Though stressful at first, it’s a good feeling to move out of an old space to somewhere new with plenty of room, a fresh perspective, and a huge upgrade in lunch choices. With that said, we are thrilled to have completed the first stage of our move to a bigger and better office in the heart of Norwich!
Our Digital Team, Health & Wellbeing Department, and Management Team have now moved to 93-87 Pottergate, Norwich.
Free from the tight quarters of our offices on Whiffler Road, our teams are feeling more like a community than ever before. With ample space to work and an all-around feeling of excitement that comes with a new space, we’ve been dosed with a wonderful burst of motivation to improve our services to the community.
We’re also looking forward to sharing these premises with Voluntary Norfolk, who are in the process of moving in upstairs. Through sharing a space, we aim to foster better collaboration between our organisations and further enhance the way we work with volunteers.
A huge thank you goes out to our incredible Business Manager, Beccy Humphrey, and HR extraordinaire, Alex Espinoza, for the hard work they put into the move. Their dedication and attention to detail have been instrumental in making this a smooth transition.
The Next Stage:
Moving our Norwich Advice Team in and making it our Official Norwich Public Office
Later this year, we will be moving our public advice service from The Forum to Pottergate. With more space, we’ll be able to accommodate even higher levels of demand in Norwich! With an additional six new interview rooms, we will be able to provide more one-to-one assistance to those in need, and we are eager to rise to the challenge. However, with this expansion comes the need for more hands on deck…
Join the Movement: Volunteer with Us!
We are now actively on the hunt for passionate and dedicated volunteers in Norwich to join our team and help us fill up the new space.
If you have one day to spare each week and are looking for a rewarding way to give back to your community, we would love to hear from you.
Help us support Norfolk’s citizens in their times of need!
Howes Percival has recruited Partner Piet van Gelder as the firm’s first ever Head of Construction, to meet the growing demand for construction law services. Piet’s appointment follows a period of sustained growth for Howes Percival’s wider real estate and development team, which is nationally recognised and has advised on some of the largest development projects both regionally and beyond. Piet is a specialist construction and engineering lawyer who advises clients in the construction, engineering and renewable energy sectors and in respect of compliance with the new regime under the Building Safety Act. Piet has experience over the whole lifecycle of projects from compliance with building regulations, procurement and resolving commercial issues and project accounts. Piet has been involved with many engineering projects outside the renewables sector including nuclear waste plants, process engineering plants, sequence batch reactors and waste to energy plants. He has been involved in substantial disputes in the Technology & Construction Court and in international & domestic arbitration, as well as an experienced practitioner in adjudication and a keen proponent of mediation. Lucy Lord, Partner and Head of Property at Howes Percival, commented, “We are delighted to welcome Piet to Howes Percival to head up and grow our construction offering. Piet has a wealth of experience and a strong client following. He is a great recruit for us and brings the calibre and credibility we need to align with the strength of our development team and take our proposition to the next level. The local and national market in development terms remains very strong and we are seeing our development instructions increase quarter on quarter. As a result, we need to expand our construction offering which is a critical specialism for our development clients.” For more information visit: https://www.howespercival.com/sectors/development-and-construction/
Captain Fawcett Ltd, Manufacturer and Purveyor of simply ‘First Class Gentleman’s Grooming Requisites’ based in King’s Lynn, has been flying the flag for West Norfolk on the epic BarbersRide motorcycle adventure across Europe to raise funds for international children’s charity Make-A-Wish.
On the 3rd August Richie Finney, owner of Captain Fawcett and co-founder of BarbersRide, set off from Fawcett HQ to join a fellowship of mad-cap motorcyclists, united by their passion for bikes and barbering. The mission? To raise much-needed funds for ‘Make-A-Wish’, a charity which turns the dreams of seriously ill children into real life magic.
Covering 972 miles / 1564 km (excluding getting there and back), a motley crew of over 30 riders roared through their a 5 day mission raising over £25K. Indeed, with BarbersRide now in its eighth consecutive year, since the Ride’s inception, total funds have climbed to over £143K – and donations for 2024 are still coming in! Huzzah!
