Autumn 2018 / Issue 12 Oldham Business EDGE Serious About Success

24 Team Spirit’s dream home Events company enters new 16 Building safety chapter with big relocation Windows and doors certification firm playing role in Grenfell Tower review

28 Saddleworth life District offers the best 12 Pearson Solicitors & of town and country Financial Advisers highlight commercial property work

News | Analysis | Features | Opinion | People | Events Welcome OLDHAM BUSINESS EDGE NEWS - Send your news and photos to [email protected] Ripple unveils retail displays for Precision engineers install UK-first machine type celebrity Joe Wicks’ kitchenware as part of £1 million manufacturing investment

A LEADING designer and DAWSON Precision Components (DPC) manufacturer of retail interior has installed advanced new machines at and display solutions has created its Shaw engineering base - including one merchandising stands for a new machine that is the first of its type in the UK. cookware range by celebrity DPC provides wide-ranging subcontract and health coach Joe Wicks. engineering services to clients in the UK, WELCOME to the autumn 2018 edition of Europe and beyond, across sectors including Oldham-based Ripple has worked Oldham Business Edge, now published in print aerospace, aviation, defence, energy, with the Meyer Group, the UK’s and digital formats by Credible Media, owner of environmental, marine, medical, motorsport largest supplier of kitchenware, the Oldham Chronicle Online and radio station and rail transport. to design and manufacture the Revolution 96.2. Joe Wicks point-of-purchase The new equipment, costing £230,000, This is the fourth quarterly edition of Oldham display products. represents the latest stage of investment. Business Edge published in the past 12 months Over £1 million has been invested in Paul Dawson of Dawson Precision Components (DPC) with the new Miyano BNA 42 GTY. under the new owner since the previous parent The Joe Wicks range has just been expanding DPC’s workshops and premises in It is the first of its type to be installed in the UK with LFV technology. company of the Oldham Evening Chronicle entered officially launched to UK retailers. recent years by owners Simon Dawson, Paul administration in August 2017. It includes branded cookware, Dawson and Julie Hughes. GTY. We’d heard about the machine in the aluminiums, can be cut much more efficiently. ovenware, food preparation, hydration and storage products. pipeline but wanted to see it running. It has Oldham Business Edge was the first publication to The new machines installed at DPC’s base The waste swarf falls away rather than builds a 42mm diameter capacity and has replaced up in long, stringy coils.” be relaunched by Credible Media with the valuable Joe Wicks is the UK’s first Instagram superstar and author of the second best- are a Miyano BNA 42 GTY with low frequency two older machines we had. The new support of long-standing magazine partners selling cook book of all time – Lean in 15. He is also the creator of the UK’s vibration (LFV) and a Citizen L20 Type 8, machine complements our other machining In other developments, DPC has received Pearson Solicitors & Financial Advisers, Ryder biggest tailored weight loss programme, The 90 Day Plan. also with LFV, which enables better swarf capabilities of 32mm and 50mm diameters. a strong number of enquiries linked to the & Dutton, First Choice Homes, Oldham College, management in metal or plastics. Subcon 18 supply chain show at Birmingham’s Oldham Community Leisure, the Stoller Charitable Ripple key account director Hannah Wolfenden said: “The adaptable display and “Staff at DPC have been trained on operating The Citizen is a 20mm capacity sliding head NEC earlier this year. Trust and new partner Cornerstone Design & merchandising equipment is designed to perform across different premium retail with sub-spindle live tooling and magazine the new equipment, with in-house training Marketing. environments, ranging from specialist cookware and homeware shops to prestige bar feed. It is particularly suited to long, and visits from trainers at Citizen/Miyano.” Subcon is a leading UK event for subcontract department stores including Fenwick’s and Bentalls. manufacturing professionals across all This edition has news from all our partners, along slender jobs and parts that require turning Paul added: “We have invested significantly with other businesses including Team Spirit, a industrial sectors who are looking to source “The design allows retailers the freedom to display different configurations of the and milling in one operation. recently in the latest machining equipment, highly-successful events company expanding suppliers, benchmark capabilities and secure kitchenware, tools and utensils, and communication is aided by digital video screens.” The Miyano is 42mm capacity and similar new production control software, inspection its global activities from a new, bigger base; and partners for business. It attracts international configuration to the Citizen. It is the first of facilities and skills to boost our already Assure Certification, a specialist inspector of The displays were engineered in-house by Ripple, utilising a combination of steel suppliers and includes educational seminars. its type to be installed in the UK with LFV enviable reputation.” windows, doors, installation and trade skills, which tube, sheet and wire with a powder-coated finish and melamine faced MDF. Technology, DPC said. is involved in the government’s review of the “LFV technology allows for better swarf DPC took a newly-designed exhibition stand Ripple has a long-established relationship with Meyer, a business which has Grenfell Tower fire disaster. Paul said: “Citizen and Miyano hold an open management by turning waste shavings to the NEC, reflecting its brand new website, become the market-leader in gourmet cookware through brands such as Anolon, day event every year and we recently went into chips rather than long coils. This means and met lots of good contacts, both new and Elsewhere, we have photos from the latest Circulon and Prestige. Past collaborations between Meyer Group and Ripple to Watford to see the new Miyano BNA 42 some materials, such as certain plastics and existing. Professional Oldham networking night and we have included Hestan stainless-steel cookware, launched in Harrods, and explore the attractions of Saddleworth with Ryder cookware concessions within department stores. & Dutton’s James Ebden and outdoors guide and writer Christian Maylor. Ripple is part of Ripple Group, run by managing director David Wolfenden. It works with brands and retailers including Akzo Nobel and Dulux Decorating College electrical and plumbing trainees gain work placements Enjoy the read and get in touch with your news. Centres, Trespass, Majestic Wine, B&Q, Cheshire Mouldings, Boots, Trespass, Robbie MacDonald - Contributing Editor Marshalls, Philips and Energizer. TWO Oldham College electrical and professional property environments. During and English programmes where necessary. plumbing traineeship students have had the course of their placements they put into Siobhan McCoy, First Choice Homes work experience placements with First practice the work skills they have learnt Oldham’s property care general manager, Choice Homes Oldham. through sector-specific vocational workshops The Oldham Business Edge said: “We are proud to be able to help at the college. Magazine, Oldham Chronicle Declan Clayton and Thomas Townson students work towards their career goals. Advertising: Online and Revolution 96.2 Radio started their traineeship courses last year The short, intense traineeship course is a Our property care service supports the next Address: Rachael Mayor | Email: [email protected] are part of Credible Media Ltd. and successfully completed 10 week in- fast-track to apprenticeships for work-ready generation of tradespeople. We want to work Revolution 96.2, Sarah Moor Studios, Andrew Whitehead | [email protected] house training at Oldham College. They then candidates who need extra skills development with students wherever possible to help them Henshaw Street, Oldham OL 1 3EN. Paul Webster | [email protected] secured four-week work placements at First to secure the job. to take up careers in construction, repairs and maintenance, ideally with First Choice Telephone: 0161 621 6500 Contributing editor: Robbie MacDonald. Choice Homes Oldham. The first 10 weeks of the programme includes Homes Oldham when we have vacancies. Fax: 0161 621 6521 Photography: Darren Robinson Both learners worked with experienced vocational workshops, professional and We work with a range of local partners and Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] professional operatives, gaining hands-on employability skills coaching, interview organisations to support local communities skills and site experience within domestic and techniques, employment rights, and maths and people in Oldham.”

02 Magazine design by Cornerstone Design & Marketing, 112 High Street, Lees, Oldham OL4 5DJ. www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 03 OLDHAM BUSINESS EDGE NEWS - Send your news and photos to [email protected] OLDHAM BUSINESS EDGE NEWS - Send your news and photos to [email protected] Charities benefit from Edge Structural Design digs deep for challenging Oldham Business Awards city centre apartment development

CHEQUES worth a total of £5,000 will be handed to Oldham charities A STRUCTURAL and civil engineering following the record-breaking tenth anniversary Oldham Business company has provided specialist services Awards held in May. for new apartments in Manchester city The first donation was recently presented to Mahdlo Youth Zone at its centre, where deep excavations, overall annual patrons’ dinner in September. height and restricted site access were major considerations. The second donation to Dr Kershaw's Hospice will be presented to Edge Structural Design played a key role the charity during the annual Oldham Corporate Quiz on Thursday, in the Halo apartments on Simpson Street, November 15, at The White Hart restaurant and pub in Lydgate. located in the Angel Meadow district close to Oldham Business Award sponsors at the Blue Tiffin restaurant. Steve Kilroy, chairman of the Oldham Business Awards steering group, Ancoats and Victoria Station. said: "This year's celebration dinner, our tenth, was by far the most The entries and nominations process will begin this autumn, followed Edge worked with Forshaw Land & Property successful ever with more than 550 people enjoying a fantastic evening by judging and workplace visits over the winter and new year. Group, DLA Design and AA Projects, based in hosted by impressionist Rory Bremner. To start the process, a launch event will be held on the evening of Bolton, Manchester and Sale. Edge’s work at the Halo development, Simpson Street, Manchester Director Adam Sedgwick "We are delighted that, thanks to the generosity of our loyal supporters Wednesday, October 24, at the Victoria Hotel in Failsworth. The new apartments are constructed on and people supporting the raffle on the night, we can hand over much corner of the plot. We worked closely with AA “Above ground we used a light-weight Then the annual Oldham Corporate Quiz takes place at the White Hart a hemmed-in site surrounded by existing needed funds to these two wonderful Oldham organisations. Projects to fulfil party wall and building over structural frame solution to keep the overall restaurant in Lydgate, on Thursday, November 15 buildings with constricted access along agreements, and gain consent for the crane height down. We had considered a full, "We are proud to support Mahdlo and Dr Kershaw's Hospice and we narrow, right-angled streets. The development Last year’s winners, Innovative Technology, led by awards organiser jib passing over the corner building, ensuring reinforced concrete frame or a steel frame. hope to continue for many more years yet." features a robust, reinforced concrete two- and head of marketing Dayna Patterson, will be defending the trophy storey basement with 41 car parking spaces work was done safely and in the best interests However, we chose the cold rolled structural A number of Oldham Business Awards events are now held through they received at after beating 30 teams from Oldham’s business and rainwater storage tanks to reduce flooding. of both parties. steel frame to keep height down and also the year, bringing organisers, entrants, winners, judges and sponsors community. make for easier steel deliveries to the site.” Above the basement are six storeys “The two-storey basement required massive together. Teams of four can enter for £50, with every penny raised from entries containing 66-apartments which respect the excavation work, seven metres deep, and Founded in 2000 by chartered structural During the summer, a dinner was held for 2018 sponsors and winners and a raffle on the night being donated to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice. height of neighbouring buildings. the removal of 500 lorry-loads of earth. engineer Adam, Edge Structural Design is a at the Blue Tiffin restaurant, pictured. Entries can be registered by email to steering group member Martyn Significant contig piling was needed to retain multi-disciplinary consultancy covering civil Edge director Adam Sedgwick said: “This Torr at: [email protected] or by telephone . Call 0161 633 111 the highways on all sides of the site and and structural engineering, commercial and Now the awards steering group of volunteers are begin preparations for was fascinating project with a number of the crane required several tons of concrete residential projects, temporary works design, the 11th Oldham Business Awards in April, 2019. Next year’s awards ceremony s scheduled on Friday, April 26. challenges on-site. supports. For the two-storey basement we structural inspections and reports. “One challenge was the location of an existing used reinforced concrete to form split-level two-storey building, a former pub, at one car parking areas and ramps.

