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Friday, January 10, 2025
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Crimestoppers appeals to Tottenham residents to speak up and stop crime

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The charity Crimestoppers is asking residents and business owners in Tottenham and Edmonton to tell them what they know about crime in the area, whilst staying completely anonymous. 
In response to community concerns about violent and organised crime, Crimestoppers is working with a variety of community partners, including housing providers, community safety partnerships and youth organisations.

Together, the charity is aiming to strengthen the resilience of the communities most affected by crime. Residents may have noticed a more proactive approach from law enforcement in recent months.  

Crimestoppers is supporting work undertaken in these areas and has launched a new campaign to raise awareness that there is a safe way to make a difference about crime in their community without giving personal details or speaking to the police.
 
The fear of intimidation from gang members or associates allows criminals to flourish unchallenged. They exploit and groom young and more vulnerable people who then sell and ‘run’ drugs.
 
By speaking up anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers, the local community can help put a stop to drug dealing and crimes that are fuelled by it, such as drug manufacturing, exploitation, burglary, theft, use of weapons and violence against women and girls.
 
Crimestoppers is encouraging anyone with information or suspicions about organised drug gangs to contact the charity 100% anonymously by completing a secure online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling the charity’s UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111.
 
Alexa Loukas, London regional manager of Crimestoppers, said: “Crime gangs harm and intimidate communities and damage businesses that play by the rules. We know that organised criminal gangs are directly harming the local community and residents are suffering because of the negative impact this can have on their lives and the wider community. Fear often prevents them from speaking up.
 
“This Crimestoppers campaign is to remind people that we can all play our part in helping to make the community a safe place for residents and their families.”
 
Detective superintendent Caroline Haines said: “This project is a joint effort between your local police and community partners in Edmonton and Tottenham. We’re committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour together. Your voice matters and we want to hear from you. Whether you choose to share information about crime or the people causing it directly to us or 100% anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers or their youth service Fearless, we’re here to listen and take action.”
 

TAB’s Mortgage Offerings Receive Overwhelming Positive Response

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TAB’s innovative mortgage products have been developed to address a clear gap in the market, where traditional lenders often fall short. Offering mortgages with the speed of bridging finance, TAB has responded to increasing demand for flexible lending options in a sector currently falling short of its £50bn annual potential. Both brokers and borrowers have responded with overwhelming positivity to these solutions.

Traditional banks, constrained by rigid structures, often lack flexibility, while challenger banks have intensified competition. Despite this, TAB’s extensive sector expertise has proven advantageous. With over £500m already lent across residential and commercial properties, and supported by multiple funding lines and institutional partnerships, TAB is well-positioned to continue its rapid growth.

TAB’s mortgage offerings are designed to meet the needs of a wide variety of borrowers across a range of property types, including residential investments, HMOs, commercial, semi-commercial, offices, and retail properties. Key features of their mortgage products include:

● Loans up to £7.5m
● Products available for both residential investment and commercial properties
● Simple tracker loans tied to the Bank of England base rate, ensuring transparency
● Fast, flexible mortgage solutions delivered at bridging speed
● An expert team, supported by industry-leading technology

TAB also welcomes a broad range of borrower types, such as:

● Individuals
● Sole traders
● Partnerships
● Limited companies
● LLPs
● Offshore limited companies (Isle of Man, Channel Islands)
● Trusts
● Charities

Since the introduction of these products, enquiries have continued to rise, with terms being issued to various brokers. Loan completions are increasing week by week, demonstrating TAB’s dedication to delivering on its promises. The current pipeline is outperforming expectations, pointing towards strong growth ahead.

Duncan Kreeger, CEO & Founder of TAB, stated: “It’s encouraging to see the strong demand from our broker partners for our mortgage solutions. At TAB, we’re constantly listening to the market and our stakeholders to deliver products and services in the way they want and truly need. That was the driving force behind TAB Mortgage. It’s also positive to see an increasing number of brokers and borrowers taking ESG considerations into account. It’s crucial to think ahead and adopt a long-term perspective, particularly when it comes to ESG. This forward-thinking approach not only benefits our clients but also contributes to a more sustainable future for property.”

