News: Nuclear AMRC goes deeper

The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC) in Rotherham is installing one of its largest machine tools to investigate new ways of drilling extremely deep holes.

The TBT ML700 is capable of drilling holes of 8m depth and between 5-110mm diameter through stainless steel. At a length of 27m, it is one of the largest machines ever sold by TBT UK, and the largest in any university facility.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park, The £25m Nuclear AMRC is a joint initiative between the University of Sheffield, The University of Manchester, and a consortium of industry partners. It assists UK companies to successfully compete in the emerging £40 billion civil nuclear supply chain.

The Nuclear AMRC machining team and industrial partners will use the centre to investigate new techniques for drilling holes to depths of up to 500 times their diameter in a single process.

Deep holes are required for key components of modern nuclear reactors, and in other industries such as oil and gas. The current industry limit is a depth of around 300 times diameter.

To produce the deeper holes required by nuclear, manufacturers currently drill holes from both ends which, if all goes well, meet up in the middle.

Researchers are now investigating a new approach, with the aim of drilling holes of up to 8m depth with a single cut in a wholly automated process.

Stuart Dawson, head of the machining group at the Nuclear AMRC, said: "We want to eliminate operator intervention.

"We want a completely green button process with zero human intervention during the process. That means we need some kind of drill steering method so it can travel eight metres down this hole and arrive at the other end within a few millimetres of its target."

Key parts of the research will be carried out by Nikki Hilton, a postgraduate mechanical engineer from the University of Sheffield who is starting a four-year engineering doctorate at the university's new Industrial Doctoral Centre in Machining Science.

With sponsorship from Rolls-Royce, Hilton will undertake a series of linked research projects addressing tool tip tracking and steering technology. She said: "Nuclear manufacturing is a very exciting area at the moment, and it's good to be working with industry and creating a practical solution rather than doing some abstract bit of research.

"The fact we have the Nuclear AMRC and Rolls-Royce and the academic support of the university means we can really push the technological limits."

Nuclear AMRC website

Images: namrc.co.uk

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News: Morrison Academy receives mayor's seal of approval

The Mayor and Mayoress of Rotherham made a special visit to the Morrison Yorkshire Training Academy in Rotherham to meet some young apprentices who are currently studying there.

Officially opened last September by Morrison, which provides housing repairs and maintenance service to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, the Academy on Thames Street provides training for all of the company's apprentices in Yorkshire, currently around 40 students, as well as training initiatives for the local community.

The ten apprentices, who met with the Mayor and Mayoress, are all aged between 16 and 18 and are studying for their NVQ Level 2 in Maintenance Operations.

The Mayor of Rotherham, Councillor Shaun Wright, said: "I very much enjoyed my first, but hopefully not last, visit to the Academy. Seeing first hand such a progressive learning environment, which genuinely helps young people build for the future, was fantastic; it really took me back to my days as an apprentice.

"Their enthusiasm was infectious and their work ethic was second-to-none. I'm certain that their commitment to work and to learning new skills will see them in good stead for future careers.

"I'd like to thank Morrison for introducing me to the apprentices and wish them the best of luck in the future."

Andy Wilson, account director for Morrison Rotherham added: "It is fantastic to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress to the Academy as part of the National Apprentice Week. All of our apprentices are very proud of their apprenticeships and events like today, give them an opportunity to demonstrate what they are learning.

"Our apprentice base is one of the largest in our sector in the region and we are fully committed to continuing our support of apprenticeships in Yorkshire, with 30 new apprentices set to join us this summer."

All of the apprentices who attend the Yorkshire Academy are recruited from the local area in which they work and have two year contracts with Morrison. Each apprentice has their own dedicated Morrison mentor to work with on-site four days a week, with one day a week spent at the Academy learning the theory side of their trades.

Morrison website

Images: morrisonplc.com

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News: Rotherham's Ministry of Food secures cash for cookery lessons

Rotherham's Ministry of Food has received £80,000 from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) to help people to increase their cooking skills.

The funding will provide cooking courses in the community and at the town centre shop, by working closely with local groups to access people who need some support.

The funding will also support the Ministry of Food to provide a further 30 volunteering opportunities, giving Rotherham people the chance to explore if a job in catering is of interest to them.

Lisa Taylor, manager at the Ministry of Food, said: "We are really please to have gained funding from CRT, this funding allows us to help more families and groups to cook from fresh foods.

"We see people grow from being people who find cooking scary and difficult at the beginning to those who enjoy cooking and are proud of what they have achieved at the end of the ten week course.

"The additional funding will also allow us to safeguard jobs, and develop volunteering opportunities for people who are interested in catering and teaching jobs."

The centre, in All Saints' Square, opened in 2008 as part of Jamie Oliver's TV series and remained open with the help of £130,000 a year from Rotherham Council.

They became a social enterprise in 2010, enabling them to achieve financial stability and to bid for funding.

It is still supported by the chef and his team as well as Rotherham Council, the NHS and Voluntary Action Rotherham.

Rotherham Ministry of Food website

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News: Oxley & Coward mean business

Rotherham's Oxley & Coward Solicitors has pencilled in another business networking event for later this year after a successful event earlier this month.

The event was in partnership with Rotherham-based financial advisors, Hawley & Wood and attendees were treated to a business breakfast followed by pure, uninterrupted networking.

Rebecca Stopford, commercial partner at Oxley & Coward Solicitors LLP, said: "This event followed the same format of informality as the primary objective is to bring together local companies that might be able to help each other out and perhaps benefit from our expertise at some point in the future.

"Now the breakfast format is set and people know what to expect, we're starting to see a range of suppliers, clients and business contacts develop relationships with each other - which is now turning into actual deals being done.

"We'd like to thank Hawley & Wood for their support and hope even more local businesses will join us for future events."

Simon Hawley of Hawley & Wood, added: "We were delighted to support Oxley & Coward and its clients and partners in assisting with this innovative networking breakfast.

"There was no set agenda and no lengthy presentations, leaving attendees free to network at their leisure. We were able to assist several people on the morning with various financial queries, and we look forward to getting involved again with similar events in the future."

Oxley & Coward website

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News: Macalloy builds with Barclays

Rotherham construction experts, Macalloy has formed a new partnership with Barclays Corporate in its continuing strategic plans for growth and to increase international trade.

Based in Dinnington, Macalloy are world leaders in design, manufacture and supply of threaded bar and cable systems to engineering and construction projects across the globe.

They were awarded the Queen's Awards for Enterprise 2010 for international trade as the company's export earnings increased by 124% in the previous six years.

Peter Hoy, managing director at Macalloy, said: "Barclays Corporate has been very supportive of our requirements and plays an integral part in our plans for future growth.

"With the new banking facilities in place, we are now able to focus on further growth plans. The Online Global Trading Portal will be a massive boost for taking advantage of the opportunities the current climate presents with overseas customers and suppliers."

Alastair Watson, relationship director at Barclays Corporate, added: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to support this forward thinking and ambitious Dinnington based business bring their aspirations to fruition. Barclays Corporate is committed to supporting local businesses and we wish the management team every success for the future."

Macalloy systems support impressive projects including Dubai International Airport, the Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai and close to home, Clifton Park in Rotherham.

They have also been used in Johannesburg's Soccer City Stadium, the centrepiece to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the venue for the final.

Macalloy website

Images: macalloy.com

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News: Rotherham town centre flood work completes

A car park in Rotherham town centre has reopened to the public this week as a further phase of works to prevent flooding is now complete.

