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Autumn Edition of the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Magazine
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Awards tonic for radio doctor See Business Awards pages 16-20 Hotel plan unveiled page 5 Merger heralds new era page 9 Royal honour for Mornflake MD page 13 Celebrity at business lunch page 28 In this Issue New Members ......................page 4 Members News ....................page 5 Patrons News ....................page 10 Business News....................page 14 Business Awards ................page 16 Chamber News ..................page 26 Business Lunch..................page 28 Networking ........................page 29 Dates for your Diary ..........page 30 Autumn Edition 2010
Transcript

Awards tonic for radio doctorSee Business Awards

pages

16-20

Hotel plan unveiled

page

5Merger heralds

new era

page

9

Royal honour forMornflake MD

page

13Celebrity at

business lunch

page

28

In this Issue

New Members......................page 4

Members News ....................page 5

Patrons News ....................page 10

Business News....................page 14

Business Awards ................page 16

Chamber News ..................page 26

Business Lunch..................page 28

Networking ........................page 29

Dates for your Diary..........page 30

Autumn Edition 2010

templesWorried aboutLetting your Property?

Contact us today for an unrivalled friendly and professional service

4 High Street, Nantwich

Don’t panic! Use Temples for hassle-freeletting and management

01270 627272 Independent Letting Specialist

www.temples.uk.com

A few recent communications from happy landlords:-We are very pleased with the service you guys offer and deliver. . .as experienced overseas landlords we appreciate the prompt and

professional service we have received from day one. Living in a differenttime zone we are reliant on their good communication, thoroughness,

eye for detail and pro-active management of our property. Thanks and regards" Susanne and Joe S Feb10

“Just thought I'd let you know how impressed I am with the serviceprovided by Temples. You have been renting our properties for over 5 years and you never fail to impress us with your enthusiasm,

dedication and excellent follow up service. A big thank you to Roy & Steve." Nick & Christine W Feb10

"I'm glad you got their problem with the washer resolved so swiftly, indoing so you also made sure I didn't incur any unnecessary expense. This is effective management of the problem for the tenant and greatservice and help to me; and re-affirms my choice of Temples as my

managing agent in Nantwich and Chester. Thanks again for your help." Robert F Mar10

“I was a previous tenant with Temples in Nantwich when I was treatedfairly but very firmly. With this experience of Temples managing my

landlord’s house, I had no intention of allowing any other letting agent to look after my house when I needed to let it, and to date my decision

has proven correct – Thank you” Linda J Jul10

“..... could you get me the quotes and summary of work that needs doing.What I would like to do is get an understanding of the full costs and therelative urgency of each piece of work. Normally these would have beendealt with as and when they arose, but due to lack of care from yourcompetitors Nantwich office there has been a build up and so I will be hit with all costs at once. At least I now know I made the right decision

to move to Temples! Non D Jul10

“In finding a tenant for my property, I have come into contact with yourSue Arnold ... she was diligent, thorough, prompt and unfailingly goodhumoured. A also found her to be smart in appearance and in every wayshe reflected what you would wish of your staff. I have to the slightesthesitation in writing that I could not wish for a better person to conduct

any business that we bring to you” Geoff F Aug10

“The team at Temples is extremely efficient, hardworking, providesexcellent value for money compared to other providers, and is business likeand yet very friendly in their approach. As with all lettings we have had anumber of issues to resolve and I have always been able to leave these withTemples assured in the confidence that they would do all they could to

resolve them on my behalf. I cannot recommend Temples highly enough;they are an excellent company who provide a first class service.”

Barry W Mar10

"Once again many thanks...it really is refreshing to work with such aprofessional team. Hope business goes from strength to strength.

Kind regards" Nick L. Jun10

. . . and we look after our tenants too!

“I have a rental property through Temples. Finding somewhere to rent wasmade easy by their efficient and detailed website and my questions and

concerns easily and confidently. The rental process was swift andstraightforward, the staff were always on hand to assist with my form

filling and further queries! For the 2 years I have rented, that perfect servicehas been maintained. Contact is kept to the necessary minimum, yet theyare always available should you need a swift repair or have a problem.Every associate from reception to inspection, telephone to service staff

have made me feel comfortable and reassured. I have been so impressed Iam now considering buying a property for them to manage and let for me!

Temples professionalism, friendliness and willingness is exemplary!” Sue R Jul10

“Natalie, I thought I would just drop you a quick e-mail to say thank you forall your help over the past week. I have found Temples in Nantwich,yourself and Rachael especially, very helpful and friendly and most

importantly, giving a First Class customer Service. Thank you again” Tim P Jun10

“To all the staff at Temples Crewe. Just to thank you for the wonderful way I was treated recently when taking on a property. I am so grateful for theway in which Abi kept me in touch with every step of the way and I am in

no doubt she saved me a huge amount of stress. I am currentlycoordinating my move from the South and my task of finding a home was made so much simpler than I anticipated. I am confident I have found the right home for my family and I want to let you know your

wonderful help did not go unappreciated” Sally G Jul10

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Articles can be submitted to:South Cheshire Chamber, Lyme Building,Westmere Drive, Crewe Business Park,Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6ZDTelephone: 01270 504700 Fax: 01270 504701Email: [email protected]

For Advertising Sales contact:Rachel McMillanJohnsons Printers, Oat Market, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 5APTelephone: 01270 625207Mobile: 07595 277 847Email: [email protected]

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in 4FRONT, we can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors.

For information on how to be included in 4Front, call Jan Roberts on 07709 977 629

John Dunning

WelcomeThe coalition Government is placing great faith in the ability of the private sector and in particular SMEs to lead the economic recovery.

Whilst this is to be welcomed, there is a need for more clarity insome areas and the availability of finance for businessescontinues to be a vital area of policy that needs to be addressed.I would therefore remind local businesses about the availabilityof the Chambers Small Business Loan Fund.

The approval of the Local Enterprise Partnership bid forCheshire and Warrington is good news and is certainly a step inthe right direction. Getting the right people on the Board will be critical.

It is also good to see that Cheshire East Council is now enteringinto a public consultation on its proposals for the future of Crewewhich has been entitled “All Change For Crewe”.

Again, the message that is coming from the Council is that itwants the business community to take the lead in driving forwardthe economic regeneration of this area.

So both the Government and the local authority have throwndown the gauntlet to the private sector and although it will not beeasy in these times of austerity it is vital that we take up thechallenge and there has never been a more important time forbusinesses to work together with the Chamber.

Our first Annual Business Lunch at Rookery Hall was a greatsuccess thanks in no small way to our Guest Speaker PeteWaterman. It is good to see that Pete is taking a keen interest inthe future of Crewe.

Not only is his local business, LNWR Heritage Railway Companygoing from strength to strength and developing vital workforceskills but he is actively involved in promoting the setting up of aCrewe Rail Forum and has been centrally involved in the creationof a National Skills Academy for Rail Engineering, funding forwhich has recently been approved by the Government.

He is also part of the key stakeholder group for the “All ChangeFor Crewe” initiative and has made a significant input into thesuccessful LEP bid for Cheshire & Warrington.

Pete is a great ambassador for Crewe and spends a significant amount of time pressing our case within Government departments.

Finally, as we approach the Christmas period I would like to wishall our readers a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

John Dunning - Chief Executive

to the autumn edition of 4Front the magazinefor businesses in South Cheshire

Big Dot Media LimitedSuite 15/16 Lyndon House44 Wellington Road, NantwichCheshire CW5 7BXT: 01270 626208T: 0845 280 [email protected]

Total Negotiation LtdLindale House, Pepper StreetChelford, Cheshire SK11 9BEM: 07721 420 432Training

Hulton Associates Limited8 Lodge Grove, NewcastleStaffordshire ST5 0HAT: 01782 546 472F: 01782 713 [email protected] Consultancy

CDM Cleaning Services61 Monks Lane, CreweCheshire CW1 3PHT: 01270 586 [email protected] Service

Window Wizard64 Bradfield Road, CreweCheshire CW1 3RBT: 01270 256 611Windows

Overwater MarinaCoole Lane, Newhall, NantwichCheshire CW5 8AYT: 01270 812 [email protected]

Mobile Specialists LtdUnit 22-23, Crewe Indoor MarketHall, Earle Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 2BLT: 01270 501 301www.repair-a-phone.comMobile Phones

Mark 1 Business Systems LtdCedarway, BoillingtonMacclesfield, Cheshire SK10 5NRT: 01625 575 [email protected] Management Consultant

Relish Delicatessen Cheshire Ltd3 Church Lane, NantwichCheshire CW5 5RQT: 01270 618 912www.deli-relish.co.ukFood

Mrs Prisk’s Cornish Oven96 Nantwich Road, CreweCheshire CW2 6ATT: 01270 747 [email protected]

GreensleevesBeech House, Weybutt LaneCrewe, Cheshire CW2 5QAT: 01270 252 588www.greensleeves-uk.comGardens

Cheshire Reef Aquatics77 Broughton Road, CreweCheshire CW1 4NWT: 01270 509 043www.cheshirereefaquatics.co.uk

Commercial ArtistsPO Box 12, NantwichCheshire CW5 7FBT: 01270 669 207www.com-artists.co.ukDesign & Print

Nantwich Travel56 Beam Street, NantwichCheshire CW5 5LJT: 01270 611 [email protected] and Tourism

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Joining the South Cheshire Chambercan help your business grow in manyways while giving you an opportunity tomake vital contacts across SouthCheshire and within neighbouringorganisations.

Here is a brief summary of the benefitsyou would gain:-

Make Your Voice Heard: Members can get involved in StrategyGroups and Panels that look to thefuture and seek to influence decisionmakers. You can help to create the rightenvironment for a successful economy.

Find out what is happening onthe Business Scene: Members will receive newsletters,magazines and accessing the websiteand attending events and seminars.

Create Sales Opportunities:Members can take advantage ofnetworking opportunities to raise theirprofile and make new contacts. Theycan attend business meetings togenerate business leads while alsotaking time out to enjoy themselves atinformal social events.

