Member News

Larking Gowen is pleased to announce its role as sell-side advisor to Dynamic Fluid Solutions Limited (DFS) in its successful acquisition by Vestum AB (publ), a Swedish-based group specialising in infrastructure services and products.

DFS, headquartered in Suffolk, is a leading UK supplier of industrial pump and pipework systems, primarily serving the water and wastewater sectors. DFS will now form part of Vestum’s Flow Technology segment.

With a strong reputation for bespoke pumping solutions and a high proportion of recurring rental revenue, DFS has become a trusted partner across a wide range of industries requiring water movement solutions.

The acquisition marks a strategic expansion for Vestum into the UK market, positioning the group to benefit from significant upcoming infrastructure investments, including the UK’s AMP8 water investment programme and the development of Sizewell C nuclear power station.

Larking Gowen prepared the confidential sales documentation, financial model and acted as lead advisor on negotiations as well as supporting throughout the due diligence process.

“We are delighted to have advised the shareholders of DFS on this landmark transaction” said Jack Minns, Corporate Transactions Partner at Larking Gowen “The deal reflects the strength of DFS’s market position and the strategic value it brings to Vestum’s Flow Technology segment. It has been a pleasure working with the team at DFS and we wish them continued success as part of the Vestum group.”

Larking Gowen worked closely with Prettys Solicitors, based in Ipswich, who provided legal advisory services to the shareholders of DFS throughout the transaction.

“It was a pleasure to work alongside Larking Gowen on this transaction, supporting the shareholders of DFS through the legal aspects of the sale” remarked Daniel Bilson, a Partner at Prettys Solicitors “The collaborative approach between our teams ensured a smooth and efficient process, and we’re delighted to have played a part in helping DFS take this exciting next step.”

Ben Buckmaster and Luke Steward from Dynamic Fluid Solutions Limited added, “We’d like to express our sincere thanks to the Prettys team, led by Dan, and Larking Gowen’s Corporate Finance team, led by Jack, for their outstanding support throughout the sale of our business. Both teams were not only highly professional and knowledgeable, but also a real pleasure to work with.

They guided us through the process with clarity and calm, while helping to build a positive and constructive relationship with the buyer. The teams dovetailed extremely well, working seamlessly together to make the transaction as smooth and efficient as possible. Their dedication, responsiveness, and commitment to achieving the best outcome for us were evident throughout.

 We would absolutely work with them again in the future, and couldn’t recommend them more highly to any business going through the sale process.”

This deal underscores Larking Gowen’s continued commitment to supporting ambitious businesses in the industrial and infrastructure sectors, delivering expert advisory services across the full lifecycle of corporate transactions.

Minor head bumps are usually nothing to worry about and can be treated at home. However, sometimes we do need to seek medical help… I’ve written a blog which looks at this in more detail: Head Bumps – When to Worry and What to Do. Follow the link if you’d like to read https://www.firstclassfirstaidltd.co.uk/blog/head-bumps-when-to-worry-and-what-to-do/

Leeway is taking part in Big Give’s Women and Girls match fund campaign, and we need your support!

From the 8^th-15^th October, we are taking part in Big Give’s annual crowdfunding campaign to raise money to support the important work of Leeway’s Healthy Relationship service.

During this time, all money raised by supporters will be doubled by Big Give, helping participating organisations to have an even greater impact across their local communities.

We are raising money to support our Healthy Relationship service, which works with children and young people across Norfolk, raising awareness around domestic abuse and healthy relationships so they can flourish.

Your support will help us to reach more young people across Norfolk, as well as expanding the resources that we are able to provide to young people and professionals that work with them.

Why is this important?

We believe education around healthy relationships is important as it helps to break the cycle of domestic abuse, supporting young people to understand what they should expect as they start to form new relationships, as well as identifying trusted adults they can reach out to for support, when they are worried or concerned about their partners behaviour.

Our service also works with young people to challenge some of the attitudes and views that they may see on social media, which can shape their opinions on what constitutes a healthy relationship.

Research conducted by the Independent found that 8 in 10 teenage boys had watched content by the influencer Andrew Tate, who has described himself as “absolutely a misogynist.”

