Member News

Following a successful application to Centre for Ageing Better, Norwich has officially been awarded the status of Age Friendly City, joining the international community of World Health Organization Age Friendly Cities. Age UK Norwich and Norwich City Council have been working jointly over the last 6 months to plan for the application as well as create a current state of ageing report for Norwich, looking at areas of targeted improvement and best practice. Celebrating the culmination of this work, and the official launch of Age Friendly Norwich project, the teams hosted a celebration on the 03 October 2024 at City Hall. Inviting key stakeholders, dignitaries and local decision makers to review what work has been done and what work continues to be a priority. William Armstrong OBE, Patron of Age UK Norwich and Honorary President of Healthwatch Norfolk spoke of the projects ambitions ‘Ageing is a privilege, not gifted to everyone. We must therefore make Norwich an inclusive city where age does not limit aspi­ration or opportunity and where the quality of later life is a marker of our City’s unique character, culture and sense of commu­nity.”’ With presentations from Age CEO Dan Skipper and Council Leader Mike Stonard, as well as an official Age Friendly Norwich flag up the Norwich City Flag poll and lights illuminiating city hall to reflect the branding of the project. Celebrations included a look ahead at creating a network of Age Friendly employers within the City of Norwich. By 2040 it is expected that over 40% of Norfolk’s population will be over the working age threshold, with the population of 85+ expected to double in size. Age Friendly Employers will create a network of best practice, looking at how we can maximise the potential of our over 50s workforce and better support them into and through their employment journey. Councillor Mike Stonard stated: “The council’s commitment to creating a fairer Norwich, where older residents are active, connected, and supported, is a key priority in our Community-Led Plan. Partnering with Age UK Norwich, we want to enhance the experience of age and ensure the voices of older residents are heard, nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community for all.” The event included the release of the State of Ageing in Norwich 2024 report, bringing together important data and insights from across the city and county councils, as well as Public Health, as well as a video showcasing Norwich resident views. Following the launch, the team will begin work with Norwich City Council, to gather feedback and data to understand what life is like for the over 50s in Norwich. As well as reviewing accessibility of public services and spaces, creating a framework of consideration for planning and commissioning of services in Norwich for over 50s. Tackling ageism and assumptions around growing older in Norwich, the Age Friendly Norwich project will look at how infrastructure, services and attitudes can be improved to make the fine City of Norwich more accessible and welcoming to over 50s. You can keep up to date with the journey as well as access best practice information and advice via the Age Friendly Norwich website: Age UK Norwich Age Friendly

Howes Percival recommended for 21 different legal specialisms in The Legal 500 47 Howes Percival lawyers specifically recognised in 2025 guide

The 2025 edition of The Legal 500 – the authoritative guide to the UK’s leading law firms – has recommended Howes Percival for 21 different legal specialisms and awarded the firm top tier ranking for 13 – two more than last year.

The guide, which is based on independent research, interviews and feedback from clients about the service they receive from firms and lawyers, also recognises the UK’s leading lawyers – 47 Howes Percival lawyers are individually recognised in this year’s directory, as either ‘leading individuals’, ‘next generation Partners’ or are honoured with the guide’s ‘Hall of Fame’ status.

Howes Percival has achieved top tier rankings for: · Corporate and Commercial · Dispute Resolution – Commercial Litigation · Dispute Resolution – Debt Recovery · Finance – Insolvency and Corporate Recovery · Human Resources – Employment · Human Resources – Employment – Health and Safety · Private Client – Personal Tax, Trusts and Probate · Real Estate – Commercial Property · Real Estate – Environment & Planning · Real Estate – Property litigation · Real Estate – Social Housing · Technology, Media & Telecoms – Intellectual Property · Technology, Media & Telecoms – Media and Entertainment

Eight further Howes Percival specialisms are recommended in the guide; Agriculture and Estates, Banking and Finance, Construction, Contentious Trusts and Probate, Family, Licensing, Public Sector and IT and Telecoms.

The Legal 500 highlights individuals who have received constant praise from their clients for continued excellence. 30 Howes Percival lawyers are recognised by the legal directory as ‘leading individuals’, with a further six noted as ‘next generation Partners’.

