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UK consumers are showing signs of optimism about the property market despite the continued financial pinch according to a latest survey. However, UK consumers are feeling financially worse off than they were a year ago, especially those aged 35-54, according to Dye & Durham’s newly launched UK Pulse Report for Q3 2023. The survey of 2,151 UK adults conducted by YouGov explores trends in the economy, the property market and technology. Almost half of respondents (47%) confirm their finances are in a worse place than they were 12 months ago, with only 16 per cent of people suggesting their finances have improved. Those aged between 35-54 are feeling the most financially vulnerable, with just over half (52%) confirming that their finances have been negatively impacted compared to 2022. The bulk of this group – 59 per cent of those 35-44 and 58 per cent of those 45-54 – also say owning their home has become less affordable. While sentiment about personal finances has dipped, consumers’ plans to purchase or sell properties over the next year have not experienced the same downward pressure. In fact, there are signs of optimism. A separate Dye & Durham survey conducted in the UK in March 2023 found 1 in 10 (10%) of UK respondents were planning to delay property purchases to wait for lower interest rates or asking prices. That’s down to 1 in 20 (5%) today. Similarly, the UK Pulse Report for Q3 2023 found that two per cent of respondents sold their primary residence and purchased a new one in the past 12 months, but three per cent plan to do the same in the next 12 months. “It’s clear that many people in the UK continue to be affected by the tough economic conditions, with rising bills and high interest rates making people feel financially worse off,” says Martha Vallance, Chief Operating Officer, Dye & Durham. “This has had a knock-on effect for many industries as transaction activity has declined, including the legal industry that we operate in. However, as rates begin to hold – and eventually decline – we expect to see a significant upswing in areas like real estate transactions, business originations and others that should help legal firms bounce back from a slower-than-normal year.” Overall, 58 per cent said they would consider moving to find a lower cost of living – specifically almost a quarter (23%) said they would look at a more affordable town or city in their current county. This was more apparent in some areas of the country, such as the East of England and London, where 29 per cent and 27 per cent respectively, would look at moving to an alternative location in their current county. The UK Pulse Report also explored trends in technology and found that a significant majority of UK consumers have not yet tried AI for either personal use (71%) or professional use (81%). They are also concerned about skilled professionals incorporating AI into the services they provide to their customers. Only 16 per cent of UK consumers said they would feel comfortable with property / real estate agents using AI, reducing to just 14 per cent for financial advisors and insurance brokers, 13 per cent for mortgage brokers and 11 per cent for lawyers and conveyancers. When asked what would help increase their comfort with generative AI being used by lawyers and conveyancers, 27 per cent said they would be more comfortable if it was used to improve their performance without replacing a real person, while 26 per cent said if it would guarantee a better outcome or better accuracy (30% of people agreed to this for mortgage brokers, IFAs and insurance brokers). A quarter (25%) would also feel more comfortable with lawyers and conveyancers using AI if it would significantly reduce the cost of the service provided. “The UK’s legal industry is already exploring the enormous potential for AI to provide cost efficiency and accuracy benefits – from estate agency through to finance and conveyancing – but consumer education is essential. It’s important to demonstrate how AI is already being deployed and the benefits it offers legal professionals in terms of efficiency and accuracy, which ultimately pass through to the client,” says David Nash, Chief Product Officer, Dye & Durham.