Develop your staff: Members can take advantage of theskills and training opportunitiesavailable locally.

What does it all cost? From as little as £2.00 per week youcan become a member of the SouthCheshire Chamber and join thegrowing list of companies that areproud to be members of our businesscommunity.

Chamber manager, Paul Colman,says: "I would like to welcome our new members to the South CheshireChamber of Commerce and lookforward to working with them in thefuture."

Paul Colman

Meet our new members

For more information on joining the Chamber contact Paul on 01270 504700

or email [email protected]

Personal visits can also be arranged.

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Award-winning garageachieves top scoreABP Motorsport inShavington has becomethe first member ofCheshire East’s GoldenSpanner GarageApproval Scheme toachieve a score of 100%in a mystery shop of thebusiness.

The garage was visitedby an independentassessor who scored iton how it deals with the customer’s initialtelephone enquiry, thevehicle delivery, the collection by the customer and the overallstandard of workmanship.

The 100% result is the latest in a series of accolades for theNewcastle Road business. In 2009 it scooped the MotorcodesGolden Garage award for best garage in the North West andearlier this year it was named the CAT Magazine Garage of the Year.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibilityfor safer and stronger communities, said: “ABP’s honesty, hardwork and professionalism all contributed to a perfect score.People should be reassured that they have such a reputablebusiness on their doorstep.”

For more information call ABP Motorsport on 01270 567177

PERFECT SCORE: Edward Timpson MP called in at ABP Motorsport to

congratulate the team on its success

Blue Bell Groupcelebrates 35 years inthe driving seat Blue Bell Group MD Sue Brownson and Chairman ChrisBrownson (pictured) are celebrating their 35 year associationwith BMW.

With a staggering 30,000BMW and MINI’s soldsince 1975, a currentturnover of £99 millionand 241 employees, theBlue Bell Group hascertainly made its markand has become the firstchoice, time after time,for its many satisfied andloyal customers.

From Blue Bell taking onthe BMW franchise in1975, to the opening ofthe Crewe dealership in 1990, and to the introduction of theMINI franchise to the group in 2001, it has grown from strengthto strength.

Sue Brownson OBE said: “We wouldn’t have been where we aretoday without the support and dedication of the hard workingteam across the group, together with our loyal customers and wewill continue to go that extra mile in establishing ourreputation for customer service and satisfaction.”

For more information call Blue Bell on 01270 212525

Mr and Mrs Brownson

Businesses tune intonew community radiostationNew Chamber members,RedShift Radio, have wonsupport from several keySouth Cheshire businesses.

The internet-based stationis now backed by a range ofsponsors including VirginTrains, Home Instead,Hibberts, ReaseheathCollege, Bank Sheridan,Kall Kwik and Pure PR.

Since being launched in September it hasintroduced a variety of shows for all sectors of the communityincluding its Scarlet Ladies chat show which has also proved a hitwith listeners and charities.

Once a month it is followed by a fundraising networking event. Todate they have raised over £300 for causes including Macmillanand the Breast Cancer Campaign.

Co-founder, Liz Southall, said: “Already we are getting over 3,000visits a week which is really encouraging. Also the support we arereceiving from the local business community is fantastic and wehope to welcome more businesses on board.”

For more information visit www.redshiftradio.co.uk

LADIES DAY: Scarlet Ladies at their lastnetworking event at the Virgin Trains

Talent Academy on Crewe Business Park

New hotel brings jobsboost to NantwichA Nantwich restaurant owner has unveiled plans to build a luxuryhotel in the heart of the town centre.

Ben Rafferty, owner of theaward-winning ResidenceRestaurant and Bar, hasearmarked a former bowlinggreen on the business site in MillStreet for the development whichwill create up to 30 much-needednew jobs for local people.

The scheme will include astunning 18-bedroom hotel withadjoining banqueting suite andcar-park, accessed from WaterLode.

Its design will be in keeping withthe Grade II-listed Georgian flavour of the restaurant which wasnamed ‘Best Food and Drink Venue 2010’ at the Cheshire tourismawards in June.

Mr Rafferty, 40, said: “It’s a major investment and bold step inthis economic climate but I truly believe Nantwich has thepotential to sustain a top class hotel.”

Plans for the scheme can be viewed in the council’s Civic Hall offices.

For more information on the ResidenceRestaurant and Bar call 01270 629100

HOTEL PLAN: Ben Rafferty

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ews Get Christmas spirit and not a law suit

Party on …but don’t let it cost you apacket! That’s the message fromemployment law specialists WilliamB Rose as the season of festivefrolics descends upon us.

Booze-fuelled office parties canoften lead to massive headache forcompany bosses when an employeesuffers a mishap or takes exceptionto that ‘Christmas kiss’ in the coldlight of day.

William B Rose managing partner,Susie Wheeler, said: “About nowcompanies will be starting toarrange Christmas parties andnights out. We all love a good party and while we don’t want to bespoilsports, employers need to be aware of the employment lawminefield that this can create.”

Employers must ensure they have a policy in place stating what is - and what is not - acceptable behaviour at the works ‘do’.

Examples of unacceptable behaviour include excessive alcoholconsumption, fighting, using illegal drugs, inappropriate language- or even physical contact. They need to be aware that while a partymay be off-site and outside normal working hours, past case lawhas confirmed that the works party is merely an extension of theworkplace, and as such, normal workplace rules should apply.Crucially, they should note that under current legislation, they canbe held liable for discriminatory acts by their employees.

Susie, an employment law specialist for 10 years, said: “OneChristmas a client called me in a panic. The firm’s party had gone

well, or so he thought, until thefollowing week he received a formalgrievance from a female employeealleging that one of her male colleagueshad sexually harassed her at the party.“He was astounded when I advised him that we had to treat this as a formal grievance and investigate thematter fully.

“It took several weeks to unraveleverything that had happened, and ittranspired that in fact the employeesconcerned had been having an affair,and the affair having turned sour, thefemale employee made a formalcomplaint about her colleague.

“We finally ended up dismissing her – which was a bold move tomake frankly, but it just goes to show the exposure that employerscan have if they’re not prepared.”

In another instance a kindly client placed a tipsy employee in a taxihome only to face a personal injury claim when she fell out andbroke her ankle.

Susie added: “Provided measures are taken to protect theCompany, there is no reason not to let parties go ahead.”

Companies needing advice on staying on the right side of the law this Christmas or any other employment law matter are welcome to call William B Rose for a free consultation on 0845 600 4996

by Jan Roberts

The William B Rose party enjoying themselves at the South Cheshire Business Awards

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Nantwich Town FCeases parkingheadache

Children’s Charity Climb (Children Living with Inherited MetabolicDiseases) has recently revamped its offices in Nantwich Road, Crewe andis pleased to announce that they now have two rooms available for trainingand meeting purposes. Both rooms, which are light and airy, include theprovision of tea, coffee and cold water in the room rate.

The larger room, which will comfortably seat up to 25 people, is equippedwith a 32” television with built-in DVD player, LCD projector and screen(laptop available if necessary), white board and flip chart. It must be notedthat this room is upstairs without a lift facility but there is another roomavailable downstairs.

The smaller room, which will comfortably seat up to 14 people, is situatedon the ground floor. Again there is provision of a smaller television andDVD player, LCD projector and screen (laptop available if necessary),whiteboard and flip chart.

The revamp has included ground-floor disabled toilet provision with atemporary ramp available should it be required. In addition to theprovision of drinks throughout the day (included in the price), a sandwichlunch can be provided at additional cost. The rooms are available from9.15 am to 4.45 pm

The charge for the larger room is £110 for the whole day,£60 for half a day. The charge for the smaller room is£60 for the whole day, £40 for half a day.

For further information and availabilityplease phone Karen on 0845 241 2173or email [email protected]

Climb is a registered in England and Wales • Charity No 1089588

Training/Meeting RoomAvailable for Daily Hire

Children Living withInherited Metabolic Diseases

TM

Nantwich Town Football Clubhas opened its Weaver Stadiumcar park to the public - anddiscounted rates are beingoffered to businesses forcontract parking.

The car park is now available tothe public from 8am to 6pm onweekdays - a move which hasbeen applauded by localcouncillors. Rates are £1.50daily or weekly £6. The clubretains use at night and atweekends.

Business manager, Michael Chatwin, said: “The club has beenaware of difficulties people have parking in the town centre andhopefully this will help out.”

The club has appointed a new marketingmanager for its Fairfax Suite – JanetStubbs, who previously held a similar roleat Crewe Golf Club. The suite is ideal forsocial functions but also for businessevents - an area Janet hopes to expand.

For more information on corporateparking call Michael Chatwin on 01270 621771 [email protected]

For business events, call Janet on 01270 621771 or [email protected]

Cllr Edith Williams, Life Vice-PresidentNeville Clarke and Cllr Arthur Moran

at Weaver Stadium

Janet Stubbs

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Putting the pieces into place . . .

01782 713700

01270 62382101270 62382101270 623821

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Merger heralds new eraTWO leading names in the field ofchartered accountancy are joiningforces to create one of the biggestindependent firms in the NorthWest.

Phil Taylor of Cooper Taylor inNantwich and Phil Wood ofBarringtons in Newcastleannounced the merger of theircompanies at the South CheshireChamber Business Awards.

Together they have notched upmore than 70 years of dealingwith businesses of all sizes, fromsole trader to limited companyand have a vast client base acrossCheshire , Staffordshire andShropshire .

Cooper Taylor Principal, PhilTaylor, an accountant inNantwich for more than 40 years,said: “In these days of whiteknights, hostile take-overs andforced acquisitions, we aredelighted to announce a veryagreeable merger – one in whicheveryone wins and our clientsbenefit most of all.”

Mr Taylor, who will remain at the helm in Nantwich, added: “Thisamalgamation will give clients the opportunity to tap into a broaderrange of services and expertise.