In total, 11 Howes Percival Partners achieved ‘Hall of Fame’ status this year, three more than last year – Paula Bailey (Employment), Steven Beach (Commercial Property), Cathleen Blackburn (Intellectual Property), Geraint Davies (Litigation and Insolvency), Gerald Couldrake (Corporate, Commercial and Banking), Andrew Harris (Corporate, Commercial and Banking), Tessa Haskey (Commercial Property), Michaela Henson (Commercial Property), Graham Irons (Employment), Steven Maier (Intellectual Property) and Matthew Talbot (Intellectual Property).

Howes Percival’s clients range from individuals and families to global businesses and government departments. In August 2023, the firm launched a new two-year expansion plan to meet increased demand for its services, creating 50 brand new roles, including partners, solicitors and support roles, across all its offices.

Howes Percival’s chairman, Geraint Davies commented; “I’m absolutely delighted with this set of rankings and recommendations. The results highlight the journey we’ve been on in the last 12 months to continue to invest in and grow the firm and attract the very best talent. In addition to our traditional strengths such as corporate, employment, commercial property, litigation and private client, we now have real clout in multiple geographic locations where we are increasingly seen as a go-to team in the above areas but also for specialisms such as IP, technology, media & telecoms.

“While it is also fantastic to see so many of our lawyers spotlighted this year, I’m so proud of the whole team. We set out to make life more sure for our clients and are achieving this by building strong relationships with them and constantly seeking to improve our service. We have also really invested in our support teams, who work closely with our lawyers to make sure that we are using technology and other innovations in a way that genuinely improves the client experience that we offer. Clients appreciate this approach which has created the foundation for further growth going forward.”

Full details of Howes Percival’s rankings can be found on The Legal 500 website: Howes Percival LLP > England

You heard it here first! Smash Marketing is hosting a FREE online webinar on October 28th about learning the nitty-gritty of boosting your website’s search engine rankings. This is a great opportunity to get ahead of the competition and learn insider digital marketing knowledge with simple, effective SEO strategies that promise real results. More information coming soon, but you can email hello@smashmarketing.co.uk with any questions.

Captain Fawcett is proud to augment his acclaimed range of simply ‘First Class Gentleman’s Grooming Requisites’ with the introduction of ‘Bianco Classico’. Tailored for all hair types, ‘Bianco Classico’ is simply sensational for white, grey and platinum Silver Foxes.

The latest offering launches with a Beard Butter, Moustache Wax and Purple Shampoo, all designed to highlight & accentuate the natural brilliance of silver strands.

Formulated as a Beard Butter and Moustache Wax, ‘Bianco Classico’ both conditions and shapes, whilst adding a subtle sheen to all mature facial hair.

The ‘Bianco Classico’ toning Shampoo is crafted from crushed Violet pigment to counter tarnished yellow undertones and reveal the natural radiance of blonde, bleached or grey hair. Best used once a week, integrated with your favourite hair care ritual to enhance clarity and shine whilst keeping locks looking fresh.

Evoking the seasons of a life well lived, the ‘Bianco Classico’ collection is ideal for scent layering, being subtly, and most delectably, fragranced with woody Rosemary & Star Anise, combined with invigorating Cyclamen, the mineral tang of Ambergris, calming Cedarwood & sun toasted Tonka.

Renowned in the industry for his own flowing pewter hair and beard, Richie Finney (Fawcett Founder and the Captain’s Right Hand Man) says: “Depending on your unique inherited genetics, silver strands tend to begin sneaking in during our 30s. Gadzooks! And, as hair loses pigment, it becomes drier and coarser, perchance appearing somewhat frizzled, tired and dull. So giving hair proper attention keeps it shining with vigour and health! And of course, the same principles apply for one’s beard as for the distinguished locks upon one’s head. Polishing the family silver is simply essential!

“A man with platinum or smokey grey hair is undeniably striking. It is not merely an aesthetic. Indeed, embracing the seasons of one’s life speaks of a certain confidence and character. It even, dare one venture, symbolises the gaining of wisdom. Granted, this particular reward is not immediately apparent in my own case, but there we are. Hope springs eternal. But I digress…silver hair refines a fellow, much like the self-assurance that comes with wearing a well tailored suit. An edge sharpened by life’s experience simply can’t be faked. Hi-Ho Silver, Away!”

