News: Minister launches Enterprise Zone in Rotherham

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles MP was in Rotherham this week to announce a new Enterprise Zone for the Sheffield City Region.

The Modern Manufacturing and Technology Growth Area (MMTGA) will be made up of several key sites linked by the M1 corridor.

The ministerial visit took place on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, which was named in the proposal submitted by the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in June.

The Communities Secretary, Eric Pickles, said that the city region had the pedigree to accelerate growth and create thousands of new jobs and added: "Our low-tax, low-regulation Enterprise Zones will help make our country the best place in Europe to start and grow a business.

"With ten more Enterprise Zones still to come it's great to see the local ambition and innovation that emerges when central Government steps back and gives local areas the chance to shape their own economy."

The MMTGA is expected to create 12,600 jobs and attract around 250 new advanced manufacturing and technology-based businesses to the City Region by 2015 – potentially rising to 20,000 jobs when the Zone is fully developed.

James Newman, Chairman of the LEP, showed the minister around the UK's premier advanced manufacturing technology park and highlighted the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing. He said: "Enterprise Zone status represents a significant long-term investment in the Sheffield City Region's economy, and we're delighted to receive Government-backing for our proposal.

"To create jobs and economic growth, there needs to be investment in the sectors which present the biggest economic opportunity, and that's exactly what the Modern Manufacturing and Technology Growth Area will provide.

"It will build upon and accelerate the development of modern manufacturing in the Sheffield City Region, which already has one of the largest concentrations of this industry in the UK."

Specific sites within the zone are still subject to detailed discussions with Government but from April 2012, the MMTGA will bring forward 400,600 sq m of development land by 2015, increasing to 600,000 sq m when fully developed.

It will benefit from simplified planning rules and tax breaks for businesses and is expected to unlock almost £20m worth of Business Rate growth which will be re-invested back into the Sheffield City Region to drive further economic growth.

Advanced Manufacturing Park website
Sheffield City Region website

Images: AMRC

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News: NAMTEC Manufacturing Forum attracts over 100 industry leaders

Over 100 industry leaders and guests attended the prelaunch of The NAMTEC Manufacturing Forum held earlier this month at the Cutlers' Hall, Sheffield.

Speakers for the event included Graham Honeyman from Sheffield Forgemasters who gave an inspirational presentation on the manufacturing prowess of the local organisation and Adrian Bull from Westinghouse who provided an excellent update on the progress of civil nuclear power generation in the UK.

Organised by the National Metals Technology Centre (NAMTEC)in Rotherham, the Manufacturing Forum will provide an unrivalled opportunity for members to explore new market and technology development opportunities in high growth sectors including Oil & Gas, Aerospace & Defence and Energy Generation.

Member services and benefits include business intelligence, supply chain information, facilitated attendance at exhibitions and support for international trade.

Jeremy Godley, business development manager for Schmolz + Bickenbach UK Ltd, said: "We are pleased that the NAMTEC Manufacturing Forum is now bringing together the various manufacturing focus groups under one banner. The increased membership will create further networking opportunities which will lead to more business."

The Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Lord Green, will address members and guests at the Inaugural Annual Dinner and National Launch of the NAMTEC Manufacturing Forum on September 28 2011, to be held at Tankersley Manor. Lord Green will be joined by such industry leaders as Rolls Royce, Siemens, Scottish and Southern Energy, David Brown Gear Systems and AMEC to discuss future potential for the manufacturing community and to consider the actions needed to secure growth.

Dr Alan McLelland of NAMTEC said "As the UK's leading support organisation for metals engineering and manufacturing companies, NAMTEC will draw the communities together to focus on the role of metals engineering within a manufacturing led growth and recovery strategy. The presence of Lord Green at the Dinner highlights the importance of this event and the benefits of Forum membership."

NAMTEC website

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News: Oak investigates YES! Project termination

The board of Oak Holdings continue to investigate all the circumstances leading to the decision by Rotherham Council to terminate the development agreement for the proposed YES! Project.

In a half yearly report, the company posted a pre-tax loss of £209,000 for the six months to the end of April, compared to a £131,000 loss in the same period last year.

Substantial overhead cuts have been achieved and a number of directors have left the company including Steve Lewis who resigned as chief executive in March.

The company's main income is from leisure activities including the operation of Rother Valley Country Park in Rotherham. Oak took over the management of the well visited park as part of the developer agreement for the proposed £350m YES! Project on the adjacent Pithouse West site.

The developer agreement was terminated by the council in January after Oak made a material lack of progress on what was to be the largest undercover leisure based scheme in Europe. They continue to successfully manage the Rother Valley in accordance with the interim management agreement.

The board stated that: "The board continues to investigate all the circumstances leading to the decision by the Council to terminate the development agreement and will report any significant findings to shareholders in due course."

The board also reported that some capital investment has been made at the Rother Valley Country Park and that they are "seeking to add further substantial attractions within its current businesses, a number of which are awaiting Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council's "in principle" approval, a response for which is expected shortly."

Oak also continues to own the valuable freehold of the A57 land adjacent to the site of the Pithouse West site but they no longer capitalise financing costs associated with the land as technically this is no longer in the course of development following the termination.

Since the termination of the developer agreement, the council have put the land up for sale. One interested party is looking to create a £118m pound project that would create a unique culture and leisure development at Rother Valley Country Park based on the "Visions of China."

The Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) was keen to endorse a bid led by a consortium to secure £5.7m from the government's Regional Growth Fund that would "bring forward an iconic addition to the British tourism market."

Oak Holdings website
Rother Valley Country Park website

Images: RVCP

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News: Rotherham Enterprise Zone status secured

Rotherham is to benefit from Enterprise Zone status after four more locations were announced today by the Prime Minister, David Cameron, and Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne.

The Sheffield City Region Enterprise Zone will be based on a series of key sites along the M1 that will focus growth within the advanced engineering and technology sectors.

The endorsed proposal was submitted by the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in June after it was announced in The Budget that the city region would be a location for a zone.

It includes a core technology, innovation and manufacturing zone based around the existing Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

Other areas include Sheffield Business Park, land currently being developed at Markham Vale and sites in the west of the Dearne Valley in Barnsley at M1, Junction 36.

It is expected to generate up to 12,600 jobs and over 400,000 sq m of floor space for 250 businesses by 2015. When complete, it could reach 20,000 jobs, 400 businesses and £20m a year in new business rates from over 600,000 sq m of floor space.

The AMP already has a global reputation in advanced manufacturing, attracting big names such as Boeing and Rolls-Royce. It will now benefit from simplified planning rules and tax breaks for businesses.

One of the main benefits that the zones will offer is a business rate discount worth up to £275,000 per eligible business over a five year period.

Companies within the zone could also take advantage of enhanced capital allowances (instead of business rate discounts) for plant and machinery.

All business rates growth within the zone for a period of at least 25 years will be shared and retained by the Sheffield City Region, to support the Local Enterprise Partnership's economic priorities and ensure that Enterprise Zone growth is reinvested locally.

The Chancellor, George Osborne said: "Four months ago, I announced an ambitious Plan for Growth, having consulted with over 1000 businesses, to tackle the serious long-term issues in our economy. We have already made significant progress on regulation and planning, publishing a new National Planning Policy Framework and slashing burdensome regulation.

"The confirmation of the location of four new Enterprise Zones is just one important step that we are taking to boost growth across the country."

The Business Secretary, Vince Cable, added: "One of the most important things we can do to help private businesses create jobs and boost growth is to reduce the barriers businesses currently face and give them extra flexibilities to operate.

"Enterprise Zones will do exactly that, bringing in benefits to the local communities and securing investment.

"I'm delighted that Enterprise Zones are gaining momentum and we are able to confirm more locations. This will help the work local enterprise partnerships are already doing to help roll out their zones and ensure that they are a success."

