The IYLO building: a remarkable addition to Croydon

Whatever is said of the IYLO building, its troubles are far behind it now, and the project is set for completion as a remarkable addition to Croydon. That's because it was designed by Darling Associates.

For years to come, the well-designed structure will be a joy to live in and around, as it has been built to allow sunlight to get to nearby buildings. Unlike the concrete valleys of New York where the sun may not touch the pavement for months, if at all, the IYLO was designed to benefit its environs. Sunlight can even reach the interior of the construction, which means the area won't be left with a legacy of gloomy accommodation.

Far from being an eyesore that looms over surrounding houses, the development has been kept in proportion with other buildings. It also reuses an old site, which prevents a major part of Croydon from lying vacant, in addition to preventing so many homes being built on green belt land.

Moreover, the IYLO building ensures future generations will be able to enter and use the building whether they are able bodied or not. The wheelchair access is excellent. Indeed the IYLO, now known as ISLAND, complies with major guidelines on disabled friendly constructions. The IYLO building was also designed to house low-paid professions vital to the proper functioning of the area, such as nurses and police officers.

When finally complete, the elegant 20-storey tower will house 183 families. That will mean well over 183 lives will be lived out in the area, with people engaging in their studies or taking up retirement here. This keeps Croydon vibrant, as well as attractive for new investment.

While it has lain dormant, the build has remained a stylish feature to behold, with its arching curves, and it has provided architectural interest in a landscape of square lines and predictable corners. In fact, the two sides of the IYLO building just pass each other rather than meeting.

The IYLO's fate has been a little like the Empire State Building. That project was hampered by the Wall Street Crash of 1929, but in time, people started moving in. No-one would suggest that New York would be better for not having its Empire State, and Croydon is much the better for holding onto the former IYLO building through the bad times.

Editor’s Note: ISLAND (http://www.islandcroydon.com/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Why wooden summerhouses are so much more than glamorous sheds

As you return home from work each day, you may have noticed something a little different about the skies above - namely, that they're light! Indeed, it doesn't get dark now until very late, and there's nothing quite like gazing up at the endless blue yonder, on those rare occasions in the office when you might feel like you can stop to daydream.

However, just imagine being able to do this from the comfort of your own garden, in the comfortable shelter of one of our wooden summerhouses. When the subject of summerhouses is brought up, many may initially picture a slightly bigger shed, but other than sharing four wooden walls and a roof, the two types of structures actually have little in common.

After all, while the shed is somewhere to store your rusty tools and paint tins, wooden summerhouses are living spaces, providing indoor comforts while also getting you better-acquainted with your garden. There are a few factors that you will need to consider before buying a summerhouse, including not only budget but also where you would like your structure to be in your garden - after all, if you'd like a refuge from the sun, you won't want the sun shining right into it. 

We can advise you on all of these factors, while recommending a summerhouse from our considerable range. Traditional, octagonal and corner summerhouses can all be provided to suit certain spaces within your garden, as well as all manner of budgets. Those seeking a highly presentable summerhouse on a budget may take an interest in our Popular Summerhouse, for example, with its specification including a key lock on door, planed and rounded framework, green mineral felt and horticultural glass as standard.

The Popular Summerhouse can also be fitted completely free, and this continues to apply further up the range. Those with a little more money to spend may be entranced by the chic and modish Lawnhouse Summerhouse, with its double doors and two fixed windows on the front, while the Hamstell Summerhouse exudes true style with its Georgian windows and double doors.

Distinctive designs for the corner of one's garden, meanwhile, include the Colton Summerhouse, which comes in any of three sizes and combines full length fully glazed leaded doors with two leaded top opening windows. There are also delightful octagonal summerhouses like the Lichfield, which comes with a felt roof as standard alongside timber struts and a finial for completing the designer look.

Truly, then, wooden summerhouses couldn't be any more different to the average shed, and when you desire one for your own garden, Betta Buildings can provide the complete service - including both the product and fitting - at a highly competitive price.  

Editor’s Note: Betta Buildings (http://www.bettabuildings.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

When you next go on holiday, make your bag a Kipling bag

As we move headlong towards the festive season, you may be planning a holiday of some kind or another to celebrate Yuletide - whether you're travelling to the other side of the world, or simply spending some time with your aunt a half-hour drive away. However far you trek, you will naturally want to be well-equipped, but also exude no shortage of style. That brings us nicely onto the iconic Kipling luggage for which we are authorised retailers here at RTherapy (http://www.rtherapyclothing.co.uk).