A new pumping station has been installed under the Corporation Street site together with a new defensive wall along the adjacent riverside walk.

The new wall has been constructed to achieve the 1 in 100 year flood defence level. The wall has brickwork cladding to both faces and is topped with stone copings in keeping with the location.

The block paving to Riverside Walk has been relaid and new lighting is being installed between Chantry Bridge and the Tesco footbridge.

The £750,000 Chantry Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme has been carried out by Rotherham Borough Council in partnership with the Environment Agency. The work has reduced the flood risk to central Rotherham and protected about 40 commercial and business premises. These cover an area of 105,693 sq ft and are valued at almost £30m.

The nearby bus station and the Chapel on the Bridge – a Scheduled Ancient Monument - and one of only five remaining bridge chapels in the country, will also be protected.

Coun. Gerald Smith, Cabinet Member for Town Centres, Economic Growth and Prosperity at Rotherham Borough Council, said: "The flooding in 2007 was disastrous with flooding from both the river and the sewers as well as surface water. This scheme will prevent the river flooding over into this area and making it a more inviting area for future investment."

20 parking spaces are provided on the site which is situated next to the Mecca Bingo Club.

RMBC website

Images: rotherham.gov.uk

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News: U-Explore learning with games

Rotherham education specialist, U-Explore is to collaborate with Arcadu Learning with Games, the unique games-based learning solution designed to motivate and engage students in their homework and independent study.

Based in Templeborough, U-Explore specialises in enabling schools to deliver reality based careers information, advice and guidance. Their U-Explore national school product is an innovative software solution which engages with young people through cutting edge media.

Arcadu Learning with Games includes over 80 topics with more than 8,000 questions ranging from National Curriculum level 3 to GCSE A* across 14 subjects. Its intelligent question banks adjust automatically, ensuring each student has a personalised package. Plus, with arcade quality games students are able to play whilst they learn, ensuring they remain entertained and challenged.

U-Explore and Arcadu Learning with Games are now available as a package, providing a range of benefits for teachers and students.

James Frith, managing director at U-Explore, said: "We are delighted to join forces with Arcadu and present to our customers an exciting learning with games product.

"This offer ensures U-Explore continues to support Key Stage 2 and 3 activities in the classroom as part of our increasingly complete proposition for all schools and colleges."

Stephen Astley, managing director at Learning with Games, added: "This exciting integration with U-Explore will ensure students of all ages across the UK can benefit from the unique games-based learning solution which Arcadu Learning with Games provides.

"It is fantastic that Arcadu Learning with Games is now available in collaboration with U-Explore, a high quality platform committed to improving the opportunities available to all young people, giving them the best possible chance to succeed."

U-Explore website

Images: u-xplore.com

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News: Judge backs Wentworth Woodhouse owners in Coal Authority dispute

A judge has sided with the owners of Wentworth Woodhouse in Rotherham in the first legal battle with the Coal Authority over a claim for damages.

Clifford Newbold and his sons, the owners of Wentworth Woodhouse since 1999, have been examining options for the long-term sustainable uses for the Grade 1 Listed building in order to ensure the heritage is preserved and enjoyed for future generations, as well as using the opportunity to help generate employment.

Key to this is a claim for damages against the Coal Authority for at least £100m, in respect of the damage caused by the deep and open cast mining, which is being disputed.

The Coal Authority attempted to stop the claim in the Lands Chamber of the Upper Tribunal last month, arguing that the two damage notices served by the owners were invalid.

The contention centred on technicalities on how the form was completed, largely due to it being completed by one of the Newbold brothers, Paul. The authority claimed that he was not the land owner as the property was co-owned by the family and that he did not have the authority to act on behalf of his family.

The judge, Mr George Bartlett QC ruled in favour of the Newbold family, concluding that "the Authority's contention that the notices were invalid must fail."

He added: "Their case was without merit....They instructed consultants to advise them, and over the two-year period their officers, and on one occasion their chief executive, discussed the claim with the claimants and their advisers.

"They clearly did not consider that either notice was so deficient in its content as to disable them from considering the claims or that the claims did not merit serious consideration."

The case is now expected to go to a full hearing.

Giles Newbold said: "We are pleased that we are able to take our case further so that we can secure the regeneration and long term future of this magnificent part of the nation's heritage."

Plans were unveiled last year for the mansion house to create a combination of publicly accessible restored museum to the central and grandest rooms, as well as a 70 suite luxury hotel and spa to the remainder. The proposal would revive the use of the house in such a way that minimises alteration and change to the historic building, making best use of the magnificent spaces that can be open to and enjoyed by the public.

Lead consultants, Purcell Miller Tritton have been working on the plans and an experienced technical team is in place including architects, cost consultants and property specialists to bring the project forward. It was hoped that it would begin this year and aspects to be completed in 2015.

An outline business plan for the business premises was submitted in a bid to secure funding from the European Regional Development Fund and other sources of funding were being examined, such as the Regional Growth Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Images: Johnson Cameraface on flickr, used under Creative Commons license

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News: Rotherham Central Station reopens

Aspects of the redeveloped Rotherham Central Station have reopened in Rotherham town centre.

Work began on the £8.5m redevelopment in 2010 and last week, the new lifts, waiting room, ticket office and platforms all reopened.

International architectural firm, Aedas, produced plans to replace the old building with a modern, lightweight entrance structure which will include a new passenger waiting lounge, ticket office and retail area.

Extensive improvements to the platforms, access, car parking and CCTV are also taking place.

The new station has been designed to use as much natural light as possible, creating an air of openness and space to the whole building. Additionally, on the refurbished platforms there are new canopies to give better weather protection to the travelling public.

The investment required to deliver improvements of this scale and quality is pulled together from a range of sources, including the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Yorkshire Forward, South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive and Network Rail.

Contractors, Galliford Try were initially set to complete the development by Christmas 2010. The work is now due to be completed this Easter.

The South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive apologised for the delays to this project. A spokesperson said: "Redeveloping the station has taken longer than we expected and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, and our project partners apologise for the delays and thank you for your patience throughout the construction work."

Chris Jackson, general manager for Network Rail, added: "Passengers at Rotherham are starting to see the significant improvements which will make using the station easier and more enjoyable. We will continue to support a speedy conclusion to all the works."

Following the completion of the work on the station, a £1m project is planned to upgrade the Central Road area and make a better environmental connection between the town centre and the station. Tenders have been submitted with work taking place in 2012.

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive website

Images: Tom Austen

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News: Marussia Manor Racing gears up for GP3

Rotherham is still playing a key role in developing Formula One drivers of the future as the home of Marussia Manor Racing.

The Marussia F1 team recently moved from Rotherham to Banbury in Oxfordshire to be closer to McLaren, their technical partners for the 2012 season.

Rotherham-born John Booth remains as the team principal and the team's former headquarters at Dinnington is now home to the Marussia Manor GP3 team.

The GP3 series follows the Formula One European calendar and the emphasis is on developing driver skills, with all teams using the same chassis, engine and tyre suppliers.

GP3 race teams and cars will be equipped, based and resourced at the facility on the site of the former Dinnington colliery, just as Formula One teams and cars have been for the past two years.

As an integral part of the F1 setup, Booth announced his intention to use the GP3 team as part of a new driver development initiative. The reward for successful drivers could be a drive with the Marussia F1 Team.