Captain Fawcett, a West Norfolk Champion and East of England Export Champion, is a key sponsor of BarbersRide. The company founder, Richie Finney, is also one of BarbersRide’s founding members. He says: “It is a true pleasure to be part of bringing barbers and bikers together on these extraordinary annual journeys of camaraderie, mayhem and just fantastic goodwill. 2024 was BarbersRide’s first time taking to the highways of mainland Europe. Suffice to say, the warmth and hospitality of Europe’s barbers never fails to rise above its already legendary reputation. They truly excelled themselves, with live music, food and drinks laid on to revive the somewhat weary riders. We simply couldn’t do it without them. My personal thanks to Jenna at Fawcett HQ for her superb support and (almost) infinite patience!”
Regular BarbersRide Sponsors BARBICIDE® say:“We’ve been with BarbersRide from the start, we believe in what they’re doing for Make-a-Wish and hope that the Captain and his riders had a great European tour this Summer. Barbers do so much for our industry and it’s a chance for Barbicide to give something back.”
BarbersRide have supported Make-A-Wish since 2019, saying: “Make-A-Wish grants special wishes for sick children when they are most in need and bring positivity and happiness in times of distress. We decided to work with a national children’s charity so that children from each region could benefit and Make-A-Wish were the perfect organisation to partner with. In 2024 we were delighted to work with our European friends and extend that support to Make-A-Wish in Germany and the Netherlands. This incredible charity is truly a global phenomenon.”
Make-A-Wish Chief Executive Jason Suckley said: “We are hugely grateful to BarbersRide and all those who have supported their brilliantly unique way of fundraising for Make-A-Wish over the years. Any money they raise will help us with our ambitious mission to light up the lives of every child across the world who has a critical condition, by granting their wish. From the moment they are diagnosed, the joy of childhood is often brought to an abrupt end while treatment, medical appointments and worry take over. It can’t be underestimated how powerful a wish can be in bringing light and joy to those children, as well as their loved ones, creating positive moments and cherished memories that have a lasting impact on all their lives.”
In 2025 BarbersRide will take to the road again. Get involved!
Barbershops and brands
If you are a barbershop who would like to be considered to host an event or if you work for a brand that would love to be involved in sponsorship, then the BarbersRide team will be thrilled to hear from you.
Greater Anglia has today (2 September) launched series two of its Life on Rails podcast with Michael Portillo featuring as the special guest in episode one. Presented by Lucy Wright and Dominic Rosso from the company’s Corporate Affairs team, the Life on Rails podcast gives passengers a peek behind the curtain of one of the largest train operators in the country. Across this brand-new series of the magazine-style podcast, Life on Rails will welcome a wide variety of special guests who will share their incredible stories. Greater Anglia employees who are at the heart of operations will also explain how they have helped make Greater Anglia the most punctual and reliable train operator in the UK. There will also be special features that will showcase how Greater Anglia is working tirelessly to give its passengers better journeys. Guests include fleet and operations colleagues who will be discussing how the new fleet of trains have helped to transform rail travel across East Anglia. Later in the series, senior leaders from the Greater Anglia Executive Leadership Team will join the podcast, as well as representatives from Network Rail to discuss how they are continuously investing in rail infrastructure and the role they play in helping us achieve record-breaking performance. Each episode will delve a little deeper into some of the recent Greater Anglia news highlights. Lucy and Dom will examine some of the company’s most talked about stories and share some previously unknown information. In a new feature called Destination in the Spotlight, the podcast will welcome Community Rail Partnership Officers from across the network who will share some of the beautiful locations on their route and talk about some of the exciting activities that they are hosting. In the first episode which launches on Monday 2 September, the journalist, broadcaster, and railway advocate Michael Portillo joins the podcast to discuss his Railway Journeys, what made him fall in love with rail travel, and what he finds most attractive when travelling on the Greater Anglia network. Michael Portillo, said:“I have a lot of fondness for Greater Anglia, and it was a pleasure to join their Life on Rail podcast.