“Barringtons is recognised as one of the foremost providers of highquality, proactive and responsive professional business advisoryservices which very much echoes the Cooper Taylor philosophy basedon excellent client relationships and trust over many years.”

Barringtons, which also has offices in Market Drayton and Newport inShropshire , have experts in VAT and customs duties, taxinvestigations, litigation support and through their associatedcompany BCR, insolvency and corporate recovery. Its 45-strong teamalso advises on business growth and HR issues.

Cooper Taylor has developed a vast client base offering personal andcorporate tax advice, financial and management accounts, cash flowand business plans and personal self assessment returns.

Barringtons managing director, Phil Wood, said: “For quite some timenow we have been looking to establish a presence in South Cheshirewhich, whilst forming part of a natural economic area with NorthStaffordshire, suffers from the psychological barrier created by theM6 and the financial barrier created by the North West/WestMidlands economic regional strategies of previous governments. Withthe abolition of those strategies we feel that this is an opportune timeto develop much closer links within what is, after all, one large travelto work area.

“This merger is not only a geographical joining of the two firms, but agreat opportunity for the existing clients of Cooper Taylor to benefitfrom a much wider range of services. We know many of them havebeen on the firm’s books for decades and have built up long-standingrelationships and we can promise it will be no change there.

“Together we can offer the services of a team of 55 friendly specialistscovering the legal, financial and fiscal aspects of running a business.It is an exciting move for both of us and we look forward to going into2011 as part of a larger, new-look firm.”

Front: Barringtons managing director,Phil Wood (left) and Cooper Taylorprincipal, Philip Taylor, with Andy

Bridge (Barringtons Technical Director)Graeme Parsons (Cooper Taylor senior

manager) Colin Woodward (BarringtonsVAT and duties) and Lisa Dyas(Barringtons senior manager)

at the Cooper Taylor base in BarkerStreet, Nantwich

For more information contact Barringtons in Newcastle on 01782 381756 or Nantwich on 01270 623821

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SOUTH CHESHIRE COLLEGE

AIR PRODUCTS

Top college joins London’s2012 Get Set network

Products to aid a good night’s sleep

Everyone benefits from a good night’s sleep but for some people whosuffer with sleeping disorders, getting off to sleep at night is just thestart of their problems.

People with a condition known as sleep apnoea suffer with brokensleep, which means it is not unusual for them to wake up more tiredthan when they went to bed, which can have substantialrepercussions on their health.

Typically, their doctor prescribes them with Continuous PositiveAirway Pressure (CPAP) equipment. However, it can be difficult forpatients to get used to their treatment and Air Products’ Homecareservices are there to help - providing expert advice and support in thecomfort of their own home, or wherever the patient requires.

Air Products is also in the process of rolling out a brand new servicefor doctors and clinicians. The service provides detailed informationon patients’ equipment usage, therapy history and interventions viaa clear, easy-to-use interface.

It is designed to help doctors monitor patients’ progress from theirdesktop; deliver alerts on potential risk factors and trends; andcreate detailed, tailored reports.

Air Products Homecare services arecurrently available throughout Europeand parts of South America and Asia.

Shawn Lainchbury, European marketingmanager at Air Products, said: “AirProducts is one of Europe’s leadingproviders of homecare services for peoplewith sleeping and other respiratorydisorders. Providing patients withassistance away from hospital is a vitalpart of their care, helping to optimise theeffectiveness of their treatment andimprove their quality of life.

“We take the utmost care to ensure thededicated services we provide to doctorsand their patients meet the higheststandards.”

For more information on Air Products call 01270 614000

Students and lecturers at

South Cheshire College are

celebrating after being

officially welcomed into

London 2012’s Get Set

network.

The network recognises the

college’s commitment to the

Olympic and Paralympic

values which has encouraged

students from different

courses to get involved in a

series of different Olympic-

themed projects.

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and

Paralympic Games (LOCOG) awarded the college a plaque and

certificate to acknowledge its involvement in the London 2012

education programme.

It now joins schools and colleges across the UK as members of a

special London 2012 community, the Get Set network, and will

receive access to exclusive competitions and 2012 Games related

opportunities in the run up to the event.

Sports lecturer Chris Hollinshead: “Our students are excellent

examples of how London 2012 is helping to spark young people’s

imagination and inspiring them to get involved and make a

difference.”

Earlier this year, the college teamed up with various partners to stage

an ‘Inspire to Aim Higher’ event offering primary school classmates

the chance to try out different sports.

Sports Lecturer Chris Hollinshead, backcentre, shows off the new Get Set plaque

with college sports students

Students are driving forcebehind Bentley display

Graphics and Digital Media

students at South Cheshire

College have received rip-roaring

praise after helping to create the

latest themed display for the

Bentley Drivers Club.

The Club celebrates the heritage

and history of motor vehicles

produced over the decades by

Bentley Motors Ltd and has

members across the globe.

Since its move to a new

clubhouse in Banbury in 2006, it

has staged annual themed

displays relating to different

aspects of the Bentley story and

students working towards a

Foundation Degree in Graphics and Digital Media once again

helped out with setting up the exhibition.

It traced Bentley history using photographs and newspaper reports,

display boards telling the story, artwork and actual motor cars of

historical significance.

It also focused on the highly successful "Bentley Mark VI" vehicle,

which was produced from 1946 to 1952 and ensured the recovery of

the company in the immediate post war years.

For more information about courses at South CheshireCollege, call 01270 654654 or visit www.s-cheshire.ac.uk

Adam Winkler and James Barnesput the finishing touches to theBentley Drivers Club exhibition

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BENTLEYFlying Spur is a top-seller in new markets

The Continental FlyingSpur and its sportingstablemate the 200mphFlying Spur Speed are themost successful four-doorGrand Tourers in

Bentley’s history and among the best-selling ultra-luxury saloons in theworld. Since its launch, the Flying Spur has achieved extraordinarysales success across the globe in traditional markets like the USA, theMiddle East and UK as well as emerging luxury markets such as Chinaand Russia.

The Flying Spur has attracted a new generation of luxury car buyers tothe Bentley marque and has played a pivotal role in the company’srevitalisation. Now the luxurious style of the Flying Spur is even morecompelling with the introduction of a range of dramatic Series 51designs, first seen on the Continental GT and GTC.

Dirk van Braeckel, Bentley’s director of design, comments: “The Series51 design concept is inspired by the spirit of the inaugural Bentleystyling department in Crewe established by the gifted John Blatchley,who shaped the original and iconic 1950s Bentley Continentals. Today,it provides for a virtually bespoke ordering service due to the thousandsof configurations available through Bentley’s expansive colour and trimcatalogue.”

The latest Continental Flying Spur and Supersports models also benefitfrom telephone and music player connectivity, digital television (whereavailable) and DVD movie playback. Music can be played andcontrolled directly from an iPod as well as from a six-disc CD changer,SD card reader or directly from the car’s hard-disc drive, which canstore up to 15GB of music.

The new 2012 model year Continental Flying Spur, Flying Spur Speedand their Series 51 design options, together with the 2012 Supersportscoupe and convertible models go on sale from March 2011.

For more information contact Bentley Motors on 01270 255155

Bentley Continental FlyingSpur Series 51

The new ‘infotainment’ system in a Series 51

WULVERNWulvern is proud that Santa

Dash will ‘bear’ its nameLocal affordable housingprovider Wulvern’s residentbear has been chosen as theofficial mascot for the NantwichSanta Dash.

The furry creature is sure toraise a smile at this year’scharity run to be held inNantwich Town Square onSunday, December 19. Up to750 runners wearing Santacostumes are set to descend onthe town – running either 2.5Kor 5K to raise money for localcharity Railway Children.

Wulvern Bear will also be thereto take part in the funproceedings – wearing his Father Christmas outfit - andencouraging families to get into shape in time for Christmas.

As proud supporters of the family fitness event, Ceris Jones,Marketing and Partnerships Business Partner, for Wulvern said:“It’s rewarding to know that, through our support for RailwayChildren, we’re able to make a lasting difference to the lives ofhundreds of children and young people.”

To enter the Santa Dash visitwww.cheshiresantadash.com or call 01270 757596

Wulvern Bear in his new SantaDash running outfit – with Ceris

Jones, Marketing and PartnershipsBusiness Partner for Wulvern, andTerina Keene, Chief Executive of

Railway Children

Wulvern gets NeighbourhoodPolicing Team on the road

The Neighbourhood Policing Team in Crewe has raised its profile

even further thanks to the donation of a brand new car by Wulvern.

The car, a Nissan Note, has been marked with the Team’s details to

provide even greater police visibility and reassurance to the

residents of Crewe.

Wulvern already funds two

of the PCSOs who have

made a real impact on

under age drinking, graffiti

and anti social behaviour

in general.

Inspector Andy Smith from

the Crewe Neighbourhood

Policing Team said: “The

car will make a huge

difference to the Team and

the work they do. It will

allow them to focus even

more on reducing crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour across

the borough by having increased access around the town, and

particularly in the West End.”

For more information on Wulvern call 01270 506200 or visit www.wulvern.org.uk

Ceris Jones, Wulvern’s Marketing andPartnerships Business Partner with InspectorAndy Smith and Sergeant Christian Watkins

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NATWEST

MMU

Interest rates - still a safe bet

Bobby Charlton opens Sport Science centre

I remember working at a factory inDukinfield during the summer holidayswhilst a student and when it was closed fortwo weeks during ‘Wakes Weeks’, six of usstayed on to undertake maintenance work.

On the first Friday of the holiday we wereall paid, albeit the permanent people weresurprised and disappointed that they hadseen tax deducted at emergency codelevels.

As people who know me will appreciatethis was some time ago and the basic wagewas a princely £17 per week. Oneparticular colleague had been hit severely,so that his take home pay was just £11.

He had promised to take his wife and threechildren to Blackpool the following weekbut realised that with £11 he could notcover the cost of accommodation andspending money.