Manor's pedigree is good. Previous graduates include Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Räikkönen, who both went on to win the Formula One World Championship.

Rio Haryanto, who drove for Manor in GP3 and has been part of Marussia F1 Team Young Driver Programme for the past two years, has recently made the step up to GP2 and secured a drive for the newly-created Marussia Carlin GP2 Team in the 2012 season.

Twelve GP2 graduates will start on the 2012 F1 grid, including Marussia's newest driver, Charles Pic.

John Booth, team principal at Marussia F1, said: "Our Young Driver Programme now comprises all the racing categories that are key stepping stones for a driver to navigate their way to the very top and I am very proud of the support we can offer to the next generation of motor racing talent.

"Our Young Driver Programme is a big part of the Marussia F1 Team philosophy, but having spent many years helping to shape the future for many young drivers, it gives me great personal pleasure that we now have a comprehensive ladder that can take drivers with the best potential all the way to the very top."

Marussia Manor's GP3 drivers for 2012 are Russian Dmtry Suranovich, Brazilian Fabiano Machado (pictured, above during testing in Estoril) and Cypriot Tio Ellinas.

Peter Sliwinski, team principal at Marussia Manor GP3, said: "It's going to be another exciting season in GP3. We have worked very hard during the winter and the year ahead looks promising for us – I'm sure we can be up there with the top teams.

"I would like to welcome Dmitry, Fabiano and Tio to the team and wish them all a successful year. It's their first complete season in GP3, but they have already shown their potential and we are ready for the challenge."

Dmitry and Tio have already taken part in winter testing for the Marussia F1 team.

Manor Grand Prix was an unlikely name on the line up for the 2010 F1 season. The Rotherham team became Virgin Racing when they announced a link up with Richard Branson in December 2009. Russian company Marussia Motors acquired a significant shareholding in 2010 and the team became Marussia Virgin Racing. For the 2012 season, the team will be known as Marussia F1.

All GP2 and GP3 races will be shown on Sky as part of their new deal to screen F1.

Marussia F1 website

Images: gp3series.com

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News: Local companies back bobsleigh youth programme

Rotherham companies are backing a programme that supports young people in the region to achieve their champion potential through the sport of bobsleigh.

Team Active Fun in Sheffield has developed the Active Talent programme for young people that have each experienced problems with engagement during their time at secondary school and this disengagement resulted in many of these individuals becoming involved in gangs and associated criminal behaviour.

Working with the extended learning team in Sheffield young people are being given the opportunity to participate in a programme that supports re-engagement through the sport of bobsleigh. The programme is being developed by bobsleigh world champion Nicola Minichiello, and GB Olympic bobsleigh team manager Jo Manning who have been sharing their experience and skills associated with the sport.

As part of the programme some of the team have just returned from Igls in Austria where they have been developing their ice sliding skills. Whilst in Igls they were able to watch the first Winter Youth Olympics Games.

Nicola Minichiello, world champion bobsleigh driver and company director at Team Active Fun, said: "Bobsleigh is a team sport that requires an enormous amount of commitment, determination and dedication. We've been delighted with the commitment the boys have shown to the programme."

The programme has secured financial support from the charitable fund established by Rotherham manufacturing firm, AESSEAL, with the South Yorkshire Community Foundation. Rotherham companies Tata Speciality Steels, Newburgh Engineering and LifeSkills are sponsoring the programme.

Mick Hood, HR Director at Tata Steel's Speciality Steels business, said: "Tata Steel are delighted to be working alongside the Bobsleigh team on such an exciting and worthwhile initiative.

"Engaging and developing young people is an integral part of the Tata Steel community programme and the work that Nicola and the team do to help achieve this is outstanding. We would also like to wish the team every success now and in the future'.

Lesley Ann-Card, group communications officer at Newburgh Engineering, said: "Newburgh is delighted to sponsor this unique and exciting project that is really engaging with the local youth.

"Bobsleighing is a relatively unknown sport and a difficult skill to learn. This is something that all of South Yorkshire, and indeed the UK, should be really proud of, the bobsleigh project offers an extra-curricular activity for teenagers, and gives them something to aspire to - who knows, we could be sponsoring gold medalists of the future!"

Spencer Fearn managing director at LifeSkills, said: "LifeSkills are delighted to be part of an exciting and innovative project, which will give many people the opportunity to engage in sport."

Nicola Minichiello was one of the GB athletes backed by Rotherham-based Bromley Technologies. The others, Shelley Rudman and Kristan Bromley, are competing today in the skeleton World Championships in Lake Placid, USA.

Team Active Fun website

Images: Team Active Fun

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News: Sheffield City Region search for new chief exec

Sheffield City Region's Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is recruiting a new chief executive officer (CEO) as the current CEO, Sylvia Yates prepares for retirement.

LEPs are the government's new model to promote economic development. They provide the strategic leadership required to set out local economic priorities, and better reflect the natural economic geography of the areas they serve.

The LEP for the Sheffield City Region was formed in late 2010. Led by the private sector, the board brings together representatives from local authorities and academia with local business leaders.

The role of the CEO is to provide high quality leadership of, and support to, the partnership and to to ensure the delivery of their strategic priorities.

James Newman, chair of the Sheffield City Region LEP, said he was delighted with not only the number of candidates who had already put themselves forward for the role, but also the calibre of the applications received so far.

The LEP is a relatively new and evolving organisation, but we're demonstrating already that we are a force to be reckoned with," said James.

"The new CEO will be instrumental in helping us to achieve even more in the months and years ahead.

"We are looking for an exceptional communicator, who can think strategically and most critically, provide demonstrable leadership in developing and maintaining the public and private sector partnership approach that is so critical to the LEP's success.

"A demonstrable track record of working at the highest levels with both national and local government will be important for the role, given the importance of collaboration in these areas."

Sheffield City Region LEP website

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News: Rotherham optician shows his artistic vision

The latest piece of artwork to be displayed in the town centre open air art gallery has been painted by one of Rotherham's own retailers.

Nick English of T. English Optician was more than happy to allow a blank wall of his Wellgate property to be used in the innovative Gallery Town project. He was even happier when he found out he could use it to display his own work on a large scale.

Gallery Town involves the creation of an open air art gallery to help regenerate Rotherham town centre and increase the number of visitors.

The idea came from a group of local business people working alongside the local strategic partnership and town centre team looking at ways to regenerate and encourage more shoppers and visitors into Rotherham, in order to drive the local economy.

Nick's artwork, a stunning hand-painted lion, is featured alongside 60 pieces of artwork by local, national and world renowned artists and schoolchildren that have been displayed on the side of buildings in over 35 locations throughout the town centre.

Nick said: "I paint wildlife as a hobby using my fingers. This method gives texture to the piece and is also fun to do!

"I try to concentrate on specific parts of the subject."

As well as offering sight tests, contact lenses and designer spectacles, Nick welcomes artwork commissions.

Gallery Town website

Images: Gallery Town

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News: Moorhead Savage launch Inn-Solvency Ale

Rotherham insolvency practice Moorhead Savage has joined forces with the Thorne Brewery to launch a new ale in time for the Rotherham Real Ale Festival at Magna next week.

Based in RiDO's Moorgate Crofts business centre, the enterprise is headed by Paul Moorhead who leads a team offering high quality, professional, impartial and ethical help and debt advice to both companies and individuals.

Thorne Brewery is located in the market town of Thorne, near Doncaster, and has been brewing since 2009, supplying a popular line of ales across Yorkshire, Humberside and further afield.