TAB’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles has also reinforced its market position. By supporting property professionals focused on sustainability and providing loans to improve assets, TAB ensures value is added and rewards borrowers with discounted exit fees. In the last quarter alone, TAB received £500m in mortgage enquiries, with £77m progressing to applications and underwriting.

Airfresh Mould Removal comes to Birmingham to drive UK growth

Airfresh Mould Removal, a leading name in mould remediation, is excited to announce its expansion into the Birmingham region. Already well-established in London, Kent, and the South East, the company is now setting its sights on the West Midlands, with further plans for growth in Manchester, Liverpool, and other major UK cities.

Originally founded by Jo Powell as a sole trader in April 2022, Airfresh Mould Removal has quickly grown into a trusted brand. The business was restructured into a limited company in September 2023 when co-founder Tom Colgan joined, and since then, the company has experienced consistent monthly growth, with an expanded team in place to handle increasing demand.

Known for its commitment to transparency, honesty, and a customer-first approach, Airfresh Mould Removal specialises in mould remediation and hoarder cleaning. The company is widely recognised for its high standards of service, delivering ethical and professional results. Beyond its services, Jo and Tom are dedicated to educating others, offering nationwide mould remediation courses through the UK Association of Mould Experts.

“We’re thrilled to bring our expertise to Birmingham and look forward to serving homeowners and businesses across the city,” said Jo Powell, Co-Founder of Airfresh Mould Removal. “We believe in doing things the right way, offering honest advice, and providing top-quality mould removal services that people can trust. Our mission is to continue growing our reach while maintaining the strong values that got us here.”

With further expansion into Manchester, Liverpool, and other cities on the horizon, Airfresh Mould Removal is on course to become a leading force in the UK’s mould remediation industry.

For more details about Airfresh Mould Removal’s services, visit mouldremovalbirmingham.co.uk or call 01212 221198.

Fibabanka and GetirFinans unveils Türkiye’s first BaaS platform

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Fibabanka has introduced a groundbreaking Banking as a Service (BaaS) platform in collaboration with GetirFinans, revolutionising the way businesses offer financial services. This innovative model, the first of its kind in Türkiye, is set to expand internationally, starting with the UK.

As a leader in Türkiye’s banking sector, Fibabanka has partnered with GetirFinans, which attracted $70 million in investment last year and reached a valuation of $250 million. This partnership allows non-banking businesses to seamlessly incorporate financial services into their operations, aligning with Fibabanka’s long-term strategy to extend its BaaS platform across different sectors.

Fibabanka’s advanced technology underpins the BaaS model, enabling businesses to integrate banking features directly into their platforms. With this offering, Fibabanka is positioning itself as an innovator in Türkiye’s financial services industry.

Leading Financial Integration

The partnership with GetirFinans marks the first practical application of Fibabanka’s BaaS platform. Through GetirFinans, embedded within the Getir app, users can access a variety of banking services, including account management, card issuance, and payments. Fibabanka’s digital infrastructure supports these services without requiring GetirFinans to hold a banking licence, allowing them to focus on core business activities.

With over 500 APIs supporting the platform, Fibabanka’s BaaS solution allows businesses to seamlessly integrate financial services, offering a cost-effective and efficient way to meet customer demand. The platform can be utilised by organisations ranging from retailers to fintech companies, catering to the growing demand for integrated financial solutions.

Ömer Mert, General Manager and Member of the Board of Directors at Fibabanka, said: “As consumer expectations around financial services evolve, businesses are seeking ways to offer seamless and integrated experiences through their own platforms. Our Banking as a Service model responds directly to these demands by enabling businesses outside the banking sector to access financial infrastructure easily. The GetirFinans collaboration is just the first step, and we look forward to expanding our platform further to meet the needs of various industries and countries.”