His planned solution lay in the racingpages of The Sun. I remember it vividly ashe plumped for Caiuis ridden by Lester

Piggot at Even money. His £10 stakewould return him £20 and cover theholiday to Blackpool. Needless to say thehorse came second and the take homepay was thereby down to £1.

Nowadays with credit interest ratesbeing low there may be the temptation tofollow a similar path in enhancing yourreturns.

However it may be time to look aroundand see what is actually available whereNat West offers an Instant AccessReserve Account at a very competitive1.25%. Additionally Fixed Rate Bonds upto 24 months are available at up to 3%.

As for my colleague with the moreinnovative solution to enhancing hiswealth, I would like to say that on theway home he went into the bookmakersagain, saw a horse called Blackpool Boyin the last race at 20/1 and put his lastpound on it and saw it romp home by 10lengths. Unfortunately ………

Richard Weilding

SIR Bobby Charlton (pictured)officially opened a £10million sportscience centre in Crewe on Friday,November 19.

The Manchester United legend said he hopes the landmark facility at MMU Cheshire will give students andlocals the impetus to achieve sportingsuccess.

The opening marks the final phase of a£50million plan to transform Creweinto a major university town.

Sport and Exercise Science is the lastuniversity department to transfer fromAlsager to Crewe, where 3,800students now share a campus offeringdegrees and higher degrees in the Arts,humanities, business and managementand teacher training.

Facilities for students and the public atthe campus include two 4-court sportshalls, a 50 station fitness gym and a 3Gartificial turf pitch.

World-class research will also take place in the purpose-builtbuilding which boasts a £1millionaltitude-training chamber, genetics

laboratories and a sports injuriesclinic. "This is going to be fantastic forstudents and the community inCrewe," said Sir Bobby.

MMU is also in partnership withCheshire East to host pre-Olympics2012 training camps.

MMU Cheshire Dean, Dennis Dunn,said: "We now have a busy, vibrantcampus with superb facilities andgrowing links with Crewe and itspeople. It is important for the townthat higher education is healthy andsuccessful here, and we hope peoplewill get involved with us, whetherthrough sports and arts or throughlearning."

The University hosted a mini'Olympics' in the afternoon, withhundreds of pupils from 10 localschools competing in a variety ofsports. Judges included Paralympiccycling champions Sarah Storey OBEand Barney Storey MBE.

For more information on MMU courses call 0161 247 5767 or visitwww.cheshire.mmu.ac.uk

If you want to chat more give our team a call at our

Nantwich-based CommercialOffice on 01270 629980

Sir Bobby Charlton

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MORNFLAKERoyal honour for

Mornflake MD

SG World has just launched Aud-IT, a simple to use piece of softwarefor managing assets within organisations. Aud-IT can manage theinventory of all assets on site from the tangible (PC’s kettles etc) tothe intangible (software licenses).

By tagging items, auditing can be quickly carried out using a mobiledevices such as an iPhone or iPod Touch. A quick scan of the assetand location updtes the record to highlight a full register of where allitems are and what might have moved or be missing.

Aud-IT allows you to:

• Quickly carry out audits of all fixed and removable assets on the premises

• Discover, track and manage full PC specifications, installed software and notifies of changes to PC hardware and software

• Saves money and enable organisations to create accurate procurement plans and budget forecasts to optimise future funding

• Manage depreciation

The entire Aud-IT suit is also hostedonline so there is nothing to install onyour IT network.

The most powerful benefit is theability of Aud-IT to search your ITnetwork for all PC specifications andthe installed software. This helpsensure you have all the necessarylicences and possibly save money ifsome licenses aren’t being used.

Aud-IT is just part of a new range ofsoftware launched by SG World underthe IT Intuitive Technology brand.The IT range provides solutions forbusinesses to make health and safety,compliance and security processessimpler and more robust.

To find out more visit www.sgworld.com

Mornflake managing directorJohn Lea (pictured) has beenselected as the next HighSheriff of Cheshire.

The company, which becameChamber Patrons earlier thisyear, employs more than 300people at Mornflake and morethan 150 across HJ Lea Oakesbases in Aston, Sandbach andCongleton.

Mr Lea, who runs the familybusiness with his sons Edwardand James, will take his placein history next spring as thecounty’s latest incumbent ofthe oldest secular office inBritain.

The Royal post, which dates back to Saxon times, will place himamong the country’s top dignitaries and among his duties will beattending at Royal visits to the county.

He said: “It is an absolute honour and one which I am very muchlooking forward to.”

Mr Lea’s role is unpaid and will involve helping to raise funds forCrimebeat and DebtCred – an organisation helping to educateyoung people on financial matters in the hope they will stay free of debt.

One fundraising event is already in the pipeline – a charity ball atDorfold Park on Friday, July 29.

SG WORLDDo you know who has what, where & when?

Mornflake Oats Award for Innovation

Mornflake is delighted to be one of the main sponsors of the HighSheriff’s Award for Enterprise 2010, first introduced in 2006 torecognise outstanding achievement by enterprises in Cheshire,Halton and Warrington.

The Mornflake Oats Award for Innovation carries prize money of£3,000 and will be awarded to the organisation whichdemonstrates a proven ability to create, nurture and develop newproducts or services. Qualifiers for this award are required todemonstrate how they have differentiated themselves from othersin their industry. Achievements can include, but are not limitedto, the invention, design, production, performance, marketing anddistribution of their product or service.

Other prizes include an MBA at the University of Chester worth£10,000 (part-time delivery, two evenings a week) which will beawarded to the organisation which has achieved outstandingcommercial success and sustainable growth and a £3,000 Awardfor Corporate Social Responsibility.

Entrants must have an annual turnover of at least £500,000,employ between 5 and 250 members of staff; demonstrateoutstanding performance and be able to explain their strategy toensure that their company will continue to expand and flourish inthe future.

Further information and details of how to apply can be obtained from

www.chester.ac.uk/highsheriff-enterprise. Good luck!

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Chamber member Greg Dalyhas been honoured for hisbridal photography at theprestigious Master PhotographyAwards.

This year they included a new category - the MPA Yervant Bridal Award 2010which was won by Greg, chief photographer atNantwich-based Ashford DalyPhotography.

Yervant Zanazanian is one ofthe biggest global names inwedding photography and flewover especially from Australiato announce the winner fromthe many thousands whoentered.

Ashford Daly director, MaryAshford, said: “We entered toshow our customers ourdedication to our professionand to demonstrate how we are continually breakingboundaries with our creativity.”

Greg’s prize included coaching with the Grand Master. He said: “I am absolutely over the moon to have received this amazingaward and prize from one of my present day photographic heroes -I am greatly looking forward to my week with Yervant in Europe next year.”

For more information on Ashford Daly Photography visit www.ashforddalyphotography.com or call 01270 618978

Top award forlocal lensman

Continued growth has led to County Insurance moving to newpremises on Crewe Business Park.

The company, which also has offices in Nantwich, Congletonand Southport, had seven staff when it was founded it 2003 –now there are more than 55 and plans to double that over thenext two years.

MD Dave Clapp, said: “Our customers have insurancepremiums of over £15million per annum and business growthhas been over 30% every year for the last seven years. Whilstcurrent trading conditions remain challenging, a combinationof competitive prices, excellent customer service and proactivemarketing means that County Insurance has been able toemploy further local talent to cope with increased demand.”

Personal and business callers are welcome to drop in at thenew office on Electra Way.

For more information call County Insurance on 01270 506980

Staff and business swellsfor County Insurance

NEW BASE: The insureTAXI team outside the new CountyInsurance offices on Crewe Business Park

IN THE FRAME: Jeremy Price,(sponsor and UK director,

GraphiStudio Italy), Greg Daly(winner), Yervant Zanazanian

(Multiple Grand MasterPhotographer) and comedian Tom

O’Connor, compere on the night

Teachers went back to theclassroom to learn about the LoveFood, Hate Waste campaign at anevent at Crewe Alexandra FootballClub.

Hosted by Let’s Get Cooking - anational network of cooking clubsfor children, families and theircommunities – teachers andcooking-club supervisors got togrips with Cheshire East Council’saward-winning campaign in theform of a lesson on food waste andalso a fun activity which involvedmaking a smoothie.

The event was designed to helpteachers to encourage children toget more involved with cooking andeducate them on food waste.

Chamber members Cheshire Easthopes to take the Love Food, HateWaste message into classrooms andeducate children on the best waysto store food, make it last longerand to show what can be done with fruit that has gone a little squishy.

Sainsbury’s in Nantwich donated all the food the council used todeliver their popular workshop and it would like to thank them fortheir support.

Teachers get a lesson infood waste fromCheshire East

Aideen Smith and Lyn Cowley ofUnderwood West Primary school,Crewe with Ralph Kemp, WasteStrategy Manager with Cheshire

East Council

Cheshire and Warrington’s sub-region is celebrating a majoreconomic boost in the form of Government backing for its bid for aLocal Enterprise Partnership.

The bid is one of 24 given the green light by the Department forBusiness Innovation and Skills to pioneer a landmark partnershipproject that brings the public and private sectors together to createsustainable economic growth.

Cheshire East Council leader Wesley Fitzgerald welcomed theannouncement saying: "I am delighted with the Government’sdecision. This shows a clear confidence in Cheshire andWarrington to be at the forefront of economic recovery in the UK.

“We submitted a solid, business-led proposal; focusing on jobcreation, affordable homes and economic growth. Our strength liesin our well-established and recognised ability to work with localbusiness – providing them with the support and guidance throughthe current financial climate. I look forward to working with ourpartners and the Government to develop future plans over thecoming weeks and months.”

Local Enterprise Partnerships – strategic economic partnershipsbetween private, public and voluntary sectors - are theGovernment's suggested replacement for Regional DevelopmentAgencies.

Major boost forCheshire andWarrington sub-region

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s South Cheshire ChamberBusiness Awards 2010

With a renewed sense of optimism nowbeing felt by local companies, the SouthCheshire Chamber Business Awards2010 proved a lively night - and a sell-outat Crewe Hall.