Rotherham has already seen massive private sector growth in an Enterprise Zone. Through partnership work and securing significant funding, the former coalfields in the Dearne Valley were reclaimed as part of the UK's largest Enterprise Zone. Since the Dearne Valley was designated as an Enterprise Zone in 1995 it is estimated that around 10,000 jobs had been created in the area by 2002.

Advanced Manufacturing Park website
Sheffield City Region website

Images: ampwaverley.com

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News: Plans for Manufacturing Skills for Nuclear hub in Rotherham

A dedicated hub to help nuclear manufacturing companies ensure that their employees have the skills required to support business growth is a step nearer being created in Rotherham.

The Government has backed a bid to the £50m Growth and Innovation Fund by the National Skills Academy for Nuclear that would see them expand into the nuclear manufacturing sector.

The proposed National Skills Academy for Manufacturing for Nuclear will be a collaboration between the National Skills Academy for Nuclear, Semta/National Skills Academy for Manufacturing, and the Nuclear AMRC.

Based on the successful employer-led National Skills Academy model, the expansion will provide a dedicated hub at the Nuclear AMRC's facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham.

The hub will provide a single point of contact for employers about skills for nuclear manufacturing.

High priority training and skills products will be developed that are specific to the manufacturing companies and the employers will also be able to access a range of innovative support tools, developed by each of the key partners.

Further development of key training courses and qualifications will take place to support the up-skilling of manufacturers and the high quality provider network will be expanded into the nuclear manufacturing sector.

Dr Stephen Court, operations director at the Nuclear AMRC, said: "We are delighted to be part of this unique opportunity to focus on the skills challenges facing the nuclear manufacturing supply chain.

"By combining the knowledge, capabilities and strengths of the three main delivery partners, we can tackle the challenges around workforce skills, experience and behaviours, and help companies respond to the growing nuclear opportunity."

Jean Llewellyn OBE, Chief Executive of the National Skills Academy for Nuclear added: "The opportunities for the manufacturing supply chain in this area are considerable from the UK alone, running into billions. Combine this with the global market share manufacturers in the UK could access and the importance of this sector in delivering high value exports becomes apparent.

"In addition, internationally there are major developments globally for new nuclear build that run into several 100 billion pounds. The National Skills Academy for Manufacturing for Nuclear will support the UK supply chain to ensure it is well placed and has the skilled workforce required to gain maximum value from this global renaissance."

The Nuclear AMRC is a joint initiative between the University of Sheffield, The University of Manchester, and a consortium of industry partners. It will provide a focal point for the bulk of the UK civil nuclear manufacturing industry supply chain, ensuring that manufacturers in the UK have the capability and capacity required to compete for nuclear new build in the UK and globally, from skills training to research and development.

Nuclear AMRC website

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News: Investment in Dearne Valley buses

A 15-strong fleet of new buses worth £1.7m have been unveiled by Stagecoach Yorkshire.

The eight low floor single deckers have been launched on the 218 route following the first batch of seven vehicles which took to the roads in January.

The 221 route links Rotherham, Mexborough and Doncaster and the 218 service travels through Rotherham, Mexborough and Barnsley via Manvers and Darfield.

The British built ADL Enviro 200 model, low floor single decker buses, which meet the latest European emission standards, are designed to be fully accessible to elderly passengers, people with disabilities and families with young children. They also have CCTV installed and are designed to use fuel economically.

Paul Lynch, Stagecoach Yorkshire managing director, said: "I am delighted to launch the second fleet of Stagecoach Yorkshire's brand new fleet of buses because it is tremendous boost for public transport in the Dearne Valley.

"We decided to utilise the new buses on the 221 and 218 routes because we have seen passenger numbers grow steadily in the past few years in those areas and wanted the buses to benefit as many people as possible.

"The reaction to the first fleet of buses introduced in January has been positive and we hope they will continue to attract more passengers."

Stagecoach website

Images: Stagecoach

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News: Apprentices join expanding Assured team

Rotherham-based Assured Fire and Security is continuing its expansion with the launch of a new apprenticeship scheme.

The Dinnington-based fire and security specialist has appointed two new members of staff under its apprenticeship project, with plans for more to follow.


Lee Butler, who is 19 and lives in Doncaster, is working as an installations coordinator at the same time as studying for an NVQ while 16-year-old Ethne Sheldon is combining her studies with work in the administration department.

Matthew Spivey, operations director at Assured said: "As a developing company we always needed people with established skills and knowledge in the past.

"Now we have a strong team, we feel it is the ideal time to encourage people to develop new talents.

"Apprentices also free up the time of the more experienced team members to concentrate on other projects.

"Lee and Ethne have been such a success that we are already looking at appointing a third apprentice for our finance department."

In November, Assured launched a five-year plan that aims to transform the company into the country's leading fire and security specialist, expanding the workforce from 45 to around 200.

The company is continuing to strengthen its head office team with two further appointments.

Sam Roberts, of Maltby, joins the company as a credit controller while Christopher Ball, also of Maltby, joins the telesales department.

Assured website

Images: assured-ltd.co.uk

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News: Source of funding for retail businesses

The Source Skills Academy has secured new funding to support businesses and sole traders in Yorkshire.

Businesses can access a 50% contribution towards an exclusive programme designed by Retail Expert and TV host Mary Portas - "The Mary Portas guide to successful retailing - An inspirational programme for shop owners/managers."

Developed in conjunction with Skillsmart Retail and delivered exclusively through the National Skills Academy for Retail's skills shops, the Retail Masterclasses will offer an insight into improving retail businesses and include Mary's advice on essential elements including visual merchandising, marketing, buying, finance and the all-important vision for your store. Each module has an invaluable set of "Mary's Top Tips" creating a toolkit of hints and tips to improve the performance of any retail business.

Paula Windle, masterclass trainer, said: "This is a great opportunity for business owners and managers to get expert advice to grow and develop their business at a reduced cost. Normally £200 + VAT per masterclass, the 50% reduction makes the training accessible for small businesses and it really is an offer too good to miss."

The offer is available exclusively to businesses and sole traders in Yorkshire and the Humber with 250 staff or less, giving business owners and managers essential knowledge to help run a successful business.

This programme is supported by The Skills Enhancement Fund which is co-financed by The Skills Funding Agency through the European Social Fund and funded by Yorkshire Forward.

The Source Skills Academy Rotherham opened on the High Street last month. It is a new initiative designed to support local businesses and help expand Rotherham town centre.

The Source website

Images: The Source

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News: Further recruitment at VO4HOME

Recent growth has seen Rotherham-based VO4HOME Ltd, the developer and manufacturer of the innovative VO4HOME domestic voltage optimisation system, appoint Michael Greensmith as sales representative.

Mr Greensmith, from Wakefield, has worked in the electrical wholesale sector for over 22 years and brings with him a wealth of current industry experience and understanding, working 15 years at Newey and Eyre most recently as area margin development manager

Based at VO4HOME's head office in Templeborough, his role will primarily involve developing the company’s UK distributor network, with particular emphasis on Northern England and Scotland.

The appointment reflects VO4HOME's rapid growth since its launch in November 2010. In conjunction with the ongoing domestic success, the company has been experiencing a rise in sales and interest for VO4HOME products in markets across Europe.

Geoff Clifton, business development manager at VO4HOME, said: "We are all extremely pleased and excited about welcoming Michael to the team. Having recently invested in the development of our manufacturing systems and resources, so as to increase output, the next logical step was to increase our sales resources, with a particular focus on distributor networks. We look forward to seeing the value Michael will no doubt bring."

Mr Greensmith added: "I am really enjoying the fact that I am selling a product that allows homes to reduce both their energy consumption and carbon footprint, which in turn benefits the environment, as I am a bit of a "Greenie" myself."