Further studies have shown that young people – particularly boys – have been heavily influenced by Tate’s content. Without being challenged, these views can become normalised or deemed acceptable.

GirlGuiding UK also shone a light on this issue, with their recent study showing that 1 in 10 girls aged 11-16 have missed school to avoid sexual harassment.

We believe that educating young people and challenging misogynistic views can help them to have a better understanding around healthy relationships and why they are important.

Supporting Our Campaign

When the campaign goes live at midday on Wednesday 8^th October, you can donate to support us on our Big Give page. This is then live until midday on Wednesday 15^th October, when all funds raised are doubled by Big Give.

Businesses and organisations can also support the campaign by donating to our Big Give page.

Leeway will be sharing social media posts about the campaign throughout the week and any shares or reposts are hugely appreciated, helping us to get as much support as possible!

What our service users said…

“My leeway worker was absolutely amazing from the first time I met her. She has helped me through the no doubt toughest time of my life and was by my side through out all of it, she is the kindest person I know thank you Leeway I would not be where I am today without you.”

“My Leeway worker was extremely understanding and helped me through my issues in relationships and learning how to be more healthy.”

“My leeway worker was excellent, she tailored the sessions to my needs and together we managed to find all of the keys problems I was having and why I was having them. She was also very engaging and helped me to understand why the problems were present too.” 

Banham Zoo is proud to announce a truly historic conservation milestone – the first-ever birth of a Linne’s two-toed sloth at the zoo, which took place on Sunday, 7th September 2025.

Our much-loved female sloth, Rowan, has welcomed her very first youngster with partner Arlo, marking an unforgettable moment for the pair as new parents and a landmark event for Banham Zoo.

Both mother and pup are thriving, with our expert animal care team carefully monitoring their progress while ensuring they enjoy the quiet space they need to bond. Visitors may be lucky enough to see the newborn clinging tightly to Rowan’s belly, a tender behaviour that showcases the remarkable bond between sloth mothers and their young.

This birth is more than just a heartwarming moment; it’s a conservation success story, underlining the crucial role modern zoos play in protecting species, inspiring visitors, and supporting global conservation efforts.

Adding to the excitement, the sloth pup isn’t the only new arrival at Banham Zoo. Recently, our red panda twins have begun venturing out of their nest, delighting visitors with their first playful explorations.

With both a historic sloth birth and red panda cubs to see, now is a truly special time to visit Banham Zoo and witness the wonders of new life in the animal kingdom.

Deborah Harris, Animal Manager at Banham Zoo, said, ‘It’s such an achievement to have our first baby sloth here at the zoo! The youngster is absolutely adorable and has stolen the hearts of keepers and visitors alike. So far, Rowan has proven to be a fantastic first-time mum, and we’re excited to see what the future holds.’

For more updates on Rowan, Arlo, their youngster, and the red panda twins, follow Banham Zoo on social media or visit our website.

We look forward to welcoming visitors to see the new arrival over the October half term!

www.banhamzoo.co.uk

At Jennison Accounting, we know that most business owners don’t get excited about spreadsheets and financial reports (and honestly, who can blame you?). You want to understand how your business is performing, not get lost in a maze of numbers.

That’s exactly why we’ve started using Syft, a clever analytics tool that turns your financial data into easy-to-understand visuals, dashboards, and reports.

What is Syft?

Syft connects directly to your accounting software (like Xero or QuickBooks) and transforms your financial data into clear, interactive visuals. Think charts, graphs, and reports that actually make sense.

Instead of sifting through endless rows of figures, you can see what’s really happening in your business at a glance; what’s working, what’s not, and where your attention should be.

Why We Love It (and You Will Too)

1. It brings your numbers to life.
No more guessing what your profit margin really means. With Syft, you can instantly spot trends and patterns in your income, expenses, and cash flow.

2. It helps you make smarter decisions.
When you can see where your money’s coming from and where it’s going, you’re in a much stronger position to plan ahead, invest wisely, and grow with confidence.

3. It saves you time.
Syft automatically pulls and updates your financial data, so you’re always working with real-time information. That means less manual number crunching and more time running your business.