The Oldham Enterprise Trust helps CONSTRUCTION and fit-out specialist Medlock’s first venue for the chain, which is Restaurant fit-outs Medlock FRB has completed two more owned by pub and restaurant group Mitchells Oldham residents into enterprise and venues for fast-growing premium & Butlers, was at Chester in 2016. for Medlock FRB steakhouse chain Miller & Carter. employability and contributes to Since then Medlock has completed The latest schemes are at Otterspool in steakhouse projects in Bedford, Grantham, long-term economic growth. Liverpool and Gosforth Park in Newcastle- Hinckley, Milton Keynes and Stratford-upon- upon-Tyne. Avon’s new £30m Bell Court retail and leisure complex, where it also fitted out an All Bar The Oldham Enterprise Trust can assist you with securing funding including: They take the number of Miller & Carter One venue for Mitchells & Butlers. projects by Medlock to eight in two years. Apply For · Grants for those under 25 and low cost loans to those aged 25-30 funded Dan Lewis, project director at Medlock, said: by the Stoller fund The north-east venue, on the edge of a “It is great to see Miller & Carter expanding housing development opposite Newcastle · Access to the government’s Start Up Loan Scheme for those over 30 years rapidly and we are delighted to be working Racecourse, was Medlock’s first new-build Funding Today! of age starting up a new business with the popular steakhouse chain to create project for Miller & Carter. · Access to a range of other funding facilitated by Business Finance Solutions new sites and generate employment across The two-storey building has a timber frame (part of the Manchester Growth Company). the country. with a contrasting external finish of brickwork, “Our relationship with Mitchells & Butlers cladding and render. The restaurant has 300 includes the fit-out of new All Bar One venues For further details contact; Graham McKendrick, Enterprise Trust Manager 0161 770 3356 or 07515 188 974 covers, including al fresco dining. and we look forward to further developing our Miller & Carter’s Otterspool site, which association in the future. The new Miller & Carter steakhouse in has 160 covers, saw an existing restaurant Newcastle upon Tyne converted into the steakhouse brand.

04 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 05 OLDHAM BUSINESS EDGE NEWS - Send your news and photos to [email protected] Build your workplace team and meet other businesses with the Oldham Active Business Games 2018

BUSINESSES are being encouraged to Business Games offer a great opportunity enter a series of fitness and health team for employers and staff to come together Oldham Community Leisure offers challenges this autumn in the Oldham outside their regular working environments a range of corporate membership Active Business Games. for a little healthy competition against other packages and workplace health teams in the area. Throughout November we’ll services. It is also playing a leading Organised by Oldham Community Leisure, be hosting this great series of challenges for role in a new membership scheme the fun business team competition features Oldham businesses to take part in. covering 13 leisure organisations six weekly events held on Thursday evenings, and 87 sites across the whole of from November 1 to December 1. “The challenges will be held across different Greater Manchester. venues in Oldham, which highlight the area’s Teams of up to 15 staff from any business can diversity of health, well-being, team-building The health and well-being take part in a series of team-building activities and events amenities. The ultimate winners organisation has 25,000 members OLDHAM ACTIVE and sports event. Entry costs £100 for the first will be crowned Oldham Active Business across the borough and operates six members of any team and then £10 for Games Champions for 2018. six sport and leisure centres. It any additional participants. Each competition also operates outdoor activities should be attended by at least six team To register, visit oclactive.co.uk, email including half-marathons and members from each business. [email protected] or contact Kelly Tattersall triathlons, children’s activities and on 0161 207 7000. Email: Kelly.tattersall@ Organiser Kelly Tattersall, from Oldham camps, leagues and competitions. ocll.co.uk Community Leisure, said: “The Oldham Active BUSINESS National report praises OCL’s community health success GAMES 2018 A not-for-profit leisure trust that invests all problems we’re facing in the continued climate surplus back into the business for the benefit of austerity, with increased competition for Throughout November we’ll be hosting a series of challenges of the community, OCL provided a leading limited funding, and urges local commissioners for Oldham businesses. To participate, gather up a squad of up to 15 case study for the report. to nurture third sector businesses such as ours to offset future problems.” Dr Bianca Stumbitz from Middlesex University employees with 6 people taking part in each challenge. said: “As a community business rooted in Mr Lockwood is also chair of Sporta, the its local area, OCL clearly demonstrates national association that represents leisure the important role leisure trusts can play in trusts. He added: “At Sporta, we have providing health and wellbeing services. The been working behind the scenes to extol Have you strength of many community businesses is the virtues of genuine charitable trusts WHEN? WHERE? COST? their local knowledge and ability to utilise that are reinvesting surpluses to benefit got what it community embeddedness as a resource, the local community, and the report’s Various activities OLDHAM Community Leisure has taken while tailoring their services in response to recommendations could not have come at a Starting £150 per team. takes to part in groundbreaking report calling for local needs.” better time.” November 1st & challenges Up to 15 more support for community leisure centres. claim the As well as operating a range of leisure, sport In the new report, Stumbitz concludes: for 6 weeks across employees A new research report has highlighted and fitness facilities on behalf of Oldham “Our study demonstrates how community Oldham! title? Oldham Community Leisure as an example council, Oldham Community Leisure provides businesses tackle some of the more complex of how community businesses are leading inclusive fitness and wellbeing classes to health and wellbeing issues facing society, the way in delivering health and wellbeing overcome cultural and other barriers to to promote healthier living and support services, which could fundamentally ease the physical activity. the economic and social inclusion of those This is great opportunity to come together outside of your regular strain on the NHS. who are at risk of being left behind. There Stuart Lockwood, chief executive at Oldham is a need for greater investment in building work environment and participate in a little healthy competition The report is published by the Centre for Community Leisure, said: “This is achieved by the evidence base so that their benefits Enterprise and Economic Development reaching out to those who wouldn’t normally against other business’ teams in the Oldham area. and complementarity with mainstream Research at Middlesex University, London, use a gym. For example, we deliver exercise services can be better-assessed. Community and Social Enterprise UK, and funded by Power classes in residential homes and women-only businesses like Oldham Community Leisure to Change. It says community businesses such classes in community centres. We also work are pointing the way to what a service based as Oldham Community Leisure are central to in co-operation with the police service to on prevention and wellbeing can look like.” building a health service based on prevention address the area’s history of ethnic divisions and calls for more support. and reduce conflict. This report highlights To register interest or sign up