Five years ago today, the Leicester City family was consumed by tragedy, the response to which transcended football and touched the hearts of communities around the world. On 27 October, 2018, shortly after a Premier League match against West Ham United, the Club lost its Chairman, Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha; pilots Eric Swaffer and Izabela Lechowicz; and staff members Nusara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare in a helicopter accident outside King Power Stadium. The days that followed were marked by an outpouring of grief, respect and love for the five lives lost, including a Chairman whose vision had transformed a Football Club, built pride and togetherness among our communities and redefined people’s belief in what is possible. This Friday morning, a private ceremony was staged inside the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Garden, as Chief Executive Susan Whelan, Club Directors and representatives of our Men’s and Women’s teams gathered to pay their own tributes. They were there to honour the immense legacy bestowed upon the Club by our beloved late Chairman and to remember the lives of Eric, Izabela, Nusara and Kaveporn. It was an opportunity for the Leicester City family to once again come together and to reaffirm its commitment to a precious vision which guides the Club’s entire operation as we strive to build a future in which we can all take pride. Led by Buddhist monks, such ceremonies have become a regular fixture at King Power Stadium and in Seagrave during the Srivaddhanaprabha family’s ownership of the Club. The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Garden offers a calming, reflective space for all on the site where tragedy struck five years ago. Supporters are invited to visit the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Garden during daylight hours today, and any other day, to remember the people we tragically lost in October 2018. Khun Vichai’s eight years as Chairman were characterised by immense kindness, commitment and ambition – cultivating a unique atmosphere at the Club which would lead to one of the greatest sporting achievements of all time. Following promotion to the Premier League in 2014, two years later, the Foxes were crowned as English champions in historic fashion. Defying unbelievable odds, Leicester City shocked the world to lift the iconic Premier League trophy, later also embarking on a magical run to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. Khun Vichai is remembered for his warmth and compassion as well as the footballing glory his vision helped to achieve. He pledged £4M in personal donations to help Leicester-based charities better the lives of local people. From children’s hospitals to local religious centres, he invested in causes which matter to the people of Leicester. Current Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha has since committed the Club to his father’s vision and his generosity of spirit lives on through the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation. In recent seasons, the Foxes lifted a first-ever FA Cup in 2021, also winning the Community Shield later that year and embarking on campaigns in the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League. The world-leading LCFC Training Ground is the embodiment of Khun Vichai’s legacy at Leicester City. Opened three years ago, it offers a magnificent, aspirational place of work for the Club’s Men’s and Academy operation. LCFC Women, meanwhile, joined Leicester City’s portfolio of teams in 2020, immediately winning promotion to the FA Women’s Super League – where the Foxes are showing exciting promise during their third consecutive campaign in the top tier. Admired private jet and helicopter pilot Eric Swaffer possessed over 20 years of flying experience. After flying helicopters on the North Sea for approximately five years, he spent the next five years flying for charter and private owners, and another five years flying scheduled airlines, before working in private and business aviation. Eric lived in Camberley, Surrey, with his partner, Izabela Lechowicz. Izabela, Eric’s co-pilot on the night of 27 October, moved to the UK from Poland in 1997. She was the winner of the #polka100 award, an accolade awarded by the Polish embassy in London as one of 18 ‘exceptional women who inspire the Polish community in Britain’. The embassy described her as ‘a wonderful pilot’, who ‘created a positive image of Poland in the UK’. Nusara Suknamai graduated with a BA (Hons) in Communication Arts from Bangkok University and an MA from the Faculty of Communication Arts (Tourism and Entertainment) from Krirk University, Bangkok. Nusara, a member of Khun Vichai’s staff, also worked in television for Channel 7 from 2006-2013. Kaveporn Punpare worked as one of the late Chairman’s personal assistants, and was affectionately known as ‘Golf’. He was from Bangkok and studied sports and wellness. He was married and had a three-year-old daughter at the time of the accident. Today’s ceremony followed an emotional moment’s applause during Tuesday’s match against Sunderland at King Power Stadium as the people of Leicester paid a fitting tribute during the Club’s closest home fixture to the anniversary of 27 October, 2018. Khun Vichai, Kaveporn, Nusara, Eric and Izabela will never be forgotten at Leicester City Football Club. Always in our hearts. The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Memorial Garden will be open from 4pm today for anyone who wishes to pay their respects, ahead of tonight’s Lionesses fixture at King Power Stadium.