Extending Financial Services

Fibabanka’s BaaS model is designed to increase financial inclusion by extending access to banking services. By collaborating with partners like GetirFinans, Fibabanka is providing innovative solutions that go beyond traditional banking, helping businesses meet the evolving needs of their customers.

The platform also offers operational advantages for partner organisations by reducing the costs and complexity associated with providing financial services. Fibabanka manages the backend processes that require a banking licence, allowing businesses to focus on their customers and growth.

Looking to the Future

Fibabanka’s BaaS platform launch is just the beginning. The bank plans to expand its digital services across a wide range of industries and countries, focusing on technology-driven solutions that benefit businesses and consumers alike. As a leader in innovation, Fibabanka is poised to set new standards in the financial services sector.

“We are proud to be at the forefront of this shift in the banking landscape,” Mert added. “As the destination for BaaS in Türkiye, Fibabanka will continue to build on this model, offering new collaborations that meet the needs of our partners and their customers. Our mission is to redefine the boundaries of digital banking through innovation, and this is just the first of many milestones we intend to achieve.”

Teletubbies Art Takeover Comes to London’s House of Teletubbies

WildBrain’s Teletubbies are inviting Londoners to see the iconic characters in a new light this September, with the House of Teletubbies London: Art Takeover.

From Thursday 26th to Saturday 28th September 2024, the gallery at 15 Bateman Street will be transformed into a vibrant display of creativity, nostalgia, and artistic exploration.

The Teletubbies – Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa, and Po – are stepping into the realm of fine art, sparking inspiration for a new generation of artists while reconnecting fans of all ages with the magic and imagination of childhood.

The London event is part of the House of Teletubbies World Tour, showcasing these cherished characters in exciting and innovative ways.

Working with a mix of internationally renowned and emerging artists, the exhibition will feature a carefully curated collection of Teletubbies-inspired art across various mediums. This immersive experience invites visitors to explore a world where whimsical characters meet bold artistic visions – bringing our childhood friends to life in completely unexpected ways.

The exhibition will showcase works by a range of artists, illustrators, and designers including Austin Call, duhrivative, Benjamin Gore, Christian Cowan, Fern Espinoza, Frankie Curtis, Jon Burgerman, MurWalls, ONCH, Stella Lin, Bunni Konbiny, Rory McQueen, and Will Marsten.

For 27 years, the Teletubbies have captivated new audiences, reminding us of the universal urge to connect, play, and explore. This art takeover celebrates that enduring connection by blending art with heritage, reminding us that the creative spirit we foster as children never truly fades – it simply evolves.

The event will kick off with an exclusive opening night on 26th September, a TTVIP experience for press, influencers, artists, and partners. Guests will have exclusive access to the artworks and the artists, all designed to evoke a sense of childlike wonder. Attendees will also have the chance to discover the artistic process that brought these iconic characters to life – and even meet the Teletubbies themselves!

From 27th to 28th September, the gallery will open its doors to the public, welcoming children and adults alike to enjoy interactive workshops, installations, and Teletubbies-themed activities. This family-friendly event offers a chance to reconnect with childhood memories while experiencing the joy of the Teletubbies in an entirely new and inspiring context.

The weekend will be packed with activities designed to spark creativity across all generations, from doodling on oversized canvases to creating Teletubbies-inspired accessories. The Teletubbies have always been more than just television characters – they represent a shared experience, reminding us of the imagination and boundless joy of childhood.

As the Teletubbies continue to charm audiences of all ages, they embody the simple yet powerful joys of friendship, curiosity, and play. For many, these characters were among our first childhood companions, helping us explore a world of vibrant colours, new sounds, and endless possibilities. This unique art exhibition serves as a reminder that the wonder they sparked still lives within each of us.

The London event is the first of many stops on the art takeover tour, which will see the Teletubbies visit galleries in major cities around the globe, including Los Angeles and Miami. At each destination, new artists and fresh interpretations will join the collection, creating an ever-evolving experience that keeps fans engaged and inspired.