VOHOME website

Images: VOHOME

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News: Onyx development attracts national names

JF Finnegan Construction has reached the halfway stage, well within timescale, on a six unit retail scheme in Rotherham for Onward Holdings. Two units are already under offer to major food chains Subway and Domino's Pizza.

Each to take 1,000sq ft units at the Onyx development at Manvers signalling early confidence in the retail and leisure scheme. Another of the 1,000 sq ft units is also about to go under offer for a hot food offering.

Andrew Miller Chartered Surveyors of Sheffield represented Onward Holdings in both deals, Colliers International acted for Subway and Domino's was unrepresented.

The 2.5 acre scheme resides within the larger 285 acre Waterfront regeneration scheme which is currently delivering over 1,100 new homes as well as complementary retail and leisure users. Planning consents in place for a total 17,500sq ft of retail and leisure space.

John Storey, property director at Onward Holdings, said: "The Manvers Way site’s strategic location and ongoing surrounding regeneration highlighted its suitability to accommodate a multi-unit retail and leisure scheme. Following the early interest from Subway and Domino’s we have been able to commence with works on site and are looking forward to welcoming additional occupiers in due course."

Gary Smith, director at JF Finnegan, added: "The six units we are currently constructing form the first phase of ONYX and they will be completed by August this year after which the occupiers' internal fit-out programmes can commence. The scheme will undoubtedly enhance the whole area and provide welcomed amenities to the residents of the surrounding residential schemes."

The construction of the scheme is being overseen by project manager Alastair Plant of Parkin Gerry Surveyors LLP. Phase 1 is underway and work on phase 2 could begin later in the year.

Andrew Miller who secured the lettings on behalf of Onward Holdings, concluded: "Key contributors to Onyx's success in attracting the high-profile chains is the broad range of consents in place and the excellent demographics. This is highlighted by the 94,000 population within a 10 minute drive of the scheme and the 18,000 passing vehicle movements each weekday. This, in addition to sensible lease terms and realistic rents, make it an attractive option for occupiers. Consequently, we are currently handling high levels of interest in the remaining units from a number of well known names."

JF Finnegan website
Onward holdings website

Images: brchamber.co.uk

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News: Signs of further growth

Signs Express has taken on a number of high profile contracts after expanding into the market to cover the whole of Sheffield.

With their production base at Templeborough, business owners Steve & Carol Morris have seen consistent growth and expanded in November last year.

Following a rebrand, South Yorkshire's heavy engineering steel plant Sheffield Forgemasters International Ltd commissioned Signs Express (Sheffield) to provide new signage for the company's buildings.

Attractive stainless steel lettering was chosen and was to be installed at a height of over 23 metres.

Dominating the Brightside area of East Sheffield, the buildings posed their own challenges to the installation. Getting the first sign on to the Bagging Plant building required truck mounted powered boom assistance.

Steve Morris said: "We worked closely with the team at Forgemasters throughout the project, right up to Chief Executive level. We take an active part in developing the specifications for all of our projects and implementation plans."

Continuing their work with Museums Sheffield, Signs Express has also installed a large format suspended sign to the entrance of their Millennium Gallery.

Taking two days to install, the box sign is suspended from the vaulted roof at the entrance of the gallery and is illuminated using energy efficient LED lights, creating a fantastic focal point to the modern glass fronted building.

Signs Express website

Images: signsexpress.co.uk

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News: Good start for Rotherham United

Rotherham United has got off to a good start to the season without a ball being kicked in the league. All the perimeter board advertising for the 2011/12 season at Don Valley Stadium has sold out.

With just over a fortnight left until the start of the new campaign, Steve Coakley, commercial director at Rotherham United, said: "We are obviously delighted to have sold out our perimeter board advertising for yet another season, however, this is just one of many ways businesses can work with the club to promote their products and/or services. We are always looking to introduce new partners in all areas of the club.

"We want to continue engaging with local businesses, however big or small, and we are confident that any partnership can be tailored to meet any businesses requirements."

The news of the sell-out is fresh off the back of increased season ticket sales for the new season and the successful launch of the new Puma range in the Red & White Shop.

Steve added: "The Red & White shop has been busy all season with both season tickets and retail and we're encouraged with how the Club is developing, especially when you take into account the current financial climate. Overall, commercial revenue continues to grow and this all bodes well for the future, particularly with the new stadium on the horizon which will take this Club onto a whole new level."

The 2011/12 season is set to be the last at Don Valley, with work underway on the site of the new stadium at the former Guest & Chrimes Foundry close to the town centre.

Rotherham United website

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News: Hydra Mining Tools International acquired by ESCO

One of Rotherham's most profitable businesses, Hydra Mining Tools International, has been acquired by the American ESCO Corporation for an undisclosed sum.

Hydra Mining Tools and its predecessor, Hall & Pickles Tool Company, have been associated with mining activities since the earliest days of mechanisation. Following the collapse of the British coal industry, the company has refocused on supplying its specialist cutting tools to China.

Coal miners in China use Hydra Mining Tools International's cutting head to extract coal, without excessive dust and danger of explosion.

ESCO Corporation, based in Portland, Oregon, is a leading designer, developer and manufacturer of highly engineered wear parts and replacement products used in mining, infrastructure development, power generation, aerospace and industrial applications. They operate across the world.

ESCO stated that the acquisition of Hydra Mining Tools supports their global expansion and, at the same time, provides a new range of products for underground mining markets.

Cal Collins, president and CEO of ESCO, said: "We are excited about ESCO's acquisition of Hydra Mining Tools and the synergies and global opportunities that it will bring to ESCO.

"This acquisition opens the door for ESCO into the fast growing Chinese underground coal mining markets and positions ESCO for continued expansion into the established underground coal market in the U.S. and Australia. We will leverage the ESCO brand and our expertise in mining wear parts and solutions to better service our customers."

Hydra Mining Tools International employs 139 people and has their headquarters at Kimberworth, Rotherham, where carbide, mineral cutting tools, toolholders, cutting chains, conveyor rollers and related components are produced.

The Doncaster factory specialises in fabrication work, producing shearer drums, cutting heads and discs, jibs for cutting chains, and conveyor structure. In addition a wide range of general machining activities, plate rolling, profile cutting and press work facilities are contained within this site.

Sales were £11.8m in 2010 and the firm saw exports climb to £8.7m, up 65% a year compared to 2008. This was boosted by its Chinese and American subsidiaries and they now win 26.5% of sales from China, compared with 2% in 2008.

The sale provides an exit for Paul Morton, the non-executive director of Hydra Mining Tools International, but the executive directors of the business Gordon McShannon, John Warren and John McShannon, will continue to work with ESCO to ensure a seamless transition to the new owner.

The corporate team at law firm Cobbetts advised on the sale and Endeavour Partnership provided legal advice to the buyer.

David Armitage, corporate partner at Cobbetts, said: "The financial support and access to ESCO's global network will enable Hydra Mining Tools International to take its operations to the next level and expand the distribution of its quality mining products.

"Hydra's expertise in underground mining cuttings systems will complement ESCO's leading market position in consumables and equipment for surface mining."

Hydra Mining Tools International

Images: hydramining.com

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News: Bramall parent company announces merger plans

The boards of directors for Keepmoat and Apollo Group have announce their intention to combine the two businesses and create a market leader in community regeneration and social housing solutions.

The combined business will be headquartered in Doncaster with current Keepmoat CEO David Blunt taking up the same position in the enlarged entity and Peter Warry, currently Non-Executive Chairman of Apollo, becoming Non-Executive Chairman. The new business will be branded as the "Keepmoat family of companies" with Apollo retaining its own brand within this format. It will have a national presence with both Keepmoat and Apollo operating as separate divisions with regional focus.