“The introduction of the new trains has been particularly impressive, and I have been struck by their acceleration and punctuality. They also look very smart while being quiet and therefore do not upset my soundman if we are ever filming.“I have been incredibly fortunate to spend time in East Anglia and the Greater Anglia staff very often come out and greet us. They want to make sure that everything runs as smoothly as possible, and I am truly grateful.” Also in the first episode, Lucy and Dom will speak with Greater Anglia’s Safeguarding and Community Safety Manager, Georgia Payne. With World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, Georgia will be discussing how we support people struggling with their mental health. L-R: Georgia Payne, Dominic Rosso, Lucy Wright (Credit. Greater Anglia) Thalia Rushmore is the Community Rail Partnership Officer for the East Suffolk Lines between Ipswich, and Lowestoft and Ipswich and Felixstowe. She joins the podcast to speak about some of the beautiful locations along this route and share some of the exciting activities that they are hosting. Dominic Rosso, Greater Anglia’s Senior Media and Public Relations Manager, said:“The Life on Rails podcast is back. We are truly excited to give passengers a peek behind the curtain of Greater Anglia and showcase how we are putting passengers first.“It was a true delight to welcome Michael Portillo to the podcast and hear how his affinity with the railway began and why he believes that rail is the best way to travel.”(Credit. Greater Anglia)Life on Rails series 2, episode 1 is now live. It is available on all usual podcast platforms and www.greateranglia.co.uk/podcast. The podcast will be issued bi-monthly.
It’s that time of year again to book your stand at the Chamber’s B2B at the Royal Norfolk Showground. An excellent opportunity to engage with other businesses and make new connections. We all know what a great platform it is to showcase your business to others and potential customers but how do you stand out in a sea of exhibition stands? What can you offer in addition to sweets and pens, but which does not cost the earth? Something that doesn’t involve lugging boxes of goodies or arranging delivery of items to your stand with all the associated costs. Why not capture their attention by offering a complimentary massage? People walk past so quickly. By offering something just a little different to everyone else in the room, the chance to take the weight of your feet for 5-10 minutes, relax, close your eyes and enjoy a back neck and shoulder massage just may make them slow down. It always sparks curiosity and once one person is in the chair it’s not long before you have a queue of people waiting their turn. What better opportunity to talk to your captive audience about what you do, find out more about them and see if there is a way you can work together. It’s so easy, we just turn up, place the massage chair in one corner of your stand and within 5 minutes we are ready to go! We can even wear T-shirts with your company branding. Have us there all day or just for a few hours in the busy part of the day. Setting up and taking down the massage chair is easy and with little disruption – it’s done in minutes. Contact Kathy Scott on 07989 367669 or at info@handsonatwork.co.uk for more information. (Oh, by the way, we are not averse to stands offering sweets, cakes, pens etc – just saying!)
NABAS, the National Association for Balloon Artists and Suppliers, has launched an exciting new balloon recycling initiative with Terracycle. Local NABAS member Claire Carney Floral and Balloon Designs Ltd has signed up to the scheme and is accepting used balloons and partyware from their customers to be recycled instead of going to landfill. Terracycle specialise in recycling traditionally hard-to-recycle waste, turning it into alternative materials that can be used to make other products. Foil, latex and plastic balloons can all be recycled, along with ribbons, bows, party hats and supplies. NABAS Co-Chairs Victoria Cooke and Claire Carney said “We are delighted to facilitate this exciting scheme that will make it easy for our members and their customers to recycle used balloons and party products. Diverting these items from landfill and turning them into reusable materials has to be good for the environment. It also demonstrates our commitment to helping customers enjoy their celebrations knowing they can responsibly recycle their party products after the event”. NABAS is the UK’s independent trade association for the balloon and party industry. For more information visit https://nabas.co.uk/environmental or contact NABAS member Claire Carney at claire@clairesfloralandballoondesigns.co.uk.