‘Bianco Classico’ by Captain Fawcett. The hallmark of impeccable silver style.

‘Bianco Classico’ Beard Butter deeply conditions, softens and nourishes, whilst providing a light hold and subtle sheen to all facial hair, resulting in a tamed, well-groomed Beard that feels good and is easier to both shape and style.

Particularly effective for giving thick, wiry, coarse Beards a delectable thirst quenching moisture boost.

Crafted to enhance the natural brilliance of white and platinum strands, it is simply outstanding for the Grey Wolf and Silver Fox. Or, indeed, the Steel Stallion. Ride on.

Handmade in the UK.

‘Bianco Classico’ Moustache Wax both shapes and conditions one’s heroic upper lip, taming rebel hairs with a light, supple hold whilst lending a soft sheen to your Moustache.

Supplied in a nifty aluminium tin with a screw top lid, perfect to pop in one’s pocket.

Look sharp. Smell sublime.

Evviva!

‘Bianco Classico’ Shampoo is crafted from crushed violet pigment to combat yellow undertones & reveal the natural radiance of blond, grey or silver hair. Integrate with your favourite hair care ritual to keep locks looking fresh whilst enhancing clarity & shine.

BEARD BALM VS BEARD BUTTER WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Beard Balm is a styling product, used to tame, hold and shape magnificent manes for a polished yet touchable, natural look.

Beard Butter is a stand alone product with a creamier texture. Best for the deep conditioning, nourishing and softening of both beard and skin, it melts into the hair more easily, for the daily care of one’s pride and joy.

The kit being handed to Greater Anglia’s Assistant Area Customer Service Manager, Benjamin Woodard (credit: Greater Anglia)

A bleed control kit has been installed at Greater Anglia’s Norwich station, thanks to the work of a local charity.

The bleed control kit, which is designed for use on any extreme bleeding likely to cause death within minutes if not treated, contains a tourniquet to restrict blood flow, rapid gauze that helps stop bleeding in 60 seconds, a trauma dressing, gloves, and a high-powered light.

It was installed by the Joe Dix Foundation, which was set up in memory of teen Joe who was murdered in Norwich in January 2022. The Foundation aims to promote essential first aid and ensure that bleed kits are in major public places across Norfolk.

The bags can already be found in many locations around Norwich, such as hotels, pubs, taxi company offices and schools, as well as at the village halls in Coltishall and Strumpshaw.

At the station, the bleed kit is stored in a secure locked cabinet that already contains an automatic external defibrillator, with a code known only by Greater Anglia station staff and East of England Ambulance Service control.

The location is registered with ambulance control staff, who can quickly direct a 999 caller to the nearest bag by phone, helping any member of the public give vital treatment before professional medics arrive.

Georgia Payne, Greater Anglia’s Safeguarding and Community Safety Manager, said:

“The new bleed control kit at Norwich station adds to the many already found in various venues around the city.

“It will be vital in an emergency, where any time saved could help save a life.

“We are grateful to the Joe Dix Foundation for providing us with the kit.”

Emma Dix, Founder of The Joe Dix Foundation, said:

“We hope that the bleed kit never has to be used, but we are very grateful to the team at Norwich train station for supporting us to protect the local community.”

Lovell appoints new Land and Planning Director to build on growth plans across the region

Lovell has strengthened its team with the appointment of Land & Planning Director, Ian Reilly.

Ian has over 20 years’ experience in planning and development and will be responsible for securing new land and development opportunities for Lovell across East Anglia. Ian’s previous work includes Group Head of Planning at Allison Homes, Director of Planning at Lanpro, and various Local Authority roles throughout the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

Ian said: “This is a really fantastic opportunity to work with Lovell, with their excellent reputation, and to help them expand and grow across East Anglia. I will be responsible for sourcing land opportunities for new developments so that we can build more homes and help address the housing needs across the region. I will also have responsibility for ensuring that we achieve positive planning outcomes. I’m really excited to help Lovell continue to succeed in the market, and work closely with our partners and stakeholders.”

Simon Medler, regional managing director for Lovell, said: “With over 20 years’ experience in the sector, and already having established relationships across the region, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge, connections and experience to Lovell. I’m confident that Ian will play a key role in securing our future pipeline and I look forward to working closely with him to achieve our growth plans across the region.”