More than 200 guests gathered in theEvents Centre for the unveiling of thebusiness stars whose enterprise andvision make them the pride of the area.

Staged in association with the Chronicle,it was the 14th annual awards to behosted by the Chamber and once again anight of high drama made it the highlightof the year for the local businesscommunity.

Welcoming guests, Chamber chairman,Steven Williams, said: “A lot hashappened since last year’s awards - wenow have a new coalition governmentand have hopefully come through theworst of the economic downturn. It's stilltough out there but I firmly believe thatthe business community in SouthCheshire has coped remarkably well and

tonight is evidence of the buoyancy thatexists within our local businesscommunity.”

A high standard of entries was receivedin all categories - but Christmas came forone young man who has become afamiliar name at the helm of new localradio station, RedShift, GavinHammond, 29, a doctor of nuclearphysics, who won Young Business Personof the Year.

After winning a string of awards for hisrestaurant, Ben Rafferty, of ResidenceBar and Restaurant in Nantwich,notched up another - Best SmallBusiness.

Best Start Up Business went to RopeGreen Farm Day Nursery, founded bymum-of-four Vicky Dodd on her familyfarm, while Employee of the Year went toDebbie Mercandelli who has notched up13 years as hospitality manager atRichmond Village.

Thrilled bosses of the Up and UnderGroup of Crewe collected the Employerof the Year award while the ILX Group inNantwich, which provides computer-based training, carried off Exporter of the Year.

It was a night of honour for luxury hotels- with Rookery Hall scooping theTourism Award and Crewe Hall, BestLarge Business.

Bentley Motors carried off a SpecialAward for its handling of the recession.Redundancies had been feared but itpulled through after putting specialmeasures in place and is now enjoying asurge in sales of its new models at homeand abroad.

For a full round up of winners andentrants see pages 16-20.

Words By Jan Roberts • Pictures: By Ashford Daly Photography

Guests get seated for the evening - table centrepieces by Expo Events

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South Cheshire Chamber Business Award

Tables centrepieces weresupplied by Expo Events

Guests enjoychampagne on arrival atthe sell-out event

A good turn-out by the team from ESTC in Nantwich

Guests from CTC Physiotherapy

Cheshire East Council's head of regeneration, CarolineSimpson, congratulates Ian Pollock, Crewe Hall managing

director on the hotel becoming Best Large Business of the Year

South Cheshire Chamber chief executive, John Dunning,presents flowers to radio personalities Verity Hilton andSam Plank, who compered the evening

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In 2010, Bentley Motors hascontinued its support of theawards looking for youngcandidates who have excelled intheir field.

The company currently employsaround 51 young apprenticesacross a range of disciplines –from manufacturing, engineeringand design to sales & marketingand even tourism. Not only dothese high calibre apprenticesreceive on the job training, vitalto building up necessary skillsets, they also undertake a dayrelease programme to localcolleges to complete relevantacademic qualifications such asNVQs and BTECs.

Christine Gaskell, Member of theBoard for Personnel andApprenticeship Ambassador,said: “We hope to be able tohonour the best young managersand entrepreneurs from theregion and inspire others tobusinesses excellence. SouthCheshire has many advantages asa business location and we areproud that we can recognisesome of the people who make theregion’s businesses successful.”

Young BusinessPerson of the YearSponsored by Bentley Motors

Councillor Jamie Macrae,Portfolio Holder for Prosperity,said: “Cheshire East Council’sRecession Task Group is proudto sponsor this category. Werecognise the importance ofpromoting and supporting localbusiness and enterprise,particularly in the currenteconomic climate.

“The contribution of new andpioneering businesses to thewealth and diversity of tradeacross Cheshire is invaluable. Itis these success stories thatattract and encourage existingbusinesses to keep striving forsuccess.”

Best Start-UpBusiness of the YearSponsored by Cheshire East Council

Barringtons - Chartered Accountantsfor people with better things to do.The firm provides clients large andsmall with a full range of professionalservices to maximise profit, minimisetax and plan for future success andsuccession.

Whether it be business start up,planning for expansion, managementreporting, compliance services, backoffice outsourcing or tax and VATinvestigations, it has specialistsavailable to help. The firm believes in and is very keento promote and support smallbusiness which will form the bedrockof the economic recovery.

Best Small Businessof the YearSponsored by Barringtons Chartered Accountants

Training provider, Total People, isorganised into 23 separateoccupational areas, providingflexible training programmes andapprenticeships, designed to meetthe needs of both the individualand the employer.

Total People was proud tosponsor the Employee of the YearAward as we know that effectivetraining for employees can vastlyimprove a businesses chance ofsuccess; it can help buildcompetitive advantage and equipemployees with the skills thatbusiness needs. Successfulorganisations exist throughdeveloping successful people!

The South Cheshire Chamber offers businesses an International TradeAdvice Service and Export Documentation Service through which itissues European Certificates of Origin and EUR-1 MovementCertificates.

The Chamber was proud tosponsor Exporter of the Year.The quality of entrants wasparticularly high this year andwe congratulate all for entering.

Exporter of the YearSponsored by South Cheshire ChamberInternational Trade

WINNER:The ILX Group

International Trade

WINNER:Residence

Restaurant and BarWINNER:

Dr Gavin Hammond, ofRedShift Media Services

“Our radio station hasbeen up and running forless than three months. On behalf of everyone atRedshift winning was

such an honour”Dr Gavin Hammond,

Redshift Media Services

WINNER:Vicky Dodd of Rope Green

Farm Day Nursery

“I am so happy anddelighted to win an awardfor what I love doing most”

Vicky Dodd, Rope GreenFarm Day Nursery

“We are a young, dynamic and entrepreneurial team focused onquality. To win is credit to the whole team”Ben Rafferty, Residence Restaurant and Bar

WINNER:Debbie Mercandelli of

Richmond VillageNantwich

“I really didn’t think I stood a chance so to win was a realhonour and makes me feel so proud for the company I work for”

Debbie Mercandelli, Richmond Village

Employee of the YearSponsored by Total People

“Within the last year we have opened a satellite office in Australiaand have representatives in the Middle East and America but we aredelighted to be recognised at home” – Cara Edgington, ILX Group

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The Department of Business and Management Studies at MMUCheshire was pleased to sponsor the Employer of the Year award.

The department fully understands that meeting the challenges of globalchange, the demands of a competitive economy and being at theforefront of innovation requires an employer to support and develop itsstaff within their academic, practical and personal lives.

The benefits of this will be happy and motivated staff, who identify withthe values and mission of the organisation producing a competitive andhigh quality service that benefits customers, staff and investors.

Employer of the YearSponsored by the Department of Business &Management Studies, MMU Cheshire

WINNER:The Up and Under Group

Virgin Trains has been runningtrain services to and from theregion for many years now.

Ultimately though, it’s not aboutthe train, or even the journey, it’sabout the people. Why they traveland how they travel. That’s whythe South Cheshire region and thepeople are an important part ofwhat we do. We were proud to be asponsor of the South CheshireChamber Business Awards and arepassionate about being a part ofthe local business community andsupporting the growth of theregion.

Visit Chester and Cheshire, the tourism managementorganisation for Cheshire andWarrington, were joint sponsors.Chief executive, Chris Brown,said: “We were particularlypleased to be asked to sponsor theTourism Award, which recognisesbusinesses that can demonstratethat they engage and work withother tourism businesses andinitiatives to grow, not only theirown business but to strengthenthe wider visitor economy of SouthCheshire.”

Tourism AwardSponsored by Virgin Trains and Visit Chester and Cheshire

WINNER:Rookery Hall

and Spa

NatWest Commercial retainsa strong local commitment toSouth Cheshire with a team ofexperienced staff based inNantwich Town Centrededicated to providingrelationship banking tomedium and large businessesin the area.

Under Local Director GaultPicken, the Managerial Teamof Richard Weilding, NigelWhitfield and Tracey Barcroftare all local people with manyyears banking experiencebetween them. Despiteturbulent economic times itremains very much open forbusiness and as keen as everto support local projects.

NatWest remains the onlymajor bank with suchpresence in South Cheshireand looks forward tocontinuing its strong supportfor local businesses not onlythrough our day to daydealings but also by way ofsponsorship and support tothe Chamber.

Best Large Businessof the YearSponsored by NatWest Commercial

WINNER:Crewe Hall

Special AwardRecognised by South Cheshire Chamber

For the first time, the Chamberdecided to make a Special Awardin recognition of the efforts of oneof our major local businesses -Bentley Motors.

The award recognises theresponsible way in which Bentleyhandled itself through the recentrecession. Bentley introduced arefreshing new approach todealing with the problems ofrecession and one for which SouthCheshire should be very grateful. Itkept production going andmaintained employment levels, all of which gave a tremendousboost of confidence to the wholearea and to the community ingeneral, particularly its suppliers,employees and local businesses.

We know that if Bentley had takenthe traditional route of dealingwith the recession, theimplications for the local economy in South Cheshire would havebeen quite disastrous - confidence levels would have dropped andthere would have been a negative knock on effect to the businesscommunity as a whole.

The company was well aware of this and thankfully took the rightdecisive action.

