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North Somerset company gets world-leading approval

Jan. 11 2013 Latest News, Manufacturing no comments
Spandex Award 300x168 North Somerset company gets world leading approval

Martyn Wright (left) with Phil McMullin, UK business manager of Spandex UK, at Spandex HQ.

A company which has its headquarters in Clevedon, North Somerset, has gained noteworthy approval.

Brunel Engraving Company Ltd has been appointed as an approved converter of Spandex Sign Systems – one of the world’s leading trade suppliers to the sign making and display industries.

Brunel’s Managing director, Martyn Wright, and Phil McMullin, who is UK business manager of Spandex UK, met to cement the deal at Spandex Headquarters in December 2012.

Martyn comments:“We’re delighted to be endorsed by Spandex Sign Systems.

“This agreement is a great achievement for us as a successful South West business.

“We can now provide sign makers with the option of applying their own graphics or using the services of Brunel Engraving to provide them with a finished, engraved product.”

Phil McMullin comments:“Spandex was looking for a sign partner with the equipment, expertise and high standard of quality working practices to provide good value conversion facilities for its world renowned Slatz brand.

“Brunel Engraving Company fulfils all of these requirements and has the proven track record to successfully bring the Slatz product line to an even wider customer base.”

Brunel Engraving was formed in Clevedon in 1989 by Martyn Wright and provides bespoke engraving services. The company supplies industry, the professions, hotel and catering trades, and offices, with signage.

 

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Key North Somerset projects see movement

Nov. 27 2012 Economy, Latest News no comments
Hinkley C Artists Impression 300x212 Key North Somerset projects see movement

Artist’s impression of Hinkley Point

A trio of projects that will affect North Somerset have all seen significant movement this week.

North Somerset Council’s application for the Weston Package was given the final go ahead by Local Transport Minister Norman Baker.

A licence has also been granted to build the Hinkley Point nuclear station, ensuring the project is on-course to go ahead.

Regarding Hinkley Point, government still needs to give the final g0-ahead before it can be built and a decision is expected before the end of the year.

It has also been revealed that work will now begin on the former Weston Airfield site to build extensive office-space and a new office for the North Somerset Enterprise Agency.

On the Weston Package go-ahead Cllr Elfan Ap Rees, executive member with responsibility for highways and transport, comments: “To get this green light is a really good early Christmas present for Weston and North Somerset residents.

“Behind the scenes highways officers have been working really hard on the detailed planning of this package and I am very grateful for the long hours put in over recent months to ensure the scheme fully meets the DfT criteria and local expectations.

“I am now looking forward to seeing the first spade going into the ground as soon as possible”.

On this website John Penrose MP released this statement: “This latest announcement is more of a symbolic hurdle, and confirms what we knew already, but even so I’m absolutely delighted it’s done.

“The work should start next spring and, as far as I and every other Westonian is concerned, it can’t happen soon enough.

“It’s taken many years of patient work by a whole team of people, including myself and the Council, to get this far and, given the general shortage of Government cash, it’s quite a victory. Everyone wants the nightmarishly long rush-hour queues to finally be a thing of the past!”

The Weston Package improvements at junction 21 will include widening the M5 southbound sliproad and A370 approaches, an additional lane on the roundabout and new computer-controlled traffic lights to improve access to and from the M5 motorway and the A370.

The work to increase capacity at junction 21 is one of five schemes that make up the Weston Package. The other four schemes are:

• dualling of Marchfields Way between the Winterstoke and Drove Road roundabouts, to allow two-way traffic and provide extra walkways and cycle routes, as well as a new bus lane in Winterstoke Road West

• new car park and bus interchange at Worle Station plus improved cycle and motorcycle facilities

• new bus links from Queensway to Worle Station

• bus priority along Elmham Way, linking the new housing areas

For more information about the Weston Package and to receive regular updates on progress, visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/westonpackage

 

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Breaking news: North Somerset business awards announced

Oct. 15 2012 Events, Latest News no comments
Sian Lloys Business Awards 300x192 Breaking news: North Somerset business awards announced

Awards Night

Business Leader Magazine has confirmed the launch of the 2013 North Somerset Business Awards.