Lovell is a partnership housing expertPartnerships and Property Developments | Lovell Partnerships and a leading provider of innovative and high quality residential constructionNew Build Contracting | Lovell Partnerships and regenerationUrban Regeneration | Lovell Partnerships developments across the UK, building homes, sourcing land and investing in communities. It is a trusted and reliable partner, with great people trusted to deliver great homes, developing long term partnerships with housing associations, local authorities and other partners for over 50 years.

For more information on Lovell visit www.lovell.co.ukNew Build Homes | New Housing Developments | Lovell Homes or follow Lovell on social media.

Alpha 7 Motorsport proudly supplied Caterham race cars for the first-ever “Sim-to-Track” event at Brands Hatch, in partnership with SIM Motorsport. This saw five novice drivers transition from simulator training to experiencing real circuit driving on the track. Despite challenging weather conditions, ranging from heavy rain to a drying circuit, the participants showcased remarkable skill and enthusiasm.

Throughout the day, drivers received expert coaching, familiarizing themselves with the cars and mastering racing lines. The event generated a buzz of excitement, with feedback like, “This is the best thing I’ve EVER done!” and “I’ve caught the racing bug and will be booking my ARDS!”

For those inspired by our drivers’ achievements, Alpha 7 offers personalised driver development programmes to help you take the next step in your motorsport journey. Contact us to learn how we can help you hit the track and achieve your racing goals.

SIM Motorsport is the UK’s leading race car simulation centre, offering high-spec racing experiences. Equipped with the FIA-licensed D Box Haptic suspension system, their simulators are designed to replicate the feel of real race cars. For more information, visit their website: www.simmotorsport.co.uk

Norwich station (Credit: Greater Anglia) Greater Anglia is encouraging people to get out and explore Norfolk by train this month with a range of discounts. To make it easier and even more convenient to travel by train, Greater Anglia has several great value fares available such as discounted Advance tickets, Ranger tickets, GroupSave, Duo and the Family & Friends Railcard. You can save a small fortune on parking when you travel by train and avoid queues of traffic in the county’s tourist hot spots. Here are some of the events happening in Norfolk in October which are accessible by train: Norwich Oktoberfest On 11 and 12 October 2024 passengers can attend the largest Oktoberfest that Norwich has ever seen. At the Epic Studios in Norwich there will be the opportunity to taste a selection of authentic Bavarian beers served in steins, and the Bratwurst sausage both in the meat and vegan option. Moreover, music by NightTrain will be played. Tickets start from just £10 plus booking fees. More information at https://epic-tv.com/events/ Underground Art Exhibition From 3 to 6 October 2024, the Undercroft gallery is giving an opportunity to over 30 artists to exhibit their works. The event aims to provide a professional yet affordable platform for artists to sell their work. Over 30 artists will be participating, showcasing a wide variety of mediums including gouache, acrylic, lino print, mixed media, and even glass. More information at https://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/event/underground-art-exhibition-at-the-undercroft/ Murder Mystery Dinner Gather friends and family together for an entertaining evening with a delicious 3 course dinner and a murder to resolve. On 25 and 26 October, the Maids Head Hotel will host a special Haloween Murder Mystery Dinner. Tickets are £50 per person and guests are encouraged to book earl for what will be an entertaining evening filled with ghost stories and a Poirot Hallowe’en mystery. More information at https://www.maidsheadhotel.co.uk/event/halloween-special-murder-mystery-dinner/ Greater Anglia’s Commercial and Customer Services Director, Martin Moran, said: “Travelling by train is cheaper than you think, and with our price promise and no booking fees, you are guaranteed to get the lowest price when you book through our website. “Our region has so much to offer and whether it’s a trip to the city or coast, shopping or sightseeing, we are giving people more money to spend on having a great time by helping them save money on their train fare.” Greater Anglia also offers a range of Advance fares that offer customers savings of between 60 and 70% on the standard walk-up prices, plus 2FOR1 on entry to many top attractions in London and East Anglia. The train operator also has a range of great value fares which are available all year round, including Duo, for two people travelling together, GroupSave for people travelling in a group of three or more, a special London evening out fare for those staying overnight in the capital and a Club 50 discount for those aged 50 and over. For the best value fares, passengers should book in advance and the earlier customers book, the more they can save. For more information on these and other offers visit www.greateranglia.co.uk/offers/ For more information on ticket fares and timetables visit www.greateranglia.co.uk

In this episode – THE IMPACT OF HEALTH ANXIETY – Ellie takes us through a journey of severe Health Anxiety during a very wanted pregnancy and intrusive thoughts around it being her time for something to go wrong.