Rotherham-based social housing specialist, Bramall Construction, is part of the Keepmoat Group. The company is celebrating their 80th anniversary this year.

Both Keepmoat and Apollo have been part of the same investment portfolio since 2007. This portfolio was purchased by Cavendish Square Partners LLP in July 2010. Cavendish is a special purpose vehicle majority owned by Coller Capital, a leading private equity secondary investor, and is advised by Caird Capital LLP.

Following regulatory clearance from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), it is expected that the merger will complete in the fourth quarter of 2011.

David Blunt, CEO Designate, said: "The bringing together of these two businesses represents a compelling proposition for shareholders, customers and employees alike. In this challenging economic climate we will create a national champion in our market with substantial opportunities for growth."

Bramall Construction website

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News: Boost for advanced manufacturing apprenticeships

The government has announced details of a £25m fund that will support up to 10,000 Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships, giving firms in sectors such as advanced manufacturing and engineering, the hi-tech skills they need to grow.

The Higher Apprenticeships Fund will support the expansion of apprenticeships up to degree equivalent in companies, particularly SMEs, where there is unmet demand for the higher level skills that are necessary to create additional jobs and growth.

Industry representatives are invited to bid to the fund, which will be delivered via the National Apprenticeship Service and will commence from October 2011.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: "I am determined that this government should be the most pro-business there has been, with one purpose and one goal: creating jobs and growth.

"It is therefore crucial that we build up the skills in this country that our businesses need and that will fuel long term growth. That is why despite some difficult decisions on spending we are increasing the number of apprenticeships to record levels.

"We are investing in apprenticeships because we know they work - they are good for people who want to get ahead, good for business and good for the country."

Business Secretary Vince Cable added: "As I work with the business community to rebalance and grow the economy, apprenticeships will increasingly deliver not just basic training, but also the high level, high tech skills that drive growth. The Higher Apprenticeships Fund is a crucial step towards placing vocational learning on a par with academic study, giving bright youngsters the opportunity to work with and build the most dynamic firms in the country."

Plans are currently being developed for a Advanced Manufacturing Institute Training Centre under a collaboration between the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham and Sheffield's two universities. A bid has been submitted to the Department for Education and if successful, the institute could create 200 apprenticeships per year by 2013.

In addition, the government also announced that following the first round of applications to the £50m Growth and Innovation Fund, innovative proposals to deliver world class training in seven leading industries have been selected for further development.

The existing National Skills Academies are to be expanded, with the National Skills Academy for Nuclear embracing nuclear manufacturing. They will draw on joint funding from employers and the Government, via the Skills Funding Agency.

Apprenticeships website

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News: Girls inspired to pursue science and engineering careers

Girls from South Yorkshire schools got to grips with Olympic sports engineering recently with Rotherham-based engineering company Performance Engineered Solutions (PES).

The company's skeleton bobsleigh challenge was part of a science and engineering day organised by Sheffield University's Outreach and Access Team, which aims to widen participation in higher education across students from all backgrounds in South Yorkshire and the surrounding regions.

PES worked with pupils to design their own skeleton bobsleighs, which they then raced in a simulator to see how effective their designs were.

Mike Maddock represented Great Britain for seven years in the Skeleton Bobsleigh event and is the managing director of PES. He now works with the Winter Olympic Great Britain Team to create cutting edge equipment for competition. Dan Fleetcroft is the Design Director of PES and has worked with the world´s top F1 and Moto GP teams. Their skeleton bobsleigh workshop has been presented to over 10,500 children worldwide and they hope to inspire the future generation of engineers.

Mike Maddock said: "It was great to have an all-girl audience to challenge the perception of engineering as a male dominated profession. The pupils immersed themselves in the interactive sessions and really took to the engineering and also the competitive element of the skeleton challenge well.

"We were keen to emphasise the importance of subject choice for pupils of their age and how important the study of maths and science is for further education. Hopefully we conveyed to the pupils that engineering is everywhere and studying it at university is definitely within their reach."

Rob Gunby, outreach assistant at Sheffield University, added: "It is great to have the chance to showcase the range of opportunities available in science and engineering, particularly to an all female group. We need more women in science and engineering, and we want to show them that engineering is not about mechanics tinkering about under cars. It's a fast paced, exciting industry where highly trained professionals get immense job satisfaction and can also earn a lot of money!"

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park, PES has grown out of AMP-based Bromley Technologies Ltd and specialises in enhancing the performance of components, products and systems by delivering integrated engineering thinking alongside innovative design, materials, manufacturing and testing technologies.

PES and Bromley sponsored the skeleton challenge .

PES website


Images: University of Sheffield

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News: RiDO secure funding to support SMEs

Key business sectors in the Rotherham area are set to gain as part of a new £3m project which aims to accelerate expansion within the private sector.

Rotherham Investment & Development Office (RiDO), the regeneration arm of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, has secured the funds to undertake the South Yorkshire Sector Growth Enhancement Programme along with regional partners.

The programme aims to increase the competitiveness of SMEs in the region with high growth potential whilst at the same time delivering sustainable new job opportunities. Support will be available to both inward investors and expanding indigenous businesses in sectors such as advanced manufacturing; creative and digital industries, business services and logistics.

The support available includes help to; start up and grow new businesses; find new sites and premises; relocate businesses into the Rotherham area, recruit and train staff, and take advantage of local business opportunities through links with key supply chain partners.

The four year programme budget is worth approximately £3m, of which £2m is derived from the European Union's Yorkshire & Humber ERDF Operational Programme (2007-2013), which is investing €583m by 2013 to support economic growth in Yorkshire and The Humber. The balance of the money will be provided as match funding by the four South Yorkshire local authorities.

Councillor Gerald Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: "Rotherham is already home to world-leading businesses such as AESSEAL, Stanley Tools, and Morphy Richards and continues to be an attractive investment location, as shown by the recent announcements around the Rolls Royce factories at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP), the Visions of China project, and the arrival of US firm Thetford at Manvers.

"Over the past 15 years RiDO has done an excellent job in helping develop and expand Rotherham's economy, assisting both new investors and our own home-grown businesses. Securing the funds for this programme will allow this important work to continue, and furthermore increase the support available to our SME companies."

This is the second major ERDF funded project that RiDO has attained in recent months, following last month's news of the "Soft Landings Zone" (SLZ) project which will both help foreign businesses locating into the region, and existing local businesses that are considering taking their first steps to develop business opportunities overseas. The SLZ project will be managed through RiDO's Business Centres which have been awarded the Incubation Champion Award for 2011 by UK Business Incubation (UKBI), the leading professional body in the field.

Rotherham Investment & Development Office

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News: St Paul’s Developments continues to create job opportunities in Rotherham

South Yorkshire development company, St Paul's Developments, has reported strong occupier take-up levels across its portfolio and unveiled plans to drive forward regeneration projects in the region.

Deals have been concluded for around 230,000 sq ft of design and build pre-lets/pre-sales, signalling excellent news for the recovering property market and the region's job prospects. One development alone, Brookfields Park, in Rotherham has already secured some 1,800 jobs.

The company has revealed a staggering £21m turnover in a single day this April and their success over the last 24 months has resulted in building contracts placed with Yorkshire-based contractors of circa £10m along with regular employment of regional project teams. Future projects aim to create further opportunities to enhance the local and broader economy and contribute to the long-term recovery of the property market.

Highlights at Brookfields Park include pre-let warehouse, factory and office facilities of 105,000 and 83,000sq ft to Pegler Yorkshire Group and Thetford Ltd respectively.