The Awards will incorporate the successful Sian Lloyd Jones Business Award hosted by North Somerset Enterprise Agency and will include a number of new business categories to embrace all business sectors within the region.

Andrew Scott, Managing Director of Business Leader Magazine commented; “We are delighted to announce the first major awards event for North Somerset. The region has enormous potential with some really exciting, dynamic companies and we want to encourage and recognise the outstanding achievements among entrepreneurs and the businesses they run.”

Finalists and winners will be showcased at a major gala dinner in September 2013 in front of hundreds of business people, influential partners and the media, while winners will gain major recognition and high profile media coverage.

Angela Hicks, Chief Executive of North Somerset Enterprise Agency, comments: “The Sian Lloyds Jones Business Award has existed since 2000 and recognises outstanding achievements among young, fledgling companies. We are delighted this will continue as part of a larger Awards Event for the region and we look forward to Business Leader Magazine continuing this spirit.”

The North Somerset Business Leader Award Categories:

• Entrepreneur of the Year
• Young business person of the Year
• Innovation of the Year
• Best International Trade
• Training Initiative Award
• Sustainability in Business Award
• Business in the Community Award
• Customer Excellence Award
• Marketing Campaign of the Year
• Small Business of the Year (up to £1m turnover)
• Business of the Year (over £1m turnover)
• Sian Lloyd-Jones Business Award

You can stay informed of developments on the Awards by registering on the awards website, www.northsomersetawards.co.uk or for further information contact editor@businessleadermag.co.uk

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North Somerset A-level results success at Weston College

Aug. 16 2012 Education, Latest News no comments
Tom Stephen with mum Annu Stephen2 264x300 North Somerset A level results success at Weston College

North Somerset A-Level Results

North Somerset A-level results have been released today, ending a nervous wait by students.

One college in the region happy to hear the news is Weston College, which celebrated its most outstanding results in years.

Expectant students arrived at the College’s University Campus in Loxton Road to receive their A level results, which will decide their futures post-18.

Weston College in North Somerset has around 30,000 enrolments, offering 32 A levels, 40 apprenticeships and over 100 vocational courses.

This year’s A Level graduates will be the first to attend university following increased tuition fees – This year 99.8 per cent passed their A Levels, with 80 per cent achieving A*-C grades, and 50 per cent gaining A*-B.

The national pass rate rose for the 30th year in succession, with 98 per cent of students passing their exams, though there was a small percentage fall in the numbers of those gaining A* or A.

This year saw many success stories at Weston College, including that of Tom Stephen, 18, of Grove Road, Weston, who gained A*s in Maths and Biology, and an A in Chemistry. He will now take up a place at Loughborough University studying Chemical Engineering.

He said: “I worked very hard and I’m delighted. Weston College has been a terrific place to study. They give you all the resources you need to achieve, and also the freedom to socialise and make good friends.”

However, not all students are planning an academic route. Chrissie Gravell, 18, of Worlebury, is already working as an apprentice at Specsavers in Clevedon. She picked up her results on Thursday and is pleased with the way her career is progressing.

“I didn’t fancy going to university and I wanted some practical work experience. My aim is to become a dispensing optician and I can definitely do this through Specsavers’ career progression route.”

Dr Paul Phillips, Weston College Principal and Chief Executive said the A level results were testament to ‘brilliant teachers and a superb learning environment in which students are supported during their studies.’

“Our results reflect a dynamic institution totally committed to the learners of North Somerset and the many learners who travel to us from Bristol, Bath and Bridgwater.”

