Children put their ‘spare’ time to good use after enjoying a fun-filled day of tenpin bowling. The trip to Superbowl UK, in Castle Quarter, Norwich, was organised for siblings who are either bereaved or have a brother or sister receiving care from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Nook. The group featured a range of ages. They played games either side of lunch and also took part in other activities, using paper squares to make towers and completing crosswords based around Valentine’s Day. EACH Play Specialist Clare Oakley said: “Everyone had such a fun day and our thanks go to Superbowl. “They gave us their party room for free so we had a base and somewhere to rest in between getting all those strikes! “There were lots of laughs, smiling faces and ‘ohs and ahs’ as the games were played. “Two lucky staff members had a great day supporting the trip, in addition to some of our wonderful volunteers. There was lots of fun and friendly competition.” The trip took place on Monday, 13th February. EACH runs sibling days during the school holidays, for children aged five upwards. “They allow siblings to come together, have fun and make friends in a safe environment,” added Clare. “It’s a time for them to get together and meet others in similar situations to themselves.” EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex. In addition to The Nook, it also has hospices in Milton, near Cambridge, and The Treehouse, in Ipswich. Image credits EACH
Lotus and British Cycling have confirmed they will continue their hugely successful collaboration in the world of elite track cycling, and are developing the bike that home-nation athletes will use at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. It will be based on the innovative Hope / Lotus track bike created for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. A global audience of billions of sports fans watched riders from the Great Britain Cycling Team (GBCT) win seven medals at the Games on the bike. The haul – which included three gold medals – put Great Britain at the top of the Games’ track cycling medal table. Jess Roberts, GBCT women’s podium endurance rider Lotus and British Cycling have released a short film to celebrate the announcement they are continuing to work together on a track bike for the Paris Olympic Games, which start on 26 July 2024. Development work – which is overseen by Lotus Engineering, the consultancy division of the business – is already well-advanced, though remains confidential until closer to the Games. As with the Tokyo bike, its successor will focus on the core values of all Lotus products, including a pioneering spirit, optimised aerodynamics, high performance, advanced lightweight materials and world-class manufacturing. Joe Truman, GBCT men’s podium sprinter Matt Windle, Group Vice-President and Managing Director, Lotus Cars, said: “We are thrilled to be continuing this unique and successful partnership with British Cycling. Being involved in the development of such a high-performance machine, and having GBCT athletes win so many medals riding it on a global sporting stage like the Olympics, is fantastic as we transform the Lotus brand.” Lotus is transforming from a UK sports car company to a global performance business and brand. The journey is guided by Vision80, a comprehensive strategy which defines what Lotus will be in 2028, when it celebrates its 80th anniversary. Stephen Park CBE, Great Britain Cycling Team Performance Director, said: “Over the last Olympic cycle we have developed a fantastic relationship with Lotus, combining their expertise with our in-house team, constantly striving to find the most innovative solutions to give our track riders the best possible chance when the get to the start line. He added: “Having brought back seven track medals from Tokyo, we are excited to see what we can go on to achieve together as we work towards further refining our bike, which is just one part of the world-class support we are able to offer our riders as we set our sights on Paris 2024.” The new film features a number of GBCT athletes and coaches explaining why they #lovemybike. It is part of British Cycling’s ongoing #cyclinglove campaign to celebrate all the things to enjoy about life on two wheels. Featured riders include Joe Truman, GBCT men’s podium sprinter, who said: “When I first saw the bike, I knew it was something special. Since I’ve been riding it, it has helped me win a silver medal at both the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2023 UEC European Championships, and is now helping me qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.” Jess Roberts, GBCT women’s podium endurance rider, added: “I love my bike because it makes me feel strong and empowered. Every training session it gives me a little extra boost that I get to ride such a special bike. I’m chasing my dreams on a bike that rides like a dream.” Lotus has a highly successful history in cycling through its Lotus Engineering division. In the Nineties, Lotus was instrumental in the design and development of LotusSport bikes, including for cycling legend Chris Boardman at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. Riding the iconic Lotus Type 108, he won gold in the Men’s Pursuit and followed it up in the 1994 Tour de France – riding the Type 110 – winning the Prologue time trial to take the famous yellow jersey. Images provided by Lotus