Another key site contributing to their success is Cortonwood Retail Park in Rotherham which the company forward-funded and subsequently sold into the Enterprise Zone Tax investment market for £13m. The majority of the park is pre-let to occupiers such as Dreams and Smyths Toys with a 7,500sq ft unit available. A future project for the developer is a 250 unit residential scheme at Cortonwood for which detailed planning consent has been secured.

David Newton, managing director of St Paul's Developments, said: "We have always taken a longer-term view on the majority of sites within our portfolio and this, along with careful management, has enabled us to maintain a positive outlook throughout the challenging economic climate.

"Our commitment to the regeneration of South Yorkshire is as strong as ever and we are delighted to have been able to create local jobs through the construction of pre-let units, allowing local companies to improve the quality of their buildings. Looking ahead, we are confident that market recovery will facilitate continued development across the region and we look forward to delivering further opportunities through our work in this arena."

St Paul's Developments website

Images: St Paul's Developments

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News: New town centre public realm to be unveiled

New urban green space in Rotherham town centre is to be unveiled this month as part of "RotherFest", a day of celebration and events.

The Minster Gardens, located on the footprint of the former All Saints' Building, will be officially opened on Friday July 29.

The suggestion for the creation of the half acre Minster Gardens came about after magnificent views of Rotherham Minster were revealed after the All Saints' Building was demolished.

The Gardens, which are set to complement the re-vamped Imperial Buildings, will feature a specific space for open-air events, as well as stepped seating, formal lawns, grass terracing and a meadow area.

Developed and carried out by Rotherham Council, the project secured funding from a number of sources including Yorkshire Forward and the Council themselves.

To add a traditional twist, the design incorporates the original foundation stones of Rotherham's historic market hall, located on the site of the multimillion pound Old Market development, will now be used to create unique amphitheatre style seating.

The revamped Minster Churchyard, will also be officially opened during the day.

Thanks to funding from Yorkshire Forward and Heritage Lottery Fund, the historic churchyard has been fully landscaped and now boasts natural stone paving and improved grassed areas, new access and steps on to Church Street, bespoke oak seating sat on natural stone plinths with under-seat lighting plus new and improved iron hand-railings.

Cabinet Member for Town Centres, Economic Growth and Prosperity, Cllr. Gerald Smith, said: "I'm delighted that this fantastic project is getting ready to be unveiled.

"The Minster Gardens look great. They complement the surrounding buildings perfectly and will be a massive boost for the town centre.

"Rotherham is blessed with some stunning urban parks and the Minster Gardens will be a great addition to that list, we now have a tranquil space directly facing one of the most beautiful churches in the country where families can play and people can enjoy their lunches al fresco.

"I'd like to congratulate everyone who has worked on this project and can't wait to see people enjoying it on a daily basis."

Canon David Bliss said: "The whole area is beautiful and the new view of the Minster across the Minster Gardens is stunning.

"I too would like to add my very sincere thanks to everyone who has been involved with these projects."

Rotherham town centre website

Images: RMBC

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News: Greek deal for EMSc

Rotherham-based energy consultancy, EMSc (UK) Limited, has secured their first export deal in Greece.

The Templeborough company recently completed the successful installation of a Powerstar voltage optimisation system at a branch of a leading fast food chain, Goody's, in Thessaloniki, Greece's second largest city.

EMS Cyprus division was initially commissioned to assess the Goody's Sykies store for the suitability of a Powerstar voltage optimisation system. Following the installation, a 7.87% reduction on total electricity consumption was achieved resulting in a significant annual cost saving.

Powerstar also delivers savings in the maintenance and replacement costs of site based equipment as a result of matching the voltage more closely to the original design characteristics. The fast food chain has also reduced its carbon footprint by using less energy.

The voltage supplied in Greece is generally lower than in the UK - 232V in the Goody's store – which means that an equivalent store in the UK could achieve even greater savings in energy costs and improved savings in carbon emissions, as the voltage supplied is closer to 242V. With double figure increases in energy prices being announced this could result in significant savings for UK based fast food chains.

Kyriacos Michael, business development manager at EMS Cyprus, said: "The savings at Goody's Sykies have provided the restaurant with lowered electricity bills and reduced the store's impact on the environment.

"It is becoming increasingly important for large companies to use technologies like Powerstar voltage optimisation systems as a part of their overall carbon reduction strategy in order to lead the way to a greener future."

EMSc website

Images: ems-uk.org

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News: Rotherham Clifton join the Revolution

Players from Rotherham Clifton RUFC will be stepping up their pre season efforts, as the club enters into an exciting new partnership with local business, Revolution Gym and Fitness.

The partnership will allow the rugby club's players to work alongside the staff at Revolution in the town centre in order to come up with personal training programmes, strength and conditioning programmes and nutritional plans that suits each individuals needs.

The club will also take advantage of the gyms facilities for training evenings, where all the players will be able to come along and take part in classes put on by the staff at Revolution and Clifton coaches or just simply train together as a group, which includes access to the gyms aerobics studio for circuit training sessions.

Revolution Gym is run and owned by Jon Clark, who is a talented athlete and competes on world stage in bodybuilding. He has also been the strength and nutritional coach for many successful athletes, including former world champion boxer, Clinton Woods.

Olly Dixon, head coach at Rotherham Clifton, said: "This is an exciting partnership for our club and it will surely help us push forward next season. We as a club were looking to create partnerships with local businesses, so that we could improve our membership offer to players. When I met with Jon, it was clear right from the start that this was an opportunity we as a club couldn't pass up.

"The players will be able to train at a discounted rate, but more importantly for me, Jon and his team, will be working with them, to offer advice and push them in the right direction in terms of their training and nutritional programmes. Jon, has a massive amount of enthusiasm and is really keen for Revolution to help us out and hopefully that will help to bring the club success in the future."

Jon Clark, owner of Revolution Gym, added: "It is great to join with Rotherham Clifton at this stage of the season. I see working with Clifton as a long term partnership and I'm sure, together we will enhance an already motivated team and see its rise through the league in the seasons to come."

As well as looking to forge new partnerships with Rotherham businesses, the club are looking to expand their senior squads with new players for the upcoming season.

Rotherham Clifton website
Revolution Gym and Fitness website

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News: Discount UK take former M&S unit in Rotherham

Rotherham town centre has provided another example that it is bucking the national retail trend after it was revealed that Discount UK is to take the former Marks & Spencer's retail unit on College Street.

Discount UK is the new brand from Yorkshire company Poundworld and is described as a modern-day Woolworths but with a better range and a more vibrant look. It will offer shoppers discount brands from £1 to £25, including DIY items, kitchenware, pet products, bedding and smaller electrical goods.

The retailer looks set to take the whole of the 23,000 sq ft, two floor property and use the ground floor for retail. The building was last occupied by Hitchens and the front of the unit has more recently been used to display artwork featuring photographs of Rotherham's independent stores.

Recruitment for retail assistants and supervisors through Job Centre Plus took place in May and attracted hundreds of applications. The advert indicated that the store would open in August 2011.

Plans for a new shopfront and signage have been submitted and some shop-fitting has taken place.

Poundworld was initially founded as a multi price retailer under the name of Bargain Centre in 1974. It has grown rapidly and undergone a number of re-brands. They currently operate over 100 Poundworld stores and target 150 by the end of the year. The group opened the first Dicount UK store in Leeds in 2010 and are targeting 15 stores by the end of the year.

Discount UK website
Rotherham town centre website

Images: Poundworld Retail Ltd

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News: Firechill secures further funding

FireChill, the green cooling and heating company, has secured a further round of development funding with the help of its UK manufacturing partner, Newburgh Engineering.

The money will support the continued expansion of its base technology and provide a bridge to future commercialisation.

FireChill's proven, patented, heat-activated cooling technology technology reduces operating costs by up to 20% in traditional air conditioning applications and by up to 80% when integrated into a combined heat and power (CHP) system.