Tesco is announcing today that after an exceptional career at Tesco of more than 33 years, including six as UK CEO, Jason Tarry has decided to leave the business in March 2024. Jason’s leadership has guided Tesco through its turnaround and more recently the pandemic, rebuilding its competitiveness in the UK and putting customers back at the heart of the business. Paying tribute to Jason, Tesco Group CEO Ken Murphy said: “Jason has made an immense contribution to our business. Under his leadership, Tesco today is the most competitive we have ever been, built on exceptionally strong foundations of doing the right thing for our customers and colleagues." "His values and commitment to creating a high performing, supportive and diverse culture have been key to creating the Tesco we know today." I am incredibly grateful to Jason for his leadership of the UK business and his critical role on the Executive Committee. We have five months until Jason leaves us, and I know he will do his utmost to ensure our UK business continues its very strong performance until then, including delivering a winning Christmas.” Jason Tarry said: “Little could I have imagined 33 years ago, the journey I would go on with Tesco. My life in Tesco has been a wonderful experience. This decision was not made easily but this is the right time for me to move on. I am grateful to my amazing colleagues and the lifelong friends I have made here. I will continue to give my all to being UK CEO until March, and my determination that we give our customers the best Christmas is heightened knowing that this will be my last as a Tesco colleague.” "Jason will be succeeded as UK CEO by Matthew Barnes, who will join Tesco on 1 March 2024." "Matthew is a highly accomplished retailer having worked in many senior positions in Aldi. He was previously UK & Ireland CEO before being promoted to co-head of Aldi Sud’s Executive Board, where he had responsibility for many of Aldi’s international businesses and its Global Sourcing, Buying & Supply Chain." Commenting on Matthew’s appointment as incoming UK CEO, Ken Murphy said: “I believe the combination of Matthew’s extensive retail experience, competitive spirit and challenger mindset will help us continue to win in the UK market and evolve our thinking about what customers will want from Tesco in the future. We look forward to welcoming Matthew to Tesco early next year, and I’d like to thank Jason for all the support he has given to creating a smooth transition plan.” Matthew Barnes said: “I have always had the highest respect for Tesco, and I’m really excited to be joining the team. It is an honour to be appointed as UK CEO. I come to this role with a real sense of determination to ensure that we build on the progress of the last number of years and deliver for our customers and colleagues.”

London Gatwick could support more than 28,000 additional jobs across the UK, through a 61% increase in inbound tourism, if its Northern Runway plans are approved.   The airport is proposing to bring its existing Northern Runway into regular use alongside its Main Runway – plans which would facilitate a significant increase in inbound tourism to London, the South East and the UK more widely.   A report by Oxford Economics highlights that international visitors arriving via Gatwick are likely to increase from 5.6m in 2019 to 9m in 2038, 1.6m more than without the Northern Runway.   By 2038, this uplift in tourism would also generate £8.74billion of Gross Value Added (GVA) through increased spending of international visitors, amounting to nearly £2 billion more than without the Northern Runway development.  As a result of increasing numbers of international visitors, there will be 130,700 jobs by 2038, both directly and indirectly supported by Gatwick-facilitated tourism. This compares to the 84,100 jobs in 2019, and 28,700 more than without the Northern Runway.  Under London Gatwick’s plans, regular use of the Northern Runway for departures will increase the airport’s capacity, seeing throughput increase to around 75.6m passengers and 382,000 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) in 2038, and around 80.2m passengers and 386,000 ATMs per year in 2047. Many of these additional slots would support long-haul services from high-spending markets such as the USA, Middle East and Asia.   Alison Addy, Head of External Engagement and Policy, London Gatwick said: “With inbound visitors to the UK forecast to reach 37.5million this year – and a significant proportion of these travelling to London and the South East - it’s clear the significant contribution London Gatwick plays in supporting the thriving tourism industry, alongside local, regional and national economies. " “Businesses and individuals associated with the tourism industry – from family-run B&Bs and independent taxi drivers, to major tourist attractions and hotel chains – already benefit from having London Gatwick facilitating visitors from around the world." “We are confident that by bringing our existing Northern Runway into regular use – and by offering more global connections – we can further boost this vital part of our local, regional and national economies, and the hundreds of thousands of jobs the tourism industry supports.”  Gavin Stewart, Executive Director, Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership said: “The addition of the Northern Runway at London Gatwick brings with it an opportunity for our region to capitalise significantly on the increase in inbound tourists.  The South East has so much to offer. From days out on the coast to exploring the National Park, to wine tourism, fascinating market towns and thrilling city experiences. Our unique heritage offer, attractions, hospitality and retail can only benefit from the uplift, helping the region to remain competitive and sustainable over the next decade and beyond.”  Fran Downton, Chief Executive, Tourism South East said: “The long-term sustainable development of London Gatwick plays a fundamental part in the economic prosperity of the region. The growth plans for the Northern Runway will inevitably support and drive the visitor sector, its businesses, its employment, and the green agenda to the benefit of the South East.” London Gatwick is investing in its long-term future and its planning application to bring the airport’s Northern Runway into regular use has recently been accepted for detailed examination by the Planning Inspectorate. This low-impact plan will improve resilience, reduce delays, and provide a significant boost to the national and regional economy by supporting trade, tourism, and new jobs.   Members of the public, including local residents and other stakeholders, have until 23:59 on 29 October 2023 to register with the Planning Inspectorate and provide a summary of their views on the airport’s application.