She shares how therapeutic interventions enabled her to enjoy her young twins and entire blended family at a time that could have been otherwise impacted by her Mental Health.

Chantry Place Norwich, home to brands including Flannels, Frasers, Urban Outfitters and Zara, is welcoming some new pop-ups to the Centre.

Thistle Gem has returned until 31st January 2025 selling a variety of baseball caps, flat caps, pompom beanies, scarves and gloves. Each item boasts a unique design and style, making them ideal gifts.

The Calendar Club is back selling a large range of calendars, diaries, planners and books. From football themed calendars to music stars and TV themes, there is something to suit every taste and interest. Find them on the lower ground floor from 23rd September 2024 until 5th January 2025.

Lovey Dovey is at Chantry Place from 30th September until 19th January 2025 on the lower ground floor, selling its popular range of charms, bracelets, anklets and necklaces.

Sense Aroma will be on the lower ground floor from 7th October until 12th January 2024 selling a luxury range of diffusers and fragrance oils, including ultrasonic aroma diffusers and beautiful Himalayan salt lamps.

Pollyfields will be outside on Chantry Square from 11th November until 24th December in a seasonal wooden hut, selling naturally-inspired luxury, handcrafted garlands, wreaths and decorations – perfect for Christmas decorations and presents.

Paul McCarthy, general manager at Chantry Place, said: “This year has been a fantastic year at Chantry Place – we’ve had some amazing retailers and restaurants join us this year, including Flannels and Rosa’s Thai, and now we have even more to offer visitors when they visit with our seasonal pop-ups. From jewellery to Christmas gifts and decorations, our seasonal pop-ups offer even more choice and variety when shopping. We know how popular Lovey Dovey has been when it has been a pop-up inside our Urban Outfitters store, so it is fantastic that they are joining us this year.”

All pop-ups will be open during the main Chantry Place opening hours.

For more information on Chantry Place, visit www.chantryplace.co.uk/news

• Injury collisions eliminated at high-risk location near Durham
• Low-cost intervention uses thermal detection technology and solar power

A low-cost collision avoidance system installed by Norfolk-based road safety technology firm Westcotec has won this year’s Highways ‘Road Safety Scheme of the Year’. Implementation of the system at a high-risk junction in Durham has eliminated fatal and serious collisions, with not a single incident recorded in the past seven years. Westcotec’s success was announced at the Highways Awards on Tuesday 24 September at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge. The firm’s technology was installed in 2017 on Trouts Lane, a well-used road located just north of Durham, following extensive research and consultation with Durham County Council. It was a high-risk location, with high levels of traffic heading to and from Lanchester Road Hospital. In the six years leading up to 2017, 10 fatal and serious injury collisions were recorded at the junction. Since the technology was installed, this has dropped to zero. The dynamic system only activates when there is a specific need. In this case, the presence of potentially conflicting traffic at the junction ahead (not visible to the driver approaching on Trouts Lane) triggers a roadside sign to illuminate and warn of the traffic on the junction. At times when no conflicting traffic is present, the sign does not activate. Westcotec sales director Olly Samways said: “We are thrilled to have seen off a line-up of high-quality submissions to collect this prestigious award. “The Trouts Lane installation ranks as one of our most effective casualty reduction schemes. Since our technology was installed in 2017, the site has had no personal injury collisions, compared with 10 incidents in the six previous years. “The system only activates if there are turning vehicles ahead, so regular users of the road pay more attention. The risk of getting used to the warning is also greatly reduced.  This is a far more effective method of warning drivers, as there is nothing for them to see and react to when the junction is clear ahead. “The low-cost technology works conveniently via thermal detection cameras and is solar powered, meaning there is no requirement to dig up the road at time of installation. “Westcotec thrives on innovation, relishing the challenge of implementing cost-effective solutions that save lives. This award is sure to inspire and motivate us as we work with partners across the United Kingdom and beyond to reduce risk on the roads.”

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