WINNER:Bentley Motors

“The award reflects all the effort we have put in over the years and makes us

very proud indeed” Andy Fewtrell, The Up

and Under Group

“Rookery Hall Hotel wasdelighted to be recognised

and rewarded in the Tourismcategory. We constantly investin our people and our product,ensuring that South Cheshire

is a key destination and that Rookery Hall is a venuethat visitors want to return

to again and again” Mairi Tutt, Rookery Hall

“We know we were up against tough competition so to win this prestigious award was a true honour and a testament

to the hard work, dedication and professionalism of the whole team” Ian Pollock, Crewe Hall

“This award was a very big surprise but I receive it on behalfof everyone that has had to make sacrifices. I know it has been

extremely hard”- Mike Hawes, Bentley Motors

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sYoung Business Person of the Year• Gareth Williams of Construction Linx Ltd

• Dr Gavin Hammond of Redshift Media Services Ltd

• Mike Lawson of trCreative Ltd WINNER: Dr Gavin Hammond of Redshift Media Services Ltd

Best Start-Up Business of the Year• Combermere Abbey - The Glasshouse& Walled Garden Pavilion

• Firenze Restaurant & Bar• Redshift Media Services Ltd• Rope Green Farm Day Nursery• William B. Rose & Associates WINNER: Rope Green Farm Day Nursery

Best Small Business of the Year• ABP Motorsport Ltd• Aeroparts International Ltd • Atlas Business Group of Companies plc

• Clarke Design • Concorde Trophies• CTC Physiotherapy Ltd

• ESTC Group (Events, Stewarding, Training & Consultancy)

• Food For Thought Bakery Ltd• Headquarters of Nantwich • Imagination DVDI Ltd• Red Fred Limited • Residence Restaurant and Bar• The College Shop WINNER: Residence Restaurantand Bar

Employee of the Year• David Martin of AeropartsInternational Limited

• Michael Clowes of Headquarters of Nantwich Ltd

• Debbie Mercandelli of RichmondVillage - Nantwich

• Paudie O’Shea of WulvernHousing/MMU Cheshire

WINNER: Debbie Mercandelli ofRichmond Village - Nantwich

Employer of the Year• ESTC Group (Events, Stewarding,Training & Consultancy)

• Headquarters of Nantwich Ltd• Richmond Village - Nantwich• The Up and Under GroupWINNER: The Up and Under Group

Exporter of the Year• ESTC Group (Events, Stewarding,Training & Consultancy)

• Hydraulics Online Ltd• Imagination DVDI Limited• ILX Group Plc• Rowlinson Packaging LtdWINNER: ILX Group Plc

Tourism Award• Alvaston Hall Hotel• Firenze Italian Restaurant and Bar• Rookery Hall Hotel and SpaWINNER: Rookery Hall Hotel and Spa

Best Large Business of the Year• Alpha Omega Securities Ltd• BEB Property Services Ltd• CLS Care Services Ltd• Crewe Hall Hotel Q Hotels• Richmond Village• Wulvern Housing Ltd WINNER: Crewe Hall

Business Awards - Short-listed Entrants of 2010

For a full round-upof the event

see pages 16-19

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MP helps mark ‘phenomenal year’ for ESTCESTC Group is ending the year on a high-note after celebrating its 5th anniversaryand a top class report from Ofstedinspectors.

As an independent learning provider, theNantwich company faced a rigorousassessment by the Government inspectorsbut passed with flying colours, achieving aGrade 2 - an amazing achievement for sucha young company.

Inspectors looked at all aspects of theevents stewarding, training and consultancycompany’s work with NVQ learners inleisure, travel and tourism.

Its overall effectiveness, quality ofprovision, leadership and managementwere all rated as ‘good’ as were its outcomes for learners - with more than 90%completing their qualification in theplanned time and achieving excellentresults.

The report said: “ESTC has also developedvery effective relationships with employers.The company has earned a very high level ofrespect from the football clubs and otheremployers.”

ESTC currently has 209 learners working towards either NVQs orApprenticeships. The Skills Funding Agency funds the training givinglocal employers the opportunity to enhance the skills of their staff atno extra cost to their business.

It also delivers courses which cover a varietyof topics some of which include first aid,customer service, business administrationand playwork.

Office manager, Michelle Gauntlett, said:“This year has been a phenomenal one for usnot only in attracting new contracts fromfootball clubs overseas, but also indeveloping the training side of our business.

"To achieve such an excellent Ofsted reportfirst time round is quite a feat and in 2011we hope to introduce many more localcompanies to the benefits of government-funded training. With funding available, itneedn’t cost them a penny but offers somuch to their business.”

Edward Timpson MP marked ESTC’s 5thbirthday with a visit. He paid tribute to thegrowth of ESTC which is now recognisedworldwide for its crowd management andstewarding services at major sportingevents.

Mr Timpson said: “ESTC’s apprenticeshipscheme is bringing real opportunities foryoung local people looking to start theirworking life with sound training andsupport. It’s great to see such

entrepreneurialship right on our doorstep."

For more information on training opportunities delivered through ESTC, call 01270 626663 or email [email protected]

VIP VISITOR: Edward Timpson meets ESTC directorsEileen Williams and Cliff Simpson and teenagers BenDouglas, Parys Haughton and Yonathon Du Plessis,

apprentices in business and administration.

FIRST RATE: ESTC’s Michelle Gauntlett and LesleyClarke celebrate a cracking Ofsted report

Top gear investment at Temples

Letting agents Temples, which has branches in Nantwich, Crewe,Chester and Northwich, have marked their 10th year in business bytaking to the road in a fleet of four brand new Ford Fiestas speciallykitted out in their new distinctive blue and white corporatebranding.

The family firm, with Roy Kitchen and son Steve in Nantwich,daughter Natalie and son-in-law Gary Williams in Northwich, andbusiness partner Alex Kemp in Crewe, is also celebrating 2010 as arecord year in business levels across all four branches.

Roy said: “With mortgages now at a ten year low, house salenumbers in decline and prices set for a double dip in 2011, demandfrom tenants remains strong, increasingly from youngprofessionals who cannot afford to buy and from those waiting topurchase when the sales market ‘bottoms-out’.

“This is coupled with a lack of available properties, mainly due tothe lower investor activity constrained by restrictions on buy to letmortgage funding and those also ‘waiting for the right time to buy’.

“As a result, rents are increasing and void periods are decreasing toprovide improving returns for landlords; this is bringing ‘forcedlandlords’ into the sector – those who cannot sell but must vacatetheir homes. It is all leading to a very interesting time for theresidential lettings sector in 2011.

“We are therefore looking forward to an exciting and challengingyear ahead. We are increasing our investment in staffing, businessdevelopment, growth and diversification, determined to remainahead of our competition through a hands-on, professional andcaring approach in all dealings with our landlords and tenants.”

The four cars, which represent an investment of more than£50,000, hit the road in November.

For more information on Temples call the Nantwich office on01270 627272.

For more information on Temples call the Nantwich office on 01270 627272

EYE-CATCHING: Alex Kemp, director at Temples in Crewe with Steve Kitchen, lettings manager at Temples in Nantwich,

with one of the new branded cars

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sIt was a quick turn around when commercial solicitor Tebbitts &Co received instructions to recover a debt of £987. Less than aweek later the client received £1,085 in cash from the debtor.

But how does a creditor recover more than is owed by thedebtor? Well, in this case Tebbitts & Co's letter included arequest for interest of 8.5% under the Late Payment ofCommercial Debt (Interest) Act 1998 and £40 compensationunder the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Regulations 2002.

As soon as an invoice becomes outstanding the Late PaymentLegislation allows a claim for interest of 8% over and above theBank of England base rate on business to business debts.

The 1998 Act makes the right to charge this level of interest forlate payment an implied term in a contract, unless there areother substantial remedies already dealing with late payment inthe contract.

Entitlements to fixed compensation for

late payments are as follows:

• Up to £999.99 - £40

• £1,000 to £9,999.00 - £70

• £10,000 or more - £100

Max Tebbitts (pictured) said: “If debtorsknow that you are willing to add theseextra charges to late payments they areless likely to over extend their use ofyour credit facilities.”

For more information call Max Tebbitts on 01270 211567

Debt recovery news Jim nails top builderaward

A father-of-two has beennamed the region’s topbuilder after hammering thecompetition in the prestigiousMaster Builder of the Yearawards.

Jim Hadfield (pictured) washonoured after transforminga tired-looking 1960s housein Brooklands Drive,Goostrey into a stunningdetached home blendingcontemporary design featureswith energy-saving solartechnology.

The six months project has earned Mr Hadfield, who runs A JField Developments Ltd in Woore with his wife Ailis, the regionaltitle of Master Builder of the Year in the Large Renovation Projectcategory.

He now goes through to the national finals of the FMBcompetition to be staged at the Park Plaza Westminster BridgeLondon Hotel in March where Phil Spencer of Channel 4’s‘Location, Location, Location’ will present the overall winnersawards.

Mr Hadfield said: “We tend to concentrate on doing two majorprojects a year, so we can offer the client a quality job and be therehands-on from beginning to end. It may not always be thecheapest quote, but it will certainly be a top rate result.”

For more information on A J Field Developments Ltd call 01630 647927

Jim Hadfield

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Working with specialistadvisors can mean the

difference betweenclinching the deal or not

A D V E R T O R I A L

In a fast moving, competitive business environment, thesupport of informed finance professionals is not only desirable,it’s invaluable. Howard Worth have joined the CorporateFinance Network, a national network of accountancy firmscommitted to providing clients with excellence in corporatefinance services. Not all accountants have this expertise, and itis vital that you secure the right advisors.

The Howard Worth Corporate Finance team can advise in arange of situations; buying a company, due diligenceinvestigations, exit planning, selling a company, fundraisingand business planning. We offer a service that responds to yourneeds, but also anticipating the best opportunities for success.We can help your business move forward.

You may be planning for organic growth or acquisition,developing new products and services or simply want toresearch better solutions for managing money. Every businesshas different financial priorities. Our strength is in tailoringcorporate finance services to your requirements.

Raising capital for growth

If you want to expand your business, you will need to raise capital.We can give you informed professional advice to help.

Howard Worth can:• Recommend ways to spread your commitment over a

number of finance sources, giving you greater flexibility in the long term.

• Assist with comparative studies of the costs involved in your options, including any tax implications.

• Advise you on suitable forms of security.

• Help construct a convincing business plan for approaching potential lenders.

Restructuring current finances

Your business may not be running as efficiently as it could be.

Common problems include:• Getting bogged down in overheads; for instance using funds to

purchase property or equipment instead of leasing.

• Poor financial planning; especially under capitalisation incyclical businesses, taking out expensive high interest loans,and withdrawing cash that in reality belongs to creditors or the tax authorities.