That do you want from the next luggage that you buy for that short weekend break or overseas holiday? Do you just want a dependable wheeled backpack, carry on duffle bag or expandable trolley? Or do you want your chosen bag to be the epitome of quality and design, originating from one of the leading fashion cities in Europe? Would you like a bag that doesn't compromise on either cutting-edge design or comfortable functionality? If so, we're sure you'll take an interest in the latest Kipling luggage, available in many different forms, styles and colours.

Why not select from one of the many colours available for the Kipling Art M bag, for example, ranging from Black, Pink Orchid or Sporty Blue to Expresso Brown, Celo Grey or Cactus Green? Whichever shade you choose, this Kipling luggage item represents the perfect roomy tote for those short weekends away, incorporating a wide zipped main compartment with double zippers for extra security, an internal zipped pocket, handy small zipped pocket on the front and a medium furry Kipling monkey keyring. With its impressive 26 litre capacity, the bag is also water resistant and has two shapes: rectangular and triangular.

Or maybe you require something more like the Brixen super light cabin size trolley, which is ideal for placing under your plane seat? It also combines such features as a secured zipped closure, retractable multistage wheel handle with blocking button and robust wheels, all ensuring the ultimate in practicality and comfort. Also taking pride of place in the Kipling luggage range is the Palmbeach, a beauty case with trolley sleeve that is a real 'must have' for the fashionable woman, while we can also offer the Teagan, a large wheeled duffle with a front compartment that can be accessed through the front of the trolley, as well as from the inside.

Other popular examples of Kipling luggage now in stock include the Weekend medium expandable travel tote, as well as the Yubin medium expandable trolley with, among other features, a double zipped main compartment containing adjustable packing straps to avoid creasing, two open mesh drop pockets, two drop pockets with elastic bands on the inside of the flap and a zipped mesh pocket, again on the inside of the flap. Just take a look at the RTherapy (http://www.rtherapyclothing.co.uk) website today, to find out why we are so proud to have been such long-term authorised stockists of the very latest Kipling luggage!

Editor’s Note: RTherapy (http://www.rtherapyclothing.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Feed your birds well with our excellent poultry food

Many different types of birds are kept by Broadfeed customers, from chickens to emus. Accordingly, the store has the perfect poultry food for your particular animal.

Consider Dodson & Horrell Ostrich Breeder, which is sold in 20 kilogram packs. The bag is filled with the goodness that helps your big birds to lay those magnificent eggs and produce viable, healthy chicks. The feed is filled with nutrients to keep the birds well. What's more, the ostriches love to gobble this easy to eat feed, which means that you won't see so much rejected food in the future.

You might also be one of the many people who own attack geese. Having a flock of geese to patrol your property is very effective, possibly even more so than owning dogs. Allen & Page Duck & Goose Breeder Pellets gives your birds what they need to lay healthy eggs. This poultry food looks after the stomach and bowels of the birds. It's also good to give them after medicine or if the flock is experiencing distress for any reason.

Of course, a lot of people have more standard fowl like chickens. If this applies to you, you may be interested in trying Allen & Page Super Mixed Corn in 20 kilogram bags. Designed to give your birds the best feed, this poultry food ensures robust eggs with added minerals. For those running organic operations, the feed does not include any genetically modified ingredients.

Alternatively, you may wish to spoil your chickens with Cluckers Red Comb Poultry Food. With a mixture of worms and grain, the feed is designed to keep your birds happy and add some variety to their lives. What's more, a happy hen makes tastier eggs, which may be why you were interested in poultry to begin with.

Broadfeed also stocks the likes of fine oyster shell. The birds peck at the shell, and when they ingest the oyster's mineral rich armour, it helps to build strong eggs that survive the hen house. Broadfeed has stocked poultry food and related products since its earliest days, and takes pride in always having plenty in stock - whether online or offline.

Editor’s Note: Broadfeed (http://www.broadfeed.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Do business at Manor of Groves

There’s a very good reason to have a business meeting at Manor of Groves. You want to. And if you want to, then your clients will want to come along even if it means listening to a business pitch. That’s when you can seal the big money deal. You see the corporate meeting rooms here are set amidst a manicured golf course, and an airy bar for networking over single malts. Well, every proper account manager knows the real deals are done over the dining table.

What is more, the environment you put someone in is crucial to how receptive they are to new ideas. If you make a presentation at their offices, they may be surrounded by no men, or reminders of the way they normally do business. Yet in a luxuriant setting, they can see your proposition in a different light. Maybe it’s the sumptuous banqueting suite fit for 450 guests or the Oriental Garden for private conversations, but your client will think better of you in a nicer setting. It really is all about presentation.