4. It makes collaboration easier.
We can use Syft during meetings to show you the bigger picture, visually. It’s a great way to make sure you understand your accounts, not just receive them.

Seeing the Bigger Picture

At Jennison Accounting, our goal isn’t just to handle your numbers; it’s to help you use them. With Syft, we can provide even clearer insights and help you make decisions that move your business forward.

So whether you’re curious about your profitability, want to spot upcoming cash flow gaps, or simply want to understand your finances without the jargon, Syft gives you the clarity and confidence to do it.

Syft is leading the way in AI reporting

One of the most exciting recent developments from Syft is its “AI-first” approach to financial reporting, powered by Syft Assist AI. Rather than simply turning your numbers into charts, Syft now uses AI to interpret the data – highlighting trends, drawing insights, and even recommending actions you might take. 

As the only AI-first financial reporting platform, you can ask Syft Assist to explain any graph or report in seconds, generate commentary across divisions or consolidated entities, and surface insights you might otherwise miss. As a bonus, there’s even a voice option: Syft can verbalise reports in over 50 languages through multiple narrator voices, making financial insight more accessible, whether you prefer reading or listening. 

Ready to See Your Business Differently?

If you’d like to find out how Syft can give you a clearer view of your business, get in touch with the team today.

As October rolls in and Halloween decorations start to appear, it’s a good time for businesses to reflect, not on ghosts in the attic, but on the “ghosts” of financial mistakes from the year so far.

Every business, no matter how successful, will encounter challenges. The key is learning from them before they haunt your next year’s performance.

Common Business Errors That Haunt Companies

Some of the most frequent missteps we see include:

Cashflow neglect: Waiting too long to monitor inflows and outflows can leave a business vulnerable.

Delayed financial planning: Ignoring forecasts or budgeting can turn minor issues into major problems.

Over-reliance on a single client or market: This can create risk when circumstances change.

Ignoring compliance or filing deadlines: Late accounts, tax filings, or statutory obligations can trigger fines and legal trouble.

How to Exorcise Your Financial Demons

Review and analyse: Take a candid look at what went wrong this year and why.

Plan ahead: Implement robust budgeting, forecasting, and monitoring systems.

Seek expert guidance: Insolvency and restructuring specialists can help identify early warning signs and strategies to prevent repeat mistakes.

Diversify and mitigate risk: Spread exposure across clients, products, or suppliers.

Turning Mistakes into Strengths

The mistakes of the past don’t have to haunt the future. By learning from them, directors can:

Improve financial resilience

Protect jobs and reputation

Build stronger, more adaptable businesses ready to face next year’s challenges

At Leading Business Services, we help businesses dig up the skeletons in their financial closet, plan for the future, and implement practical solutions. This Halloween, don’t let last year’s money ghosts haunt your business – exorcise them, learn from them, and rise stronger than a financial Frankenstein!

We’re Here When You’re Ready

At Leading, an experienced insolvency and business restructuring firm, we believe in having early, honest conversations, because the sooner we talk, the more options we can explore together.

If your business is experiencing financial stress, or you’re supporting a client who is, we’re here to help. We offer confidential, no-obligation guidance tailored to each situation.

We’re happy to speak directly with business owners, or work in partnership with accountants, HR professionals, or other advisers.

Let’s take the first step together, while there are still options on the table.

You can contact our friendly and experienced team on 01603 552028 or email us at mail@leading.uk.com.

After a wild summer roaming the streets of Norwich and Norfolk, the GoGoSafari sculptures have found their forever homes at a spectacular one-night-only charity art auction held at Saxon Air, Norwich. Hosted by ITV’s Becky Jago and Chris Page alongside celebrity auctioneer Natasha Raskin Sharp, the event saw around 200 guests in attendance with over 70 bidding online.

The evening began with a vibrant opening dance performance by the City College Norwich Dance Group, setting the scene for an exciting night of bidding. Guests enjoyed a sparkling reception, food served by Norfolk’s Edge surrounded by all 56 sculptures up grabs – each a one-of-a-kind creation by the UK’s most talented artists.