On the new Thorne Brewery Inn-Solvency Ale, Paul Moorhead, a licenced insolvency practitioner with Moorhead Savage, said: "The Rotherham Real Ale Festival is the biggest in the north of England and it seemed like the perfect place to relax and enjoy some informal networking with our friends after a day at work.

"And then when Thorne Brewery said they could actually name an ale in honour of the event we really couldn't say no!"

The Rotherham Real Ale Festival is now in its 20th year and runs at Magna from February 29 to March 3, serving more than 200 real ales and also supporting local charities, including Rotherham Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice, Weston Park Hospital and Magna Trust.

In 2011, the festival moved to the Magna Science and Adventure Centre at Templeborough. It attracted 10,000 visitors and helped to raise more than £35,000 to support local good causes.

Local companies are being given the opportunity to get behind this year's event by putting their company name to a barrel of beer.

Stephen Burns, organiser of the festival, said: "The Rotherham Real Ale and Music Festival is a truly unique event that brings together the whole community in order to raise money for local good causes.

"We are calling on local businesses to help us make 2012 - our 20th anniversary - a year to remember."

A range of additional sponsorship packages are available with local companies Acorn Industrial, Beatson Clark, BOC, Cutting & Wear, Moorhead Savage, KP Nuts and S3-ID already signed up as sponsors.

Moorhead Savage website
Rotherham Real Ale Festival

Images: magnarealale.co.uk

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News: Massarella goes for growth with Barclays Corporate

Massarella Catering Group has announced a further partnership with Barclays Corporate in its continuing strategic growth plans.

Based in Laughton, Rotherham, Massarella Catering Group provide catering services within shopping centres, department stores, garden centres and retail and leisure outlets. The company has recently completed additional sales finance facilities and are now solely banked by Barclays Corporate.

Mark Massarella, managing director at Massarella Catering Group, said: "Barclays Corporate has been very supportive of our requirements and plays an integral part in our plans for future growth.

"With the new banking relationship in place, we are now able to focus on further growth plans. The newly arranged sales finance will be a massive boost for taking advantage of the opportunities the current climate presents."

The company, who recently suffered a temporary set back with the demise of T J Hughes, has seen an increase in business elsewhere and has over 150 sites serving 22 million people each year.

The company began with Giovanni Massarella and his three brothers who arrived in England in 1860 and were so taken by South Yorkshire they decided to abandon their journey to America and settle there instead. The enterprise became one of the largest ice cream manufacturers in Europe.

The group now employs 2,000 people throughout the UK in brands such as Cafe Nova and Cafe Zest as well as Massarella's Restaurants and Coffee Shops. Outlets can be found in House of Fraser and TK Maxx stores.

Alastair Watson, Barclays Corporate Relationship Director said: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to support this forward thinking and ambitious South Yorkshire based business bring their aspirations to fruition. Barclays is committed to supporting local businesses and we wish the management team every success for the future."

Massarella Catering Group website

Images: massarella.co.uk

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News: Peacocks Parkgate store closes

The sale of troubled clothing chain Peacocks has led to the closure of the Rotherham outlet at Parkgate Shopping.

The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group stepped in yesterday to save 6,000 retail jobs after agreeing to buy Peacocks for an unclosed sum.

Peacocks called in the administrators in January suffering from a decline in consumer spending due to the tough economic conditions and a surplus of stores and unsustainable capital structure that led to the business becoming financially unviable.

The deal included 388 stores and concessions, as well as the business' headquarters and logistics functions in Wales. The remaining 224 stores were not included in the sale and have ceased trading with immediate effect, resulting in 3,100 redundancies.

Administrators, KPMG confirmed that the Rotherham store was not part of the sale.

Philip Day, the chairman and chief executive of the Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group did say that: "We do hope that there will be scope to save more jobs and stores from those being forced to close now due to performance issues and overhead pressures."

Chris Laverty, joint administrator and restructuring partner at KPMG, added: "Today's deal ensures the continued trading of a well known name on the high street. While it is unfortunate that redundancies have been necessary, we are pleased that we have been able to preserve the majority of the business and jobs."

The Parkgate unit also included a Bon Marche concession. Bon Marche was part of the Peacocks group but was bought for an undisclosed sum by private equity group Sun European Partners in January. The Bon Marche store in Rotherham town centre continues to trade.

Positive news for Parkgate Shopping is the forthcoming arrival of Poundland, who are moving into the former John Peters unit.

This follows from the announcement that childcare retailer, Kiddicare has taken the lease of the 45,000 sq ft former Best Buy unit on the retail park.

Peacocks website
Parkgate Shopping website

Images: peacocks.co.uk

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News: New recruit to support growth plans at VO4HOME

VO4HOME Ltd, the Rotherham-based developer and manufacturer of the innovative VO4HOME domestic voltage optimisation system, has appointed Clive Creasey as sales representative.

The appointment comes following an increase in sales and interest from across the UK and Europe for the innovative system that is designed to maximise the delivery of energy into households and small businesses to 220V/230V.

Mr Creasey will be responsible for developing business opportunities and distributor networks across the UK – with the emphasis on Southern England – and will also play an active role in VO4HOME's line-up of events and seminars.

Geoff Clifton, business development manager at VO4HOME (pictured, left), said: "We have invested in the development of our manufacturing systems and resources to increase output, and the next logical step is to increase our sales resources with the focus being on distributor networks.

"We are extremely pleased to welcome Clive to VO4HOME and we believe that he will add tremendous value to the team."

One of the first events Mr Creasey will attend is a CPD seminar, which will take place at Brighton's Dyke Golf Club on March 28. Delivered specifically with electricians and installers in mind, the seminar – which coincides with the NHS Day of Action on Sustainability – will feature a number of presentations on energy management and sustainability.

Manufactured in Templeborough, the system can give households an immediate and significant energy savings of between 330lbs and 500lbs on CO2 emissions each year while saving between £130 and £200 in electricity costs annually.

VO4HOME website

Images: VO4HOME

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News: Martek attains US Coast Guard approval

Rotherham company, Martek Marine, is expecting an increase in export orders from America after the US Coast Guard approved their Navgard bridge watch and alarm system (BNWAS).

The Manvers company is the world leader in safety and environmental monitoring equipment for commercial ships.

A BNWAS is designed to monitor bridge activity and detect any operator disability that could lead to shipping accidents. The system monitors the awareness of the Officer of the Watch (OOW) and automatically alerts other staff if for any reason, the OOW becomes incapable of performing duties through an accident, sickness or even a security breach such as piracy or hijacking.

Steve Coulson, sales & marketing director at Martek Marine, said: "Navgard is the first system approved by the US Coast Guard. It gives owners, operators and crew the peace of mind that their vessel has the highest quality BNWAS installed and that it is compliant with the rigorous standards of safety and performance required by the US Coast Guard.

"US owners and managers want to ensure that the BNWAS they choose has passed their own coast guard approval process. And even if their vessels are currently operating in US waters, having a system with such a wide range of approvals will ensure that the vessels are attractive to all charterers on all trading routes, including in US territorial waters."

The Rotherham company employs the motto, "innovation beyond compliance" to stay ahead of the competition. They recognised that amendments to SOLAS, an international maritime safety treaty, would make the installation of an BNWAS mandatory for new cargo ships over 150 gross tonnage, all new passenger ships of any size plus existing vessels above a certain size.