And don’t forget that company men come with company wives. Attendance is likely to be higher if they can bring their spouses along. And if the significant others get a taste for the good life here, they may tell their partners to do business with you just to be invited back.

But of course, you’ll be wondering, what about the pitch itself? There we excel ourselves. At our corporate meeting rooms, AV equipment is available, along with delegate packs. Complimentary broadband will keep everyone calm while away from the office. It also allows you to get files mailed across to you at a moment’s notice. The building is air conditioned for hot summer presentations, and heated to keep your prospects warm in winter. Holding your meeting here will exude professionalism.

And of course when the meeting’s over, Manor of Groves is just the sort of place to find new business contacts. We get so many conferences that many business people come here in their spare time. You can rub shoulders with CEOs in the sauna, or buy a Buyer a pint on the weekend. We’re more than corporate meeting rooms. We’re a lifestyle.

Editor’s Note: Manor of Groves (http://www.manorofgroves.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Both rents and landlord confidence up over last 12 months

There was more good news this month for no deposit renters insurance policyholders across the UK, with new statistics showing rises in both rental values and landlord confidence over the last year. The 12 months to February saw a 1.6 per cent increase in rents across England and Wales, according to the most recent Buy to Let Index of LSL Property Services. Meanwhile, National Landlords Association (NLA) research found that there had been a tripling in confidence in the UK's financial markets among landlords in the past year. 

The latest heightening in rents brings the average UK rent to £743 per month, with seven in 10 regions seeing higher rents in February than in January, when there was a 1.4 per cent rise. Holders of a no deposit renters insurance policy will also be pleased to hear of improved tenant finances, with the proportion of late rent having dropped to 6.9 per cent during the month. The last 12 months have seen landlords earn an average annual return of 9.7 per cent, or over £16,000.

In the words of LSL Property Services director David Newnes, "Property to rent remains in high demand. Despite great improvements in the prospects of many first time buyers, there are still millions of households who rely on a healthy private rented sector for their homes." The fastest monthly rises were seen in Yorkshire and the Humber and the West Midlands, where 1.2 per cent increases were recorded, while Wales saw a 1 per cent monthly rise and rents rose by 0.6 per cent between January and February in the East Midlands.

There seems to be plenty of positivity among the UK's no deposit renters insurance policyholders, certainly by the evidence of the NLA's recently released data. Almost a third, 31 per cent, of landlords rated their expectations of the UK's financial markets as 'good' or 'very good' for the months to come, which is a 21 per cent increase on a year ago. Furthermore, an intention to buy property over the next 12 months was cited by 27 per cent of landlords.

Carolyn Uphill, chairman of the NLA, said that optimism among landlords towards the UK's financial recovery, together with the Bank of England's announcement that interest rates would stay at their present low of 0.5 per cent for now, "makes good reading for anyone considering buy to let investment." That doubtless includes many a prospective investor in no deposit renters insurance, which is available from Advanced Rent for landlords looking to avoid the hassle associated with the acceptance and protection of tenant deposits.

Editor’s Note: Advanced Rent (http://www.advancedrent.co.uk) is represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Find a greener way of living, at ISLAND in Croydon

Britain has the greenest cities in the world thanks to our love of gardening, and Croydon is a particularly green place to live. Amid the concrete, there are thirty-five thousand trees lining the streets. Nearby, there are five million square metres of grassland, and when it comes to chalk downland, there are a hundred and eighty-four hectares of the stuff.

That's great for walking your dog. Then, there are twenty tonnes of bulbs that boom into bloom every spring, and a hundred and sixty thousand square metres of shrubberies to luxuriate in. It's no wonder bees thrive in the cities these days. It's a beautiful area to live in, and luckily, ISLAND consists of some very fine apartments for sale in Croydon.

With all of this green space, there are also sports clubs that you can join. Old Whitgiftians Cricket Club is open to new players, or there's the Croydon Lions. Croydon Football Club is doing well in its league. You can also enjoy rugby and tennis as well as swimming.

Whatever activity you prefer for getting fit can be found in the area, and with exceptional apartments for sale in Croydon like those of ISLAND, making the move could be good for your health. You can get a membership at any one of several gym chains in the locale, and ISLAND has its own fitness suite if you want to rub shoulders with your neighbours. It is also a very nice area to run in, with low crime rates.