Bidding got off to a flying start with the vibrant Prideoscope, sponsored by Norwich BID, selling for an impressive £8,500. The excitement continued as Andy, a touching tribute to beloved local businessman and Mr Plastics MD, Andy Cole, raised £10,000. The stunning Gia La Giraffa Lampada, a giraffe transformed into a glamourous working lamp by the talented Sally Adams, illuminated the room as it fetched £10,500. Another of Sally Adams’ remarkable creations, circus elephant BoBo, achieved a fantastic £12,000, thanks in part to match funding from Wild in Art. Adding to the total, the MINI Collection, a unique set of five miniature sculptures representing each animal in the trail which were auctioned individually, collectively raised over £24,000 and ultimately ended up together!

The auction raised a total of £290,200 and all proceeds will go to Break, supporting their work with young people in, around and leaving care across East Anglia. This brings the total of money raised through the trail to over £380,000 all of which will go towards offering young people in care lifelong support and opportunities to build confidence and independence.

“The incredible generosity shown tonight will make a real difference for young people in and leaving care across East Anglia,” comments Break CEO Rached Cowdry.  “This money will enable us to provide the stability, love and opportunities that every young person deserves.  With the love and support that we give the young people as we walk alongside them, they are able to heal some of the hurt and grow into the best adults they can be. Thanks to everyone who took part tonight we can continue to ensure they feel safe, valued, and empowered to build bright futures.”

Ellie Edge, Break Partnerships Manager added: “It was an absolutely fantastic evening, and we’re so grateful to everyone who dug deep and helped us raise such a phenomenal amount. We’d like to thank everyone who played a part in making the evening a success including auction partners Mander Auctioneers and Production bureau, our auctioneer Natasha Raskin Sharp, and of course trail partners Wild in Art, Zoological Society of East Anglia, Norwich BID and Chantry Place; our talented artists, sculpture sponsors and volunteers, for making the night such a success.”

We’re hosting a charity quiz night on Friday 24 October at the New Bury Community Centre in Bury St Edmunds.

You can enter a team of up to 6 people and it costs £30 per team. There will also be a raffle on the night.

The event will raise money for Just George, which is a special name fund at the Children’s Cancer Group (CCLG) raising money for research into rhabdomyosarcoma in memory of George.

Doors will open at 7pm, with the quiz starting at 7:30pm.

To take part in the fun, simply email fundraising@gascoynes.co.uk.

Just last week we had confirmation from the Norfolk Trusted Trader scheme that we had been accepted after their in-depth audit of our company. It is a great pleasure to have been awarded this accreditation as it highlights to future clients that we stand up to Trading Standards strict guidelines.

So, feel free to get in touch with our small family-run business for all your garage door needs.

Nu Image takes on a 26.2 mile challenge across the Norfolk Broads in support of Norwich City Community Sports Foundation. Raising nearly £3,000 in the process.

On Friday 19th September, a team of nine from Norwich-based digital marketing agency, Nu Image, completed a 26.2 mile rowing challenge along the Norfolk Broads. Raising over £2,800 for the Norwich City Community Sports Foundation (NCCSF). The charity supports vulnerable groups in Norfolk’s community through a range of sport and social based programmes.

Nu Image chose this charity because the cause was especially close to the hearts of the team, with Nu Image’s Head of Digital, Emily, having a personal connection to the Realising Potential programme. The programme itself works to develop confidence, social skills, and career opportunities for young people and adults with physical or learning disabilities. The fundraiser, dubbed the Ma’ROW’thon, was inspired by NCCSF’s goal to bring the community together and help people achieve things they didn’t think possible. Somewhat similar to our mission here for SME businesses.

The Day Itself:

Setting off from Brundall Bay Marina at 8am, the team rowed in a Katakanu for more than nine hours, reaching their marathon goal just before sunset. Along the way, they battled sore arms, dehydration, and blazing sunshine but were cheered on by family, friends, and colleagues at various checkpoints.

“We weren’t sure we’d make it, even on the day,” said Ian Howes, the Director of Nu Image. “But the support and team spirit carried us through.”

The Impact:

The team exceeded their goal, rowing 26.45 miles in total and smashing their fundraising target. All proceeds go directly to NCCSF, which is self-funded and relies on events like this to continue its vital work across Norfolk.