06 email: [email protected] Pictured (L-R): Karl Parker of Pioneer with Martin Hill and OLDHAM BUSINESS EDGE NEWS Stephen Hill outside HPP’s new warehouse. Triple awards joy for Innovative Technology Refurb at in-demand Innovative Technology Ltd (ITL), the leading business centre cash handling equipment manufacturer, are Centre Manager Walter Urquhart celebrating three awards in the first half of 2018. HOLLINWOOD Business Centre has refurbished from scratch, and common areas, The Derker-based business has won the undergone a major refurbishment by corridors, reception and events spaces have Queen’s Awards for Enterprise - the company’s owner Biz Space. all been upgraded. We have installed new 5th in its history, Made in the North West Award LED lighting and replaced old storage heaters and Made in the UK Award. The 45,000 sq ft former mill has been with the latest electric heating system. All were received for growing export sales and redecorated and fitted with new kitchens and successful international trade. bathrooms, new meeting and events facilities, “Regarding the interior decoration, Biz Space HPP grows capacity with and new broadband provision. used an interior designer to come up with Managing Director Peter Dunlop said: “This is the colour schemes and some wall graphics, a historic time for ITL, we are experiencing a To highlight the upgrade, visitors can attend 19,000 sq ft warehouse making it much more dynamic and colourful. sustained period of growth globally and are an open day on Thursday, October 11, from Refurbishment work at Hollinwood Business Centre It’s much more than a simple repainting job. very proud of our success. 11am to 2pm. Walter added: “The Hollinwood area is “The conference and break-out areas have "Our global office network, large currency Centre manager Walter Urquhart said the undergoing a lot of change and investment been upgraded with AV equipment and Furniture industry doors, boards and Stephen Hill, and managing director database and innovative product range are all building first opened as a business centre at the moment, including a new Travelodge furniture, and the whole business centre’s fittings supplier Hill’s Panel Products Keith Wardrope. responsible for our strong year-on-year growth in 2001 after being redeveloped by Oldham hotel, a pub, new offices and industrial units. telecoms have been upgraded with a (HPP) has built a new 19,000 sq ft and exports.” Council and a partner organisation. Biz Space There is a lot of interest in the area, which is Martin Hill is overseeing the warehouse 360-degree mesh. All businesses have access warehouse to support a £2.5 million then took it over in 2008. right next to Junction 22 of the M60 and the and manufacturing expansion. The Made in the UK Export award, following the to fast or superfast broadband.” expansion in manufacturing facilities. A62 into Oldham and Manchester. regional heats, is given to the manufacturing Walter said: “There are currently 50 He said: “This £2.5 million project The Mayor of Oldham is invited to the October The new building is the biggest free- company deemed to be the most outstanding businesses based here, employing 400 The next Professional Oldham network represents our biggest investment 11 open day and speakers will include national standing warehouse at HPP’s head site exporter in terms of international presence, people, and the occupancy rate is at its event is due to meet at Hollinwood to date. Biz Space representatives Gareth Evans and in Oldham. export growth, and exports as a proportion of highest-ever. The centre has had its first Business Centre on Thursday, November 8. David Myring. Visitors are asked to register in "Work began on the new warehouse in sales within the qualifying period. major refurbishment since opening in 2001. The triple-fronted warehouse will store November, 2017, and has recently been advance via Event Brite but can also turn up worktops and panel products, freeing-up "We look forward to the rest of 2018 being just “Kitchens and toilets have been totally completed on schedule on the day. another warehouse for conversion into a as successful in terms of growing exports and new manufacturing production line later “The warehouse allows us to expand our international trade.” this year. worktops range and create extra space to increase our production capacity. We make the difference, HPP’s investment and expansion comes Growth Hub support talk in recruitment. amid significant commercial growth "We’re already making preparations Looking to hire? Sales have grown 16-per-cent in the to adapt an old warehouse for THE Business Growth Hub is presenting a Staff Recruitment is an past year, on top of 15-per-cent previously. manufacturing, with an upgraded free breakfast seminar about its support for Investors in People Gold extraction system and waste disposal Oldham companies and the area’s current award winning recruitment Door sales have risen by 30-per-cent hoggers, feeding into our waste- success stories on Wednesday, October 24. agency. Supplying and 11 new staff have been trained for recycling heating system. temporary, contract and manufacturing roles. The event will take place from 9am to 11am at permanent workers to "New manufacturing equipment will the new premises of Team Spirit on Hill Street, The company has 200 staff, a second private and public sectors, then be installed in the autumn.” off Huddersfield Road, in Oldham. distribution centre in Sheffield and specialising in Industrial, supplies over 2,000 customers across HPP worked the new warehouse with Darren Flannery, Oldham Growth Advisor for Warehouse, Professional the entire UK including trade kitchen Oldham architects Nicol Thomas and the hub, said the event will be opportunity to Apply today! Services and Clerical roles. and bedroom installers, showrooms, Pioneer Design & Build in Crewe. hear more about the organisation’s support, We provide local talent to property developers, architects and and to network with other local businesses and Martin added: “We’ve been working with local businesses across the interior specifiers. support agencies over breakfast. Pioneer Design & Build for 15 years and North West and are based HPP manufactures its own-brand this will be the firth warehouse they have He said: “The idea is to put a number of www.staffrecruitment.co.uk in the heart of the region. products including Avanti doors, Glide built for us." employers who are growing and involved 0161 633 3373 | 07831 199 291 Looking to hire? sliding doors, and Aspect and Aspire in exciting projects together in one place to The new warehouse is on land purchased [email protected] Give us a call - apply today! kitchens and bedrooms. discuss and positively promote the investment from a neighbouring construction taking place in the Oldham economy. It also supplies products by other UK supplies business, George Hill Timber. Other speakers will include Ian Taylor, of Team and European brands. HPP has invested heavily in facilities and Spirit, and author Martin Robert Hall, who It currently offers 6,000 products services in recent years. has worked with former Manchester United which cover full and processed MFC The Oldham site now has highly manager Sir Alex Ferguson on bringing sports (melamine faced chipboard) sheet automated production lines, a specially- psychology and positivity to the work place. material, vinyl-wrapped furniture doors designed and highly space-efficient Space is limited to 50 guests. To register, and associated furniture fittings. “To be the agency of choice for local businesses and local people. Together we can make it happen .” warehousing system and a bespoke email [email protected] or call HPP is headed by brothers Martin and trade counter. Darren on 07715 619959

08 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 09 OLDHAM BUSINESS EDGE NEWS Export fund supports bike INTRODUCING retailer’s global expansion

THE Greater Manchester Export Fund has based across Europe as well as operating pilot supported Oldham-based internet retailer schemes in Asia and Australia to help combat Fawkes Cycles with a £50,000 loan to the seasonality of the cycle market. fund growth for the business across new Nigel Bishop said: “Having increased sales European and global markets. by 43 per cent in 2017 we really are at the Delivered by GC Business Finance, Business forefront of the boom in cycling and we know Viewpoint Growth Hub and the Department for that what we offer customers is a seamless CLIVE MEMMOTT - CHIEF EXECUTIVE, International Trade which are all part of The e-shopping experience coupled with a level of Your car. Andy Nicholas from GCBF visits Nigel and Growth Company, the export fund provides GREATER MANCHESTER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE service and quality that they really value. Mandy Bishop from Fawkes Cycles. access to a wide range of international trade OUR national infrastructure is not fit for purpose – not just Your choice. “The UK cycle market alone is worth over support for both new and existing exporters already proving to be a great success in this railways – but our roads, our energy supplies and digital £2.5billion and the funding from GC Business along with access to loan funding to enable country and replicate that model and success connectivity all need substantial, and sustained, investment leleasease ffromrom only £69 per mmonth local businesses to secure and grow export Finance now puts us in a far stronger across the world. just to keep pace with our major international competitors. The AvailableAvailable on new and useusedd cars! contracts all over the world. position to be able to strengthen and grow national pipeline in the next decade is scheduled to deliver The GM Export Fund is a revolving fund our position at home as well as using a wider £600bn of infrastructure so the investment is apparently there Run by Nigel and Mandy Bishop, a former UCI to provide support to Greater Manchester reaching marketing and sales strategy to but delivery must be massively speeded up. Fifty years of women’s world road race champion, Fawkes businesses over the next ten years. Deal of access new territories.” indecision in relation to airport expansion in the South East was Cycles sells a range of leading and niche bikes, Businesses looking for fully-funded growth a disgrace and it is not an isolated case. the week parts and accessories. It will use the funding Andrew Nichols, senior loans manager at support should search the Greater Manchester lease from to invest in marketing and search engine GC Business Finance, said: “The Greater Business Growth Hub website. Those National infrastructure is also not a North v South issue. I only £64pm optimisation (SEO), creating two new jobs to Manchester Export Fund was designed to seeking further loan advice can contact have actively campaigned with my colleagues at the London add to the current team of seven at its Oldham help innovative companies just like Fawkes; www.businessfinance.growth.co.uk or call Chamber to support Heathrow Runway 3 and Crossrail 2. In base. Fawkes is aiming to grow its customer ensuring that they are able to take what is 0161 245 4977. turn they have supported me in relation to Crossrail North. I With over repeat, this is not a North v South issue – it’s about the long overdue, sustained investment in the infrastructure this country desperately needs and creating a more regionally balanced 500cars in stocksto approach to economic development. Physical infrastructure that Deal of the week ck is modern, efficient, great value, joined-up and underpinned by lease from only an ambitious plan for fibre connectivity for all. £283pm The pace of house building is also way too slow with eye watering numbers of homes still needed - over 227,000 homes by 2035 in Greater Manchester alone. The industry can respond with new solutions such as off-site construction but there are ongoing questions about the availability of both materials and labour to meet forecast levels of demand. There has to be far greater clarity in relation to the number of houses that will actually be built to enable the sector to make the investments that will address these fundamental shortfalls. The GM Spatial Framework has been further delayed. We can Go to hplleasing.co.uk cope with some delay as long as this means that long-standing problems of silo thinking, idiosyncratic planning decisions and needless delays are eliminated and replaced by a plan HPL Motors Oldham for efficient, integrated planning and delivery that takes into account demand across the city region. Not just where people 396 Manchester RD, OL9 7PQ live but how they get around to access work and training, the supporting social infrastructure and a clean and safe 0161 620 8773 environment for residents and business. just off the m60 junction 22 Finally, on the subject of building, the winner of the Greater Manchester Building of the Year Award will be revealed at HPL Motors Atherton the Chamber’s Property & Construction Annual Dinner on 4 October. Last year’s award was won by the redeveloped Oldham 1 Bolton Road, M46 9JQ Town Hall. This prestigious development has breathed new life into that part of the town and is a fine example of how other 01942 886689 boroughs can revitalise their town centres.

10 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 11 FEATURE - PEARSON SOLICITORS AND FINANCIAL ADVISERS L-R: Michelle Wood, Pam Walsh, Ruby Wilson, Zoe Johnson, Charlotte Watson, Jessica Evans, Busy year for commercial property Anzara Jeffery and Lucy Roughley at the Oldham office