Three of independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame’s beers have been recognised at the Great British Food Awards. The Faversham-based brewery has won a Gold award for Spitfire Amber Ale (4.2% ABV), a Silver award for Whitstable Bay Blonde Lager (4.5% ABV), and a Bronze award for Bishops Finger (5.2% ABV). It is the ninth year of the awards, launched to celebrate the very best of British artisanal produce in the food and drink industry. The judging panel comprises some of the most acclaimed chefs, food critics and influencers in the country, with the Beer and Lager category judged by Australian professional rugby league footballer Jacob Liddle. Explaining his decision to award Spitfire Amber Ale a Gold Medal, Jacob said: “Probably the most "British" of the contenders in terms of packaging and potentially style, it is a classic old-style amber ale well executed. Refreshing, and ultimately very enjoyable.” It is the latest in a series of honours for Shepherd Neame’s beers, with other recent wins including Bishops Finger scooping Gold at the British Bottlers’ Institute Awards, International Beer Challenge and Taste of Kent Awards; India Pale Ale and Double Stout receiving Silver at the International Beer Challenge; and Singha, which has been brewed under license at Shepherd Neame for the UK market since 2022, awarded a Diploma of Excellence by the British Bottlers’ Institute. First brewed in 1990 to commemorate the Battle of Britain which was fought in the skies above Kent 50 years earlier, Spitfire Amber Ale is a classic premium Kentish Ale, which carries a Royal Warrant. Jacob added: “The name and imagery are quintessentially British and a nod to the past. The beer is brewed with Kentish hops and the reference "The Bottle of Britain" is entertaining and adds to the British embodiment of the beer.” Shepherd Neame’s Director of Brewing Mike Unsworth said: “We are delighted that three of our brands have received national acclaim in the Great British Food Awards, with glowing praise for our Great British classic Spitfire Amber Ale. We have a fantastic team of brewers at Shepherd Neame and this is well-deserved recognition for their passion, knowledge and skill.” For more information visit: www.shepherdneame.co.uk

Northern Ireland’s largest airline easyJet has celebrated 25 years of flying passengers to and from Belfast International Airport. The airline operated its largest ever flying programme from Belfast International this summer with 9.4% per cent more capacity than pre-pandemic, flying 3.2 million seats. The airline welcomed an 8th A320 family aircraft to the base for this summer and has flown over 4.5 million passengers in the last year. Unrivalled short-haul network continues to go from strength to strength, with inaugural flights from to Hurghada in Egypt and to Southampton set to take off for the first time later this month. easyJet, Europe's leading airline and the largest airline in Northern Ireland is celebrating 25 years of flying passengers to and from Belfast International Airport. To mark the occasion the airline surprised passengers flying from Belfast International with giveaways throughout the day including free easyJet return flights. Other celebrations, including cake giveaways, happened at the airport throughout the morning. Since easyJet’s very first flight from Belfast to London Luton a quarter of a century ago, the airline has gone from strength to strength flying over 70 million passengers in that time with over 4.5 million flown in last year. This year easyJet welcomed its eighth Airbus A320 family aircraft to the base, the most since operations began, demonstrating the airline’s long-term commitment to Northern Ireland and operated its largest flying programme from Belfast International with 9.4% more capacity than pre-pandemic, flying 3.2 million seats to and from Belfast International. In the past year, the airline’s network has gone from strength to strength, adding four new routes to Antalya in Turkey, Rhodes in Greece, Southampton and most recently Hurghada, providing connections between Belfast and Egypt for the first time. easyJet now offers more capacity from Belfast to Spain and Portugal than any other airline and links Belfast International with more London airports than any other airline, providing over 90 flights a week from Belfast International. Ali Gayward, easyJet UK country manager, commented: ”For over two decades, we are