The unit's low cost, low carbon technology provides a competitive advantage, particularly in areas which are hot, crowded, have plenty of gas and/or where the electricity supply is unreliable or expensive.

With the units to be manufacturing at Newburgh Engineering in Templeborough, the investment is set to create 100 new jobs directly and many more in the supply chain.

FireChill Manufacturing is a joint venture with Rotherham-based specialist engineering firm Newburgh and is responsible for the production of units.

Simon Clothier, CEO of FireChill, said: "This money is a welcome boost for FireChill and gives the team the opportunity to take its ground-breaking cooling and heating technology to the next stage. We will use the money to build further test units and place them across the globe in challenging operating environments. This process has already commenced and early indications from Test Partner ecOenergy of the Dominican Republic are extremely promising.

"In house testing of the products under development point to a step change in performance and it is exciting that we are now able to develop them further. Having secured this interim step, our next mission is to secure a significant level of funding to expand the integrated family of FireChill products and bring them to market via a global manufacturing and distributor network.

"We have received a promising initial response and, based on conversations thus far, there is serious interest amongst a number of international organisations. The key to unlocking the opportunity is a vision for the future, a properly funded Technology Roadmap, fully-tested product and a receptive market."

Vince Middleton, managing director of Newburgh Engineering added: "We are strong advocates of the FireChill technology and believe it has a bright future which is why we have chosen to continue to invest our time, money and resource.

"We are very happy with the development progress of the product, have a well-defined programme of work and are looking forward to shipping further test units into the field. We are confident Simon and the team will be able to secure the next funding round and very much look forward to what that means for FireChill."

FireChill website
Newburgh Engineering

Images: firechill.com

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News: NAMTEC manufacturing forum launch

The National Metals Technology Centre (NAMTEC) in Rotherham are launching the NAMTEC Manufacturing Forum this week, a consolidation of previous programmes - AEM Yorkshire and the Special Metals Forum.

The Manufacturing Forum will provide an unrivalled opportunity for members to explore new market and technology development opportunities in high growth sectors including Oil & Gas, Aerospace & Defence and Energy Generation.

Member services and benefits include business intelligence, supply chain information, facilitated attendance at exhibitions and support for international trade.

A launch event at the Cutlers' Hall, Sheffield takes place on July 21. As well as an introduction from Bill Spiers, Master Cutler, the event has attracted prestigious speakers from Sheffield Forgemasters and Westinghouse, a major player in the nuclear industry.

Dr Alan Partridge, Chief Executive of NAMTEC said: "The NAMTEC Manufacturing Forum will provide an invaluable contribution to the growth of the metals industry. The event provides a unique opportunity to hear first-hand of developments in civil nuclear and to network with peers and potential business partners to discuss new business."

Based at Swinden House, Moorgate, NAMTEC was established to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the metals and related engineering industries throughout the UK. They lead on delivering research and technology development, knowledge transfer, and training to companies in the engineering and manufacturing industries.

NAMTEC website

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News: Considerate construction of Nuclear AMRC

The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC), in Rotherham has been recognised for the considerate way the £25m facility is being delivered by BAM Construction.

The Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) conducted an inspection of the innovative business project on the Advanced Manufacturing Park and scored it against eight criteria such as its approach to the environment, being a good neighbour and its attitude to safety and responsibility. The site scored 74 out of 80 half marks, placing it inside the UK's best performing one per cent of sites. Last year the CCS conducted over 14,000 inspections across the country.

The Nuclear AMRC is a joint initiative between the University of Sheffield, The University of Manchester, and a consortium of industry partners. It will provide a focal point for the bulk of the UK civil nuclear manufacturing industry supply chain, ensuring that manufacturers in the UK have the capability and capacity required to compete for nuclear new build in the UK and globally, from skills training to research and development.

The Nuclear AMRC's inspection awarded maximum marks for the project being a good neighbour and its responsibility, and singled out several aspects for praise such as its engagement of apprentices, involving local schools in learning opportunities, conducting random drug and alcohol tests, improving literacy and its thoughtful occupational health arrangements. The site has CCTV security. In addition, the team have raised thousands of pounds for charity by participating in cycling and running events.

Nick Howdle, project manager at BAM Construction said: "How we build is as important as the quality of what we build. Creating first class buildings needs a first class attitude. That can only be done in partnership with your client, and listening to them and the community around them. I can say we have formed a very strong working bond with the University and this will keep our challenging programme on track."

David Briggs, project manager at the University of Sheffield added: "The University fully supports the Considerate Contractors Scheme. This is an excellent result by the BAM team and they are to be congratulated on this."

The centre is scheduled for completion in September 2011.

Nuclear AMRC website

Images: namrc.co.uk

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News: United Carpets increase profits

Rotherham-based United Carpets, the second largest chain of specialist retail carpet and floor covering stores in the UK, has seen an increase in sales and profit for the year ended March 31 2011.

In difficult trading conditions, the company saw network sales increase by 2.4% to £71.6m (2010: £69.9m). Revenue was level at £27.5m and profit before tax increased by 13.2% to £1.243m (2010: £1.098m).

With their head office at Bramley, United Carpets has 86 branded stores across Northern and Central England, four more than last year.

With the majority of stores operating under the group's franchise model, the business benefits from the entrepreneurial drive and motivation of the individual store owners which, the company believe, is a critical advantage over more traditional retail networks.

The majority of group revenues are derived from the sale of floor coverings, predominantly carpet, laminate and vinyl flooring through franchised stores and corporate stores. Similar to the overall performance of the group, sales from this division were weaker throughout the first three quarters of the year, but started to recover in the last quarter.

Paul Eyre, chief executive at United Carpets, said: "In the context of the current market environment, this was a resilient performance slightly ahead of market expectations. We continue to attract customers into our stores by offering good quality products at prices that represent real value for money. As a result, the group saw a small increase in network sales and subsequent increase in profitability.

"Coupled with a healthy balance sheet, the business is well positioned to continue to develop its network of franchised stores and increase its share of the flooring and beds market, alongside any improvement in trading conditions."

United Carpets website

Images: unitedcarpetsandbeds.com

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News: MGB Plastics makes further investment in Rotherham facility

MGB Plastics, the UK's leading manufacturer of wheeled bins, has made a six figure investment in their Rotherham facility.

The company has continued their investment in the business by taking delivery of a second new 240L wheelie bin tool as well as a new 180L tool for its latest product.


The new machinery means that the manufacturing capacity of the modern facility on Barbot Hall Industrial Estate is 1.5 million wheeled bins per annum. Last year MGB acquired a 2350T Husky injection moulding machine that gives them one of the largest selections of large tonnage injection moulding machines in the UK.

Conor Sugrue, general manager at MGB Plastics, said the new tools would help fulfil the requirements of existing clients as well as freeing up capacity for new projects.

He said: "This investment will help us to fulfil the requirements of our existing clients while giving us that extra production capacity to cope with extra demand. It will allow us to be more reactive to customer requirements and deliver a unique service without compromising on quality.

"Our aim is always to delivering maximum quality and value to our customers and this investment in the 240L tool and 180L is a testimony to our commitment to our clients, our business and our innovative products."

MGB has launched four new products in the last 12 months including the 240L - the most advance wheelie bin in the UK to date and new innovatively designed kitchen caddies. The new 180L wheelie bin was launched last month.

Formerly Titan Plastech, MGB Plastics Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of One51plc after they acquired the wheelie bin business of Titan from Kingspan plc in 2008.

MGB Plastics website

Images: mgbplastics.com

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News: Hermes open new Rotherham hub

Delivery couriers, Hermes has expanded into a site in Rotherham as a result of recent business growth.