To find out more about Weston College’s A-Level Results, visit http://www.weston.ac.uk/

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Bootcamp Somerset success through hard work and initiative

Oct. 29 2011 All News, Leisure 1 comment

Bootcamp Bootcamp Somerset success through hard work and initiativePrime Minister David Cameron has said he will champion “hard work”, “initiative” and “the courage to make your dream happen”: BBC article

In North Somerset alone there are many examples of people already making his vision a reality. One such example is Bootcamp Somerset. A personal training initiative launched by Weston born Matt Jupp after he took voluntary redundancy from his job on the Grand Pier, following the now world famous fire:

“I became fully qualified and set up my personal training business because becoming a personal trainer was something I’ve always wanted to do.

“It was a difficult decision to decide whether to either play it safe and get another 9-5 job or go into self-employment and take a risk, knowing that many businesses don’t break even in the first year.”

Matt went with his instincts and is now reaping the rewards. Despite only forming last year he has already trained over 100 clients that have included police officers, footballers and even dog agility trainers.

Flexible on time and competitively priced, it’s no wonder Bootcamp Somerset has been such a hit with people looking to get fit, and Matt is keen to stress that his approach is tailor made to each individual:

“I design the training so it’s exclusive and the groups are limited in size – up to ten people per session. This means my customers will always get the best possible service and quality personal training for a fraction of the cost elsewhere.

“As the groups are small, clients bond more, train harder and feel part of a team and not just a number.

“It’s not just about getting involved today. It’s about making a commitment to change your lifestyle and get more active,” Matt comments.

Amongst the many clients to get fit, healthy and have fun courtesy of Matt is Sam Cross, who works for North Somerset’s largest marketing agency ASG Marketing. He comments:

“For the amount of money you pay and the attention and expertise you get, Bootcamp Somerset is the best personal training option around. It’s really friendly and you really see the difference if you stick to it. Matt is also really flexible with times and makes you see the long term benefits of getting fit and supports you with nutrition as well.”

Bootcamp Somerset is also an official affiliate of the Go4life project, which is a North Somerset scheme encouraging and supporting people to get more healthy and active.

To find out more about Bootcamp Somerset and what times Matt takes his friendly sessions, along with prices visit: www.bootcampsomerset.com or call Matt on: 07749747861

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North Somerset firm bucks the trend and continues rapid growth

Jun. 24 2011 Latest News, Technology no comments

Insight Data Offices1 North Somerset firm bucks the trend and continues rapid growthWeston-super-Mare based Insight Data has continued to enjoy record growth despite the UK’s current economic trading conditions. The company was formed in 2006 and has doubled in size every two years, growing from 2 employees in 2007 to it’s current 20-strong team, with plans for continued growth and employment.

The company builds industry-specifc, specialist online business databases and gained widespread recognition in October 2009 after winning first place in the North Somerset Enterprise Agency “Business of the Year Awards”.  In early 2010 the firm was awarded membership in the Direct Marketing Association, and in May 2010 completed a major move to new premises to Bridgwater Court, Oldmixon Crescent in the town.

“We have continued to invest in technology, people and marketing throughout the recession, and it is now paying dividends” explains commercial director, Helen Costeloe-Hughes. With 3 to 4 new clients signing up every week to Insight’s online database and software application, it certainly seems to be a winning formula.

As part of its growth strategy Insight recently held a recruitment open day. After receiving over 400 applications for job vacancies, the company invited 40 hopefuls in for a presentation and tour of the business which culminated in 5 job offers. ”If we continue to achieve our growth plans then we expect to create a further 15 – 20 jobs in the next two years” added Helen.

Contact: Helen Costeloe-Hughes, Commercial Director, Insight Data Ltd, 3 Bridgwater Court, Oldmixon Crescent, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 9AY.   Tel: 01934 808293. Web: www.insightdata.co.uk. Twitter: www.twitter.com/insightdata

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Council still failing to collect rubbish

Jan. 09 2011 Latest News, Property no comments

photo 2 300x225 Council still failing to collect rubbishDespite assurances from North Somerset Council that missed recycling and rubbish collections would be done no later than the weekend of the 8th January many Weston residents are still reporting that rubbish and recycling are still piled high almost a month since collections were interrupted due to the heavy snow which disappeared after a week.

