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At 82, poet Beman releases first collection shaped by resilience and recovery

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At 82, poet Beman releases first collection shaped by resilience and recovery

Publishing his first book at the age of 82, poet Beman shares a reflective and uplifting collection that draws on decades of lived experience, shaped by work, family, adversity and humour.

Facing Life with a Smile, Beman’s debut poetry collection, is scheduled for release on January 23rd 2026 and is currently available for pre-order through Amazon, Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and other retailers.

The collection brings together a series of deeply personal poems that look back on the author’s life with warmth, gentle wit and an enduring sense of optimism.

Beman was born in West Yorkshire in 1943 and raised in a close-knit mining community. His mother worked as a weaver, while his father was a bricklayer. He later built a career as a carpenter and site manager and married his wife in 1971.

In 1990, his life took a sudden and dramatic turn after a serious fall from a ladder. Following multiple spinal surgeries, Beman was left paralysed and faced the challenge of adapting to an entirely new way of life.

“After my injury, I found myself with time to spare, and I started to write poetry.” Shared Beman.

During his recovery, poetry became a way to work through trauma and make sense of the changes he was facing. What began as a private practice gradually developed into a body of work he shared with family and friends, who encouraged him to keep writing.

“Making people smile was always my main aim. Most of what I’ve written is true to life, and when people told me they enjoyed my poems and encouraged me to write a book.” Benman added.

Although many of the poems explore deeply personal moments, humour runs throughout the collection, offering balance and lightness alongside honest emotional reflection.

The book is published by UK-based Maple Publishers, with cover design, illustrations and layout created by White Magic Studios.

Integrative counsellor Kadija Taha unveils new children’s book series focused on wellbeing

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Integrative counsellor Kadija Taha unveils new children’s book series focused on wellbeing

Integrative counsellor and author Kadija Taha is preparing to launch a new collection of children’s books designed around the theme of ‘Helping young minds thrive.’

LONDON, UK. January 20th 2026 – Expanding her creative work in children’s literature, Kadija is introducing a growing body of stories that combine imaginative narratives with messages around early education, emotional balance and positive thinking.

Kadija has spoken openly about how her passion for writing began at a young age, shaped by a lifelong love of classic children’s tales and traditional fairytales.

During her pregnancy, she experienced a memorable moment at home when an unusually large number of birds and squirrels gathered in her garden, creating a scene that stayed with her long after.

“The number of birds and squirrels was about four times the usual amount. It felt as though there was a celebration taking place in my back garden. It was such a pleasant and captivating sight, one that made you want to keep watching.” Said Kadija.

That experience later became the foundation for her first children’s book and influenced the direction and tone of her future storytelling.

Drawing on her professional expertise as an integrative counsellor, Kadija weaves emotional awareness and behavioural guidance into her stories.

Her books aim to support children in developing positive habits, constructive thinking patterns and a healthy mindset, while also encouraging learning in an accessible and engaging way.

“My stories help guide children’s behaviour, encourage early positive mindsets, develop healthy thought patterns, and support academic learning through a unique perspective of the world around them. Not only are my stories written for children, but they are also enjoyable for parents to read with them.” She added.

Her latest published title, The Advanced Alphabetical Book for Children, is available now in paperback, hardcover, and Kindle formats. A book trailer can be viewed here. 

The book uses bright illustrations and engaging language to introduce the alphabet in a way that supports early literacy development.

In addition to her currently available work, several new children’s titles are scheduled for future release. 

These include The Way to the Moon, The Twelve Rooms in the Moon, The Window at the Bottom of the Ocean, and Breakfast in the Garden, which is due to be republished.

The books are published by UK-based Maple Publishers, a company known for supporting imaginative and engaging literary works.

Further details regarding publication dates and availability for upcoming titles will be announced later this year. 

New equestrian search platform PADDOX simplifies finding riding events nationwide

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New equestrian search platform PADDOX simplifies finding riding events nationwide

PADDOX, a newly launched online search platform for horse riders, is making it faster and easier to discover equestrian competitions, events and activities. Designed specifically for the riding community, the website is already being praised by early users for removing much of the effort involved in planning days out with their horses.

Riders across the UK are familiar with the frustration of checking multiple websites to find suitable competitions, clinics or rallies. PADDOX addresses this challenge by offering a single, comprehensive database that brings together listings from all major equestrian booking platforms in one place.

Using automated technology, PADDOX scans the web daily for newly published equestrian events. These listings are then presented on a single search page, organised by discipline, date and location, allowing users to view all relevant opportunities at a glance, regardless of which platform is hosting the booking.