This tour is not simply about nostalgia; it is about celebrating creativity and discovery through art, bridging the gap between generations.

For anyone who has ever imagined bringing their childhood fantasies into the world of fine art, this event offers the chance to rediscover the wonder and joy that the Teletubbies first inspired on screen.

Platform81 Opens New Office in Trowbridge to Serve Wiltshire Businesses

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Platform81, a top digital marketing and web development agency, has expanded its operations with the launch of a new office in Trowbridge, Wiltshire. This move brings the company’s industry-leading expertise to local businesses, providing bespoke services to help enhance their online presence and achieve their digital marketing goals.

The Trowbridge office will offer the complete range of Platform81’s services, which include website design and development, paid search (PPC), social media marketing, branding, graphic design, and SEO. With a strong focus on client success, the agency supports businesses from the creation of their websites through to long-term growth via strategic digital marketing solutions.

Platform81 aims to become a key partner for businesses in Wiltshire that are looking to improve their digital footprint. Whether they are seeking to raise brand awareness, drive more website traffic, or boost online sales, the agency develops tailored strategies for each client, ensuring impactful results for businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to larger brands.

“We’re delighted to be opening our office in Trowbridge and to begin working with businesses across the local area to help them reach their digital marketing goals,” said Gary Mawhinney, spokesperson for Platform81. “Wiltshire is a vibrant and growing region, and we see immense potential to help businesses thrive online.”

With the launch of its Trowbridge office, Platform81 provides Wiltshire businesses access to top-tier digital solutions locally, without needing to look further afield to cities like Bristol or London.

“Our aim is to ensure that Wiltshire businesses have everything they need to compete effectively in today’s digital landscape,” Mawhinney continued. “By offering an extensive range of services, from website development to digital marketing campaigns, we help our clients make their mark online.”

Platform81 has a successful track record across multiple industries, having worked with clients such as Harrisons Direct, Sienna X, and Gymfinity Kids. With offices already established in Greater Manchester and Worcestershire, the agency is set to bring the same high standards and success to Wiltshire businesses through its new Trowbridge office.

Platform81 is excited about building strong partnerships with local businesses and offering the guidance needed to help them grow their brands and reach new customers online.

For more information on how Platform81 can support your business’s digital transformation, contact Daryl at 01225 231 014 to arrange a consultation.

Logistex Awarded Major Automation Deal with Yusen Logistics (UK) in Northampton

Logistex is thrilled to announce that they have secured a substantial automation contract with Yusen Logistics (UK) for their new 1.2 million square foot Sustainable Distribution Centre (SDC) in Northampton.

The SDC, with a capacity of 240,000 pallet locations, will support both B2B and B2C operations as an automated shared user facility. It is divided into two chambers, one for Pharmaceutical goods and another for Ambient operations.

As part of the contract, Logistex will deliver an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) with Aisle Changing and Fixed Aisle cranes, a custom-designed Automated 4-way Pallet Shuttle solution for the Pharmaceutical sector, and an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) Goods to Person system that will serve both chambers. Their Reflex warehouse system will connect all technologies, providing complete control over inventory and picking.

Justin Saw, Business Development Director at Logistex, said: “The Logistex team has worked in close partnership with Yusen Logistics (UK) throughout the tender process, fostering a strong collaboration. With the freedom to integrate the most advanced technology, this project showcases Logistex’s capabilities as a leading systems integrator.”

Benjamin Bird, Business Development and Solutions Director at Yusen Logistics, said: “This project is a strategic step in our goal to provide sustainable logistics services by 2030, offering our clients net zero warehousing solutions. The project also prepares Yusen Logistics to meet future demands for shared user automation, serving both B2B and D2C operations. With the SDC located near the new rail terminal, it offers added potential for carbon reduction, with ESG principles guiding the operation.”

Historic Claridge’s Collection to be Sold at Auction

Claridge’s, fresh off being named the best hotel in the UK on The World’s 50 Best Hotels list, is preparing to auction a treasure trove of archived items from its own iconic past, as well as from sister hotels The Connaught and The Berkeley.