The development is very close to a number of national green spaces. With Farthing Downs on your doorstep, you can have regular nature strolls on the weekend. It is a site of special scientific interest, with unspoilt parkland. South Norwood Country Park is another great place to take children, with a great playing area, and bicycle tracks for older kids. There's even a small golf course there, as well as an abundance of natural habitats.

You may even want to visit the picturesque villages on the outskirts of London. With ISLAND springing up near all of this, there are apartments for sale in Croydon where you can enjoy a more peaceful way of life.

Editor’s Note: ISLAND (http://www.islandcroydon.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Spate of fires in recent days demonstrates unpredictable threats to safety

Just when a business is tempted to conclude that they can put off that expenditure on a fire extinguisher service for a few more months, comes a reminder of the potential consequences of failing to keep up with the very highest fire safety standards - or rather, several reminders. The truth is that fire can strike at the least predictable of times, with differing levels of risk to life and property. If one needed any evidence of that, they only needed to read the news for the last few days alone.

Across the UK, more fires have been causing widespread damage and loss, although mercifully, injuries and deaths appear to have been kept to a minimum. One only needs to look to Norfolk for an example of just how unforeseeable a fire can be, with an actual fire engine and fire station having been destroyed in a blaze overnight in Downham Market. In a demonstration of how even the fire services themselves aren't immune to fire affecting their own property, this conflagration started in the bay housing the station's fire engine, and needed to be tackled by crews from other areas. Although nearby houses were momentarily evacuated, nobody was hurt.

Another reminder of just how vital a fire extinguisher service can prove was a fire that broke out in an Essex church, causing the evacuations of homes and leaving five people in need of treatment for the effects of smoke inhalation. The fire was out by 05:38 on Monday morning, less than an hour and a half after it was reported, although that was still sufficient time to damage a quarter of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Northview Drive, Westcliff-on-Sea.

Meanwhile, in Burscough in west Lancashire on Tuesday morning, reports emerged of a large fire at the empty Burscough Mill in Mill Lane. Although the fire was out by breakfast time, having broken out at around 03:00 GMT, it still required the attention of more than 60 fire-fighters, in addition to the evacuation of some 100 homes.

At the opposite end of the country, meanwhile, in Dartmouth, Devon, an almost 70 year old pleasure boat sustained damage in a fire on an estuary. Putting out the fire on the 51ft (15.5m) charter vessel in the Dart Estuary was a big job, forcing the attendance of Dartmouth fire crews, coastguard rescue teams and two lifeboats, particularly as in the words of Dartmouth harbourmaster Rob Giles, "It kept re-igniting. It had 700 litres of diesel on board and it's a wooden vessel."

Clearly, then, fire safety remains a vital priority as businesses and private individuals of all kinds head towards the summer. Triple Star Fire is happy to assist such firms by providing the most extensive fire safety services and products, including the most suitable fire extinguisher service.

Editor’s Note: Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Over-50s lead freelance boom

Here at Guildfordaccountants Sherwin Currid, we read with interest a report about a rise in UK freelancers. A study has discovered that there are more new freelancers in the over 50s segment. The people in this demographic number over two thirds of new freelancers, and the rise took place between the first quarter of 2008 and the final quarter of 2013.

It has long been assumed that freelancers are young workers. However, young people may not have the resources to start their own companies, or the on the job expertise that many clients seek when hiring workers. While this gives a glimmer of hope to people who find themselves out of work as they reach retirement, it underscores the dire situation that young people face today. Only around 5 per cent of 18 to 24 year olds are self-employed, compared to more than a third of those aged 65 and above.

In other news, some people have called for greater protection for freelancers (of all age demographics), while noting that current unions may not be able to adequately represent these workers. For instance, it would be very difficult to arrange a strike among freelancers, especially if they were spread among several unions.

The need for some kind of representation of freelancers' rights becomes more urgent amid predictions that the self-employed will soon be a larger group than civil servants. One commentator, freelancer Joel Dullroy, noted the vulnerability of freelancer workers to the same pressures that affect paid employees, and it certainly seems that freelancers could be at a greater risk of financial insecurity. Having a special body that could negotiate better working conditions specifically for freelancers would take into account their particular needs, and produce a united front for collective bargaining.

Of course at our Guildford accountants, we are always open to the concerns of freelancers, and we are happy to discuss any financial worries that you might have.

Editor’s Note: Sherwin Currid (http://www.sherwincurrid.com/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

2014 Warehouse/DC Equipment study reveals increasing interest in automation and software

For many key figures in retail distribution, the results of the State of Warehouse/DC Equipment and Technology Survey, conducted by Peerless Research Group, make required reading. The Logistics Management website reports that the latest study shows automation and software becoming an ever-greater focus for spending in the sector, with decisions being significantly influenced by workforce issues.