• Poor management of debt and cash flow; an effective businessplan and good cash management are the best protection against insolvency.

These are all areas where we can assist you, restructuring yourfinances so you can get the most from your business successes.

For these and all your corporate finance needs, we have theresources to help. Our team of experts are always pleased towelcome you to an initial discussion without charge or obligation.

For more information on the services we offer,please email [email protected], call01270 626162, or visit www.howardworth.co.uk

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Turned down by your bank?Call Watts Commercial Finance for an alternative answer . . .

9 George House, Princes Court, Beam Heath Way, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6GD

Telephone 0844 848 2993Email: [email protected] www.watts-commercial.co.uk

Watts Commercial Finance Ltd can arrange commercial funding for any circumstance

Watts have a proven track record of arranging financial packages for a large variety of businesses, from small sole traders to multi-million pound turnover companies.

We provide funding for all your needs from acquisitions to re financing your property or assets to unlock their value.

Watts Commercial Finance Ltd

Now that the decade of fast cash has gone, what do you do if you

need business funding quickly and with the minimum of fuss?

The short term funding or bridging market is alive and well and

with rates as low as 1% per month this market is very much open

for business and lending!

Funding can be secured against investment property, residential

property, commercial premises or land and with loans available

from a few thousand pounds up to multi million pound facilities

they really can be arranged for any of your requirements.

First and second charge facilities are available up to 70% loan to

value and these deals can be arranged with the minimum of

paperwork and information, making them a simple and easy

option for short term funding for you and your business.

Here at Watts we have excellent relationships with all the major

bridging houses in the UK and we can have bridging loans

approved in 1 hour and in some cases deals can complete within

a week.

We have arranged many short term funding for our clients to

assist in the following areas –

Tax bills, divorce settlements, cash flow injections, credit repair,

repaying expensive credit card facilities, property development

and property purchase, the list is endless, basically you can use

the funds for any legal purpose!

If you plan to purchase a property at auction why not let us have

the details prior to the auction date and we can have a facility

approved for you before you attend so you know exactly how

much you can bid and more importantly how much you

can afford.

Bridging has long been known for a quick and easy way to secure

funds to acquire property, which is correct and never more true

as banks struggle to complete mortgages within the 28 day

deadline set by auction houses.

Failure to complete on time can leave clients with expensive

penalties and interest to pay or worse still the loss of their 10%

deposit if completion is not achieved, therefore bridging is a

sensible option to secure the completion while we arrange a long

term mortgage facility.

People often assume that short term funding or bridging is

expensive so dismiss it as an option, however in these times

when great opportunities exist if you have the cash available a

great phrase I think to explain short term funding is

“Its not how much it costs, its how much it makes or saves you!”

So with that in mind if you would like to find out more

about short term funding please call us at the office on

0844 848 2993 or [email protected] and

one of our Commercial Managers will be delighted to

assist you.

A D V E R T O R I A L

Could Short Term Funding Be the Answer?

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The Cheshire Cheese at Shavington has been taken over by 3KEnterprises Ltd - a group specialising in the best of English andIndian cuisine.

One of the directors is Ajesh Kumar who has previouslyworked for the Ramada, Holiday Inn, Marriott in the UK andTaj Group in India.

He said: “We’ve refurbished and business is certainly pickingup to the extent where we are fully booked for Christmas Day.”

The Crewe Roadpub now employs10 staff and akitchen team ledby a chef who has worked atCarden Park and is well-versed intraditional Englishand Indian food.

For more information call the Cheshire Cheese on 01270 258050

New owners at landmark pub

A former primary school teacher has carried off a top businessaward after setting up a children’s day nursery on her familyfarm.

New Chamber member VickyDodd, (pictured) of RopeGreen Farm Children’s DayNursery in Shavington, wasnamed Young BusinessPerson of the Year at theTrinity Mirror CheshireBusiness Awards 2010.

The nursery, based in abeautifully converted cowshippon, offers youngstersthe chance of safe play in acres of private farmland where theyhave hands-on experience of helping to care for baby calves,chickens and pigmy goats.

After just one year the business has 170 children on its books andhas been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted inspectors.

For more information call Rope Green Farm Children’s Day Nursery on 01270 650074

Top class accolade for Vicky

Send a snowball to the ArcticA charity set up by Crewe company, The Up and Under Group, is taking to the road in an Arctic 4x4 Rally covering 5000 challengingkilometres to the very top of Norway.

The engineering specialists are looking for sponsors before setting off on their marathon in February. For a minimum donation of £5, sponsors can place a personalised snowball sticker on their car.

Proceeds will go to the Up and Under Foundation which gives young people access to activities and experiences

from which they would have been excluded for financial reasons.

For more information visit www.upandundergroup.com/community.htm

Elaine Goodwin has recently joined Tinsdills Solicitors as their employment lawspecialist.

Qualifying as a solicitor in 1995 Elaine worked for two local law firms before joiningStaffordshire County Council in 1999 where she was responsible for a team handlingemployment and litigation matters.

Martin Roberts, head of Business Services at Tinsdills says “Elaine’s experience inhandling complex matters combined with her down to earth approach will be ofimmense benefit to our clients in these difficult times”.

Elaine has experience of dealing with Employment Tribunal claims, all types ofdiscrimination and advocacy work together with advising on contracts of employment,compromise agreements and TUPE matters.

Elaine says “I’m really looking forward to the challenges of returning to private practiceand I’m sure my experience can add real value to Tinsdills’ commercial and individualclients”.

For more information contact Elaine on 01782 652303 or [email protected]

Tinsdills Solicitors further strengthentheir commercial services

Offices in Hanley, Newcastle, Leek and Sandbach

www.tinsdills.co.uk

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South Cheshire Chamber is seeking to increase the amount oflending to local businesses that is undertaken through its SouthCheshire Chamber Business Fund.

John Dunning, Chief Executive, said: “The coalitionGovernment has made it clear that it is looking to the privatesector to drive the recovery forward and the availability offinance for small business is vital if this is going to succeed.That is why the Chamber is keen to encourage local businessesto take advantage of the funds that are available and are uniqueto companies based in Crewe and Nantwich.

“Although the amounts available are fairly small in comparativeterms they can be quite significant in helping smaller businessesto develop and grow.

We also hope that the Banks will eventually begin to respond tothe Governments call to increase lending so that we can workmore closely alongside them as we have done in the past.”

For further information aboutthe types of loans available, anyinterested company shouldcontact Les Briers in the firstinstance on 01270 504722

Funding availablefor local businesses

Over 90% of businesses across the Northwest are taking positivesteps to reduce waste and energy consumption according to thelatest survey from Chambers of Commerce North Westpublished today.

However the survey also revealed that these steps were beingdriven by the need to comply with legislation and a desire toreduce costs. Just over a quarter of respondents were takingpositive action purely for environmental concerns.

Most respondents had yet to secure additional business bydemonstrating good environmental practice nor had they askedtheir suppliers to demonstrate their environmental credentials.

The quality and range of environmental support available tobusinesses was also examined in the survey. The three topproviders of environmental support in terms of the quality ofservice were The Carbon Trust, Chambers of Commerce, andEnvirolink Northwest.

Key conclusions of the survey include:

• 41% of respondents had implemented a policy to significantly reduce carbon emissions;

• 23% of respondents believed that the environment agenda will create new business opportunities;

• Just over half of respondents agreed that the implications of climate change were not fully agreed by businesses;

• 17% of respondents were prepared to forego profits in order to meet carbon emission targets;

• 7% of respondents had received financial support to reduce their environmental impact.

John Dunning of South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce says:“The legislative drivers coming out of Government at themoment – the Low Carbon Transition Plan and Zero CarbonHomes – to name but two emphasise the seriousness that ourpoliticians continue to place on the green agenda.

“Nevertheless the results of our survey show that manybusinesses still don’t appreciate the benefits of adopting goodenvironmental practice nor do they know where to turn foradvice and guidance.

“We will be using the evidence in this report to ask theGovernment three significant questions:

“Firstly, how does the Government propose to encourage andsupport businesses to implement more technologicallychallenging activities.

“Secondly, with less resource available to pursue a purelylegislative approach, how will the Government encouragebusinesses to adopt a low carbon approach.

“And, thirdly, the Low Carbon Transition Plan suggests thatsupport will be offered to companies seeking to explore newcarbon business opportunities. Will this be delivered and, ifso, how?”

Environmental Survey- green businesses setthe pace South Cheshire Chamber

of Commerce is sendingout a rallying call for localbusinesses to get involvedin two major newinitiatives – LocalEnterprise Partnershipsand the Crewe Vision.

John Dunning, ChiefExecutive, said “Now thatthe Local EnterprisePartnership for Cheshireand Warrington has been approved by Government, we canmove forward with confidence and nominations are beinginvited to join the Initial Partnership Board.

“The Chamber of Commerce has been at the forefront ofdeveloping the LEP bid and is keen to see businesses andvoluntary organisations from South Cheshire represented onthe Board.

“The closing date for applications is 19th November 2010 andfurther details about the Partnership Board and theapplication process can be found on the Chamber’s websitewww.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

“At the same time Cheshire East Council is about to launch apublic consultation exercise on the Crewe Vision and willsoon be publishing its thoughts and ideas on how the Visioncan be implemented.

“Businesses have already been closely involved in thedevelopment of Local Enterprise Partnerships and the CreweVision and it is vital that this momentum is maintained andthat businesses now take an active role in moving theseinitiatives forward.

“The coalition Government has made it clear, that the privatesector is going to have to take the lead in driving the economyforward and it is therefore vital that local businesses do getinvolved in both these initiatives and the Chamber ofCommerce will be helping tofacilitate and lead the process inorder to ensure that this happens.”