proud to have served millions of customers flying from Belfast International, where we have grown to become the largest airline not just as the airport but in Northern Ireland, with customers choosing us for our unrivalled network, fantastic service and great value fares." “And our continued success at Belfast International is testament to the strong demand we see for travel, coupled with the importance of the UK market in supporting our profitable growth." “I have to thank our fantastic customers who have travelled from Belfast International Airport with us over the past 25 years for their loyalty and support as well as our dedicated team in Belfast for their hard work and commitment. We can’t wait to see where the next 25 years takes us.” Graham Keddie, Managing Director, Belfast International Airport, said: “easyJet revolutionised air travel when they arrived at Belfast international Airport 25 years ago. They have become an integral part of the airport’s growth in that time, bringing unrivalled connectivity, significant investment and providing employment to hundreds of people. We are incredibly proud to stand alongside them today to celebrate this fantastic milestone. We look forward to the launch of new routes later this month to both Hurghada and Southampton and also to working alongside them on further developments.” Last month the airline put on sale its summer 2024 schedule on sale meaning millions of seats across 155,000 easyJet flights between 3 June 2024 and 1 September 2024 including thousands of flights to and from Belfast International are now available, so customers have the opportunity to book early and get the best fares for next summer. For more information on easyJet’s network from Belfast, visit easyJet.com .

The winners of the Travel Media Awards 2023, in association with the Moroccan National Tourist Office, have been announced. The ceremony, held at The Savoy in London, saw 127 finalists compete across a range of categories covering all areas in print, digital, broadcasting and photography. Many of the industry’s leading figures were in attendance, some of whom were fortunate enough to walk away with a coveted Travel Media Awards trophy.   Among the winners were The Sunday Times Travel for National Broadsheet Newsprint Section of the Year and The Sun for National Tabloid Newsprint Section of the Year. In the new Sustainability Travel Writer of the Year category, Holly Tuppen was the inaugural winner. The judges said: “Holly's research and expertise within the responsible travel sector shines in abundance throughout her writing.” Separately, the Sustainability Travel Feature of the Year had joint winners, with articles by Phoebe Smith and Sam Haddad for The Guardian chosen for this category. Writer Adrian Phillips’s spectacular piece ‘Into the Deep’ — published by National Geographic Traveller (UK) — also impressed the judges, with the panel naming it National Consumer Feature of the Year. Ben Clatworthy of The Times took home the trophy for Breaking Travel News and Jacqui Agate was named as the 2023 Young Writer of the Year. The 2023 Special Contribution Award went to TTG’s Pippa Jacks. Pippa began her journey with a work experience placement at TTG Magazine in 2006 before joining the team as features writer, later becoming features editor, then taking the helm as editor of the 70-year-old trade publication between 2013 and 2017. As editorial director, Pippa now manages an award-winning team of 14 editorial staff across TTG’s print magazines, digital channels and events.  Anthony Leyens, co-founder of the Travel Media Awards and CEO of APL Media, said: “After a difficult few years for the industry, it’s truly inspiring to see it in such good health. The works produced by this year’s finalists are some of the best to date, so thank you to the entrants, the finalists, the judges and everyone who came to this year’s ceremony. We’ll see you in 2024!”  Giles Harper, co-founder of the Travel Media Awards and managing director of Travega, added: “Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Travel Media Awards and ensured that the night went as spectacularly as it did. Additionally, I would like to thank our headline sponsor, the Moroccan National Tourist Office; our consumer media partner, easyJet Holidays; and all our category sponsors. This event would not have been possible without your continued commitment and generosity, for which we are all very grateful.”