One angry resident who wished to remain un-named said “I understand that while the rest of us had to continue working and adapting to conditions caused by the snow, the health and safety obsessed council had a week when it was too dangerous to send their contractors out to collect rubbish, but the snow was only on the ground for a week so why is it that over 3 weeks later the recycling is still sat outside my house?”.

This author is one of the residents that still hasn’t had their rubbish and recycling collection and whilst the snow has brought some inevitable disruption to collections coupled with the extra rubbish created by Christmas, it has now gone well past the point of reasonable for collections to be back to normal.

Do you have piles of rubbish stacked in your street? Do you think that North Somerset has failed their obligations to the local tax-payers? Can the council justify the council tax increase due in March? Leave your comments and let us know what you think.

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Business Update with Terry Gilbert – 21st November 2010

Nov. 21 2010 Business, Latest News no comments
“Keep Up”!!

It’s all changing so fast – legislation, VAT, fuel costs, gas and electric, petrol. We must watch the trends and react to keep control. November/December predicted to be quite healthy, but brace yourself for January and February. Get prepared now and consider every type of promotional activity – sales, special offers etc. The pro-active business will cope with it, if the business is in a rut it will continue to spiral downwards.

The big indicators ie Bank of England, interest changes, inflation are exceeding all predictions, so the things out of your control will be improving to help. It is now down to you to grab the nettle and make the most of it. So I think I can wish you all a happy Christmas and I would love to add – a Prosperous New Year.

And finally:
We all have a moan about Christmas
And everything going so bad
But when Terry got this letter from Santa
It made him feel ever so sad.
I’m sending this note to advise you
That taxes have taken away
The things I found most essential
My reindeer, my workshop, my sleigh.
Now I’m making my rounds on a donkey
He’s old, crippled and slow
So if you don’t see me at Christmas
I’m out on my ass in the snow!
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Business Update with Terry Gilbert

Aug. 04 2010 Business, Latest News no comments

Fireworks on the sea front signal the start of the main holiday season. Hotels fully booked, restaurants buzzing, lots of visitors to our shores.

All the major indicators are showing slow improvements, but that is fine. We know this is going to take a long time, steady growth without a winter dip would be preferred. Hope you got your business rates and tax credits sorted before 1 August – the door is now closed.

Lots of training available via our office on Oldmixon Crescent – Advertising & Promotion, bookkeeping, business start up courses to name but a few.

North Somerset Business Club – one of the most cost effective networking groups in the region. Get your tickets for the Charity Ball on 2 October – being held on the new Grand Pier. Come and look around and support local business and local charities.

Remember to visit the money saver before any big purchase – I would be surprised if Martin Lewis cannot save you money on most of your shopping, including holidays and flights.

Look for new opportunities at all times, but never forget your regular customers – look after them first.

Quote of the week:

“Be careful of reading health books – you may die of a misprint”

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Happy New Year from Terry Gilbert

Jan. 08 2010 Business, Latest News no comments

I wish you all a happy and, more important as there is a direct link, prosperous and healthy new year. There has been a nice steady recovery of the FT index, a strange indicator of market confidence. We are also witnessing a steady increase in property value, which is also very positive.

We need to explore Martin Lewis’s money saving webpages – there is something there for everyone and, if you can afford a holiday, I would start with Martin’s advice.

Sorry to repeat myself, but we need to plan our new year with an eye on marketing and more networking – do nothing and that is exactly what you will get!!

And finally:

Let’s all do something for charity – don’t throw your Christmas cards away, drop them into the North Somerset Enterprise Agency offices on Oldmixon Crescent and we will organise recycling for the Last Resort Dog Rescue, amongst others.

Terry Gilbert is Business Support Manager for the North Somerset Enterprise Agency www.northsomersetenterpriseagency.co.uk as well as being the director for the Weston Town Centre Partnership and Chair for Weston 200 and Weston Arts Social Enterprise.
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