Businesses called to action

Call to action - John Dunning

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“An independent membership

organisation supporting,

informing, & representing

the interests of businesses

in South Cheshire”

Benefits of Membership include:Business Advice & Support

• Access to a Business Adviser • Business Mentoring

• Legal Advice Line • Export Documentation Services

& International Trade Advice

Information & Promotion

Providing Business Information

Free Quarterly 4Front Magazine

Free Articles in 4Front Magazine

Chamber Networking Events

Free Promotion of Members Events

Free Interactive Website Business Directory

Membership Certificate

Representation & Lobbying

Representation and Lobbying on issues

affecting the local business community

If you would like further information about joining the Chamber please

Telephone 01270 504700

Email [email protected]

Taking ideas forward:The Rural planning facilitation serviceAn innovative Rural Planning Facilitation Service is in operation in Cheshire and Warrington which, with funding from the North West

Development Agency, promotes and assists farm diversification and rural business development.

The service, which is available to farmers looking to diversify and small rural enterprises, is run by the South Cheshire Chamber. It complements the business advice which is already available through the Chamber.

There is no charge for the service to clients

The Rural Planning Advisers are all qualified planners with local knowledge and experience of rural planning in the region.They work alongside Farm Advisers who work for the Farm Business Advice Service and with Business Advisers,

to enhance the current client-oriented and integrated approach to advice and business support.

Your Planning Adviser will:Contact you and arrange a meeting on site to discuss your proposal • Liaise with your Farm/Business

Adviser where appropriate • Consult with the Local Planning Authority and other Agencies • Prepare a full Planning Assessment Report with recommendations about how to take your ideas

and development proposals forward • The report will be sent to you in confidence.

The Rural Planning Facilitation Service is innovative and builds on the experience and expertise of successful rural business advisory services and initiatives in Cheshire.

It aims to work with farmers looking to diversify and small rural enterprises to generate ideas which are financially viable, environmentally sound and acceptable in planning terms.

For more information contact the Chamber on 01270 504700

Charity golf day provesanother successSouth Cheshire Chamber held another successful golf tournament thisOctober at the demanding surroundings of Crewe Golf Club.

Players took to the course in high spirits despite a drizzly and cold startto the day and gave it their best shot in a keenly contested tournament.

Once again there was keen competition between teams, all hoping tocarry off the prestigious Bentley Trophy. It was Bentley Motors B thathad the honour, with a score of 88 stableford points, only pipping BanksSheridan, P&L Networks and BEB Property Services who all scored 84points. As there was a tie, second and third place was determined by thepoints scored on the back nine (Banks Sheridan – 42 points, P&LNetworks -41 and BEB Property Services – 40).

In addition to the team prizes the prestigious Chairman’s Decanter forthe best individual score was keenly contested and was presented toGraham Elvy of Bentley A who had an excellent score of 39 points playing off a handicap of 10.

Sean Murphy of Cooper Taylor celebrated winning the longest drivecompetition on the 13th hole while John Griffiths of Mercedes Benz ofStoke won the Nearest Pin competition and was rewarded with twotickets to a Crewe Alexandra league match.

Afterwards players enjoyed a four course evening meal and an auctionfor the Railway Children charity.

New Chamber Patrons, South Cheshire College entered the tournamentfor the first time, Suzanne Wainwright, Vice Principal for Skills, HigherEducation and Business Development said: “The team had an excellentday and enjoyed the competition. We look forward to working closelywith the Chamber in the future and supporting local businesses acrossthe region through the range of work-related training programmes we provide.”

To get involved in next year’s tournament, call Paul Colman on 01270 504700

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M Chamber welcomes celebritybusinessman Pete Waterman

Celebrity businessman Pete Waterman wasguest speaker at the Chamber’s BusinessLuncheon and AGM which proved a sell-out at Rookery Hall.

Welcoming more than 100 guests,Chamber chairman, Steven Williams, spokeof the renewed “sense of optimism” felt bythe business community and the importantrole the new LEPs will play in projectingthe economic interests of South Cheshire.

He said: “We do believe that the future willoffer us even greater opportunities, notonly to help individual businesses but to beat the top table shaping the future

economic development of the area andprovide business support in a much moredirect way than we have been able to dobefore.

“The replacement of the RuralDevelopment Agencies with locally-drivenLocal Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) givesthe Chamber a major opportunity tomaximise the voice of local business in away that has been impossible up to now.”

Businessman, record producer andentrepreneur Pete Waterman, welcomedthe introduction of LEPs but called on theGovernment to help create an

infrastructure that would support localbusiness. He said: “I’ve invested millions inopening a depot at Crewe. We haven’t evengot road access, but still I believe Crewe isthe right place to be.”

Despite this the company had proved asuccess with orders to 2018. Anapprenticeship scheme had also proved ahit with young people who, while notdegree material, had the practical skills anddrive to become engineers of the future.

For details of forthcoming Chamberevents see Dates for Your Diary page 30.

Words By Jan Roberts • Pictures by i2i Photography

Front: Chamber chairman, Steven Williams, chief executive, John Dunning, guest speaker Pete Waterman and Chamber president, John Bowler

with the members at the Business Luncheon and AGM at Rookery Hall

Pete Waterman is welcomed to Rookery Hall by Chamber president, John Bowler,

chief executive, John Dunning and chairman, Steve Williams

Pete Waterman gives an interview to Gavin Hammond of Crewe-based Red Shift Radio

Employment law specialists Susie Wheeler and Bobby Ahmed of William B Rose

in Nantwich with Vete Jacey of the Chamber

There was an excellent turn-out to the event in Worleston Suite at Rookery Hall

Philip Taylor of Cooper Taylor Chartered Accountantsin Nantwich with Karen Westbrook

of CTC Physiotherapy

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Networking was right ontrack at Virgin TrainsTalent Academy

Hospitality from Virgin Trains proved justthe ticket when the South Cheshire Chamberstaged its sell-out autumn networking eventat the company’s Talent Academy on CreweBusiness Park.

The event was sponsored by Virgin Trainsand attracted a variety of business people including accountants, solicitors,management consultants, hoteliers, printersand recruitment specialists. All enjoyed abuffet lunch prepared by Wistaston Caterers.

Welcoming the crowd, Chamber chiefexecutive, said it was clear the new CoalitionGovernment was looking to the privatesector to help lead the economic recovery

and encouraged members to take advantageof the support and loan funding availablethrough the Chamber.

New initiatives such as Local EnterprisePartnerships, he said, offered excellentopportunities for local business to getinvolved in shaping the future. He added:“We believe there has never been a bettertime to work together through theChamber.”

Guests had an opportunity to look round theAcademy where frontline railway staffincluding station workers, customer serviceassistants and train managers are trained. The Academy offers its rooms for hire and on

January 28 it holds an open day when thetheme will be Well-Being. A number ofcompanies specialising in this area will beavailable on the day which will includestaster treatments such as massage and reiki.

Email enquiries on hiring the rooms [email protected]

Virgin Training Academy, Tatton House,Crewe Business Park, Crewe CW1 6ZDTelephone: 01270 500099www.virgintrainingacademy.co.uk

For more information on forthcomingChamber events see Dates for Your Diary page 30.

Words By Jan Roberts • Pictures by i2i Photography

Chamber chief executive, John Dunning, is welcomed to the Virgin TrainsTalent Academy by safety training manager, Natalie Flaxman

Emma Appleyard of Hall, Smith Whittingham. Dick Rowlands, Kall Kwik Printing and Peter Clowes,

IBD Internet Business Directory share a joke

Gareth Williams, Construction Linx and Suzanne Wainwright, South Cheshire College enjoy the hospitality at the Talent Academy

Gavin Jones and Rachel McMillan of Nantwich-based Johnsons,

printers of 4Front, flick through the last edition of the magazine

Guests arrive at the bright and airy Academy where they could wander

round the facility and see its meeting spaces imaginatively named Innovation,

Inspire, Relax and Chat rooms

Lisa Dyas of Barringtonsaccountants in Newcastle

with Lucy Hill of BarringtonsCorporate Recovery

It was the first networking event to be staged at theAcademy, new neighbours of the

South Cheshire Chamber since its move to Crewe Business Park in the summer

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Da

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iary Chamber Events

The Chamber’s Weekly Newsletter is sent by email to hundreds of members weekly and is a great way to keep up-to-date with business news and local events.

It also provides a platform for members to promote their events free of charge. Members wishing to have their events listed should email the information to [email protected]

PLEASE NOTE: Members wishing to receive the South Cheshire Chamber e-newsletter must add [email protected] to their contacts list to avoid it being treated as spam.

Tap into the Weekly Newsletter

Providing something different…..

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March 17, 2011: South Cheshire Chamber Annual DinnerSponsored by The Co-operative Bank and featuring special guest speaker, Peter Marks, chief executive of the Co-operative Group. Ticket price TBC.

April 6, 2011: ‘Just the Job’Skills, careers and jobs fair, to be staged at the MMU Cheshire.

Chamber Member Events

4Networking Business Breakfast: Fortnightly on Thursdays, 8am, Ramada Encore Crewe. Call Sean Clarke on 0845 00 94 933.

South Cheshire BNI Breakfast Networking Meeting:Every Friday 6.45am at Crewe Golf Club. Call Martin Bale on 07932 154489.

Business 4 Breakfast:Meetings at Ramada Encore Crewe and Cheshire Cat, Nantwich.Call Richard Staniszewski 07836 260550.

Cheshire Women With Vision: Quarterly lunches at the Residence in Nantwich. Email [email protected]

January 28: Health and Well-Being Open DayVirgin Trains Training Academy, Crewe Business Park. Make sure your business is ‘fighting fit’ for 2011 – from 7.00am - 7.00pm.

NOTE: Chamber members organising a business event can list them on the Chamber website. For information call 01270 504700.

Venues: Visit the Chamber Venues webpage listing Chamber member venues with offers for members.

Go to http//www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk/events/venues/

Colour Printing

Marketing & Design

Digital Printing

Websites & Internet

Posters & Displays

Mailing & Distribution

PRINT // DESIGN // WEB

01270 625207Oat Market, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5APEmail: [email protected] www.jprint.co.uk

Blue Bell Corporate Blue Bell. Get to know us.

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