Martek is already claiming that Navguard is the world's number one system with over 2000 units sold since it was launched officially in Hamburg in September 2010.

Martek Marine website

Images: uscg.mil

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News: Yorkshire Post set to be printed in Rotherham

Johnston Press, one of the largest local newspaper publishers in the UK, is planning to move production of the Yorkshire Post out of Leeds where it has been printed for 250 years.

Under proposals, the prestigious paper would be printed at Johnston Press centres at Dinnington in Rotherham, and Sunderland.

The £60m facility on the site of the former Dinnington Colliery was opened in 2007. It includes state-of-the-art facilities including one of the most modern and fastest presses in the world. It has the capacity to print 192 pages in full colour, 120,000 newspapers an hour in full colour and 75 titles per week.

Johnston Press said in a statement: "Consultation has begun on a proposal to close the press plant at Yorkshire Post Newspapers in Leeds. If the proposal goes ahead it could affect up to 25 jobs.

"Printing of the Yorkshire Post and Yorkshire Evening Post would move to other Johnston Press plants at Dinnington, near Sheffield, and Sunderland.

"New printing arrangements would allow additional colour in the two newspapers and follow the pattern across the newspaper industry of printing being centralised into fewer but bigger and more modern plants.

"The Wellington Street building [in Leeds] would remain a base for nearly 500 editorial, commercial and support staff. Any changes to printing would take effect in March following a full and proper consultation process."

Isle of Man Newspapers also announced plans to move production to Rotherham last year.

Industry experts expect that the Dinnington facility will also print The Sun on Sunday, which launches this weekend.

Johnston Press website

Images: Johnston Press

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News: VAR launches business support service

Voluntary Action Rotherham (VAR) has launched a new social enterprise to help support businesses and groups to survive, grow and succeed.

VAR is the lead body for supporting, developing and promoting the voluntary and community sector in the Rotherham.

Spectrum Futures is a new community interest company owned by VAR which builds on their successful role in the Rotherham Enterprise project which was part funded by European Regional Development Fund.

Alan Murphy at Spectrum Futures, said: "This work will build upon the success that the social enterprise team had in registering 34 new social enterprise business in the last three years and we look forward to supporting all our clients in future.

"We want to work with you and your business to unlock your potential, share experiences and enable you to achieve sustainability and success.

"A business is not just about a good idea, but also the person behind it, so our aim is to develop both in a friendly and professional way."

Spectrum Futures is also currently running a training project to develop the business and enterprise skills of unemployed people in Rotherham. This project offers free training and is funded by The Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT). It is intended to increase prospects, both employment and personal, for those who live in an area of high unemployment.

Spectrum Futures website

Images: spectrumfutures.co.uk

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News: Tata Steel expands its narrow strip offering

Following extensive trials at its narrow strip mill in Rotherham, Tata Steel has expanded its hot rolled gauge capability.

The increase in thickness to 13.5mm will allow customers to source thicker material than before which offers the potential to increase their product portfolio and source all of their requirements from one place.

The move is part of a new strategy that focuses on exceptional high-value products and sectors that is benefiting the Speciality Steels business in South Yorkshire.

Cahel Ferguson, commercial manager for narrow strip at Tata Steel, said: "This development keeps us at the forefront of hot rolled narrow strip developments and will appeal to our existing customer base as well as allowing us to increase our footprint globally.

"The work builds on our policy of working with key customers to develop strategic capability which complements our commitment to give customers a class-leading combination of short lead times and delivery on time."

The steel for the narrow strip is manufactured at Tata Steel's plants in South Yorkshire, before being rolled to its final size at the company's mill in Brinsworth, Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

In 2007 the Narrow Strip plant at Brinsworth celebrated it's golden anniversary. The basic layout of the mill changed very little in those 50 years but developments in all areas make Brinsworth a remarkably different business.

This includes the development of High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) steels called Hypress in the 1960s and developments to meet the precise needs of customers including new grades such as boron, carbon manganese and chrome molybdenum.

The mill is still one of the leading hot rolled narrow strip producers in the world and offers steel grades, from low carbon and free cutting steels to high carbon, alloy and stainless steels, offer varying strength, formability, durability and hardness properties.

The narrow strip is manufactured to the exacting specifications demanded by highly specialised, quality-critical sectors across the world such as cold rollers, keys, agricultural, automotive and aviation.

In the three months to December 31, the Indian-owned steel-maker posted a net loss of $114m as a result of higher prices for raw materials and the economic uncertainty in Europe. This compares to a net profit of $189m in the same period last year.

Dr Karl-Ulrich Köhler, MD & CEO of Tata Steel Europe, said: "The December quarter marked the height of the cyclical cost-price squeeze. Tata Steel was one of the first steel companies in Europe last year to start adjusting its output and configuration to the slowdown in the recovery."

He added that Tata Steel Europe was expecting a "muted but stable demand in our core markets in 2012."

Tata Steel website

Images: tatasteeleurope.com

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News: Powerstar continues growth with new Australian office

EMSc (UK) Ltd, the Rotherham energy saving solutions manufacturers, is expanding its international footprint into the Asia Pacific region with the opening of a dedicated Powerstar office in Australia.

The decision to open a dedicated subsidiary was made due to the overwhelming success Powerstar, the world's leading voltage optimisation solution, has achieved in Australia over the past few years.

The new office, which will be headed by account manager Doug Hamilton, will allow the company to further develop its market presence.

Following a year of growth, the Templeborough company recently expanded its international network by signing distribution agreements with companies in Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Malta.

The award-winning company manufactures Powerstar, a voltage optimisation system with a patented design, which can actively reduce electrical energy consumption by an average of 12-15% of consumed electricity.

Paul North, international business development manager at EMSc (UK) Ltd, said: "Powerstar has been available in Australia for several years and has successfully been installed across a wide range of industries including government departments, supermarkets and cold storage facilities. The system has truly established itself as a market leader in voltage optimisation."

"As a company with a clear aim to deliver energy saving solutions to customers globally, the opening of our Australian office will contribute greatly to our international business, which is already experiencing exponential growth due to our extensive network of distributors."

Doug Hamilton, account manager at EMSc (UK) Ltd, added: "I've had a long association with Powerstar and when the opportunity came up to set-up the office in Australia, I was very excited to take it.

"I will be doing my best to continue developing market opportunities for the number one choice in this region."

Powerstar website

Images: powerstar.co.uk

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News: College helps people to earn and learn in the Dearne

A recent event held at Dearne Valley College (DVC) to help the unemployed back into work has proved a great success.

The Manvers-based college, in conjunction with Job Centre Plus, offered access to free advice and support for individuals who are unemployed.

The event aimed at 18 – 24 year olds took place at the Wath-based, Manvers Campus, where employers from across South Yorkshire were on hand to offer support.

Katie Wheeldon, Skills for Work contract manager at DVC, said: "The Earn and Learn in the Dearne event was a great success, with over 200 people attending throughout the day, gaining access to our free training, Apprenticeship opportunities, vacancies and CV workshops.

"Local and national employers who are actively recruiting in the area provided access to guaranteed interviews for our candidates as well as support with applications.  We received excellent feedback from all involved and are already planning our next event."

Employers on the day included; Blue Arrow, Sure Care, Barclays, Kingswood, HERO TSC and Aquafyn amongst others.

The college is also encouraging local employers to take on Apprentices as they could be eligible to receive a cash incentive of £1,500 through the AGE 16 to 24 grant.

