Wannabe holidaymakers dreaming of a luxurious getaway have the chance to turn that dream into reality with the Cynthia Spencer Hospice Winter Raffle.For just £1 per ticket, participants have the chance to win an unforgettable seven-night full board luxury cruise for two to Northern Europe, with stops at the Shetland Islands and three breathtaking Norwegian destinations – Haugesund, Flaam, and Kristiansand.The winner will set sail from Southampton on 11th May 2024, aboard the majestic MSC Virtuosa.Alongside the cruise, there are also cash prizes of £100 and £1000 to be won.Anita Frith, Director of Income Generation and Communications at Cynthia Spencer...

29 November, 2023

More than 50 residents from Hanwood Park gathered at a community meeting this month to discuss the future of this Kettering housing led mixed-use development.Chris Langdon, Project Director at Hanwood Park, gave residents a progress report, answered questions about leisure facilities and discussed timescales for the proposed secondary school.“Our priority at Hanwood Park is to secure planning permission for the rest of the site so that we can then start focusing on the development of community facilities, including shops, retail and leisure amenities,” said Chris, who thanked residents for their engagement and support at the event, held at Hayfield Cross Church of England Primary...

29 November, 2023

In an era where digital transformation is revolutionising various sectors, HMRC stands at the forefront, revolutionising the process of Self Assessment tax return filing. With an ever-expanding array of online resources and tools, HMRC aims to empower taxpayers with a hassle-free and streamlined approach to managing their tax obligations.The traditional process of contacting helplines for tax-related queries is gradually being replaced by a comprehensive online infrastructure. HMRC, recognising the evolving needs and preferences of taxpayers, has strategically invested in an array of digital services to accommodate this shift.Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, emphasizes the pivotal role of...

28 November, 2023

Boughton House, home to the Duke of Buccleuch, will be helping visitors craft their perfect Christmas this weekend. From their popular Christmas Trees sale, to a brand new Craft Fair, Santa’s Grotto and the opening of the spectacular Gardens.Boughton, which is featured in Ridley Scott’s new film Napoleon, will be open from 1st December for premium Nordmann Fir Christmas trees, handmade wreaths, tree stands, decorations and unique gifts from the 18th century Stableyard. Visitors can choose trees from 4ft to 9ft with a selection of smaller potted trees available too.On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December, Boughton has invited British...

28 November, 2023

Businesses in West Northamptonshire are continuing to be celebrated in the run up to Small Business Saturday with many local businesses taking home awards in this year’s Northamptonshire Business Awards, which took place on Thursday (23 November) at the Northampton Town Centre Hotel in Northampton.Acorn Analytical Services were the proud winners of the West Northamptonshire Business of the Year award, while Sedgebrook Hall were crowned winner of the West Northamptonshire Sustainability award, with both categories being sponsored by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). Other West Northants winners and finalists on the night included Hi-Force Limited, Gilt Edged Promotions, and Postworks Limited.Acorn...

28 November, 2023

Northamptonshire Community Foundation will celebrate charities, volunteers and community groups across the county at their Annual Awards event on Wednesday 29th November.This year’s Annual Awards will be held at the Royal Theatre in Northampton, where award nominees and supporters of Northamptonshire Community Foundation will come together to recognise and honour those who work tirelessly to give back to their local community.More than 40 local groups are finalists for awards, which span five main categories: Building Better Communities, Celebrating Culture and Heritage, Excellence in Education, Happy and Healthy Communities and Tackling Inequalities. Nominated individuals will also be celebrated through the Avon...

28 November, 2023

In the dynamic world of business networking, the temptation to dive headfirst into sales pitches during meetings is often strong. However, the reality is that trying to sell outright within these settings is akin to attempting immediate gratification in a world built on relationship-building and trust.Business network meetings serve as a fertile ground for establishing connections, nurturing relationships, and building a network that sustains and fosters future opportunities. Trying to sell outright in these environments is comparable to starting a diet and expecting instant weight loss or anticipating becoming a grandmaster in chess after moving just one pawn—it simply doesn't...

28 November, 2023

In a bid to position the United Kingdom at the forefront of the global self-driving technology race, the government has unveiled a substantial funding boost of up to £150 million allocated to Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) until 2030. This announcement is part of the government’s extensive £4.5 billion investment strategy aimed at revitalising British manufacturing, fostering economic growth, and ensuring the nation remains an attractive destination for innovation and investment.The substantial financial injection into CAM represents a pivotal milestone within the Advanced Manufacturing Plan, a comprehensive strategy outlining the government's commitment to investing in the future of manufacturing and...

27 November, 2023

The government has unveiled proposals to potentially extend pub and bar licensing hours for the semi-finals and final of the men’s European Football Championships next year. If England, Wales, or Scotland make it to the latter stages of the tournament, the government aims to stretch licensing hours in England and Wales from 11 pm to 1 am.This plan is contingent on a public consultation launched today, outlining measures for the Home Secretary to extend licensing hours in instances of “exceptional international, national, or local significance.”Home Secretary James Cleverly underscored the unifying power of international tournaments, expressing support for England and...

27 November, 2023

The Northamptonshire education community came together on Friday 10th November for the fifth annual Northamptonshire Education Awards, held at the County Ground, the home of Northamptonshire County Cricket Club.The prestigious ceremony was hosted by legendary broadcaster and TV personality Eamonn Holmes and offered an opportunity to celebrate the county’s education professionals and institutions, including schools, teachers, headteachers, administration and support staff, as well as special initiatives that have expanded the curriculum and provided invaluable experiences to the children and young people of Northamptonshire.The event, headline sponsored by education technology provider easipc, saw twelve awards given for specific subject teams, teachers...

27 November, 2023

In the lead up to this year's Small Business Saturday Campaign, we look at 20 different ways high street and town centre businesses can work towards growing in Northamptonshire.Northamptonshire, steeped in history and cultural significance, hosts a vibrant tapestry of high street and town centre businesses. In a landscape undergoing transformation due to evolving consumer behaviours and market dynamics, these enterprises face the challenge of adapting and flourishing. Here are 20 effective ways tailored for businesses in Northamptonshire to foster growth and success.1. Embrace Digital TransformationInvest in a robust online presence, optimise for mobile, and utilise e-commerce platforms to cater...

27 November, 2023