PEARSON Solicitors and Chadderton-based EC Creative is an been put in touch with Clearwater Property Financial Advisers has reported approved contractor to TV channels and Partners in Manchester. So, a number of production companies including the BBC, ITV, good developments came from an initial a busy period for commercial Channel 4 and Endemol. Its services include recommendation by one satisfied client.” metalwork, joinery, cabinet making, electrics, and industrial property work, Regionally, Pearson has advised on a number scenery painting, upholstery, LED lighting and locally and regionally. It has of property developments across the north-west. mechanical engineering. also welcomed six new recruits These include acting for a house building EC Creative won an Oldham Business Award company on the development of land for to its offices in Oldham town in 2016 and was founded by Eric Crowther. new homes at Willaston near Nantwich centre and Hollinwood Today his son, Ben Crowther, manages the in Cheshire. Other construction work has day-to-day running of the company. Business Centre. included advice on the development of five The firm reported its best-ever year in Elsewhere, Pearson advised on the purchase properties in Failsworth for Prestige Village 2017 and Karen Piontek, Pearson’s head of of a former pet shop on Chew Valley Road, Homes, and a proposed development of 20 New arrivals at Pearson offices commercial property, said 2018 has been very Greenfield, which the new owner plans to homes in Royton, where planning permission busy too. convert into offices. Karen said: “The property is being sought. had been empty for around ten years and our PEARSON Solicitors & and look forward to working with Keith Elsewhere, Pearson advised on the sale of Karen highlighted a range of recent successes client, Richard Howarth, wanted to progress to develop the Corporate & Commercial two large industrial premises for a Greater Financial Advisers has including commercial property advice on retail, with the purchase quickly. He was really department further. Manchester client, which were subject to residential and warehouse projects, along with pleased with the speed and accuracy of our welcomed six new recruits numerous leases, and on property matters for “I have experience working with a broad land for the development of new homes. service, which he said was especially helpful.” including Niki Polymeridou a local broadcasting and media business. range of corporate legal entities from sole Work has included legal advice for TV and Pearson has also acted for K&P Consulting and Mary Commons, who are traders to limited companies and I always In Tameside, Pearson has assisted a medical theatre set design firm EC Creative on buying Ltd, which is based in London but conducts a both based at its Corporate try to offer legal advice calibrated to the surgery with Karen Piontek advising on needs of my clients. a warehouse in Salford. The warehouse has lot of property acquisitions in the north-west. & Commercial department at been used for a variety of filming including commercial property and Susan Mayall, head “I am new to Oldham and therefore I am eager Coronation Street, the Brit Awards, Strictly Karen said: “The client has been very keen of employment law, advising on HR. Hollinwood Business Centre. on the service we provide and has put us to get to know the local business community Come Dancing and an advertisement for Karen added: “Last year was our best-ever in touch with another investor. We’ve since Niki Polymeridou has joined as a solicitor in and help local companies meet their targets. Warburtons bread. and we’ve had a really busy 2018 so far. I had several instructions, to date, and have the corporate and commercial department. thought Brexit may have unnerved a few “The current macroeconomic climate is full of people but it hasn’t really impacted, to date. She first qualified as a lawyer in Greece in challenges given the uncertainty over Brexit, Residential property advice slowed slightly 2008. Following a successful career as a the pace of recovery since the financial crisis, Head of commercial but then expanded. corporate commercial lawyer in Athens and the impending fourth industrial revolution and Karen Piontek having worked for years as a consultant other global trends. “The whole firm is growing well across all for one of the biggest commercial banks in “From what I have seen so far though, I departments. We’ve brought in our new Greece, she moved to Manchester in 2011 and Mary Commons and Niki Polymeridou at the commercial consultant, Dave Meredith, who believe Oldham has a vibrant local business qualified here in 2014, Hollinwood office has 39 years in the banking industry and community with strong fundamentals that has vast experience with SMEs. And Keith Keith Kennedy, a Pearson partner and head can achieve sustainable growth. I aspire to Kennedy, who joined us in 2015 and heads of Corporate & Commercial, said Niki’s dual help local businesses and business people our corporate and commercial department, qualification and years of dealing with a range navigate their way through these challenges is bringing in lots of work from other of businesses and business owners gives in a legally sound and robust way.” professionals such as accountants. her significant experience in advising firms Meanwhile Mary Commons, aged 20, from So, these are busy and exciting times for throughout the business cycle. Derker in Oldham, has joined as a legal everyone at Pearson.” She has worked with sole traders, assistant. She previously worked with a entrepreneurs, unincorporated associations, Manchester city centre firm and said she was limited partnerships and limited companies. keen to join Pearson at this time of exciting Her particular focus is on business growth for the company. acquisitions, but she also has experience in Other new recruits based at Pearson’s commercial contracts, terms and conditions, Oldham office include Michelle Wood and Zoe joint ventures and shareholders’ agreements, Johnson, both legal advisers; Lucy Roughley, LLP members’ and partnership agreements, who works with private clients; administration corporate formations and constitutions. officer Ruby Wilson, Charlotte Watson and Commenting on her new role, Niki added: Jess Evans, who are both support staff; and “I am very excited to have joined Pearson receptionist Anzara Jeffery. Pam Walsh, childcare solicitor

12 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 13 FEATURE - FIRST CHOICE HOMES Leah Thomas (left) and Amy Morgan at First Choice Homes Oldham.

The Directions team has advisors with into work. I struggled with my grades at “The school system does not suit everyone. It backgrounds in welfare, employment and school and would have struggled getting into can be very difficult for some young people to education. Since the Directions team was university. I’ve got dyslexia and dyscalculia, identify their interests and potential careers. created, it has increased from two members meaning I struggle with maths. Another issue is that school careers advice to eight, including an apprentice. can be very narrow. “However, the beauty of apprenticeships is that you gain qualifications while you “Because First Choice Homes has good links work, so you can have another go at to business and other organisations, we can getting qualifications when you’re older. work with our partners to offer youngsters a I’m now in the second year of my two-year better understanding of life outside school. It apprenticeship programme. I’ve completed also gives us and partners a better knowledge a level 1 qualification in maths and a level of local young people who could become 2 in English, and I’m now working towards good employees, apprentices or volunteers. my level 2 in maths. I passed my maths At Waterhead, we hope to deliver a number of assessment at first attempt. I cried my eyes quality encounters for pupils over the academic out with joy and relief.” year and during some school holidays.

Leah Thomas, aged 25, from Uppermill, is As part of her apprenticeship, Leah works She added: “Kids are really savvy in some now on the second year of her apprenticeship with a maths tutor once a week and a college ways, such as technology, but they need help as an employment support adviser. She accessor once per month. in other ways, such as writing business emails attended Saddleworth School then left at 16 or about the correct behaviour at work. Some to work in retail. businesses already take an active role in offering work placements, taster days or talks Explaining her role, she said: “I help people to pupils. But I’m sure there are many more to create or update CVs, fill job application local businesses that could get involved and forms or write cover letters.. I also point them really add value to our work.” to other organisations, if need be, to support them more. Oldham Coliseum theatre is one example of a local employer that has shown interest in “We help tenants apply for jobs, supporting First Choice Homes’ programmes, Housing provider points apprenticeships, work placements and Amy said. “Employment and skills are part of volunteer placements which help their skills, the whole package. We’re looking at a wide, experience and employment prospects. Working alongside Leah is new Directions holistic approach to supporting youngsters. We also help First Choice Homes, the team member Amy Morgan, aged 25, from employers and job-hunters This includes raising confidence, providing organisation, to see if there are suitable Shaw. She started at First Choice Homes this new experiences, meeting new people, internal candidates for vacancies here. summer as an education and business link officer. having fun, having good mental health, and in the right direction “Our services for employers are also Amy attended Hulme Grammar School, took supporting young people’s family and friends.” important. We help businesses search her A-levels at Blue Coat School and studied First Choice Homes’ other activities include Tenants are offered one-to-one support, or Training) to support them with skills for life, for recruits. The service is free and saves English literature and creative writing at the AN employment and skills work with Casey Construction and Emanuel training, work placements and volunteering learning and work. employers the costs of going to a commercial University of Hull. She then took a PGCE programme run by housing Whitaker on work, skills and apprenticeship opportunities. And some volunteering recruitment agency.” teacher-training course with the University “The team not only works with our customers programmes. It also holds Job Club outreach provider First Choice Homes opportunities are also available to non- of Cumbria, based near Preston, then taught to support them when it comes to finding Speaking about her own experiences of work activities across the borough and advice for tenants looking to improve their skills at Saddleworth School and Crompton House Oldham has helped over 250 employment, but we also provide an opportunity and education, Leah said: “I changed jobs non-tenants to find voluntary positions. and experience. School. tenants find paid employment for employers to find the right recruits. because I wanted a change of direction. I First Choice Homes said a recent report by Furthermore, the team recently celebrated a didn’t want to stay in retail, but I liked the She said: “By 2020, schools will need to have in the past 12 months, more “We can sift through CVs, organise interviews The Institute of Policy Research estimates Women in Housing award for excellence in customer-facing aspect of it, so I looked for created and embedded a meaningful careers and support the employer to ensure they have that the housing sector spends £70 million a than double the number for career development (see separate news story). something else focused on helping people. programme, which allows pupils to have more year helping the unemployed into work while the previous year. the right person for the role. This obviously I like the variety of working with different productive encounters with local employers. the Government spends approximately £130 Local employers looking to recruit can also saves employers’ time but there’s also a people. No two days are the same. My role at First Choice Homes is specifically million a year. The Directions service has secured 264 job- benefit from the programme because First financial benefit as it means they don’t need targeted at helping young people who are at starts for the financial year 2017-18 compared Choice Homes offers a free recruitment to pay a recruitment agency. “I thought that apprenticeships were more risk of not being in education, employment or However, the report also claims that national with 122 for 2016-17. And another 84 people search service to identify suitable candidates. aimed at school leavers. But I decided to training (known as NEET). I wanted to stay employment and skills policies have failed to “In turn, it supports the economy in Oldham apply for the apprentice role at First Choice have found employment so far during this working in an education-linked role and this is Michelle Tomlin, employment and skills by developing a local skills base and labour engage effectively with housing associations, financial year. Homes regardless as it seemed to fit my really rewarding for me. even though housing association tenants are manager at First Choice Homes, said: “Our force, with a focus on sustainable, quality jobs skills and interests. I spent two days on the more likely to be unemployed. First Choice Homes created the Directions services have dramatically grown in the past and apprenticeships. I am very proud of the application form to First Choice Homes and “The Directions team is forming partnerships service in 2016 as a proactive measure to two years since the start of the Directions accomplishments of the team and I know how put a lot of effort into it. When Michelle Tomlin with a number of primary and secondary First Choice Homes said it will be interesting ensure that with the changes in Universal programme. Most recently we’ve added to our dedicated they are to achieve the best results offered me the role I was delighted.” schools. I’m working on a pilot scheme with to see the government’s response to the report. Credit and the benefits cap, customers education offer and begun to work with young for the customers they work with.” Waterhead Academy in Oldham to develop a Regarding exams and qualifications, she had a way to find suitable and sustainable people who are currently studying, or those holistic package of support which is bespoke Photographs by Darren Robinson. added: “I left school at 16 and went straight employment and avoid financial hardship. who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment to the pupils’ needs.