Vineyards are the fastest-growing edible agricultural crop sector in England, according to recent statistics issued by DEFRA (Defra Agricultural and Horticultural Survey). These recent figures show that grapes now represent 36% of England’s soft fruit crop (which saw a sector growth rate of +21% in the last year), with strawberries and blackcurrants in second place at 21% each. This figure is set to grow further as the UK wine industry body, Wines of Great Britain ( WineGB ), has reported a 74% growth in vine plantings in just five years to 4,300ha. This trajectory is set to continue as plantings are expected to reach 7,600ha by 2032, yielding a potential 24.7mn bottles (WineGB Industry Report, June 2023). WineGB has also set out an ambitious long-term sustainability programme to measure and reduce the industry’s carbon footprint and regenerate the natural environment to enhance biodiversity throughout Britain’s vineyards. The growth in vineyards has heralded the emergence of Wine Tourism as an important attraction for domestic and inbound tourists. Many vineyards offer experiences such as tours and tastings, and an increasing number have cafés, restaurants and even accommodation. As Britain’s wine harvest is underway, this latest data further illustrates the positive impact this industry is making on the landscape, to local economies, and rural employment. Comments Ned Awty, interim CEO of industry body Wines of Great Britain (WineGB): “It is often said to be exciting times in British Wine and right now is no exception. The UK is one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the world with an exciting future ahead. With increased investment, increased global awareness and an exciting portfolio of sparkling and still wines, this is an excellent time to be seeking out your nearest vineyard to see what they have to offer." “Wine tourism is becoming an increasingly important business for our producers. As having local vineyards normalises in the national psyche, so does popping in to try wines or buy a bottle. This change in consumer behaviour is already having a significant impact on local economies and we look forward to seeing it grow." “Consumers are demanding more locally produced, environmentally friendly products, something that English and Welsh wines are in a unique position to deliver.” Read the full DEFRA report here

Porsche Brand Ambassador and Grand Slam tennis champion Emma Raducanu joined customers and fans at a special event to celebrate the opening of the new Porsche NOW brand store at Battersea Power Station. Porsche NOW – which is open until 1 December on the Ground Floor in Turbine Hall A - aims to bring the excitement and fascination of the Stuttgart luxury sports car brand to new, urban audiences in a novel style. Visitors are drawn into the original dream of Porsche founder, Ferry Porsche, who was inspired to build his perfect sports car. And the space will share this company philosophy of dreaming to help others achieve individual ambitions. Those ambitions were personified on the night by 20-year-old Raducanu, who during the day had been training at the nearby National Tennis Centre ahead of her return to the WTA Tour in 2024. She thrilled guests, recounting the story of her rise through the tennis rankings and how her love of racing inspires her away from the court. Emma discussed her early dreams and what motivated her along the path to sporting success. She went on to explain how motorsport was always a parallel passion, with Porsche also having a place in her heart from a young age. “I always loved the style of Porsche sports cars since one of my first coaches would turn up at training in a 911." "But, of course, since becoming a Brand Ambassador I have gained a wider understanding of the company, particularly regarding innovation, technology and sustainability,” commented Emma. “I saw some cool things tonight I didn’t expect and in that way Porsche NOW has something for everyone; whether you already drive a Porsche or are just stopping by for a coffee. The idea to invite special guest speakers and host community workshops is also very cool.” “The opening of Porsche NOW at Battersea Power Station is a big milestone for Porsche in Great Britain. This is our first realisation of the Porsche NOW retail concept in the UK. It’s an inspiring brand activation and retail format,” commented Krishan Bodhani, CEO Porsche Cars Great Britain. “However, while the primary goal of Porsche NOW is to reach new customers, we are also focussed on engaging with the local community through education, well-being, the arts and lifestyle.” Inside the store, there is a dedicated area where selected local artists will be live painting a mural, beginning this week with Lucy Ambler. In addition, 9 Elms Arts Ministry will be curating a gallery of local artists; reflecting the ethos of Porsche as a brand that enables people’s dreams, by proudly giving them a platform to showcase their work. Local schools and colleges will also be invited into the space to hear from Porsche employees on topics such as sustainability and learn about career paths into becoming an apprentice technician. Regular highlights will be hosted evenings dedicated to motorsport, design, and well-being. And brand partners will also join with Masterclasses, including La Marzocco Coffee and Porsche Design with study of watchmaking. The Porsche NOW concept is delivered in partnership with the retail Porsche Centre network, and the hosts can offer limited test drives. At Battersea, it is managed by the team from Porsche Centre West London, part of the Porsche Retail Group. Next year, Porsche NOW will visit other cosmopolitan urban centres around the UK.