Tech Educators are pleased to announce a new course aimed at supporting businesses based in North Norfolk. A tailored version of their existing Digital Marketing with AI bootcamp will focus on the needs of the local region, offering in-person and online sessions that will give you and your business the necessary skills to thrive in todays every changing and evolving digital landscape. You will unlock tools and learn techniques to increase your efficiency using AI. Funding could be available through the Future Skills NOW grant: Home | Skills and Training Programme (north-norfolk.gov.uk) To avoid disappointment, register your interest today: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1yDJYQPxJRVeclKbHtg6sfA2dssr9
The fifth round of the Caterham Graduates Racing Series took place under the warm, sunny skies of Snetterton, a welcome change after several weekends of unpredictable weather. Alpha 7 fielded an impressive seven cars, with three in the 150 class and four in the 135 class, fully embracing the sunny conditions. The team set up on Wednesday afternoon and made the most of the MSV track day, evening session, and Friday testing to fine-tune their setups. The heat proved to be a significant challenge, both for the drivers and the track. High temperatures quickly led to overheating tyres, making grip a precious commodity. 150 Class – Thrills and Triumphs Qualifying for the 150 class was nothing short of exhilarating. Jamie Ellwood clinched pole position with a blistering final lap, while fellow Alpha 7 drivers also performed admirably, securing P1, P3, P12, and P24 out of a field of 25 cars. Notably, racing newcomer Ed Benton made a strong debut, competing for the very first time. The first race of the weekend was action-packed. Jamie Ellwood and Matthew Willoughby engaged in thrilling battles at the front. Despite a gearbox issue that saw Jamie drop to P7 on lap 4, he fought his way back to finish P3 by the end of the race. Matthew Willoughby finished a solid P5, and Ed Benton successfully completed his first-ever motor race, marking a significant milestone in his racing journey. In the second race, Jamie Ellwood continued to battle at the front, this time alongside his rival Will Stilwell. Unfortunately, Jamie’s championship competitor Harry Senior had to retire due to a fuel pump failure. Ed Benton shone again, achieving his fastest-ever lap around Snetterton and winning the People First ‘Millisecond Award’ for the closest finish, edging out Rob Appleton by just 0.054 seconds! 135 Class – New Faces and Great Performances In the 135 class, Alpha 7 drivers also showcased their skills. Darren Butler, making his debut with Alpha 7 as a guest driver and transitioning from the official Caterham series, achieved his first-ever podium finish. This was particularly special as Darren is a local driver. Amanda Anderson had a challenging start to the weekend; despite a spin in Race 1 that dropped her to P22, she made a strong recovery in Race 2. Starting from P11, Amanda surged up to P5 by the third corner and finished P7. Darren also performed well in Race 2, securing a P5 finish. Overall, Round 5 at Snetterton was a weekend of impressive performances and personal milestones for Alpha 7. From Jamie Ellwood’s epic pole position and podium finishes to Ed Benton’s novice debut, and Darren Butler’s podium achievement, it was a weekend filled with excitement and success. For those inspired by these performances and eager to dive into the world of motorsport, Alpha 7 offers a range of personalised driver development programmes to help you get on track. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your racing ambitions and help you achieve your goals.
Digital Marketing Toolkit for SMEs Workshop with Social B
Join us to gather insights on your target audience and use tools such as Google Analytics to understand the digital opportunity for your business and where you need to be.
Understanding SEO to Take Control of your Google Rankings with Footprint Digital
Learn how to take control of your Search Engine Optimisation in a world where results are generated by AI.Great Yarmouth, 10th October
Getting Started with Google Analytics 4 (GA4) Workshop with Social B
Earlier this year, Google said goodbye to Universal Analytics and replaced it with a new and improved version meet ‘Google Analytics 4’ -GA4Norwich, 23rd October
Demystifying the World of Digital Advertising with Footprint Digital
This hugely informative session will help you understand the options available to your business to drive sales and leads via online advertisingGreat Yarmouth, 6th November
Video Marketing with Dave O’Flynn, Samphire Digital and Andrew Gooding
Session 1: Introduction to Video Marketing This interactive session will dive into the world of video marketing; learn the basics and get started. Dereham, 29 October
Session 2: Creating Videos This interactive session will teach you all the practical skills of video making.Dereham, 7th November
Session 3: Launching you Campaigns
This interactive session launching video marketing campaigns on multiple platforms and the marketing tools needed to amplify content to a wider audience.