Maybourne, the group behind these legendary hotels, has once again partnered with NCM Auctions to showcase an array of archived furniture and artworks, offering collectors and the public a rare chance to acquire these historic pieces.

The impressive collection dates back more than a century and features custom-designed furniture by leading designers like Ben Whistler and David Linley, as well as pieces from the Marcus Wareing Restaurant and ceramics by John Wigmore.

The auction, set for 25 and 26 September, will feature antique furniture, unique commissioned pieces, lighting, fixtures, artwork, and more that have previously adorned the group’s three prestigious London properties.

In keeping with its commitment to sustainability, Maybourne is extending the life of these timeless pieces by partnering with NCM Auctions, allowing these treasures to be enjoyed by a new generation of owners.

Amy Rutherford, partnership lead at NCM Auctions, expressed her excitement: “We’re delighted to be working with the team at Maybourne again and we can’t wait to bring this collection to a global audience once more with our live hybrid auction. The catalogue features over 600 items and includes iconic pieces from David Linley, exclusively for Claridge’s, seating and tables direct from The Blue Bar, items from the Marcus Wareing Restaurant and many more.”

Potential buyers can submit bids online ahead of the live auction, which begins on 25 September. Viewings of the collection are available by appointment on 24 September.

Anyone interested in participating must register for the auction and arrange a viewing appointment by contacting NCM on 01302 898260. The full catalogue is already online, with pre-auction bidding open. The live auction will take place at 11am on both 25 and 26 September.

Get registered now to learn more.

NOM!NAL London Launches SS25 Collection at London Fashion Week with ‘School of Defiance’ Theme

On Sunday, 15th September, NOM!NAL London made its debut on the official London Fashion Week schedule, presenting the full breadth of its style. The brand showcased its ‘School of Defiance’ theme at The Dilly Hotel, building on the concept first introduced in February’s London Fashion Week.

The ‘School of Defiance’ represents a central concept in the NOM!NAL London Universe, where London takes on the role of a school, fashion is the educational framework, and the city’s subcultures act as various lessons.

The collection showcased looks focused around the school theme, featuring prom-style evening wear, uniform-like everyday pieces, after-school outfits, and loungewear, all inspired by the eclectic British public school culture.

The array of fabrics included wool blazers with stiff collars, shorts, monochrome lounge sets, tartan trousers paired with sharp-collared shirts, and black linen summer sets embellished with NOM!NAL’s trademark red stitching, exuding an air of London summer elegance.

Studded leather sets, drawing inspiration from London’s famous punk scene, made an appearance, while white 3D latex pieces offered a fresh twist on NOM!NAL’s renowned sexy silhouettes, introducing innovative shapes and patterns. The finale featured a long red prom dress, adorned with safety pins, a nod to NOM!NAL’s strong ties to London’s creative and DIY subcultures.

Looking to the future, NOM!NAL London plans to delve deeper into tailoring, draping, and folding techniques as the brand continues to evolve. Founders Sean Solomon and Krisztina Kalman are dedicated to ensuring that inspiration from London Fashion Week remains accessible to all, not just those with exclusive invitations.

Sean Solomon, Co-Founder and Creative Director, commented: “As co-founders and creative directors, Krisztina and I, see ‘The NOM!NAL School of Defiance’ as a pivotal moment in our journey as designers and brand owners. This collection has been crucial in shaping the Nominal aesthetic, pushing us to explore alternative forms and silhouettes. Despite not having formal fashion school training, learning on the job has given us a steep, yet incredibly rewarding learning curve—one we wouldn’t trade for anything.”

Krisztina Kalman, Co-Founder and CEO, remarked: “At the heart of our brand lies a passion for crafting statement pieces that we longed to wear but couldn’t find in the existing market. Our unique vision has struck a chord, garnering an overwhelmingly positive response from fashion enthusiasts who recognise and appreciate our distinctive style. Our British Iconoclast aesthetic, characterised by its bold fusion of traditional elements with avant-garde design, has become our signature. It’s a reflection of London’s vibrant, eclectic spirit – a perfect blend of heritage and innovation.”