Bengalis have been rewarded and acknowledged for their substantial contribution to healthcare, finance, politics, education and the arts. Now in its fifth year, The Bengals Pride Awards is a unique platform where East and West Bengal come together to recognise the best in their community. The ceremony at the historic Churchill Hall, House of Commons, is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of the Bengali ethnic community from India and Bangladesh. The community has, for decades, contributed to growth not just across South Asia but right across the globe. Many Bengalis like Dr. Amartya Sen, Dr. Abhijit Binayak Sen, Dr. Inus Khan, Saurav Ganguly, Shakib Al Hasan have made a substantial global footprint, but have never been recognised by the community. The third largest ethnic group and one of the most prominent culture groups in the world, nearly half a million Bengali ethnic communities from India and Bangladesh live in the United Kingdom and have not only achieved success in the restaurant business but have also achieved success in other important sectors such as the medical sector and the import-export retail market. Rajesh Agarwal, Deputy Lord Mayor of London said: “It is truly an honour to attend the Bengali’s Pride Awards 2023. Many congratulations to all the winners, who are the bright stars and an inspiration, not just for the global Bengali community but for everyone." "The Bengali community in London has contributed to every single aspect of London and British life – food, art, culture, economy, sports, media and politics.” Bangladesh High Commissioner H E Ms Saida Muna Tasneem said: “I congratulate the Advatech Bengali Pride Award Winners for 2023 for community work, philanthropy, women entrepreneurs, sports and many more catagories. What is special about this award is that it recognises brilliance and talent of Bengali people from both India and Bangladesh.” The Advatech Foundation founded these awards intending to recognise Benglis for their endeavours globally whilst helping provide education for children, young persons and adults resident anywhere in the world, particularly in India and Bangladesh. Awards founder and Adavtech Foundation Trustee, Samit Biswas commented: ""I am delighted to announce our winners, it's absolutely brilliant to see the community come together and be celebrated. These awards show us just how important it is to recognise Bengalis' efforts and contributions, transforming lives and contributions to economies." The winners included: 1. Lifetime Achievement Award: Ratan Tata 2. Pride of Bengal: Chandra Shekhar Ghosh 3. Entrepreneur of the Year: Jaydeep Barman 4. Achievement in Community Work: Jane Richter 5. Business Person of the Year: Supratim Bose 6. Achievement in Art and Media: Anita Bose 7. Sports Person of the Year: Raj Chaudhuri 8. Health and Social Care: Dr Madhushree Ghosh 9. Sir David Amess Memorial Award: Chalkwell Lifeguards 10. Women Entrepreneur of the Year: Rushna Miah

Harlequins are pleased to announce a new partnership with Conrad Energy who has today been unveiled as the Club’s Official Power Partner and Sleeve Sponsor. In an exciting new partnership, the Conrad Energy logo will feature on the sleeves of the Harlequins Women’s and Men’s shirts for the 2023/24 season, commencing this weekend with matches against Gloucester-Hartpury and Exeter Chiefs. The partnership will also feature significant Conrad Energy branding throughout The Stoop, alongside a range of key initiatives, supporting the Club’s commitment to driving sustainable energy growth. Formed in 2016, Conrad Energy are a leading energy producer with more than 70 sites throughout the UK. As an Independent Power Producer (IPP), Conrad Energy are at the forefront of the energy transition, helping the UK move towards a sustainable, net zero carbon electricity system by balancing the grid when renewables can’t meet demand. Conrad Energy also work closely with businesses to help drive down their energy costs and carbon footprints through a variety of innovative products and services. With a pipeline of more than 1GW of their own projects and a growing base of business customers, Conrad Energy are powering a changing world. Commenting on the new partnership, Conrad Energy’s CEO Steven Hardman said: “We’re delighted to partner with a world-famous club like Harlequins." "The values they hold dear such as teamwork, commitment, performance and creativity are similar to our own, so it feels like a really great match. We look forward to a strong and successful relationship." Harlequins CEO Laurie Dalrymple added: “We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with Conrad Energy. Conrad Energy are leading the power transformation in the UK and their determination to improve efficiency aligns completely with the Club’s commitment to drive smarter and sustainable power solutions." “We’re excited to form this new relationship with Conrad Energy and we’re looking forward to having their logo proudly displayed on our Harlequins Women’s and Men’s shirt for the season ahead.” Both parties would like to thank Very Media for their support in developing this relationship.