Kaye Jackson, business development manager at DVC, said: "Although the economic climate is still very challenging for many businesses, we would encourage an employer to take on an Apprentice to help them fill any skills gap. By taking advantage of the grant, this will help companies with their forward planning and be better prepared for when the industry gets back on its feet."

The college's next Open Evening to be held at the Manvers Campus on Wednesday 22 February from 4.30pm to 7.30pm.

DVC website

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News: Rolls-Royce deal kickstarts the new nuclear build programme

The £400m nuclear deal between Rolls-Royce and AREVA, that will see the creation of hundreds of highly skilled jobs in Rotherham, is expected to have a big impact on the regeneration and perception of the region.

Rolls-Royce will manufacture complex components and provide engineering and technical services for the first of two European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) projects to be built at Hinkley Point, Somerset where AREVA is providing the Nuclear Steam system.

Once contracted, the work could be worth a total of £400m in revenue to Rolls-Royce for the four EPRs currently planned by EDF Energy in the UK.

Rolls-Royce is investing in a 21,000 sq m facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham. The "Project PoWeR" facility is designed for manufacturing and assembling power vessels for these next generation nuclear power stations.

Lawrie Haynes, president-nuclear at Rolls-Royce, said: "This is an important agreement and I look forward to continuing the strong partnership we have built with AREVA. Rolls-Royce has broad nuclear experience, a strong track record and an extensive nuclear certified supply chain.

"Together with AREVA, we will work to successfully deliver new civil nuclear projects in the UK and around the world."

Rolls-Royce is also the lead industrial partner at The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC), also on the AMP in Rotherham.

Professor Keith Ridgway CBE, programme director of the Nuclear AMRC, said: "We are delighted to hear this news, which effectively kickstarts the new nuclear build programme.

"This means a great deal to the regeneration and perception of South Yorkshire as a high value manufacturing region."

As the focal point for the bulk of the UK civil nuclear manufacturing industry supply chain, the Nuclear AMRC is acting as an entry way for companies which do not have an existing relationship with Areva, but which have the potential to become nuclear-capable and provide products within AREVA's supply chain.

Professor Ridgway added: "The Nuclear AMRC will play a pivotal role in the development of the next generation nuclear power plants, and we hope we can assist UK companies to successfully compete in the emerging supply chain."

The Nuclear AMRC is a joint initiative between the University of Sheffield, The University of Manchester, and a consortium of industry partners.

Rolls-Royce website
Nuclear AMRC website

Images: Rolls-Royce

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News: Local manufacturers urged to get involved in nuclear new build

Local manufacturers are being urged to make the most of Rotherham being at the centre of the UK civil nuclear supply chain.

Alan Cumming, commercial director for EDF Energy's nuclear new build programme in the UK, and one of the sector's leading buyers, has said that South Yorkshire manufacturers are better placed than their rivals across the UK and Europe to supply the civil nuclear energy industry and should take advantage of having The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC) on their doorstep.

With new £25m facilities set to open soon on the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham, 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 UK is embarking on its largest ever investment in new nuclear power stations, with a total value of around £40 billion.

Alan Cumming, who is also on the programme board at the Nuclear AMRC, said: "The Nuclear AMRC is set to be the single most important hub of the entire UK nuclear energy sector.

"It's a world class facility and is sitting next door to some of the world's most talented manufacturers, so we will be hosting special events where those manufacturers can get a clear understanding of what we need.

"It's time for South Yorkshire's manufacturers to grab this opportunity with both hands."

At the same time as Rolls-Royce signed a £400m agreement with AREVA that will create hundreds of jobs in Rotherham, EDF signed a £100m–plus contract with Kier BAM for site preparation works at the UK's first European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) project, and an MoU with AREVA relating to the delivery of the nuclear steam supply system and central instrumentation and control systems.

The series of Supplier Days, where local manufacturers can discuss their products with key buyers from the nuclear energy sector, are being planned for the Nuclear AMRC.

Martin McKervey, partner at commercial law firm, Nabarro which is a headline sponsor of next month's Global Manufacturing Festival, said: "It is hoped that South Yorkshire engineering companies specialising in instrumentation, valves, pumps and other high-end products can grab pole position in this sector as the UK is about to see its largest-ever new-build programme for nuclear energy."

EDF Energy website
Nuclear AMRC website

Images: edfenergy.com

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News: Norton sells division as others go into administration

Midlands doorstep lender and motor finance company, S&U plc has acquired the home credit business from Rotherham-based Norton Finance.

Based on Mansfield Road in the town centre, Norton Finance operates as a group of companies including a profitable lending arm and divisions specialising in loans and mortgages and debt management. They employ over 200 people.

S&U plc acquired the home credit business for an undisclosed sum but said that the acquired business had gross assets at date of acquisition of approximately £0.75m and consideration will be paid in cash.

The statement added: "This acquisition will add to our customer base in the Yorkshire area and will be immediately earnings enhancing."

Earlier this month Norton Finance (UK) and Norton Insurance Services Limited entered administration. They provided a loan and brokerage service and also advised and sold Payment Protection Insurance (PPI).

A statement by administrators, Duff & Phelps, said: "The companies are subsidiaries of the much larger Norton Finance Group, which is unaffected by the situation."

The decision by the British Bankers' Association not to appeal the judicial review over PPI polices in May 2011 will potentially lead to many more claims for miss-selling.

The administrators added that Norton Finance (UK) was loss-making due to high costs of defending the increasing volume of claims and that the parent company has withdrawn financial support with the increasing number of claims making the business unsustainable. Balances between the companies was in excess of £1m, stemming form the funding of losses.

Norton Insurance Services Limited was trading profitably but its relationship with Norton Finance (UK) and its own sales of PPI has led to administration.

A pre-pack deal saw another group company, Norton Finance and Mortgage Limited buy assets from the companies in administration for £10,000.

Norton Finance said in a statement it was with reluctance that Norton Finance (UK) had closed, but added:

"However I am pleased to announce that Norton Finance and Mortgages has acquired the business and all employee positions will be protected.

"We look forward to continuing to work with all existing introducers and partners."

Norton Finance website

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News: Rolls-Royce power ahead with nuclear deal

Rotherham's place at the heart of advanced manufacturing for the civil nuclear sector has been emphasised with the signing of a £400m agreement between Rolls-Royce and AREVA.

The agreement was announced today at the same time as Prime Minister David Cameron and President Nicolas Sarkozy signed an agreement to co-operate on civil nuclear energy, paving the way for the construction of a new generation of power plants in the UK.

The government believes that the Anglo-French agreement could lead to investment worth £60 billion and the creation 30,000 jobs. Hundreds will be created in Rotherham.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: "As two great civil nuclear nations, we will combine our expertise to strengthen industrial partnership, improve nuclear safety and create jobs at home.

"I am delighted that Rolls-Royce and AREVA have today announced their intention to work together on global civil nuclear projects. This industrial collaboration will deliver significant growth and create more than 1,000 high quality manufacturing jobs in the UK over the next few years.

"My goal is clear. I want the vast majority of the content of our new nuclear plants to be constructed, manufactured and engineered by British companies. And we will choose the partners and technologies to maximise the economic benefits to the UK."

Edward Davey, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, added: "We need hundreds billions of pounds of investment in clean energy projects in the UK. This will bring high-skilled job opportunities the length and breadth of the country.