14 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 15 FEATURE - ASSURE CERTIFICATION

BRAC advises the government on building Austin added: “In addition to the fire safety Austin said: “So far, we’ve grown organically. regulations and setting standards for building of doors and window, installation skills and But now we want more momentum to grow design and construction. It is an advisory standards are also vital factors. It’s not further. The Growth Hub has been really public body sponsored by the Ministry of enough to have good products if fitters cannot helpful. We’re working with Darren Flannery, a Housing, Communities & Local Government. install them properly. So, we conduct thorough business growth adviser for Oldham. vocational qualifications and training”. Austin explained: “We were involved quite “Changes are happening nationally regarding Ensuring high heavily in advising Dame Judith Hackett about “As part of the Grenfell Tower review, there’s training and apprenticeships. The government her report into Grenfell Tower. It commented also a debate about what defines a high-rise is moving from NVQ courses to Trailblazers, on doors and windows and will be fed into a block? There are many different types of and we’re looking at becoming an awarding- standards in further review. We will also make decisions on multi-storey buildings and apartments that body for apprenticeships and training courses new building regulations when they are re- are not especially high. Building regulations for the windows and doors industry.” written. The government review is ongoing. currently class properties into dwellings In other developments, Assure is looking building sector and non-dwellings. However, we think there “The Ministry of Housing, Communities at launching apprenticeship training for the should be three categories, dwellings, non- & Local Government has employed lots doors and windows industry, and possibly dwellings and high-rise residential buildings. A BUSINESS which inspects window Assure Certification, based in Lees, enables window and door installers of staff to look at building regulations and opening a product testing laboratory in Oldham. to comply with regulations by assessing their competence and issuing restructured its directors to focus on fire “While fire regulations are good, the problem Door and window testing would mainly be for and door products, fitting and skills, building certificates to homeowners. The certificates confirm that the safety and building regulations. with Grenfell Tower appeared to be about fire safety but also security and weather. and is involved with the Grenfell Tower installer’s work is legal and correct, and registered with the local council. products and fitting. For example, the burning “In fire tests, the Grenfell Tower doors only Austin added: “Although windows and doors materials should have simply burnt-out, but fire review, is expanding its activities Assure is a government approved Competent Persons Scheme. This lasted for 15 minutes but were supposed to represent just a small part of the building the windows had been moved forward when government scheme allows individuals and businesses to self-certify last 30 minutes. Assure Certification is now industry, it’s still a very important part. So, after a year of growth. extra cladding was fitted. The fire travelled up that their work complies with building regulations, as an alternative to pressing the government for more testing we’d like to run specialist training courses. inside cavities and internal gaps that should submitting a building notice or using an approved inspector for each and also looking to offer additional testing There’s also a skills shortage that the have been closed off. Building regulations installation. Assured Certification is the only independent provider of services to relieve the demand on existing construction industry needs to address. The stipulate that gaps must be closed. these services in England and Wales. testing centres. wider industry needs this niche training.” “There were also other factors including It also provides installers with training courses, building regulation advice “At present, Certification Bodies such as Also, recently, Assure has become a sponsor doors only lasting 15 minutes against fire and and documentation for all aspects of the industry including health-and- Assure can still certify installation work for at Oldham Athletic FC. The company’s name windows being open by residents because it safety, security and fire-testing of products. high-rise residential buildings. However, is on the Jimmy Frizzell stand and Austin said: was a summer day.” Installers must tell us when they are working “We wanted to promote ourselves locally and The company is run by husband-and-wife team Austin Greene and on the buildings as we must make a special GROWTH HUB to visiting fans from other clubs. We want Ruth Greene. They won an Oldham Business Award this year and are inspection visit. to reach ordinary installers, many of whom now receiving help from Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub to Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub watch football. And as an Oldham company develop the business further. “We often conduct extra inspections to is supporting Assure with help in marketing operating nationally, we wanted to put ensure our members are complying with our and other development plans, such as training LICENCES something back into our home area.” exacting standards and the current building courses. The Growth Hub works closely with Austin, aged 49, said there are only six organisations in England and regulations. Our inspections include practical Greater Manchester authorities including Wales that have Government licences to operate Competent Persons and theoretical knowledge and are designed Oldham Council and has introduced Assure Scheme certification services for the window and door industry. Scotland to ensure we see all aspects of the installation to a number of Oldham Council officers of has its own scheme. Despite being a young company, Assure is already as we only inspect live installations relevance. the third-largest of the six, he said.

“Last year we started with two inspectors. Now, we have five across England and Wales. They are subcontractors, offering us and themselves flexibility to manage the workflow. We process between 2,000 and 7,000 CAREER BACKGROUNDS - AUSTIN & RUTH GREENE certificates per month, and will be looking at expanding our team of Austin, 49, grew up in Uppermill, attended a government licence to Assure, allowing the inspectors in the near future. Saddleworth School then went straight into new firm to carry out this niche certification “We inspect installers to ensure they are competent, and their work work. Aged 19, he joined a PVC window work. complies with building regulations. We carry out a similar role to the manufacturing firm in Oldham and worked Ruth, aged 53, grew up in Lees and gas and electrical schemes, such as Gas Safe. Our work includes his way up to become factory foreman. attended Breezehill School. She worked random inspections of installers’ work and we also issue Home Owner At the age of 26, he joined PVC manufacturer as a Biomedical Scientist at Tameside Certificates which are needed when people move house” Status Systems in Delph as technical Hospital for many years then later retrained GRENFELL TOWER engineer until 2007. He then joined VEKA in in law. Specialising in employment law, she Burnley as a technical manager. He spent represented Unite the Union members at Assure Certification also sits on the Competent Persons Forum, a sub- ten years at VEKA and managed the division national level, and was elected to Unite’s committee of the Building Regulations Advisory Committee (BRAC). overseeing its Competent Persons Scheme national executive for the health sector. Her The forum has advised the government on issues relating to London’s for six years. role at Assure includes reviewing contracts, Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. giving HR advice to their members and When VEKA restructured, Austin founded reviewing legal documentation. Assure Certification. He was able to transfer

16 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 17 FEATURE - CORNERSTONE DESIGN & MARKETING

The ‘Hero Next Door’ campaign for the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) is shortlisted for the ‘Big Bang’ category

The Cornerstone team in the studio based in Lees. Cornerstone’s collaboration with El Capitán Digital on the ‘Nature Greater Manchester’ has been recognised

The awards recognise the entire breadth of The objective was to gain 50 new volunteers. For the Collaboration category, MPA The first was the Manchester Arena bombing media, digital, public relations and creative Whilst the target may seem low, the process judges have shortlisted a joint campaign by in May. Following the attack, Cornerstone Agency’s pride at talent in Greater Manchester. of becoming a first responder is quite Cornerstone and Andy Sweeting of El Capitán designed and developed the Manchester rigorous. Digital, a digital boutique specialising in Emergency Fund website within one week. There are categories for businesses of user-experience (UX) which was launched all sizes and types, including freelancers, The entire campaign was research-backed The website had to contain key emergency in 2017. award nominations agencies, media sales, film production, video, through focus groups and telephone information for victims, survivors, families and website developers, content producers, interviews. The two agencies developed Greater friends, emergency services, local authorities, animation and games developers. Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA) charities and donations. It was a primarily digitally-led campaign, Cornerstone Design & Marketing has been shortlisted ‘Nature Greater Manchester’ website, Judges have shortlisted Cornerstone for three utilising social media channels, pay-per-click Its design required bespoke coding by designed to connect the public with as a finalist in three categories of the 2018 Manchester categories of Big Bang, Collaboration and (PPC) adverts and a website. Cornerstone to create an easily navigated, green spaces, attractions, activities and Small Creative Agency of the Year. secure and sensitive website. Publicity Association (MPA) Inspiration Awards. It was also supported with basic PR, banners organisations. The Big Bang category recognises highly- on ambulance stations, a short video about a The second unexpected event was the The website was to be built on a suitable successful publicity campaigns delivered on volunteer and a street event. administration of the former parent company content management system (CMS) that modest budgets. of the Oldham Evening Chronicle in August With a modest budget, the results far was easy for GMCA staff to use and update, 2017. The daily newspaper suddenly ceased Cornerstone’s entry highlights its exceeded the ambulance trust's expectations. and also secure. The website was publicly publication, creating a temporary vacuum of development of a volunteer recruitment It received many enquiries about volunteering launched in early 2018 and has been well local news, advertising and media services. campaign, called Hero Next Door, for the and saw large rises in social media received from stakeholders. North West Ambulance Service’s Community engagement and website views. Within the Large newspaper and advertising businesses Cornerstone has worked with El Capitan Digital First Responder scheme. first week alone, 500 requests were received. based outside Oldham were keen to move in on a number of collaborative projects, ranging This was ten times that of the entire campaign to fill the vacuum. Three new rival newspapers This is a voluntary programme that sees from large public sector to small B2B campaigns. target, which was due to run for three months. were launched by competing media groups in members of the public trained by the The third category is for Small Creative the autumn of 2017. ambulance service to respond to incidents The campaign was so successful that it had Agency of the Year. For this, Cornerstone in their local community where first aid and to be slowed to allow the ambulance service The fast-changing, uncertain situation meant highlighted its strong focus on client more advanced training is required to help the to keep-up with demand. Leftover campaign that smaller Oldham-based media and satisfaction, staff development, business patient before ambulance crews arrive. content was held for a second phase. marketing businesses faced the possibility of growth and quick responses to two urgent missing out on any local salvaged trade. events in 2017.

18 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 19 However, Cornerstone made a quick decision in Oldham is an important achievement. “Our range of work has grown with both to recruit Robbie MacDonald, the Chronicle's This has created new employment and public and private sector clients. We have former business editor, and to launch new redeveloped local news, media and worked strategically across both digital and services in copy-writing, business news and PR. advertising services for the future. traditional marketing channels for clients including Recycle for Greater Manchester, Cornerstone then worked for Oldham radio Cornerstone was founded in 2007 by Oldham Community Leisure, Manchester City station Revolution 96.2, which bought managing director David Wadsworth. From Council, Cancer Research UK, North West the Chronicle titles and services from a one-man business it has grown in size to Ambulance Service, and the Bee in the City administrators KPMG for redevelopment. currently employ 12 staff and also regularly and Snowdog sculpture trails. works with two consultants. Cornerstone redesigned and managed David added: “We believe our full range of the editorial content for the relaunch of Speaking about being shortlisted for three skills, services and size probably make the two business and education magazines, MPA Awards, David said: “Winning an agency unique among Oldham’s creative and Oldham Business Edge and The Knowledge, award would provide great independent THE BEST digital sector. Comparable full-service digital and a brand-new lifestyle magazine called recognition of Cornerstone’s achievements and marketing firms are more typically to be Signature. and contributions. found in Manchester, Media City or Leeds. Three quarterly magazines were launched “We’ve been committed to offering clients a As both a creative agency and an employer, ADVICE FOR in autumn 2017 with three further quarterly ‘full service agency’ for years but in the last 12 Cornerstone believes it compares extremely editions of each magazine published months have invested heavily in our people, well with any other. throughout 2018. Revolution 96.2 has equipment and technology to add more depth The 2018 MPA Inspirations Award winners LIFE’S BIG relaunched the Oldham Chronicle as a digital and capacity. This has paid off dividends, will be announced at Manchester’s news and advertising service with a widely- as client demand has soared, and our wider Midland Hotel on October 18. read website and social media output. offering has also attracted new clients. DECISIONS. Against the general trend of centralised “Our recruitment, investment and work UK media ownership, Revolution 96.2 and output have grown significantly. Last year, we Cornerstone believe keeping a range of media recruited four extra staff while this year we’ve and advertising services genuinely based recruited another three.