England men’s head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team to play South Africa in the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup 2023 at Stade de France (kick-off 9pm CEST, 8pm BST live on ITV Sport) on Saturday. Owen Farrell will captain a starting XV with three changes to the side that defeated Fiji 30-24 in Sunday’s quarter-final in Marseille. In the front row, Joe Marler returns to the loosehead and packs down with Jamie George at hooker and Dan Cole at tighthead. At lock, Maro Itoje partners George Martin, who starts his second game of the Rugby World Cup. An unchanged back row sees vice-captain Courtney Lawes on the blindside flank, Tom Curry at openside and Ben Earl wear the No.8 shirt. In the half-back berths, Alex Mitchell continues his partnership with last Sunday’s Mastercard player-of-the-match Farrell. In midfield, Manu Tuilagi is named at inside centre, with Joe Marchant at 13. In the back three, Elliot Daly continues on the left wing, with Jonny May on the right and Freddie Steward returns to the starting XV at full-back. Hooker Theo Dan, props Ellis Genge (vice-captain) and Kyle Sinckler, together with Ollie Chessum, Billy Vunipola, Danny Care, George Ford (vice-captain) and Ollie Lawrence, make up a strong and experienced replacements bench. “After an excellent few days preparation in Paris, we look forward to the challenge of playing the World Champions and number one ranked team in the world,” said Borthwick. “Through this tournament the team has progressed, with the players repeatedly finding a way to win, sometimes in challenging circumstances. We will once again need to be at our very best this weekend as we face an excellent team in South Africa." “There is no doubt the players will truly relish the challenge of knockout rugby under the lights in Paris. These players will, as they have done in every game of this tournament, give absolutely everything in the semi-final to get the result we want." “I also know that our supporters will once again be there in their thousands, playing their part in backing the team with a full voice. To all those who have travelled and to all those lending their support and encouragement from home, I say ‘thank you’.” The team: 15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 29 caps) 14. Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby, 77 caps) 13. Joe Marchant (Stade Francais, 24 caps) 12. Manu Tuilagi (Sale Sharks, 57 caps) 11. Elliot Daly (Saracens, 63 caps) 10. Owen Farrell – captain (Saracens, 110 caps) 9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 10 caps) 1. Joe Marler (Harlequins, 87 caps) 2. Jamie George (Saracens, 83 caps) 3. Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers, 105 caps) 4. Maro Itoje (Saracens, 74 caps) 5. George Martin (Leicester Tigers, 8 caps) 6. Courtney Lawes – vice-captain (Northampton Saints, 104 caps) 7. Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 48 caps) 8. Ben Earl (Saracens, 23 caps) Replacements: 16. Theo Dan (Saracens, 6 caps) 17. Ellis Genge – vice-captain (Bristol Bears, 56 caps) 18. Kyle Sinckler (Bristol Bears, 67 caps) 19. Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 16 caps) 20. Billy Vunipola (Saracens, 74 caps) 21. Danny Care (Harlequins, 94 caps) 22. George Ford – vice-captain (Sale Sharks, 89 caps) 23. Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby, 19 caps) Photo credit - Image supplied by The RFU for use with this story.