"Construction workers, engineers, technicians – they will all have a role to play."

Today's agreement will see AREVA and Rolls-Royce strengthen their cooperation for the UK civil nuclear market, covering nuclear new build and fuel cycle.

Rolls-Royce will provide significant manufacturing and other engineering services for European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) projects starting with the UK's first at Hinkley Point in Somerset.

AREVA and Rolls-Royce also confirmed that they would work closely on nuclear facilities around the world.

In 2009, Rolls-Royce announced that it was to make a multi million pound investment in the region as part of the UK Government's civil nuclear package.

Outline plans have already been approved for a 21,000 sq m Rolls-Royce facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham. The "Project PoWeR" facility is designed for manufacturing and assembling power vessels for these next generation nuclear power stations.

It is one of three planned facilities that could create 360 jobs initially on 13 ha of land acquired from UK Coal.

It is expected that detailed proposals will come forward for the Project PoWeR facility soon and the delivery of the first vessel is anticipated in 2015.

Rolls-Royce is also the lead industrial partner at The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC), also on the AMP in Rotherham.

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.

In March 2011, the Nuclear AMRC signed a new collaborative agreement with Areva, at the same as Rolls-Royce signed a strategic partnership to supply key components for the French group's EPR reactor.

The Nuclear AMRC is acting as an entry way for companies which do not have an existing relationship with Areva, but which have the potential to become nuclear-capable and provide products within Areva's scope of supply.

Rolls-Royce website
Nuclear AMRC website

Images: Areva / epr-reactor.co.uk

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News: MTL's investment in Rotherham is paying off

Project manufacturing specialist, MTL Group, has seen turnover increase since it invested in new machinery and new premises in Rotherham.

MTL Group is one of Europe's fastest growing project manufacturing specialists in the metal sector and is a global supplier of secondary steelwork.

It works with a global blue-chip customer base in the defence, construction equipment, rail and off-shore wind energy sectors.

Founded in 1995, MTL Group processes around 30,000 tonnes of material annually and provides a range of services from laser cutting and machining to press braking and surface treatment.

The company moved into a £5m state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Brinsworth last year and has invested £1m in new machinery.

The company approached Lombard, one of the UK's leading asset finance providers that has operated in Rotherham for 150 years, for a £1m hire purchase solution.

Raj Dehel, origination manager at Lombard, said: "We created a four year facility with a straightforward HP funding solution. The company was consolidating its three sites to one location and the equipment we financed went straight into the new site."

MTL's Rotherham facility boasts the largest laser in the UK and a 640-tonne robotic press, which is the biggest of its kind anywhere in the world.

A new high definition bevel plasma cutter and a robotic tube cutter are also in place, both specially designed to support the growth in orders from the offshore renewable energy sector.

David O'Hara, finance director at MTL Group, said: "As a rapidly expanding company, we are investing in more and more unique equipment.

"Not only was I impressed with the rates that Lombard offered, but I was also impressed with the effort it made to build a relationship with MTL Group and to understand our business.

"Since acquiring the machines, turnover has increased and we've won a big export contract, which is underpinned by the new equipment."

MTL Group website
Lombard website

Images: lombard.co.uk

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News: Progress for Templeborough biomass energy development

Plans for a biomass energy development at Templeborough in Rotherham are moving forward with plans submitted for a timber processing plant nearby.

Full planning permission was granted in 2010 for the development at the Firth Rixson Ickles Works where land and disused buildings where purchased in March 2011.

The planned 2.6 hectare development incorporates two biomass combined heat and power (CHP) plants with a combined generating capacity of about 31 MWe. It could create 100 jobs.

Operators, the Brite Partnership, are now in discussions to buy Rotherham Council's Greasborough Road depot with plans to use it as a timber debarking and chipping plant.

The proposal is to demolish the existing buildings on the site, and to replace them with a new purpose-designed building to house the process equipment plus a building used for storage. It will have a capacity of 525,000 tonnes of wood chipping each year and will create 350,000 tonnes for the Templeborough facility.

Plans state that 40 operational staff could be employed on the Greasborough Road site.

The Brite Partnership, was formed with the sole purpose of developing projects for the production of green energy, and operating them as a viable and sustainable business.

Plans state that partners have in excess of eighty five years of experience between them in the construction industry and that other members of the team have extensive experience of the development of biomass combustion projects, with similar projects in other parts of the UK and Europe.

The Rotherham project is seen as the cornerstone of the renewable energy business which the partnership expects to expand on in the coming years throughout the country.

E.ON recently announced construction plans for biomass energy plant at Blackburn Meadows in Sheffield. The £120m renewable energy plant will be set near the site of the old Tinsley Towers, adjacent to Meadowhall, and when operational will generate up to 30MW.

Brite Partnership website

Images: Brite Partnership / IESIL

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News: Young engineers to Get Up to Speed again

Budding engineers and manufacturers from across the region are being invited to a unique event to see some of the world's fastest vehicles and learn what key roles local companies played in their creation.

The Get Up to Speed - Skills and Education Show on March 21, part of the Global Manufacturing Festival, will give youngsters the chance to meet leading local businesses to learn about the fundamental role design, engineering and manufacturing have played in their success.


Former Tomorrow's World presenter Maggie Philbin, now the face of technology for the BBC, will also be at the event, alongside Paul Larsen, world record holding pilot of the Vestas Sailrocket, women's Bobsleigh World Champion, Nicola Minichello, and members of the British triathlon performance team, Lois Rosindale and Gordon Benson.

The event will feature the world's fastest boat – the Vestas Sailrocket, a Marussia racing Formula 1 show car and the legendary Vulcan Bomber.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to speak to the engineering and manufacturing businesses about career opportunities and to talk to apprentices about working in the sector and what skills and qualifications will be beneficial to them.

The event at Ekspan's The Blue Shed in Sheffield, sponsored by Tata Steel, Firth Rixson, Ekspan and Institution of Mechanical Engineers and delivered in partnership with Business & Education South Yorkshire (b&e), Creative Sheffield and TDC.

The Skeleton simulator developed by Rotherham-based Bromley Technologies Ltd and Performance Engineered Solutions (PES) Ltd will also be at the event along with the Formula One simulator from Rotherham company, F1 Showcars.

Global Manufacturing Festival website
B&ESY website

Images: Global Manufacturing Festival

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News: Connexion2 secures Travelodge contract

Innovative Rotherham company, Connexion2 has secured a contract with Travelodge, the UK's fastest growing budget hotel chain, to provide their market leading lone worker security device, Identicom.

The Dinnington company's SoloProtect package is based on the Identicom system which is designed to look like a normal ID badge but allows lone workers to raise an alarm, make an emergency phone call or send a text message.

It also allows a user who is feeling unsafe to request monitoring or specific assistance through the ability to discreetly open a live audio channel. Dedicated staff at the Alarm Receiving Centre can discreetly monitor what is happening, capture the audio evidence, and make an assessment as to the level of support required - involving the police if necessary. All audio captured through the device is recorded for future use as admissible evidence in court if required.

Travelodge is rolling out Identicom devices in over 500 hotels, which are being deployed across a mixture of the company's existing and brand-new hotels.

Clare Shinton, head of safety at Trevelodge, said: "There are occasions when staff members, working alone on reception, behind the bar or dealing with a customer's query - perhaps in their room, feel they need additional support.

