Author: Karen Contrino

Specialty coffeehouse chain, Black Sheep Coffee, opened its doors in Clapham on Tuesday 5th November with the support of HSBC UK. B Century UK Limited secured a six-figure funding package from HSBC UK to purchase and fit-out the 1,000 sq. ft. coffeehouse in Northcote Road. The new store includes three self-service kiosks, and seating for up to 50 customers. The venue will serve a wide range of food and drinks, including coffee, sandwiches, smoothies, and waffles. As a result of the opening, nine full-time and part-time jobs are being created for the local area. The new franchise brings Black Sheep Coffee’s portfolio to over 95…

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The British countryside, whilst not as exotic as the African plains or tropical rainforests of South America, still has amazing opportunities for wildlife photographers. From the rugged hills of Scotland to the peaceful woodlands of the South, the diversity of landscapes and ecosystems provides a rich backdrop for capturing the beauty of wildlife. Whether it’s the owls, squirrels, or the majestic red deer, people of all abilities can hone their skills and capture some beautiful shots of British wildlife in their natural environments. Leading camera equipment insurer photoGuard shares their favourite photography hotspots from across the country. “There are many…

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When you think of your local artisan market, what do you picture? Knitting, crochet, perhaps some paintings by a local artist. A patchwork cushion. Many people wouldn’t at first yell ‘fashion!’ – yet that is precisely what artisan markets are creating. The last few years have seen a huge rise in fashionistas selling their wares at artisan markets. Markets have long been a great place for entrepreneurs or all kinds to cut their teeth, and the clothing and accessories sector is no different. Pedddle’s Market Manager Rebecca says, “I think because people have more of a focus on sustainability and…

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The Felix Group has partnered with The IN Group to package and distribute over 8,000 meals and over 4 tonnes of food to the Poplar, Tower Hamlets, community for those in need. The programme aims to support local families in the area who are utilising free school meals, helping during school holidays and to fight wider food poverty throughout London. Sallinder Rai, Community & Events Fundraising Manager at The Felix Project: “We all take things like food for granted and unfortunately, there are still far too many people who are worried about where their next meal is going to come…

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Renowned artist Benita Jayne, known for her captivating use of sacred symbols, vibrant colours, and connection to nature, is thrilled to present her latest solo exhibition, Divine Energy of Harmony and Light. This unique series will be on display at The Pencil Art Gallery from the 21st – 24th Nov. Benita invites art lovers and spiritual seekers alike to explore the energies imbued within her creations, all inspired by British wildflowers, chakra colours, and divine energy. Benita Jayne, born Benita Ambrose, comes from a multicultural background with her father’s roots in Rangoon, Burma, and Darjeeling, India, and her mother from…

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With charities lobbying the government to be exempt from National Insurance changes announced in the budget, one North-West London-based organisation is hoping for a boost to its own budget, after partnering with FreeWills.co.uk, one of the UK’s largest will-writing services. Centre for ADHD and Autism Support (CAAS), which supports, educates and empowers individuals diagnosed with ADHD or who are autistic, their families and the community has teamed up with the Wills specialist to help their supporters make their own personalised wills for free online. Last year CAAS supported over 5,000 people across North-west London. Thanks to Free Wills’ advanced technology,…

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AI

The very nature of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation seems juxtaposed with the tradition of artisan craft, yet Pedddle, the artisan market directory, have already found a way to meld traditional artisan markets and their stallholders with the world of social media and online marketing. AI is on the rise, but instead of it causing the death of small artisan businesses and creative crafts, it could be a way of helping them survive. Rebecca Adams, Pedddle’s Market Liaison Manager, explains, “Pedddle is an online directory of artisan markets and their stallholders. We are trying to help traditional marketplaces be discovered…

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Stress can affect us all. This Stress Awareness Week, it’s essential to highlight the unique challenges that neurodiverse students – particularly those with ADHD and autism – face. For these students, school-related stress can intensify sensory experiences, make focus more challenging and disrupt the routines that provide stability – all of which are vital for success and comfort at school. Here, Becky Ward, Education Specialist at Tutor Doctor, discusses recognising signs of stress, how they appear and their long-term effects. She also covers how parents and schools can collaborate to create supportive environments for neurodiverse students to thrive. Firstly, I…

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People experience stress in different forms every day. Studies have shown that most common cause of stress is work-related, with 4 in 5 adults frequently experiencing this. While a moderate level of stress can improve work performance and work efficiency, too much stress can lead to a negative effect on health, well-being, and overall happiness. Stress Awareness Day is an annual event which raises awareness about stress, its causes, and effects and falls onto Wednesday 6th of November this year. To raise awareness, leading cycle and e-bike insurer cycleGuard shares how riding a bike can help to combat stress. Cyclists…

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Twenty years ago, local mum Tamsin Brewis took the plunge and opened a small baby swim school in Buckingham. Fast-forward two decades, and she is celebrating Water Babies Bucks & Beds’ 20th birthday – with a whopping 33,000 little splash-makers having learned the joys of swimming along the way! After a week of birthday fun, Tamsin is taking a moment to reflect on the wonderful journey that’s led her and her team to this incredible milestone. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years!” said Tamsin. “I started Water Babies with just 80 clients, and now over 33,000 little swimmers…

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