After the main show, NOM!NAL London extended the event to the streets, ensuring those who were unable to attend the runway could still experience the collection.

At around 8pm, NOM!NAL London models paraded through Mayfair and Piccadilly, moving to the rhythm of music while setting off red smoke grenades, creating a dramatic atmosphere for this unforgettable street fashion spectacle.

In conclusion, this unique concept and collection from NOM!NAL London has cemented the brand as one to keep an eye on in the fashion world.

Introducing the Interim Talent Hub: A Revolutionary Solution for the Membership Sector

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In today’s fast-paced environment, where agility and specialised skills are essential for the membership sector, Membership Bespoke is excited to launch the Interim Talent Hub, an innovative online platform created specifically for the needs of membership organisations.

As the leading recruitment firm for the membership sector, Membership Bespoke recognised a critical issue: skills shortages were growing, while the time it took to fill key positions was increasing, creating significant costs for many organisations.

Membership organisations play a key role in shaping government policies and influencing everyday life. Their importance to both social and economic development cannot be overstated, and this is why Membership Bespoke is committed to supporting the growth and success of this crucial sector.

Daniel Goddard, Co-Founder of Membership Bespoke, said, “A frequent question I receive from clients is how to bridge their widening skills gaps. Whether it’s a Trade Association urgently requiring additional lobbying and advocacy to represent its members or a Professional Body preparing to launch a new qualification and CPD pathways. As it turns out, interim hires can adeptly address these needs, but isn’t always an obvious solution.”

Goddard added, “So we asked ourselves, how can we streamline the interim process for organisations, allowing them to save time and money while seamlessly filling a skills gap.”

In response, Membership Bespoke developed the Interim Talent Hub—a pioneering online solution that addresses these needs and helps ensure the ongoing success of the membership sector.

Now, with just a few clicks, membership organisations can access a pool of pre-vetted interim professionals with the exact skills and experience they require. What once took months can now be done in minutes.

Anna Christofis, Director of Temporary and Interim Recruitment, commented, “For over 13 years, our dedication to membership-focused clients has provided us with a comprehensive understanding of the shared challenges these organisations face, particularly skills gaps. By connecting them with proven candidates who have successfully addressed similar issues for other clients, we’ve received tremendous positive feedback. With the creation of the Interim Talent Hub, we aim to streamline this process even further, ensuring an even more efficient and effective talent-matching experience.”

Christofis continued, “In our Hub, it’s crucial to recognise that each candidate has a track record of meeting diverse client needs with remarkable adaptability and effectiveness. These professionals are meticulously vetted, ensuring we have a deep understanding of their abilities. Furthermore, to uphold our commitment to our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) principles, the identities of our interim talent remain confidential until both parties are prepared to engage in direct communication.”

Designed with both innovation and quality in mind, the Interim Talent Hub will change how membership organisations within this dynamic sector access and manage interim talent, ensuring continuity and driving success.

Dennis Howes, Co-Founder of Membership Bespoke, noted, “Prioritising quality over quantity and employing a robust candidate vetting process alongside diligent interim candidate care, we proudly unveil the Interim Talent Hub—the pioneering platform specifically designed for the membership sector.”

Howes added, “Evaluated and approved by some of our clients, candidates, and partners already, our Hub emphasises the significant contributions that temporary workers like interims deliver to various industries and the broader UK economy, especially with the Single Worker Status being a discussion point currently.”

The Interim Talent Hub reflects Membership Bespoke’s commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the membership sector, supported by over 13 years of expertise in recruitment.

Tom Lovell, Advisor to the Membership Bespoke Board, commented, “Talent plays a fundamental role in shaping the future of organisations and industry sectors. Making it easier to engage the best talent in more flexible ways, this innovative Hub is exciting to membership organisations and their member communities alike.”