"Travelodge takes its duty of care very seriously and whilst our previous solution had been in place for a number of years, we wanted to explore other options to ensure our people feel protected and have the most appropriate and comprehensive support available."

Connexion2 website

Images: connexion2.com

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News: Coalfields apprenticeship programme extended

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust's (CRT) National Apprenticeship Programme is providing a further 255 young people in England's coalfields with apprenticeship and employment opportunities.

Based in Manvers, CRT is an independent regeneration organisation that was established in 1999 to improve the quality of life in Britain's coalfield communities.

The government recently announced a further £22m for the trust on top of the £30m already confirmed for this year and next. CRT will use the funding to help former coalfield communities get back on their feet and secure economic growth for years to come.

This second phase of the Coalfields National Apprenticeship Programme will focus on young people aged between 16 and 25, who are more than twice as likely, to be out of work than older people. However, in recognition of the growing number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) over 70% of these apprenticeships will be created for 16 to 18 year olds.

An additional £1.1m investment by the trust brings the number of opportunities afforded to young people in coalfield areas through the programme to nearly 550.

This innovative programme will be spearheaded by the charity, and will be delivered in partnership with local councils and colleges, providing employment opportunities in the private sector.

Rotherham College of Arts and Technology (RCAT) recently secured £20,000 from the trust to support local SME's recruit new apprentices.

Gary Ellis, CEO of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, said: "With the youth unemployment figures spiraling upwards this programme will be a real boost for young people struggling to find work.

"Former coalfield communities have been badly hit by the economic downturn and this has compounded the problems already experienced by young people. This programme is a direct response to help young people into work and create a strong platform for their future aspirations."

The apprenticeships which will provide an opportunity to "earn while you learn" will be available in a wide variety of industries and occupations. Each apprenticeship will run for a minimum of 12 months and young people will start taking up the opportunities over the next three months.

Coalfields Regeneration Trust
RCAT website

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News: Jamie Oliver’s Ministry of Food is cooking up a storm at a Rotherham extra care scheme

Jamie Oliver's Ministry of Food, the Rotherham social enterprise that promotes healthy food on a budget, has set up a base at Oak Trees extra care scheme.

The project is still going strong with premises in Rotherham town centre. It is still supported by the chef and his team as well as Rotherham Council, the NHS and Voluntary Action Rotherham.

Dedicated cooks and volunteers from the Ministry, including some residents, now prepare meals at the Oak Trees cafe at Stag using fresh ingredients at a low price.

Michelle Jones, supported housing officer at Chevin Housing Association, said: "The Ministry use our facilities to cook healthy food through a contract with the local council, we used to get a handful of people into the cafe, now it's full everyday.

"Residents get involved with preparing meals and they're having an influence on the menu but most of all they are loving the food. Good food at a low cost and good company – you can't ask for more than that."

Dean Pry, a cook at the Ministry of Food, added: "The Ministry of Food is a social enterprise aimed at promoting healthy eating and cooking. Volunteers come in and learn a skill that can hopefully turn into a career but we're also able to prepare healthy meals at a low cost and it's been really successful."

Ministry of Food website

Images: mofrotherham.co.uk

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News: More new ERA apprenticeship programmes announced

Brinsworth Academy of Engineering announced a further three new ERA (employer ready apprentice) programmes at their annual employer event as part of National Apprenticeship Week.

The new ERA apprenticeship programme was developed in South Yorkshire and is designed to create a highly skilled breed of young engineers. The Templeborough training company took matters into its own hands, after local manufacturing and engineering employers advised that they were finding it extremely difficult to recruit skilled staff of the right calibre.

The new programmes will cover specialisms of instrumentation and control technology, electronics and welding and fabrication.

Attendees also heard firsthand about the new government AGE (Apprenticeship Grant for Employers) initiative that will incentivise new employers to embrace the apprenticeship programme.

Mick Crossley, managing director at Brinsworth Academy of Engineering, also spoke about the hunt for a new home for the academy as they plan their growth to meet the demands of local industry. He said: "We are currently looking at two sites within the Sheffield city region and we want to have a training centre that reflects our ambitions of developing a modern academy that provides young people with the best environment to become highly skilled engineers.

"We see our academy working in synergy with the new University Technical College and also the Advanced Manufacturing Institute to give South Yorkshire a reputation and national recognition for developing employees within the engineering sector."

Brinsworth Academy of Engineering website

Images: Brinsworth Academy of Engineering

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News: Assured plans for further expansion

Fast-growing Rotherham firm, Assured Fire and Security, has appointed its first HR manager as the company concentrates on its plan for further expansion throughout 2012.

In 2010, the Dinnington firm set out a long-term plan that aims to make the company the UK's biggest and best independent national fire and security company within the next five years.

Tara Matthewman, who is 24 and lives in Brinsworth, has eight years experience, primarily in retail HR. She said: "This is quite a change of direction for me in terms of the sort of industry I've been used to working in but Assured is a company with a very clear and focused idea of where it is going over the next five years and I am delighted to be able to join them and contribute to that journey."

Simon Stokes, managing director at Assured, added: "This is a significant new position within the company and a vital one at a time when the team is expanding so much and Tara will be taking a leading role in the development of the Assured values and culture."

Tara's appointment is one of several important new positions within the company.

Kim Jones joins the Customer Service team, looking after customer queries and keeping clients up to date on the latest developments in Assured fire and security services.

Louise Marie Tandy joins the Assured sales team as London Service Sales Consultant and will be developing new customers for fire and security maintenance and installations throughout the growing market in London and the Home Counties.

Steve Close is the company's new Field Support Engineer, working with the Assured engineering team and technical support staff, handling customer services issues in the field nationally.

Darius Surowy joins the Engineering team, looking after clients in Bristol and the South West.

Assured Fire and Security website

Images: assured-ltd.co.uk

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News: ALcontrol sells Rotherham division

Environmental and food testing specialists ALcontrol has sold a Rotherham facility as part of the sale of its On-Site Services division.

Lawyers from DLA Piper in Sheffield acted on the disposal of the business and assets of their On-Site Services division to Shield Group which is part of Netherlands-based ACTA.

The deal includes the asbestos, air emissions and occupational hygiene services of the business that operates from sites in Rotherham, East Kilbride and Newcastle-under-Lyme.

On-Site Services was not part of the ALcontrol's core laboratories business and therefore a buyer, with more synergies with the business, was sought to provide a suitable platform for future growth.

The deal provides ACTA with a stable, high quality platform to enter the UK market and to broaden their services portfolio.

Simon Gibbs, chief executive at ALcontrol, said: "This deal is of significant importance to ALcontrol as we position ourselves to move the business forward.

"Our On-Site Services function specialises in providing high quality and cost-effective health, safety and environmental monitoring and management solutions and will enhance ACTA's offering in the UK."

Richard May, head of the corporate team at DLA Piper in Sheffield, led the transaction on behalf of ALcontrol, supported by Anna Grunwell.

Richard May, partner at DLA Piper, said: "This was a significant deal for both businesses, allowing ALcontrol to concentrate on building its core laboratory network, whilst providing ACTA with the ideal opportunity to expand its presence in the UK and develop market share."

Shield Group was advised by the Nottingham office of Eversheds.

ALcontrol has Rotherham facilities at the AMP Technology Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park and a laboratory at Aspen Court, Templeborough.

The company moved from their Templeborough House laboratory last year and the 2.8 acre site is currently up for sale.

ALControl website
Shield On-Site Services website


Images: shield-group.nl

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