Family, conveyancing, personal and medical law

‘Bee in the City’ website supporting the current Art Tourism trail Business, corporate and employment law around Manchester

Financial and tax advice

T. 0161 785 3500 E. [email protected]

Matt Ramsbottom from Revolution 96.2 with Cornerstone designer Nicola Adamson Manchester Emergency Fund website that was launched to support holding the first copies of the brand-new ‘Signature’ lifestyle magazine, which was victims of the Manchester Arena attack in 2017 pearsonlegal.co.uk debuted alongside the relaunched Oldham Business Edge and Knowledge magazines

20 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 21 FEATURE - PHOTOGRAPHER DARREN ROBINSON

Pictured: Oldham-based Delta International operatives Photographer reaches new working on a steel chimney at Futamara in Wigton, Cumbria. heights with industrial work

BUSINESS photographer Darren was asked by the Association of “They demonstrated all the best practices to improving working practices, technical Darren Robinson has Technical Lightning and Access Specialists needed for this type of high-level industrial excellence and the skills of the workforce (ATLAS) to photograph Oldham-based Delta work and wore goggles and face masks. to provide the highest quality service to the undertaken a high-level International at a chemical plant in Cumbria. industry’s clients. “It was a great brief for me. Climbing up the assignment for an association The photographs document Delta operatives cage ladder was physically demanding, and Delta International specialises in the design, representing the UK's abseiling a 120 metre-high steel chimney I had to haul up my photography gear, all of inspection, modification, maintenance and steeplejack, lightning and cleaning it for painting and general which was tethered to ensure it did not fall demolition of chimneys, cooling towers, flare maintenance. The photographs were from height. It was a beautiful day and the stacks, process columns, pipe work, tanks, conductor and specialist- commissioned by ATLAS and are expected to views from the chimney were amazing. I really vessels and other tall industrial structures. access industries. be used for training purposes. enjoyed it and it was fascinating to see the Their personnel are specially-trained in Delta staff at work.” Darren is a former Oldham Evening Chronicle equipment and methods for working-at- staff photographer who set up his own Darren has undertaken a number of height and in situations where access business last year. assignments for ATLAS across the UK. ATLAS is awkward or difficult for conventional got in touch with him after Delta International procedures. He said: “Following a safety briefing by the passed on his details. Darren has previously Delta supervisor, I followed the progress of Projects by Delta over recent years have covered the work of Delta International for two Delta operatives who abseiled their way included demolition of chimneys at London's business news reports in the Oldham Evening down the chimney on ropes. I climbed a cage redeveloped Battersea Power Station; Chronicle and Oldham Business Edge ladder to the height of almost 100 metres. I designing and building a self-supporting magazine. was secured with two safety fastenings and climbing platform to demolish a chimney at wore all the safety equipment including a ATLAS has represented the leading players the Sellafield nuclear processing facility in helmet. I was asked to photograph the Delta in the lightning protection and specialist Cumbria; work on Mersey tunnel ventilation workers at different levels – from above, the access sector since 1946. At the forefront of shafts in Liverpool; and installation of aircraft same level, and from ground-level. industry developments, ATLAS is committed warning lights on the One Canada Square skyscraper at Canary Wharf.

22 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 23 FEATURE - TEAM SPIRIT Ian Taylor

A CORPORATE events business is entering an exciting chapter in its development following a move into a bigger base, which allows it to bring all its staff and departments together under one roof for the first time in years.

Team Spirit moved into a 50,000 sq ft warehouse on Hill Street, just off Oldham’s Huddersfield Road, last year. It has invested A recent event to highlight Team Spirit’s new facility. over £500,000 to create a leading global corporate events infrastructure. During the of shops, and a number of themed meeting host smaller gatherings and the warehouse expansion project the business received rooms. Inspiration comes from numerous has recently been used for a presentations support from the Greater Manchester sources including children’s fiction, theatre, including a Business Growth Hub event. Business Growth Hub and Northern Disney films and theme parks. Powerhouse funding. “We can build all sorts of stages, sets and Katie said: “The Park and shops setting gives props. For example, we recently showed some Team Spirit is a corporate events business clients a sense of what can be achieved Chinese clients a sample of our London sets, that organises conferences, team-building and is also a great space for our larger staff such as Number 10 Downing Street and activities and themed events, and also offers meetings. Big Ben. a venue finding service for clients in the UK and globally. “The themed meeting rooms include a Pop Elsewhere the warehouse has a joinery Art room with a giant lip-shaped sofa, a Wild workshop, a graphic design studio, green Founded by Ian Taylor in 1993, it was first West room and an Alice In Wonderland room. screen video facilities and even scooters for based in a tiny office in Oldham and then We can meet clients in these rooms which are staff to travel around the site. The design across various premises in Saddleworth as it great showcases for what we do.” studio produces 3D visuals to bring events grew. Now, it has over 55 full-time and part- to life and also houses an in-house print Another room is an American-style diner, time employees and is busy with the ongoing facility to produce things such as menus, named JT's Diner, after Ian’s late father, John, development of its new base. flyers, desktop calendars and lanyard name who was a big influence. He ran a number cards. Team Spirit has invested in extra print Oldham Business Edge was invited for a tour of bakeries in the Oldham area and Ian was equipment to increase in-house capacity and with Ian Taylor and PA Katie Hodson, who born in a flat above the Chadderton outlet. hopes to recruit an extra design assistant explained more. His father’s business empire included seven soon along with sales department staff. shops in locations including Hollins Road, Katie said: “This new base will really give Failsworth, Manchester Street, Chadderton Upstairs are offices for different departments us a platform to grow. Bringing everything and Tameside, along with a café, chippy and including the sales team and the venue-finding under one roof while remaining based in the Post Office. department. This has a large world map on a Oldham area is really important to us. Having New home offers wall for Team Spirit’s international events. all our staff and kit together under one roof is A costume shop next to the green is named great. We were previously operating from five after Rachel, Ian’s fellow business Director’s Katie said: “We offer clients a one-stop shop. different units in Saddleworth.” mother, Kath Flitcroft, who is Team Spirit’s They just need to tell us when and where they head of wardrobe. Eye-catching props want an event, and we do the rest. Once the space to grow for SHOWCASE & STORAGE SPACE elsewhere include a model Eiffel Tower, venue has been found, the events department The Hill Street premises’ main area contains a huge Rubik cube and a giant packet takes over the management of each event, equipment, props and costumes for indoor of crayons within the Aladdin’s cave of looking after a client’s needs before, during Team Spirit and outdoor events including stages, fencing, excitement. and after the actual event.” barriers, scenery, sound and video equipment. Ian said: “The warehouse is designed to Team Spirit has built a small set featuring a show the kind of things we can do – but we village green, known as “The Park” and row don’t host corporate events here. We can

24 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 25 FEATURE - TEAM SPIRIT FEATURE - TEAM SPIRIT

CAREER BACKGROUNDS

Ian Taylor grew up in Oldham, attended Hulme Grammar School and Lancaster University. His Dad died in April 1991, just before Ian’s final exams at Lancaster. Ian got into events management in its infancy.

He recalled: “I grew up in an entrepreneurial family. Business and family were everything and were intertwined. I went to Hulme Prep School and then Hulme Grammar School. I didn't know it was a 'posh' school or different until I became a teenager.

“My dad left school aged 14. He thought he did fairly well in life but always thought he would have done better with a decent education. So, he sent me to Hulme. Today I've got fond memories of school and still have friends and business associates from Hulme.

Katie Hodson with some of the themed props. “At university, I studied management and economics. Lancaster had one of the leading management schools at that time and I was quite good at economics. In ENCOURAGING CREATIVITY LOCAL SUPPLIERS Reflecting on Team Spirit’s development over those days, most university courses were still based around 'pure' subjects. So, the past year or two, Ian said: “This period has there were only about two business schools based at former polytechnics. In Quirky interior design adds to the creative, Ian also emphasised that Team Spirit works been the most exciting and most challenging hindsight, I would have fancied one of those courses.” fun atmosphere. The female WC has a with Oldham businesses too including SMEs. for me. I'm as fully infatuated with Team Spirit He had an early exposure to team-building events in the Lake District, after vibrant almost fluorescent pink door and Examples include Daniel Arundel of Arundel as day-one but there has been blood, sweat responding to an advert displayed in a Lancaster laundrette. In those days, team floor. Another area is the Dovestone Space Bakery, Chris Stansfield and Broken Pencil, and tears to get us here! featuring a large, billboard across one wall both in Oldham, and Grandpa Greene's Ice building had developed from outdoor pursuits and the armed forces. He enjoyed showing the Pennine landscape around Cream in Diggle, Saddleworth. “Over recent years, we have also won three the mix of activities and variety of people. After graduating and some temporary Dovestone Reservoir. Oldham Business Awards for the categories work in Spain, teaching English, he decided to move into the events business. He added: “There are so many thriving of Business Person of the Year, Business of An early project for British Airways saw him design a spy themed weekend. The Katie explained: “Our previous home in SMEs in Oldham. This must come from the the Year and Supporting Young People. So, process included releasing clues to participants through tape cassette recordings, Greenfield was right on the doorstep of hard-work ethic from the mill towns? Daniel there is lots to be proud of. We now have newspaper adverts and other means of communication, as this was the era before Dovestone so we wanted to bring a bit of Arundel just one great example. His bakery three times the space that we had previously, social media and the internet. The event went well. Saddleworth to this new base. Dovestone’s a has catered for us and did a fantastic job. I've and this new home gives us a great platform lovely place and part of who we are.” got the utmost respect for him.” to really grow.” He formally launched Team Spirit in 1993 with support in the form of a £2.5K loan from the former Oldham Business Development Loan Fund as well as support Another room is a ‘blank canvas’ for thinking. Local suppliers can benefit from Team Spirit’s In addition to thanking staff for their hard from the Prince’s Trust. He also received valuable business plan and training All four walls and even the table are covered client base. For example, two new flavours of work, Ian also acknowledged help from advice from Oldham Enterprise, led by Ed Stacey. He was first based in a small with white board surfaces for writing and ice cream have been developed by Grandpa Darren Flannery at Greater Manchester Ian Taylor office at the Acorn Centre in Derker, which was home to a range of small businesses. drawing. Greene’s. One is a bespoke Team Spirit Business Growth Hub, and from Louise Slater flavour, with candyfloss and sprinkles, called Regionally and nationally, Team Spirit is a and Tom Stannard, Principal Investment Ian said: “There was a great mix of business people there, including Andrew Maisie's Muse and was inspired by Ian's 6 preferred partner to leading hotels including Officer and Director of Economy and Skills Faulkner, who ran Evergreen Displays, which made security desk consoles, and a year old daughter. The second ice cream is a the Midland and Lowry in Manchester, respectively at Oldham Council. sewing business. mint choc-chip flavour in the unconventional the Emirates Old Trafford at Lancashire colour of red, reflecting the Virgin Media “The sewing staff were really noisy, with laughs and some blue language, but the County Cricket Club, the Queen's Hotel brand and also encouraging people to think camaraderie between us all was great.” in Leeds and the Hilton Metropole in differently in a fun way. Birmingham, amongst others. He ran just one event in that first year and had other jobs to make ends meet. However, the business grew, and Team Spirit moved to an office in Uppermill and Pictured: Team Spirit staff in the new premises then to Boarshurst Business Park in Greenfield. As it grew further, it eventually had five separate units at Greenfield before moving to the new site in Oldham.