East of England mergers and acquisitions (M&A) volume continued to flourish during 2022, reaching a peak of 683 deals. This was the highest the region has seen over the last decade, despite challenging economic conditions; up on the 663 transactions recorded in 2021.* In the latest report from Experian, record-breaking mergers and acquisitions deal volume were reported across several parts of the country last year, with ten-year highs in activity recorded, according to the latest MarketIQ report. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the UK slowed slightly last year amid challenging conditions, yet Experian has witnessed robust year-on-year growth in several industries, particularly in the technology, healthcare, and hospitality sectors. Larking Gowen Corporate Transactions were pleased to be awarded ninth place, for the number of deals they advised on, in the East of England in 2022. Corporate Transactions Partner, James Lay, said, “We’re delighted to have helped so many clients in 2022 with the sale of their businesses. Despite challenging economic and political conditions at a UK level, we’ve continued to generate high levels of interest in the regionally based SME businesses we’re representing. I’ve been advising business sellers for over 20 years and our current workflows and future pipeline have never been stronger. “With a growing team of full-time specialists, our success is due to our extensive knowledge of credible buyers in the marketplace combined with our in-house accounting and tax advice, thus offering a complete package of services to clients under one roof. This gives us a critical edge over many brokers who are often unable to advise on such comprehensive matters arising on a deal.” Click here for more information and to download Experian MarketIQ’s full report, including regional advisor league tables. If you’d like to know how we can help you buy, sell or value your business, please get in touch with our Corporate Transactions team. Call 0330 024 0888 or email enquiry@larking-gowen.co.uk. *United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland – M&A Review. Experian MarketIQ:22 experian-miq-ma-report-uk-roi-q1-2022.pdf
The Voluntary Norfolk Communities Team are running a series of Cost-of-Living themed workshops for our Network of voluntary, community & social enterprise (VCSE) organisations, to address some of the varied issues they are struggling with in the wake of rising costs. One of our events is a virtual “marketplace” of offers for VCSEs- these could be cost-saving offers, or perhaps wellbeing-focused offers with a financial saving attached. Some examples of organisations we have attending so far:
In Kind Direct, who offer discounts on products like hygiene or food items for charities to distribute
Beryl Bikes, who run the bike/scooter hire scheme in Norwich, who give away vouchers for free bike rides to voluntary orgs
The National Trust, who have a new scheme for community groups to access Felbrigg & Sheringham Park at reduced rates
We would love to hear from Norfolk businesses who have something to offer local VCSEs, to help them through these challenging times. We are particularly looking for offers or schemes that can be extended to staff or volunteers of these groups, although offers that will help their beneficiaries too are of course very welcome. Please contact Tasha and Amelia: network@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk if you would like to be involved. Thank you for your help!
Leading regional accountancy firm Larking Gowen has announced that one of its partners is to retire at the end of March. Richard Proctor, who joined the firm over eight years ago to head up the Tax Advisory Group, qualified as a chartered accountant in 1985. He started his career in tax with KPMG at their Norwich, London and Cambridge offices, and then moved to Grant Thornton in Norwich where he became a partner in 2000. Richard said he had enjoyed his years at Larking Gowen, both for the positive working culture and the professionalism of the firm. “When I arrived, I found a very professional but friendly working environment. Although I was a relative outsider, I was immediately welcomed into the ‘family’. From day one I felt my personal values were closely aligned with those of the firm,” he said. “One of the first things I discovered at Larking Gowen was that no one has a monopoly on good ideas; everybody gets a chance to contribute. We all acknowledge that every day is a school day, and we’re all continually learning.” During his time here, he said he’d seen the firm grow and develop. “The way we’ve managed our business hasn’t changed a great deal, but we’re seeing better use of technology, which is a work in progress, and perhaps we’re dealing with some more interesting clients,” he said. “The quality of the Tax Advisory Group is as good as it’s ever been. We’re a very strong team and well set up to take advantage of the opportunities into the future. Dominic Carter will be taking over as head of the Tax Advisory Group, and says Richard has been something of a mentor to him over the years. “He’s regarded as quite an authority on