Elevate your business with our comprehensive workshop designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve sustainable growth. This event will cover essential aspects of business development, from planning and marketing to systems and team building, ensuring you leave with a strategic action plan for success.
Uptech Ltd, a multi-award-winning managed service provider based in Kings Lynn, has acquired Lincolnshire IT firm Jalapeno Business Services.This strategic move will enhance the services and resources available to Jalapeno’s clients while maintaining a high level of service. Under the Uptech umbrella, Jalapeno Business Services based in Bassingham near Lincoln will transition to operating under the Uptech name. James Fowler, Business Development Manager at Uptech Ltd, said: “This merger marks a significant milestone, promising enriched service offerings and greater innovation. “Jalapeno Business Services will operate under the Uptech Ltd name and the transition will allow us to leverage Uptech’s extensive knowledge base, cutting-edge technology solutions, and industry-leading expertise. “Our commitment to delivering high-quality service remains unchanged, and we are excited about the enriched service offerings and greater innovation this partnership brings.” Mark Brown, owner and director of Jalapeno Business Services, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with Uptech Ltd. This partnership allows us to provide our clients with even more comprehensive and robust IT solutions, backed by Uptech’s decades of experience and success. “Our clients will benefit greatly from the additional resources and expertise now available to them.” Despite the change in branding, all Jalapeno’s current employees will stay on board, continuing to operate from the same office locations. This continuity will ensure that the company’s clients will receive consistent and familiar support while gaining access to the expanded capabilities that Uptech brings to the table. Uptech Ltd has a long track record of excellence, marked by numerous awards and recognitions within the managed service industry in Norfolk and East Anglia, including Best Managed IT Services Firm 2024 in East Anglia. As it celebrates its 30th anniversary, Uptech continues to pioneer innovative solutions and deliver exceptional results for businesses across various sectors. For more information about the transition and the enhanced services now available, visit www.uptech.co.uk or contact James Fowler at james@uptech.co.uk
We are delighted to invite you to the exclusive Saxon Air X Jo Malone London event—a night where aviation meets elegance. This one-of-a-kind experience will captivate your senses and provide a sophisticated setting to connect, unwind, and be entertained.
What’s in store:
Prepare to be mesmerised by a blend of sophisticated entertainment:
Full casino: Try your luck and enjoy the thrill of classic casino games.
Private jet tour: Explore luxury aviation firsthand and unlock exclusive charter discounts.
Live string quartet and singer: Enjoy enchanting music to set the perfect ambiance.
Burlesque performances: Experience the allure and glamour of live burlesque.
DJ and dance floor: Keep the night alive with music from our vibrant DJ.
Charity auction: Participate in our auction with all proceeds going to support The Feed, making your night even more meaningful.
Exclusive corporate package for Norfolk businesses:
As a valued Norfolk business, we are pleased to offer a special corporate package—10 tickets at a 20% discount. This is a fantastic opportunity to reward your team, entertain clients, or simply enjoy an elegant evening with colleagues. Immerse your team in an unforgettable experience of sophistication, entertainment, and networking.
Why attend?
Reward your team: A unique way to celebrate and recognise your team’s hard work.
Network in style: Connect with other Norfolk businesses in a luxurious setting.
Support a great cause: Your participation helps us raise funds for The Feed, supporting those in need in our community.
Secure your corporate package today!
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to indulge in a night of luxury and elegance.
We pledge to uphold five key commitments: ensuring inclusive and accessible recruitment, effectively communicating vacancies, offering interviews to disabled individuals, providing reasonable adjustments, and supporting our existing employees.