All funds raised will go towards the NCCSF base, The Nest. This is a purpose-built community facility that delivers ongoing support through programmes, such as:

• Duncan’s Club, for people living with dementia

• Pan-Disability Football, inclusive training for players of all abilities

• Coffee and Comrades, bringing together veterans and serving personnel

Nu Image is now aiming to push donations over the £3,000 mark. Donations can be made via JustGiving: https://www.justgiving.com/page/nu-image-row-a-marathon

Why This Challenge Mattered:

“Teamwork, growth, and doing things people didn’t think they could do, that’s what this challenge was all about, and it aligns perfectly with how we work as a business,” said Emily, Director & Head of Digital at Nu Image “That made it even more meaningful for us.”

A special thanks to:
Local businesses Whitlingham Adventure and Norfolk Yacht Agency, who provided both the Katakanu vessel and support boat for the Ma’ROW’thon event. 

About Nu Image:

Nu Image is a Norwich-based agency known for their creative digital campaigns and community values. They offer web design, branding, and digital marketing services. Each year Nu Image puts on a big fundraiser to support local causes and this year’s event rowed straight into the heart of one of Norwich’s most vital charities. The team uses their creativity and collaboration to drive real world impact.

About Norwich City Community Sports Foundation:

The Norwich City Community Sports Foundation is the official charity of Norwich City Football Club. It provides inclusive sports, education, and personal development opportunities to people of all ages and abilities across Norfolk. Find out more here.

To learn more about the Ma’row’thon challenge, visit the Nu Image blog: https://www.nuimage.co.uk/an-oarsome-day-on-the-broads-for-a-brilliant-cause/

There is still time to donate to the cause. To donate, visit the JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/nu-image-row-a-marathon

We’re delighted to share that Pop Connect Norfolk successfully launched two new business networking groups in Norwich this September.

And our brand new Great Yarmouth group launches on 22nd October.

If you’re looking to grow your network and connect with like-minded business owners and consultants, we’d love to welcome you as a visitor to one of our groups.  

Visitors tickets are £30 and include tea/coffee and lunch.

To book your place, please contact me at sue.potter@popconnect.net or call 07486 073844.

As summer draws to a close, many business leaders turn their attention to the final quarter of the year. Q4 can make or break annual results – particularly in sectors reliant on seasonal peaks, like retail, hospitality and professional services. But before the year-end push begins, it’s worth taking stock. A Q3 “reality check” can highlight both opportunities and risks, giving you the clarity needed to finish the year strong.

End-of-Summer Business Health Assessment

September is the ideal time to step back and review your company’s financial position:

·        Cashflow: Do you have the liquidity to handle upcoming seasonal costs such as stock, staffing or energy bills?

·        Debts and liabilities: Are loan repayments or tax deadlines looming?

·        Performance vs forecast: How close are you to hitting your annual targets?

Preparing for the Crucial Q4 Trading Period

The final quarter is often the busiest. Strong planning now can prevent stress later. Consider:

·        Stock and supply chain resilience

·        Workforce planning and overtime management

·        Marketing and sales campaigns to capture peak demand

·        Contingency plans for unexpected disruptions

Warning Signs to Watch

Certain red flags suggest a business may struggle to cope with year-end pressures:

·        Persistent cashflow shortages

·        Rising creditor pressure or overdue payments

·        Reliance on short-term loans to cover everyday costs

·        Falling margins despite stable or rising sales

At Leading Business Services, we advise directors to act early. A timely financial health check and professional guidance can help you address issues before they escalate, leaving you ready to tackle Q4 with confidence.

We’re Here When You’re Ready

At Leading, an experienced insolvency and business restructuring firm, we believe in having early, honest conversations — because the sooner we talk, the more options we can explore together.

If your business is experiencing financial stress, or you’re supporting a client who is, we’re here to help. We offer confidential, no-obligation guidance tailored to each situation.

We’re happy to speak directly with business owners, or work in partnership with accountants and advisers.

Let’s take the first step together — while there are still options on the table.

You can contact our friendly and experienced team on 01603 552028 or email us at mail@leading.uk.com.