Such trends are recorded on the backdrop of an industry continuing to adjust to such events of recent years as the boom in e-commerce and the global economic slowdown, together with the emergence of increasingly sophisticated materials handling equipment and software. The effects have been seen in the instability in average anticipated spending levels from one year’s survey to the next, with rises as high as 15 per cent and falls of up to 26 per cent both being recorded since 2010.

Nonetheless, this year’s figures make pleasant reading for the major decision-makers in retail distribution, with activity levels as a percentage of capacity not having been this high since 2007. In addition, over the next two years, 95 per cent of respondents expect to increase their activity levels, by an average exceeding 20 per cent, or to maintain present levels.

The survey also shows a rise in the proportion of respondents “proceeding with investments”, from 19 per cent to 27 per cent, while a “wait and see” attitude was adopted by 43 per cent in the most recent poll, down from the previous 50 per cent. This does not tally, however, with a downward trend in spending, suggesting that the retail distribution landscape is now seeing more targeted investment decisions following a period of hefty expenditure.

The Logistics Management report stated that there were heightened activity levels in manufacturing (from 2012’s 63 per cent to 75 per cent), warehousing supporting manufacturing – from 56 per cent in 2011 to 69 per cent now – and standalone warehousing, which recorded 68 per cent in the most recent survey, up from 60 per cent in 2011. Such growth was largely attributed to “doing more with less”, as existing facilities were optimised rather than new ones built.

There were also signs that automated processes would become more fundamental to retail distribution over the next two years. The number of respondents presently evaluating productivity using automation was some way shy of those anticipating a transition to automated approaches over the coming 24 months. Respondents clearly felt that technology and equipment investments would continue to drive improvements.

Director of research for PRG (https://www.prolog.co.uk), Judd Aschenbrand commented: “Technology is expected to become even more critical in the upcoming years as a growing percentage of operations plan to automate inventory control and handling, distribution processes, and labour management. In warehouses and DCs, continuous improvement, workload planning, and lean processes are key initiatives going forward.”

Third annual progress report into Women on Boards published

In February 2011, Lord Davies' landmark review into Women on Boards was published, aimed at identifying the barriers preventing the greater presence of women in the boardroom, in addition to making recommendations to government and business on what actions could be taken to increase the proportion of women on corporate boards. Now, more than three years on, the third annual progress report on the matter has been published.

Of great interest to many clients of business consulting services will be the findings of Lord Davies and his steering group that the intervening three years have seen a greater number of women appointed to decision-making roles. The latest figures show that 20.7 per cent of FTSE100 board positions are now occupied by women, compared to 17.3 per cent in April 2013 and 12.5 per cent in 2011. The original target set by Lord Davies in 2011 was 25 per cent by 2015.

Lord Davies observed: "The rate of change that we have seen at the heart of our biggest companies over the last 3 years has been impressive. The voluntary approach is working and companies have got the message that better balanced boards bring real business benefits. We are finally seeing a culture change taking place at the heart of British business." But he warned that the world was continuing to watch and judge on the suitability of the voluntary approach as opposed to regulation, adding "we need to now prove we can do this on our own."

The progress made since the original 2011 women on boards report was also hailed by Business Secretary Vince Cable, as well as the now former Minister for Women and Equalities Maria Miller, who said that "It makes clear economic sense for women to be able to rise to the top." Cable, meanwhile said that the figures showed "that businesses are getting the right mix of talent around their boardroom table and understand the importance of this." He added that achievement of the 25 per cent target by next year now depended on the appointment of fewer than 50 women to FTSE100 boards.

Clients of business consulting services will be intrigued to read that as of 3 March 2014, 25.5 per cent of non-executive directorships and 6.9 per cent of executive directorships were held by women. Women accounted for 231 of the 1,117 FTSE100 board positions and 28 per cent of all board appointments in 2013/14. However, there remained two all-male boards. In the FTSE 250, 15.6 per cent of overall board directorships for women compared to the 13.2 per cent seen in 2013. Although 48 all-male boards remained, women nonetheless made up 33 per cent of all board appointments in 2013/14.

Editor’s Note: London Registrars (http://www.london-registrars.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

The High Value of a Training Video Production

The need to train an employee in a particular procedure is obviously a fact of life in almost any company. However, it's also of considerable annoyance to the time-pressed boss that every hour spent by one of their staff members training another worker is an hour in which they are unable to make money. It isn't surprising, then, that so many firms seriously consider filming dedicated training videos to take that work out of their busy employees' hands.