taxation, and has brought in a number of us to work with him reshaping the team. In the last 12 months, we’ve all been working hard, making sure we get a smooth transition with our clients,” he said. “Richard’s dry sense of humour has been a real asset. In the last couple of years’ COVID-related difficulties, challenges and frustrations, it’s been very helpful to have him at the helm.” Charlie Savory, Head of Corporate Audit and Advisory at Larking Gowen, who oversees the Tax Advisory Team, said: “Richard is hugely respected with a very long-established and admired career, both in Norwich and throughout East Anglia. “He’s built a strong tax practice which he leaves in the very capable hands of Dominic Carter, who’s one of the best operators in the region. With a talented team that includes our VAT Director Gillian McGill and Ben Greves, a Senior Manager and Corporate Tax Specialist, our clients can be assured it will be business as usual”. Image provided by Larking Gowen
New all-electric Lotus Hyper-SUV – Eletre – wins prestigious award from world’s leading fashion and lifestyle publication
GQ’s judges cited Eletre’s power, range and styling among attributes which set it apart
Advanced ‘digital cockpit’ cabin with Lotus Hyper OS usher in new era of in-car experience
Available in Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R variants, flagship Eletre R is world’s fastest dual-motor electric SUV
The all-new Lotus Eletre hyper-SUV has claimed victory in GQ magazine’s Car Of The Year awards, winning the prestigious ‘SUV Of The Year’ title. Selected annually by GQ’s panel of design, lifestyle and automotive experts, the awards honour vehicles from a diverse range of categories which are ‘inspiring, interesting, have automotive integrity and get the pulse racing.’ As both the first SUV and the first production EV in Lotus’ 75-year history, the Eletre marks the start of an exciting and electrified new chapter for the business and brand. Its newcomer status proved no hindrance in a crowded field of contenders, with the Eletre seeing off stiff competition from many of the world’s well-established SUV manufacturers. In summarising the Eletre’s winning traits, the GQ judges concluded: “The premium electric SUV sector is filling up faster than you can say ‘recession-proof’ with all the automotive big beasts vying for attention, but none have grabbed our attention like Lotus.” Ben Payne, Chief Creative Officer, Lotus, said: “From the very first discussions about what the Eletre should be, our vision was to deliver a unique and highly desirable car that would demonstrate to the world what the EV future of Lotus would stand for. As an SUV, it will bring a completely new audience to the brand – a lifestyle customer. To be recognised for that by GQ, a globally renowned lifestyle publication, is a great honour.” Matthew Hill, Head of Interior Design, Lotus Tech Creative Centre, with GQ magazine’s ‘SUV of the Year’ award for the Lotus Eletre. The all-new, all-electric SUV is set to hit roads later this year, with thousands of customers around the world having already placed their deposits to secure a car. Three different versions are available – Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R – with a choice of two powertrains. Eletre and Eletre S both feature a 603hp (450kw) single-speed unit producing 710Nm of torque to deliver a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds and a maximum range of 373 miles. The flagship Eletre R comes equipped with a 905hp (675kw) dual-speed set-up boasting 985Nm for 0-62mph in just 2.95 seconds, making it the world’s fastest pure electric dual-motor SUV. Maximum range for this performance-oriented variant is 304 miles, while the 112kWh battery found in all versions can be charged (10%-80%) in just 20 minutes using a rapid charger. Inside, the Eletre’s premium cabin sets a new standard of desirability for Lotus interiors. The Eletre comes with 12-way electrically adjustable front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless phone charging and much more. Its advanced ‘digital cockpit’ features server-level computing power, enabling a billion-colour OLED touchscreen to display the cutting-edge Lotus Hyper OS for next-generation real-time 3D content. Immersion is further enhanced by a 15-speaker KEF Premium Audio system. Customers can upgrade to KEF Reference, a 2,160-watt 23-speaker system with Uni-Q and 3D surround sound technology. KEF Reference also features Uni-Core, a pioneering new approach to speaker and subwoofer design, and the Eletre marks its debut in the automotive world. The Eletre also comes with renowned immersive audio experience Dolby Atmos, a new way to enjoy music that takes listening to new heights through unparalleled depth, precision and clarity. Together, Dolby Atmos and the Eletre’s KEF speaker system combine to elevate music listening to new levels. Driver and passengers will feel like they’re sitting in the middle of the recording studio alongside the artist. The Eletre is the world’s first car to combine Dolby Atmos and KEF Audio. In the UK the Eletre is priced from £89,500, with a standard spec including five drive modes, active air suspension, torque vectoring, matrix LED headlights, active front grille and 10-spoke 22-inch forged wheels.