With headquarters in Leeds, Hermes is the UK's largest home delivery courier network handling more than 115 million collections and deliveries per annum. They work with companies of all sizes, and in recent years has diversified from agency catalogue brands to work with leading high street, direct catalogue and online retailers in the UK including Next Directory, Readers Digest, Lakeland Limited and ASOS.

The company has taken a 35,600 sq ft warehouse at Vector 31 Business Park at Waleswood that will replace an existing smaller depot in the region. It was selected due to the facility's quality and layout as well as the ease of access to the M1 motorway network.

The move is part of three new sites designed to enable Hermes to deliver key service benefits to customers and support the company's growth strategy moving forward.

Carole Woodhead, CEO of Hermes in the UK said: "These latest improvements to our hub and depot infrastructure mean we possess the necessary capacity within our network to achieve our future growth plans and are well prepared to handle high volumes during the forthcoming peak period."

Hermes website

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News: Chemotherapy patients benefit from Inditherm technology

Rotherham-based Inditherm has secured a contract with Bristol Royal Infirmary to supply their innovative medical heating systems.

The Manvers company's heat therapy system, SpeedHeat, is starting to attract wider attention from chemotherapy treatment units in the UK as it uses Inditherm's patented, low voltage carbon polymer technology to provide heat and unlike other forms of heating, there are no hot spots.

Recognising the need for an approved device that provides local warming during cannulation and drug infusion, the Bristol department has purchased 19 SpeedHeatVE units following a successful evaluation of the product.

The application of local heat therapy makes it easier for nurses to insert the cannula (needle) that delivers the chemotherapy drugs, making it quicker and less painful for the patient. The heat also reduces the discomfort for the patient during the infusion and reduces the risk of venous collapse that can occur, especially in over-used or fragile veins.

The Inditherm system provides a completely safe alternative to makeshift methods sometimes used. These include buckets of hot water, microwave activated heat packs and basic mains voltage heat pads bought at high street stores, all of which cannot provide the important safety and infection control features needed in a busy hospital department.

Already proven and in use in other NHS hospitals, SpeedHeat is a practical and convenient solution, with precise temperature regulation, that makes the chemotherapy process less traumatic for the patient and easier for nursing staff.

Last year, Inditherm signed a distribution deal for the industrial uses of their systems so that they could focus on the medical market. Other uses include patient warming during and after surgery, warming of new born babies and therapeutic heating.

Inditherm website

Images: inditherm.co.uk

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News: Rotherham tram-train project moves on

Negotiations are taking place between Northern Rail and German manufacturer, Vossloh regarding the procurement of vehicles for the proposed tram-train project in Rotherham.

Passengers could see tram-trains running between Sheffield and Rotherham using the current freight route from Rotherham and then joining the Sheffield Supertram network at Meadowhall South. Three trams an hour would run all day from Sheffield city centre through Rotherham Central to Parkgate retail park.

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, Northern Rail and Network Rail are bringing the project forward and aim to be up and running in 2014. The partners secured a £150,000 government grant in March to further develop the project.

Norman Baker, Minister for Transport, discussed the project during a recent meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Light Rail Group. He explained that Network Rail are currently undergoing a study into the investment needed in the infrastructure.

South Yorkshire PTE and Stagecoach Supertram are looking at how the vehicles would affect their system infrastructure as they are heavier than normal trams. They are also managing the demand and revenue modelling aspect of the business case and considering how the pilot can assist with local regeneration objectives in the area.

It was also outlined how Northern Trains have led the procurement of a fleet of vehicles and Vossloh have been identified as lead bidder and negotiations continue. They have worked closely with SYPTE and Supertram on an operating model for the service and again these discussions continue.

Vossloh has produced vehicles for similar systems operating in Saarbrücken and Munich in Germany and León and Mallorca in Spain.

Mr Baker added: "It is my plan to consider the Tram Train business case in more detail over the course of the summer and autumn. If the business case is satisfactory and the tram train pilot is affordable I would like to authorise the scheme by early 2012. I anticipate that the pilot would open in 2014.

"I believe this pilot has real potential for roll out on other parts of the network and could lead to regeneration and more economic operation of rural and lightly used lines where diesel traction would be more feasible."

Images: Vossloh

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News: Wathwood Hospital opens farm shop

Wathwood Hospital in Rotherham has opened their own farm shop with the help of the Rotherham Enterprise Project.

The shop is run as a social enterprise and sells fresh produce including fruit, vegetables, plants and flowers, hand-crafted gifts and jams, pickles and chutneys. The majority of goods are grown and produced on site with additional produce sourced from local markets, offering the local community an opportunity to buy ethically and reduce food miles.

It was created to provide patients of Wathwood Hospital and others who are in the process of overcoming a mental illness by providing training and skills opportunities, which would allow them to gain valuable experience in horticulture, retail and catering.

The Farm Shop opted for a Community Interest Company (C.I.C.) structure as they felt it fitted with the business's social aims, which focus on equipping the patients of Wathwood Hospital with the ability to integrate into the community. The Board behind the enterprise consists of local residents, patients, local business people and hospital staff. Patients get involved in every stage of the businesses, from sourcing suppliers to selling in the shop.

Voluntary Action Rotherham (VAR) and The Source (Meadowhall) have assisted the team to develop a viable business. VAR are part of the Rotherham Enterprise Project, which is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and helps budding entrepreneurs turn their business dreams into reality by offering dedicated coaches who provide business support and advice.

Steve Ball, General Manager of the Hospital said: "Providing patients with opportunities to gain valuable vocational skills and training is proving to have a significant positive impact on levels of motivation and wellbeing and on the recovery process. In addition, the shop offers a great opportunity for patients to interact with the public in a work environment and break down barriers and the stigma associated with mental ill-health."

Professor Mike Cooke, Chief Executive of Nottinghamshire Healthcare added: "I am delighted to have the honour of opening the Wathwood Hospital farm shop. This is a truly great initiative which will provide real benefit not only to our patients, but also the hospital staff and the wider community."

Voluntary Action Rotherham website

Images: Wathwood Hospital

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News: NAMTEC chief heading to Rolls-Royce

Dr Alan Partridge, CEO of The National Metals Technology Centre (NAMTEC) in Rotherham is standing down later this year to join Rolls-Royce, the world leading power systems and services company.

Dr Partridge will be joining the Rolls-Royce Engineering and Technology Division, to take on a global role with responsibility for Supply Chain development, quality and in-service fleet support across the breadth of the company's operations.

Alan Partridge said: "I am very proud of what NAMTEC has achieved over the last few years, and the benefit it has brought to many companies throughout the UK supply chain. I look forward to working closely with NAMTEC, as it further develops its portfolio of commercial services."

Martin Havenhand, chairman at NAMTEC added: "I am delighted for Alan that he has secured such a senior position in one of the UK's leading global companies. Alan is a consummate professional who has risen to the many challenges that NAMTEC has faced during the seven years he has been Chief Executive. He can be proud of his achievements and the added value he has provided to the industry."

Based at Swinden House, Moorgate, NAMTEC was established to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the metals and related engineering industries throughout the UK. They lead on delivering research and technology development, knowledge transfer, and training to companies in the engineering and manufacturing industries.

NAMTEC website

Images: namtec.co.uk

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News: Rotherham tourism businesses up for White Rose Awards

Rotherham tourism businesses, The Magna Science Adventure Centre and Throapham House have been shortlisted for the highly coveted White Rose Awards.

Welcome to Yorkshire has announced the 94 finalists, made up of Yorkshire's best attractions, hotels, venues and individuals from the tourism industry.

The Magna Science Adventure Centre has been named as a finalist in two categories - Best tourism experience and business tourism. The centre has picked up the business tourism award a number of times and awards recognising customer service.