Ian’s fellow director of the business; Rachel Taylor, went to Hartshead High School and worked in an auction and antiques business before joining Team Spirit. She now heads up the busy accounts department.

Katie Hodson, aged 37, grew up in Grasscroft, Oldham. She attended Saddleworth School and then the University of Leeds.

She studied a broadcasting degree and was interested in becoming a TV producer. However, she began working for Team Spirit and her career developed from there. She first helped with events and moved up the ladder to head the events team. After having her first son, she returned to become Team Spirit’s Office Manager and PA to Ian. In 2017, she returned from a more recent birth and maternity leave earlier than planned, to help Team Spirit move to the new site. Katie Hodson

26 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 27 FEATURE - RYDER & DUTTON SADDLEWORTH LIVING

The Huddersfield Narrow Canal in Uppermill

SADDLEWORTH is the perfect place for people wanting to combine rural or outdoor lifestyles within easy access of Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire.

Greenfield station links to Manchester and West Yorkshire

Saddleworth The picturesque district includes part of the transport links. Commuters can be in “There are more and more younger people Peak District National Park, historic villages central Manchester within 20 minutes by who want to live in Saddleworth now. A new and hamlets, and the eastern fringes of Oldham. train, or south Manchester and Stockport generation of cafes and restaurants have a in 45 minutes by car. Transport links have Manchester vibe that you’d find in Didsbury Saddleworth has a thriving community spirit living offers hugely improved in recent years with the or Chorlton. I’m thinking of venues such as and identity, with numerous events and M60 Manchester outer ring road, trans- Dinnerstone, Muse, Grand Abaco Cafe and festivals reflecting its rural, farming and textile Pennine train services and the expansion of the Wagon and Horse pub in Uppermill which connections. But it also offers contemporary the Metrolink tram network across nearby has recently had a big refurbishment. living and is increasingly popular with younger Oldham, Tameside and Rochdale. so much property buyers wanting a mix of town and “Twenty years ago, some of the pubs were country living and is becoming a very much “Saddleworth has great countryside, rather old-fashioned and dated, reflecting ‘destination lifestyle purchase’. attractions and recreational facilities such the rural and farming environment. But the as the Peak District National Park, the area is much more cosmopolitan now. There For commuters, the M62 and M60 motorways Huddersfield Narrow Canal, Dovestone is a real mix of places to go. There are lots of are easy to reach, while Greenfield railway Sailing Club, Roman forts at Castleshaw, young couples and families here who want a station has regular train services to Manchester footpaths and bridleways, hills and moors, more outdoor lifestyle but still want access to and West Yorkshire. Its schools are all highly outdoor walking and climbing festivals, fell modern amenities and technology. regarded, making it popular with families. running, mountain biking, village parks and “Schools in Saddleworth are all highly James Ebden, from multiple award-winning playing fields. regarded, which is a big draw for people in estate agent Ryder & Dutton, which will “It also has a great community spirit and all price ranges. Twenty years ago, many celebrate its centenary year in 2019, explains events, culture and history. Examples include buyers moving here were middle-aged. Today, more about the area’s attractions and its wide the annual decorated rush cart ceremonies, people are making the decision to come here choice of properties. the brass band music contest throughout younger and sooner.” “Saddleworth offers a rural lifestyle the area’s villages, the Saddleworth Show, Photographs by Darren Robinson. within easy reach of good amenities and arts, Saddleworth Museum and the Yanks nostalgia weekend.

James Ebden, Branch Manager of Ryder & Dutton, Uppermill 28 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 29 FEATURE - RYDER & DUTTON SADDLEWORTH LIVING

GREAT HOUSING CHOICE

James said the Saddleworth property market offers great diversity in housing types and price ranges, from £100,000 starter homes to £1million farms with land. Over recent years demand has been high in all sectors of the market with many properties achieving over asking price offers.

Some buyers want traditional weaver cottages with character and features such as wood-burning stoves and exposed beams typical of the area, and always generate a great deal of interest – one recently attracted over 25 viewings following an open viewing and an above asking price offer within days.

Alternatively the family buyer may be attracted to property that will tick a few more boxes which may not have the character feel but will include two reception rooms, rear and front gardens and vital off-

A large stone-built house on Huddersfield Road, Delph road parking and perhaps even a garage. These always appeal to the growing family who need a practical home as well as a good location.

New-build townhouses and mews homes are extremely popular, such as the Victoria Quay development in Dobcross, Bakestones Avenue in Delph, and the Royal George Mill site in Greenfield. More new-builds are being built there and at other developments in Saddleworth. People like the benefits of modern house design and Dovestones Reservoir is popular for walking, cycling, yachting and nature lovers specifications combined with the character of traditional materials such as stone and slate. CAREER BACKGROUND At the upper-end of the Saddleworth housing market are exclusive James Ebden, aged 49, grew up in Royton and mention that it used to be at Oldham. Oldham His colleagues at the Saddleworth office are detached homes and farms which are perfect for those wanting land attended North Chadderton School. He then was a good position as it was handled a large senior negotiator Jenny Boyle, residential sales for equestrian purposes. James said: “A few years ago, following the moved to London and studied surveying. number of property transactions. adviser Anne Hughes, sales negotiator Simon financial crash of 2008 I might have struggled to sell an expensive home Killeen and mortgage adviser Natalia Barry. priced at £1million. However now the demand is there, and I would Sadly, his father became seriously ill during In 1999, James went to manage Middleton have a decent chance of selling expensive home in excess of £1million. the early 1990s and died in 1992. James office and was asked to become an associate took a year off college at the time and later at Ryder & Dutton. In 2002, he was invited to Some buyers want homes in converted textile mills. One example is completed his ISVA surveying exams in manage the Saddleworth office in Uppermill. Victorian Manor House within the Dovestone Nature Reserve Alexandra Mill, Uppermill, which was converted in the mid 1990s and Manchester in 1992. He became a MRICS He became a partner in 2003 and then a is popular amongst young professionals and retired alike. There are chartered surveyor in 2000. director in 2006, when Ryder & Dutton other mill-type residential developments at locations including The was incorporated. Wharf in Dobcross, which overlooks the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, Recalling the property industry during the plus Spring Mill and Buckley Mill in the heart of Uppermill. early 1990s, he said: “There was a huge Below: Staff at Ryder & Dutton Uppermill. L-R: James Ebden (branch manager), Lesley Knight, recession at that time and very few job Eco-homes are also making an appearance. The area has seen a Madeleine Killeen, Natalia Barry, Simon Killeen, Anne Hughes and Jenny Boyle. vacancies. So, I did a few other jobs to number of earth-sheltered eco-homes being built and these are keep going and kept in contact with Ryder becoming popular. James added: “There is a greater understanding & Dutton, which was the agency I always of these types of homes and the local authority looks quite favourably wanted to work for. Eventually I was offered on them.” a job in 1994. I was delighted to join such a The construction of a new Saddleworth School in the area will bring respected company.” forward more demand for homes, wherever it is located, and create His first role at Ryder & Dutton was in development on the old site in Uppermill.- Needs changing to say corporate sales. He was a trainee manager that all the local schools are very popular etc... and later became the Oldham office manager. At Lees on the edge of Oldham, a planning application has been put He recalled: “I headed the residential sales forward for 265 new family homes, a link road and enhanced public department. (It was quite a privileged position Victoria Quay, Dobcross open space at a site off Knowls Lane. because the Oldham office was then our head office and included all the administrative staff. A proposed Lees link road would connect Lees New Road and That was before our head office staff moved Knowls Lane with Ashbrook Road and Oldham Road. This would to the new HQ at Salmon Field Business ease congestion at the tight junction of Hartshead Street and Lees Village.”) can you re-word the bit in brackets High Street. – I would like to get across that HQ is now Contact Ryder & Dutton’s Saddleworth office on 01457 870650. Salmon Fields, I don’t think we need to

30 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 31 ADVERTISING FEATURE - TEAM KARTING FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS Race track thrills are ACROSS OLDHAM & SADDLEWORTH! great for business TEAM Karting offers exceptional facilities for business team-building and hospitality events.

Catering for events for between eight and Chief executive Matty Street, aged 21, was the successful buyout of the business. 200 people, Team Karting boasts the longest diagnosed at the age of 12 with dyslexia, He is a strong advocate of enabling young tarmac track in the UK and has amenities dyspraxia and Asperger’s Syndrome. He people to develop their full potential, including conference facilities, free wi-fi and started karting at the same age and was especially those with learning difficulties projector, catering choices, sponsorship soon signed by a karting team. He then won Auction and the disadvantaged. He helped organise and branding opportunities, video and a £30,000 scholarship which allowed him to a Racing With Autism Day for 50 children at photography, and good transport access. race fully-funded for 12 months. Team Karting who spent a day with a Canadian Commercial Properties Owned by Matty Street from Oldham, His passion for motorsport increased in school karting champion. He also wants to encourage Team Karting’s long tarmac track provides and teachers started to relate lessons to more girls and young women to get involved EPC’s & Searches a unique outdoors feel based indoors. The motorsport, which kept him more engaged. with motorsport and related careers. venue at Ensor Mill, Queensway, Rochdale, Against earlier predictions, he acquired good Matty has met Prince Harry for his grassroots Financial Services hosts Grand Prix events and many other GCSE grades and then studied motorsport work and Team Karting was a finalist at professional racing tournaments. management and logistics at college and last year’s Rochdale Business Awards and Fine Art & Antiques university. With a certificate of excellence and five-star awarded the Leaders in Business accolade at reviews on TripAdvisor, Team Karting is the Whilst studying, he worked at Team Karting the 2017 Autism Hero Awards in London. Land & New Homes highest-rated karting track in the UK. It is as a part-time track marshal. He became a For more information or bookings, call open seven days a week, offering starter race director and had overall responsibilities 01706 310 999 or visit teamkarting.co.uk Lettings sessions, late-night racing, events and parties. for the drivers racing. In 2017, he completed Property Management Relocation Services Removals & Storage Residential Properties Sales Surveys & Valuations