Fosters Solicitors is delighted to confirm the appointment of Paige Gouldthorpe as head of its Lowestoft branch. Paige joined Fosters two years ago and during that time has become deputy head of their Wills, Trusts & Probate team and the firm’s Court of Protection specialist. Through this additional role, Paige will help drive initiatives and focus on Fosters’ services available in Lowestoft and help them continue to be a key contributor to the town. Commenting on the news, Paige Gouldthorpe, said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed as Head of Lowestoft at Fosters Solicitors and look forward to helping support and drive our reach in the area. We have a great team of people who are based at our Regent Road branch, and many more of our wider colleagues who provide additional support from our Norwich and Wymondham offices. We are also privileged to have such a loyal base of clients and partners within the town, who I look forward to working closely with. “We are hugely excited for the year ahead buoyed by us building new relationships, as well as cementing established ones. Last year, we celebrated a decade of partnership with Lowestoft Town FC, which we’re hugely proud of – and we are in the process of planning several activities with them and other partners in the town.” Fosters Solicitors has had an active presence in Lowestoft for over 15 years, and just ahead of the pandemic moved to new premises in the town at 14 Regent Road. Members of its Residential Property and Wills, Trusts & Probate teams are permanently based at this branch, but as an all-service law firm, all of its wide-ranging legal services for both individuals and businesses are also available through its Lowestoft office. The firm is also a community partner of Lowestoft Town FC, with the club’s ground named the Fosters Solicitors Community Stadium and the firm organising with the Blues some community activities for the coming year. Fosters’ Lowestoft office are also seasoned participants in the town’s annual pumpkin trail and pancake day race. Chris Brown, Chief Executive of Fosters Solicitors, added: “The pandemic unfortunately frustrated the official launch and development of our new Lowestoft office on Regent Road. We are therefore excited about Paige’s appointment and that her natural drive and enthusiasm will add extra focus on us increasing our presence and reach in Waveney and throughout Suffolk.” Image credit: Fosters Solicitors
Energy Overview Headlines: ✓ Gas and Electricity Wholesale prices are lower. ✓ EU Gas Storage levels are a high, 64% full. ✓ Large numbers of LNG shipments to Europe. Since our last Energy Report, Gas and Electricity Year Ahead Wholesale prices are lower. Record numbers of LNG deliveries are being made to Europe to replace those Gas supplies previously from Russia. The US Freeport LNG terminal has started making deliveries, although it is not expected to be fully operational for at least another month. There will likely be an increased demand for LNG this year from Asia, largely due to China’s removal of COVID restrictions, which may impact on deliveries to us. EU Gas Storage levels are currently at 64% full, much higher than had been feared, when commercial restrictions on Gas use was thought a possibility. Energy markets are already factoring in the need to fill Storage to the 90% target by November. The recent milder temperatures have reduced the demand for heating, although this may move higher as a slightly colder spell is due. The contribution of Gas for generation remains low so far this month, partly due to a continued good supply of Wind at 29%. With the improved availability of cheaper French Nuclear Imports, following large scale maintenance, this reduces some of the burden on the UK to generate high-cost Electricity at peak demand. The National Grid has measures in place to react to any Electricity supply shortages, which includes placing Coal assets on standby. Read the full report below.
Figures just released show that more new businesses were established in Norfolk during 2022 than in any previous year to date – making it one of the UK’s most successful counties. A total of 5,384 new formations were registered in Norfolk during the last 12 months, an increase of 3.3% on 2021 when 5,214 were recorded. This brings the number of registered companies in the county to an all-time high of 45,968. The statistics are taken from the Inform Direct Review of Company Formations, using data from Companies House and the Office for National Statistics. Norwich formed the highest number of new businesses (1,569), followed jointly in second place by Breckland (714) and South Norfolk (714). John Korchak, Managing Director at Inform Direct said: “It is great that Norfolk can celebrate a record year for the number of new businesses established. “The last few years have been turbulent for businesses, with inflation and a cautious economic outlook following the impact of the pandemic. However, in these figures we see evidence of the ambition, creativity and resilience of entrepreneurs in Norfolk, as well as the benefits from the county’s support for a range of enterprises. “This positivity is mirrored in the overall picture for the UK which saw a record number of new companies established during 2022, exceeding 800,000 for the very first time.” The UK saw 805,141 new companies, compared to 771,617 in 2021, which represents an increase of 4.3% and brings the total number of companies to 5,236,227. Dissolutions of UK companies totalled 578,679, down on 2021 when 606,912 were recorded, suggesting that new and existing businesses are adapting to survive in a post-pandemic business environment.” To see a more detailed picture of company formations in Norfolk – including a full local breakdown, visit: https://www.informdirect.co.uk/company-formations-2022/norfolk/ To see the report in full, visit: https://www.informdirect.co.uk/company-formations-2022/ Inform Direct is a company secretarial and formation specialist. Its award-winning company secretarial and formations software currently supports 300,000 UK companies.