Training may be unavoidable, but it can be made more efficient with a training video or two by a leading video production firm like Captive8 Media. Training videos aren't just useful for saving time and money - they can also ensure that any workers of yours based overseas or working remotely receive exactly the same training as someone at your premises.

A training video has the same basic benefits of in-person training in giving a visual demonstration of exactly what must be done, but it can also be paused and replayed if a step needs to be explained again. There may still be the need for some more hands-on training, but the right training video production will nonetheless get the employee quickly up to speed with the basics.

The form taken by your training video production will naturally depend on what training needs to be provided. It's often best to have a series of training videos, each covering a specific step. If someone needs to be trained to work in a house, for example, there may be one video for looking after the garden, another for cleaning the pool and so on. This allows the viewer to process small amounts of information at a time, being trained at their own pace rather than being overwhelmed with too much instruction at once.

When you request training video production from Captive8 Media, we'll help you to create a script. We'll assist in deciding on the list of video topics, and ensure that the right format is chosen. Our team will look at your existing training procedure and translate it to video, ensuring that the training footage is easily understood and followed by the viewer. We know that you don't necessarily need your training video to be fancy - you just want something that conveys the right messages and trains your workers effectively.

Speak to us now about how we can use our video production expertise to create the most memorable and effective training video - at the price that is right for your company.

Editor’s Note: Captive8 Media (http://www.captive8media.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Northamptonshire businesses given fire safety advice ahead of latest strike

Fire service strikes have certainly gained unfortunate prominence in the national news headlines in recent weeks and months, as has proved the case in Northamptonshire, following the announcement of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) of their intention to take further strike action, amid their ongoing national dispute with the government. Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com) can therefore only agree with Northamptonshire County Council's encouragement to local businesses to ensure the fitness for purpose of their fire safety procedures, including that they have the most up to date fire safety equipment.

Although contingency plans were put in place by Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service to minimise disruption caused by the latest strike, which lasted between 10:00 and 14:00 hours on Wednesday 13th November, it is nonetheless always a good idea for a conscientious business to keep an eye on its fire safety measures - including carrying out any fire equipment maintenance that may be required. This is despite the service having spent several months, including in partnership with neighbouring authorities, ensuring its ability to promptly respond to any emergencies that did occur during the strike period.

To help businesses to prepare themselves in the event of a fire or similar emergency incident, the service outlined six simple steps that they could take. These included reviewing their FireRisk Assessment (FRA) to ensure that it was up to date and incorporated all of the fire risks within their business premises. Companies were also urged to make sure that their staff training was up to date, including in the use of fire extinguishers, as well as ensure the good working order of their fire alarms and emergency lighting.

The service also said that all of a firm's employees should be trained in emergency procedures, suggesting that a fire drill should be carried out remind staff of procedures, as well as evaluation procedures practiced. Other advice from the service for Northamptonshire businesses included to carry out a hazard spotting assessment inside and outside of any business premises, alongside the practicable removal or reduction of any possible sources of ignition. Companies in the region were also urged to reduce the amount of flammable materials that they stored or used in their premises, in addition to making sure that what was left was stored in a lockable fire resisting store.

Mark Ainge, Head of Community Services, said that by preparing themselves for an emergency, businesses could not only minimise any disruption resulting from a fire, but also quickly get back up and running. That are words that we can only firmly agree with here at Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com), as we continue to provide a wide range of organisations with the fire products and services that they require over the coming weeks and months - from fire extinguishersfor business to the highest standard of fire alarm maintenance.

Editor’s Note: Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

                                          

IYLO emerges triumphant after years of ups and downs

The London skyline has become dotted with an increasing number of extremely high quality, sustainable developments in recent years. That couldn't possibly be a more welcome sight after a late 2000s economic slowdown that was as difficult to predict as it was catastrophic. One flagship construction project after another ran into trouble as it became perilously difficult to access funds from the banks - with one such project being the IYLO building, Croydon. 

Many of these ambitious flagship developments, of course, bit the dust altogether, with so many others having their futures thrown into severe doubt. However, if there was one project among these that showed its ability to bounce back from setback after seemingly terminal setback, it was IYLO. Now renamed ISLAND, this impressive 20-storey tower in an advantageous, newly regenerated South London location had seemingly everything going for it when construction began in 2007 - but then problems began.