Contact us today for all your property related needs

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32 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 33 MOTORING - BY STEVEN BERRY Nissan Navara N-Connecta Double Cab

OTR Price: £29,830 Engine: 2.3 turbo diesel Power: 190 bhp Transmission: 6-speed manual 0-62mph: 10.8 secs Top Speed: 114mph Combined Economy: 44.9 mpg

Navara offers best of both worlds

FOR those needing a working alloys, Nissan Intelligent Key and push- aggressive in their looks as well as their stance. button Start. There is also a chrome rear vehicle that will double as the The load bed is lined in a thick plastic to step bumper and the excellent C-Channel help keep things from getting very tatty very family transport there has never moveable tie-down points for the load bay. quickly and the sliding cleats for tie-downs been more choice and the Navara Acenta+ (from £28,980 inc. VAT) work very well. The Navara can carry a full all-new Nissan Navara NP300 provides 18in alloys, auto air-con (dual zone), tonne load also tow 3.5 tonne if needed. side-steps, a reversing camera and rear is a pick-up truck that should While the hardtop certainly makes the rear privacy glass. definitely be on your shortlist. bed much more secure for storing tools, etc. it If media connection is your thing then you’ll is rather low and therefore restrictive when it Nissan produced their first pick-up back in want the Navara N-Connecta (from £29,830 comes to taller objects. 1935 so they had plenty of experience to draw inc. VAT) which includes NissanConnect on when designing the new Navara which is Once up and into the cab you’ll find plenty of Sat Nav and entertainment system with available in both King Cab configuration with space for passengers and belongings. smartphone integration and Bluetooth audio tiny, rear-hinged back doors and fold-down streaming. With a multi-link rear suspension, the Double rear seats or the more family-friendly Double Cab Navara rides the lumps and bumps of our Cab layout which provides regular 3-seat Finally there is the Navara Tekna (from roads very well. accommodation and full-sized rear doors. £31,630 inc. VAT) which also gets you a 360-degree monitor, leather seats, LED I wouldn’t say the Nissan Navara is as good There is just the one engine available – a 2.3 headlights, roof rails, heated front seats and to drive as your average SUV or Crossover, of litre diesel unit in either single-turbo 160PS rear parking sensors. course, after all it is a working vehicle first and guise or the more powerful twin-turbo 190PS. foremost. You are always aware of its length Either way it’s a well-proven, rugged unit All Double Cab versions get part-time 4WD and weight. capable of up to 46.3mpg. and the option of a 7-speed auto gearbox, while the manual-only King Cab can be The Navara will truck-on down the motorway The model range consists of 5 trim-levels optioned with 2WD-only. quite easily, although with significant wind starting with the Navara Visia (from £24,480 noise from those large door mirrors. At speed inc. VAT) which includes such goodies as I’ve been driving a Navara N-Connecta it feels very stable and quite relaxed. Switch Bluetooth, multi-function steering wheel, Double Cab with the more powerful 190PS Call: 0161 393 5550 the rotary traction dial from 2WD to 4WD and cruise control, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent diesel engine and manual gearbox. It is in a much fun can be had off-road. or Control (4WD), an electronic Limited Slip very striking Savannah Yellow metallic paint Differential and a 5in. HD full colour TFT and includes a couple of options: A Rear The Navara NP300 is a work-horse with Email: [email protected] screen combimeter. The Double Cab Differential Lock at £500 and a Premium a plush saddle. Buyers moving from a version also gets a 5-link rear suspension Hardtop for £3,300. conventional hatchback and thinking about for a comfier ride and Intelligent Emergency an SUV would be much better served with the As you would expect it looks a bit of a beast, Braking which will also bring down the likes of the Nissan X-Trail or SEAT Ateca. But For more information especially that battering-ram front end. insurance premium. those who need to shift and load heavy gear However, this is true of all the Navara’s rivals. regularly and don’t want to destroy the inside The Navara Acenta (fom £26,280 inc. VAT) The Mitsubishi L200, VW’s Amarok, the Ford of their SUV will find a lot to like here. adds some exterior styling as well as 16in Ranger and the Toyota Hilux are all quite

34 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 35 Network enjoys local gins at art gallery with Handelsbanken

THE Professional Oldham networking group held a gin-tasting night at Gallery

Oldham sponsored by L-R: Chris Ainsworth, Wendy Mawdsley, Nicola Mitchell and Scott Parkinson of Handelsbanken Oldham Stephanie Doherty of Caremark Oldham and Handelsbanken with James Roberts of Ryder & Dutton Defiance Gin. Paul Sheerin of Defiance Gin, based in organised a quiz for businesses which raised His own Defiance Gin is made in small Lees, Oldham, explained the history and £1,500 for Madhlo Youth Zone in Oldham. batches with ‘botanicals’ gathered across the development of gin as visitors had a chance north of England – Lancashire, Yorkshire – Mr Parkinson emphasised that to see a British Wildlife Photography Awards and Scotland. Handelsbanken staff do not work on exhibition at the rooftop gallery. commission or sales targets, making it One of the Defiance gins is navy-strength 57 Suzanne Wright, of Pearson Solicitors & different to many high street banks. per cent vol. Financial Advisers, welcomed guests and Its’ structure is devolved, meaning decisions Mr Sheerin said he has plans for more gins spoke about Professional Oldham’s growth can be made by individual branches which, in using very local ingredients from the Pennines over the past two years, recalling its’ debut some ways, is a more ‘traditional’ approach. and Saddleworth countryside around Oldham. wine tasting night which took place at the nearby Naked Bean Café in the summer of 2016. Founded in Sweden 145 years ago, Oldham Gallery staff including Danielle Handelsbanken now operates in 25 countries. Hughes were thanked for their assistance. Handelsbanken Oldham branch manager Scott Parkinson then gave a speech about the Its’ first UK branch opened in 1982 and it now Professional Oldham is a non-profit making bank’s work in the borough and introduced has over 200 British offices. networking group for local businesses. It colleagues Chris Ainsworth, Wendy Mawdsley is run by a volunteer steering group with It recently opened a Manchester city centre and Nicola Mitchell. Suzanne Wright of Pearson Solicitors & branch after relocating from Manchester Airport. Financial Advisers, Bridget Batty of Limetree The Oldham branch of Handelsbanken PR, Stephanie Doherty and Helan Graham, opened at Salmon Field Business Village Paul Sheerin, of Defiance Gin, offered a both of Caremark Oldham; Dave Whaley at Dr in 2015. number of different gins to taste, with different ‘botanicals’ for flavour. These included one Kershaw’s Hospice and Robbie MacDonald Since then, its’ staff have become regular flavoured with British strawberries and of Oldham Business Edge magazine and attendees at Oldham business and charity another Italian gin served with grapefruit. Cornerstone Design & Marketing, events. Earlier this year, Handeslbanken The next Professional Oldham event is on Thursday, November 8, at Hollinwood Business Centre, starting at 6pm. Photographer Darren Robinson is due to speak about his career in news, sport, business and industrial photography, and guests will also see the new-look Hollinwood Business Centre which has had a major refurbishment.

To register, email professionaloldham@ outlook.com or contact Dave Whaley at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, on 0161 624 2727 or mobile 07764 638309.

Photographs by Darren Robinson.

Suzanne Wright of Pearson Solicitors and Paul Sheerin of Defiance Gin Journalist Gill Potts samples Defiance Gin Financial Advisers welcomes guests.

36 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 37 By Christian Maylor outdoor activities guide and author of Oldham Discovery Walks and Saddleworth Discovery Walks guidebooks.

TRANSFORM YOUR WORLD

It’s not too late, APPLY NOW for a September start. Call 0161 344 8800 or visit www.uco.oldham.ac.uk

Saddleworth Outdoor Festival celebrates Oldham’s beautiful countryside

THE Saddleworth Outdoor The wealth of beautiful, unspoilt countryside to Sunday, September 23. Throughout Festival is an annual weekend throughout the borough provides a rich the weekend, members of local outdoors playground for people to enjoy a wide range clubs and groups such as the Ramblers, celebration of outdoor pursuits of outdoor sports such as hill walking, fell Saddleworth Clarion, Saddleworth Runners, and activities throughout running, road cycling, sailing, canal boats, Dark Peak Dirtbags, Chew Valley Cragsmen, Oldham. Situated on the flanks orienteering, climbing and mountain biking. Greenfield Greyhounds, Saddleworth Discovery Walks and Dovestone Sailing Club of the Pennines, Oldham is a This is reflected by the diverse range of took part in their particular outdoor sports gateway to the Peak District outdoor pursuits clubs and groups catering and celebrated the wonderful recreational National Park and South for people who wish to spend their leisure opportunities which Oldham’s countryside time enjoying the countryside, with like- provides. Pennines region, both of minded people. which attract millions of The highlight of the annual weekend is the visitors every year. Included as part of the South Pennine Adventure Film & Talk Night hosted by Walk & Ride Festival, the Saddleworth Saddleworth Discovery Walks. This popular Outdoor Festival was conceived to bring social evening included a range of inspiring

together every autumn the various clubs, speakers and films that are guaranteed to

groups and individuals involved in outdoor awaken your spirit of adventure. It included sports throughout Oldham, Saddleworth a charity raffle to raise funds for Oldham and surrounding areas, and to provide Mountain Rescue Team. opportunities for people, both adults and

children, to experience new activities provided Further details about the annual

by the abundance of different groups. Saddleworth Outdoor Festival and

other outdoor activities in the Oldham

The latest Saddleworth Outdoor Festival was area can be found online at

recently held from Friday, September 21, www saddleworthdiscoverywalks.co.uk A guided walk on the Saddleworth hills

38 www.oldhambusinessedge.co.uk 39 • Grants and low-cost loads for start-ups and established businesses • Grants for under-25s • Low-cost loans for those aged 25-30 • Access to government start-up loans for over-30s starting a new business • Access to other funding via Business Finance Solutions, part of Manchester Growth Company

Providing a helping hand since 1990

For further details contact; Graham McKendrick, Enterprise Trust Manager 0161 770 3356 or 07515 188 974 [email protected]

oldhamenterprisetrust.org.uk