Magna is the UK's first science adventure centre and is set in the former Templeborough steelworks. It celebrates its 10th Anniversary this year.

Millions of pounds have been invested in conference facilities at the centre which plays host to nationally important music events, boxing, corporate launches and award ceremonies.

Matthew Beck, managing director at Magna said: "Being a finalist in these awards is great recognition for the hard work and quality the Magna team deliver. Business tourism is very strong for us and we are looking forward to hosting the Royal Institute of British Architecture Awards later this year.

"The award for Best Tourism Experience is in recognition of the scare attraction called Hybrid X we ran last Halloween, we are just finalising plans for this year's scare experience called Bunker 13. It's wonderful to be shortlisted for awards that highlight both our corporate and leisure activities."

Throapham House in Dinnington is in with a chance of being named the B&B / guest house accomodation of the year.

The five star B&B is part of Yorkshire's Finest Accommodation, a consortium of the very finest privately owned five star properties in the region who share a commitment to provide exceptional quality and service.

Throapham House is a Grade II listed property dating from around 1750. It has been the family home to the Hollands since 1993. It was refurbished in 2006 and now Ann and Robert provide bed and breakfast accommodation in three spacious double rooms.

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: "Yorkshire's tourism economy is booming and the finalist list for the White Rose Awards indicates why. The level of high quality entries was outstanding and a firm indication that our tourism industry know the importance of offering our visitors that extra special experience."

Magna website
Throapham House website

Images: visitmagna.co.uk / throapham-house.co.uk

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News: Absolute boutique opens in Wath

A former school manager has opened a fashion boutique in Wath after receiving help from the Rotherham Enterprise Project.

Joan Wood, opened Absolute boutique after being inspired by her husband, who runs a DIY shop, and realising that working for yourself is a fantastic and rewarding thing to do.

Absolute supplies hand picks fashions which are different but affordable, offering women in Wath and the surrounding areas a place to buy the latest fashions in their home town. Absolute caters for a wide range of ages and sizes from 8 to 28 and has already attracted a number of regulars.

Joan said: "Setting up on your own can be quite a daunting prospect but I was able to draw on my extensive business experience and that of my husband. Business coach Julia Melia from the Rotherham Enterprise Project has also been able to provide some useful contacts and kept me informed of courses they are running for anyone in my situation."

The Rotherham Enterprise Project, which is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), helps budding entrepreneurs turn their business dreams into reality by offering dedicated coaches who provide business support and advice.

Rachel Clark, from Rotherham Investment and Development Office, one of the delivery partners of the Rotherham Enterprise Project, said: "Joan is a very inspiring lady who has heaps of enthusiasm for what she does.

"Walking away from a full time job to set up her own business was a very brave move but she is really enjoying running Absolute Fashion and has already got a good following with the women who work in the local call centres, schools and colleges coming in on a regular basis to see her new stock."

Joan has taking on her first member of staff which will allow her to further develop the business through the addition of a new website and offering a hat hire service.

Rotherham Enterprise Project

Images: Rotherham Enterprise

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News: Project Diam2ond at the AMP

A project that would create a centre of excellence for the manufacture of medical devices in Rotherham is looking for support from the government's Regional Growth Fund.

Project Diam2ond will exploit the latest digital data acquisition and processing techniques (e.g. from CT-scan to bespoke medical device CAD-model), combined with appropriate additive manufacturing method(s) for the manufacture of patient specific medical devices.

This project will include additive manufacturing facility, to be located at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham and Attenborough Dental (ADL) in Nottingham; equipped with dedicated equipment and appropriately skilled staff resources which are to be made available to all UK medical device manufacturers via membership of Diam2ond.

Project Diam2ond will be a national centre of excellence for the research and commercial exploitation of advanced manufacturing techniques in healthcare. Its focus is to help national (and multinational companies) benefit from a competitive supply chain in the same way that the supply chain for Rolls Royce and Boeing are gaining competitive advantage through their association with the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing, and Attenborough Dental at DenCity and their association with BioCity Nottingham.

The project is being led by Steve Roberts, director of AMP-based Fripp Design and endorsed by Sheffield City Council, Sheffield University, Manchester Metropolitan University and welding experts, TWI. Private sector support comes from device manufacturers and service companies, JRI orthopaedics, Sheffield Precision Medical, Techceram, CA Blatchfords and Sons, Attenborough Labs and Castle Ceramics Dental Labs.

Fripp Design are working with the University of Sheffield on a project to develop a system to fabricate soft tissue prostheses for patients suffering from facial deformities as a result of disease or serious accidents.

Fripp Design website

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News: Sweet taste of success at Rotherham's Dragon's Den

Kara and Tony Chapman, owners of The Whistle Stop Sweet Shop in Rotherham, claimed the top prize of £1,500 after impressing a panel of local "dragons" with their sweet dreams of business growth.

Rotherham Enterprise Board hosted a Dragons' Den-type event, inspired by the BBC show of the same name, at the Park Inn Rotherham in Manvers last week.

It is the second successful event funded by UK Steel Enterprise and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and aimed at recognising Rotherham companies with the potential for business growth. A panel of local business experts and mentors had the difficult task of selecting the best pitch on the night.

The successful couple from Swinton, opened their sweet shop last year in the refurbished Imperial Buildings in Rotherham town centre. It has become a popular hotspot for those longing for the sweets they enjoyed in their childhood.

After the event Kara said: "We were really surprised, but really happy to have won. George Elliott at The Source and Peter Robinson at the Chamber helped us prepare our pitch, but it was still nerve-wracking going in front of the dragons.

"The other businesses were very strong and gave great presentations. I think we won because we were very clear with our business plan and outlined exactly what we would spend the money on.

"It was a good opportunity for us to take a step back from actually running the shop and put our ideas for growing the business down on paper. And even if we hadn't have won, the event was a great opportunity for us to network with business people and meet potential business mentors."

Kara is no stranger to sweet shops as her parents and grandparents ran similar shops as she was growing up. She received business help and support from the Rotherham Enterprise Project, whose business coaches helped her with a business plan and marketing.

The business plan played a key part in convincing the panel of judges of their realistic future expansion plans which involve tapping into the wedding market with sweet favours, buffets and even bouquets.

The judges also saw Kara and Tony’s genuine passion for their business come through in their "brilliant" pitch but may have been swayed by the samples brought along from their shop, including a cake made entirely of sweets. It was a tactic that worked for last year's winner, Fiona Morgan who used her cheesecakes from the Alexandra Buffet Company to impress the panel. Fiona was back this time as a judge.

The other finalists entering the den were commended for their enormous enthusiasm and excellent pitches. They were Enviro Thaw, Pizzatainment, Renton Productions, Sports Media Advertising and City Deal of the Day Ltd.

For these entrepreneurs it is hoped that relationships will develop between the budding business brains and members of the board's mentor bank, where local people who have run their own businesses or have specialist expertise, will pass on their knowledge and give them a better chance of success.

Keith Williams, Regional Manager of Tata Steel subsidiary, UK Steel Enterprise said: "We are delighted to support these events. It was extremely successful and the businesses pitches were impressive. I'm sure it was a great experience for the enterprises and has helped them identify new potential opportunities and given them the confidence to progress their ideas further.

"There is a wide range of business support available in Rotherham. The Enterprise Board events are designed to help early stage and smaller businesses, whilst loan and equity finance of up to £750,000 is available from our own investment fund for more established businesses in Rotherham and throughout South Yorkshire."

The Enterprise Board is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is led by successful business men and women from a wide range of different backgrounds and business sectors. They are using their experience to change the way business support is provided and make it more helpful to Rotherham entrepreneurs.

Whistle Stop Sweet Shop Facebook page
Rotherham Enterprise Board website

Images: Rotherham Enterprise Board

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