The situation looked good until 2009, when HBOS - the funding source for the project - entered administration, and although construction had re-commenced by late 2010, the spectre of administration again struck in mid-2011, this time for the construction company itself. Another period of certainty ensued, and it is to the credit of everyone involved with the project that building work was able to begin once more from the middle of 2013, after the purchase of the site by Regency Homes Ltd.

Now, with funding finally securely in place and the local, national and global economy all returning to the favourable conditions that were so sadly lacking back in 2009 and 2011, the one-time IYLO building in Croydon is realising the potential that it has always deserved to realise. One would barely imagine such a rocky past when surveying the current structure's progress towards its newly estimated 2015 completion date.

Not only is ISLAND in the right location, surrounded by a wider Croydon that is set to explode into desirability in the coming years with the arrival of such associated major projects as the nearby Westfield mall, but the building's specifications are also hugely impressive, living up to the most demanding expectations of luxury London living in croydon. From engineered wooden flooring and underfloor heating with multiple zones to the most generously appointed living/kitchen areas, bathrooms, bedrooms and communal areas, so many aspects of the current ISLAND tower more than match the wildest dreams for the project back in 2007.

Now, it's the perfect opportunity for those contemplating living here to enquire about one of the available apartments in croydon  - while they still can.

Editor’s Note: ISLAND (http://www.islandcroydon.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

The recent air pollution underscores the need for AdBlue

As the recent heavy pollution has brought into focus, the UK has failed to meet its air quality targets, and the main cause of this is diesel fumes. Indeed, before the spike in bad air quality, the EU had announced millions of pounds in fines for the UK, forcing the government to take the issue seriously.

While sand from the Sahara was a contributory factor, the main source of air pollution was diesel fumes, the impact of which can be reduced with the addition of AdBlue. Given those aforementioned fines, the government is likely to introduce stricter measures to keep emissions down, and so it is probable that if you don't already have one, you will need an AdBlue tank in the coming years. Of course, it is already European law that certain lorries and large vehicles need to use the additive, which means any business expansion could require more AdBlue as well.

Our entry level model, the Tuffa 1350 SLBFS AdBlue, is bunded, which reduces the likelihood of spills. In addition, the bunding will prevent rain and site contaminants from getting into your AdBlue solution. With a lock, you can securely store operating apparatus, and the unit comes in either a wide or tall version, which allows you to fit it into whichever space you have available.

Of course, AdBlue shouldn't be kept below -10 degrees Celsius, or rise above 30 degrees. While these temperatures are rare in the UK, our very changeable weather can still occasionally veer into extremes. One year might have an unusually cold winter, while another might have a bizarrely blistering summer. For that reason, you can have heating and cooling systems added to the AdBlue tank.

Furthermore, a remote monitoring system allows you to check the level of AdBlue in the tank. This is ideal for when you get a sales call in your office, and you're not sure if you need more AdBlue that month. Just one look can solve the matter. You can also customise an AdBlue tank to have an extra length of hose. It makes sense to have this modification if you operate from a small yard, where manoeuvring vehicles is difficult. Another feature that can be added is an automatic cut off, which kills the pump as soon as the nozzle is set back in its retainer.

Editor’s Note: Tuffa (http://www.tuffa.co.uk/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

New announcement 10 bronze statues for Little League Organization

The Lycoming County Visitors Bureau, a department of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, has announced a project entitled “Bases Loaded” to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Little League Baseball Organization.  The scope of this project is to turn an intersection into a baseball diamond; the ground will be painted and ten life-size  bronze statues  will be placed appropriately at each corner or base pad.   There will be a pitcher, batter, 3 baseman, 3 base runners, a catcher, an umpire, and a team manager. Fink26

These statues will represent all who have participated in the league through the years, from when it was first founded to today.   The statues will also represent the softball teams as well as the Challenger division.  Between the ten, there is a variety of boy and girl players, first edition and modern uniforms, as well as a mix of ethnicities.  The only statue that will depict a specific person is the manager, being made after the likeness of Carl E. Stotz, founder of Little League Baseball.

The Little League organization, with the help of Jason Fink, has commissioned Big Statues, with Matt Glenn as the lead artist to create these statues.  The two have finalized the design for the bronzes and the process has moved onto the sculpting and clay work.

“This has been a dream come true.  I’ve been a life long baseball fan.  Having twin 12-year old boys playing in Little League and sculpting this project has been very rewarding” says Glenn.

