includes current North West junior champion Johnny Knox.

Team Herbalife Wheelbase team director said Geoff Newcombe said,

“We can have anything up to 14 riders. And that can mean a lot of kit. We’re putting as many bikes, bags and bodies as possible in the BMW 5-series estate which will remain the main vehicle. The convoy lines up behind the riders and we’re there as back up to help with spare wheels and any race issues that may arise.

“Team Herbalife Wheelbase started as a development team. Fellow director Neil Taylor and I saw a lot of local lads who needed some support but hadn’t come from racing backgrounds. And it was basically a case of starting from the beginning – giving them some guidance where we could.

“Last year we looked after a few riders with their equipment and had a good year. We ended up 22nd nationally and 4th in the North West. The season has already started strongly. Our national ranking has improved and we hope to break in the top 3 in the North West.”

For Bowker BMW managing director Tom Fox said,

“Sports sponsorships play an important role in the dealerships in Preston and Blackburn. We seek out local teams and individuals that demonstrate skill and an ability to make a real impact in their chosen field. Team Herbalife Wheelbase ticks all the boxes. We’re happy to help and hope our support will help them achieve their ambitious targets for the season.”

ENDS

Aileen Douthwaite’s ambitious trek on the Great Wall of China last October caught the eye of GO Outdoors judges. Her ten-day challenge saw her walk through some of the most spectacular terrain in the world and raise more than £3,000 for St Margaret’s Hospice in Clydebank.

The French horn expert, who is currently teaching in Dumbarton Academy and Knoxland Primary, teaches music to children across West Dunbartonshire in her role as the council’s Education support officer for Music Instruction.

Aileen will receive her Clydebank Outdoor Adventurer of the Year trophy from store manager Paul Davidson on Saturday 27th March at the new Clydebank GO Outdoors superstore on the site – formerly occupied by Megabowl – on Livingstone Street.

Aileen Douthwaite said,

"It’s a wonderful surprise to receive this award from GO Outdoors. I’ve always had an eye for adventurous challenges. And this was one of the toughest yet. We were walking for nine hours on most days. And I had to conquer my fear of creepie crawlies too! But I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.

"It’s spectacular scenery out there. I like to think that if I can get out there and have these experiences then anyone can. I can’t wait for my next challenge and hope to climb Kilimnajrao for my next test!"

Aileen’s adventurous accolade came after GO Outdoors appealed to local groups or individuals to nominate inspirational Clydebank people who have faced an outdoor challenge – or used outdoor pursuits to benefit the local community.

GO Outdoors superstore manager Paul Davidson,

“We wanted to celebrate the achievements of local outdoor adventurer who would inspire others to enjoy the outdoors. And Aileen’s adventures in Clydebank are a shining example of how an active lifestyle and a passion for the outdoors can make real difference to both her lives and the lives of the people she has raised money for."

Anyone who wishes to donate can go to www.justgiving.com/aileendouthwaite.

The inventors received their Awards at the Ideas North West Inventors’ Expo at Turf Moor Enterprise Haven on Saturday 20th March. The awards were presented by Steve Hoyle, commercial director of Expo sponsor No Limits.

The awards celebrate the successful development of each invention and acknowledge each invention’s potential for worldwide sales success. The awards have been introduced to hopefully inspire a new generation of innovative entrepreneurs.

- Chris Williams from Chorley : www.empire-cycles.com – New Down Hill Mountain Bike

Chris Williams has designed a specialist mountain bike called the AP-1WR. Chris, set out to design his own dream mountain bike. He designed an innovative single-cast lightweight frame to achieve his dream. Through his business, Empire Cycles, he has sponsored Lewis Buchanan who rode the bike to championship success. And the bike was listed in the prestigious ‘Dirt 100′ which is a magazine acknowledgment of the industry’s top 100 products of the year.

- Bill Austin from Blackburn : www.billaustin.co.uk – The Austin Stair Aid

Bill Austin of Shadsworth, Blackburn devised the Austin StairAid to help his sick wife climb stairs. Wife Betty suffered a stroke and found it difficult to get around their home. The special ‘dolly bar’ is attached to an adapted banister helping the user to manoeuvre up and down stairs safely. It can also be used along level areas for moving around the home.

- Martin Watson from Rossendale : New Light Emitting Diode

Martin from Weir near Bacup has invented an energy-saving street light. His light emitting diode (LED) lighting unit is all set to compete with the high-energy products used by highways authorities across Britain. Blackburn with Darwen Council has installed 20 of his LED units in traffic bollards in Yew Tree Drive, off Preston New Road, Blackburn, in a sixth-month trial. If successful, it could lead to a 500bollard replacement saving anything up to £15,000 a year in energy bills.

Chris, Bill and Martin’s awards was just one of the highlights of another successful North West inventor’s Expo sponsored by No Limits. Now in its fifth year, more than 100 visitors including local inventors showcasing their ideas, support businesses including rapid prototyping, tooling and manufacturing services; free patent search advisors; and, representatives from the Patent Office.

For Ideas North West Basil Philipsz said,

“Congratulations to all our Inventors of the Year. All three epitomise the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit for which our region is so famous. Many of our most successful inventors attended the Expo, and their successes along with the support of No Limits and a whole host of informed and experienced advisors offering free consultations helped to inspire a unique networking event at our fifth annual expo."

Local innovators, businesses seeking to grow through innovation, or anyone with an idea they would like to exploit is to find out more about Ideas North West. For more information businesses and individuals can visit the website paul.white.