All funding for the project is being raised through underwriting of each of the statues. As of now, 5 of the 10 statues have been secured with financial support. Any businesses/organizations that are interested in becoming involved with the project in support of the remaining 5 statues can contact Jason Fink at the Lycoming County Visitors Bureau, 570-320-4213 or email him at jfink@williamsport.org.

The ten statues (http://www.bigstatues.com/) are on track to arrive in Williamsport by August 1, 2014.  They will be installed and unveiled formally on Friday August 22 during Championship Weekend of this year’s Little League World Series.

The options for blending a Jacuzzi into your garden go on and on

If you have an outdoor spa, there are several ways to make your hot tub or Jacuzzi blend into its surroundings. For starters, you can partially obscure the tub by hiding it behind rocks or fencing. Doing this will also help to shield the unit from wind, as well as landscaping it into your garden. If you place it underneath an arbour, you could have a bamboo screen that rolls down to hide the Jacuzzi when not in use, and it might also act as a weather break or to create a more intimate feeling.

You might also use your Jacuzzi as a statement piece for an open air relaxation area. Fitting wooden lattice work around it and accent lighting can give the Jacuzzi an appearance of an inviting space for entertainment. Or why not paint the unit to give it a stylish appearance? Green would make it blend in with plants, and you might want to experiment with a funky metallic look. Just make sure that the paint you choose is water resistant and will withstand the heat.

Some people might train ivy or other creepers around the Jacuzzi. Imagine rich, red foliage all around the hot tub, or leaning back and smelling fragrant roses. If your Jacuzzi is situated by a wall, a hedge of honeysuckle will give a powerful perfumed scent which develops with the heat of the tub. Of course, the leaves will help the unit to merge in with other garden features, and may even hide the Jacuzzi altogether.

Others people incorporate their Jacuzzi into a suntrap. That way, with the top of the tub at ground level, they can partially lie over the hot tub cover when it isn't in use, and make the most of their space while catching a tan. Meanwhile, you could build a platform to the side of the Jacuzzi, with a cover that slides out over the unit. A sliding cover adds another element of insulation. In addition, it means you won't have to deal with a build up of rain water slopping onto your hand as you lift the cover.

Editor’s Note: Ruggles Leisure (http://www.rugglesleisure.com/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Why Voi clothing really is all about 'you'

Hailing from Preston, Lancashire, having been founded by three brothers from the town in 1988, Voi Jeans offers so much more than jeans, with the complete range at I-Candy encompassing men's boxers, belts, bags, polos and T-shirts, to cite just a few in-demand items. But if there's just one thing that you need to know about Voi clothing, it's the fact that its name is Italian for 'you' - and the range here truly is all about you.

As for the Italian connection, that is explained by a trip that the brothers had taken to the country, where a certain style and love affair with denim had inspired them to head back home to establish a clothing label with that same sensibility. In the years since then, Voi clothing has come to represent so much more than Italian-inspired fashions, with current styles and trends all being accounted for in a product selection that has expanded significantly.

In 1996, Voi Jeans truly did become Voi clothing, as the existing core denim range was complemented by highly rated menswear. Now, there are showrooms for the brand across the world, but to get the best deals on the brand's offerings, one only needs to peruse the I-Candy website in the comfort of their own home. There are men's boxers, for example, in designs including Argyles/Arrows, Giraffe/Snake and Zebra/Leopard, even coming with their own presentation box.

Also taking pride of place in I-Candy's Voi clothing range are accessories like the Voi Holster Belt in Sketch Print, a classic leather belt with a standard buckle sporting the embossed branding of Voi Jeans Co. - and that's without mentioning the highly distinctive black and white sketch pattern that will divert plenty of eyes towards your waist. Or perhaps you could do with something classy for your chest, such as the cool and comfortable Voi Perry T-Shirt Dressers Blue, a crew neck T-shirt with a trendy striped pattern?

For those who fancy some truly versatile fashion, though, it's always hard to look past a polo shirt, with the Voi Swirl Polo White more than fitting the bill thanks to its iconic Voi Jeans logo printed across the fabric, in addition to contrasting cuffs, collar and placket. The range also currently boasts some fine Fairbank 5 Panel Caps, Donald Belts and Foray Beanies - not to mention some suitably rugged and commodious Industry and Worker messenger style bags, proudly bearing the Voi Jeans branding.

Overall, it's clear that Voi clothing certainly is geared to your own fashion needs, in keeping with its name. Why not check out the current range to see why 'Voi' is the brand on so many on-trend men's shopping lists right now?  

Editor’s Note: I-Candy Clothing (http://www.icandyclothing.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.