Data gathered by PADDOX over the past year highlights the scale of the problem it aims to solve. In 2025, 85 riding centres across the UK advertised events on more than one booking site, with some venues using up to five different platforms to promote their activities.

The challenge becomes even greater for riders searching across wider areas. In postcode regions such as TA around Taunton, riders may need to monitor up to eleven separate event directories to stay fully informed. PADDOX replaces this fragmented approach by displaying all relevant listings on a single, unified results page.

During its development and testing phase, PADDOX indexed 85,000 individual event listings in 2025 and is expected to exceed that figure in 2026. Riders can also subscribe to personalised email alerts, receiving automatic notifications when relevant local events are added or updated, including changes to venues, dates or event details.

About PADDOX

PADDOX is the brainchild of Harriet Pappenheim, a keen, lifelong horse-lover based in Somerset with a passion for getting youngsters in the saddle. Frustrated by all the time spent looking for riding events for her daughter she enlisted the help of her software developer husband to build a search engine just for riders. 

“It’s been a huge help for our users so far,” Harriet says. “Unless you have the time to trawl through multiple booking platforms regularly, it’s easy to miss events. As the majority of equestrians are time poor but keen to keep track of competitions & fun activities, PADDOX’s email alerts are a real game changer.”

The PADDOX database usually has between 5,000 and 14,000 upcoming listings, including competitions, rallies, training sessions, arena hires and more, at any one time. The website is free to try out at https://www.paddox.net

Plamil refreshes Easter range with pioneering vegan chocolate eggs for 2026

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Plamil refreshes Easter range with pioneering vegan chocolate eggs for 2026

Plamil Foods, long recognised as a trailblazer in ethical and inclusive chocolate, has revealed its 2026 Easter Egg collection, showcasing a fresh visual identity and a renewed focus on innovation. The new range has been designed to align seamlessly with Plamil’s recently launched 40g bar packaging, combining modern design with the brand’s core ethical values.

Leading the collection is a notable innovation: a vegan Coffee Easter Egg made using real coffee rather than artificial flavourings or essences. Plamil believes this product to be the first of its kind globally, reinforcing its reputation for originality within ethical confectionery.

The Easter Eggs are presented in striking, contemporary packaging that reflects Plamil’s updated brand identity. Designed to stand out on shelf, the refreshed look emphasises inclusivity, quality, and modern appeal during one of the busiest retail periods of the year.

Each Egg is paired with a matching 40g chocolate bar of the same flavour, creating a coordinated tasting experience for consumers. The full range is priced at £6.50 per product.

The 2026 Easter Egg Collection features:

Low Sugar Dark Chocolate Egg & Bar

A carefully crafted dark chocolate with reduced sugar content, delivering depth of flavour without excess sweetness. The clean, modern packaging reflects Plamil’s commitment to uncompromising quality.

Hazelnot Egg & Bar

Offering the familiar enjoyment of hazelnut flavour without containing any nuts, this Egg & Bar is designed for inclusive gifting. Its vibrant packaging highlights both accessibility and inventive chocolate-making.

Coffee Egg & Bar

The flagship product of the collection. Made with real coffee, this Egg delivers a genuine, aromatic taste that distinguishes it from conventional coffee-flavoured chocolate. Believed to be the world’s first vegan Coffee Easter Egg using real coffee, it exemplifies Plamil’s innovative approach and boundary-pushing ethos. The bold packaging mirrors the distinctive character of the chocolate itself.

“We’re excited to introduce a range that reflects how Easter chocolate has evolved – not just in taste, but in values,” said Adrian Ling, Plamil Foods. “These products are designed to be enjoyed by as many people as possible, without compromise. The Coffee Egg, in particular, embodies our spirit of innovation and creativity.”

The complete Easter Egg range has already been distributed to wholesalers and will be available online via www.plamilfoods.co.uk, as well as through selected retailers, in the lead-up to Easter.

Aerogen Pharma streamlines quality document control using Policy Express for SharePoint

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Aerogen Pharma streamlines quality document control using Policy Express for SharePoint

Aerogen Pharma has transformed its Quality Management System by implementing Policy Express, a document and policy management solution built natively on SharePoint by Microsoft Solutions Partner Information EXP. The move supports the company’s rapid growth in the biopharmaceutical sector, particularly within inhaled therapies.

With operations spanning Ireland and the US, Aerogen needed a compliant, reliable system that could simplify audits, encourage collaboration, and align with regulatory demands, without the financial and operational burden associated with traditional electronic QMS platforms.

“Like many small pharma companies, we were stuck with paper-based systems and wet signatures. Enterprise tools were out of reach,” said Dan Burgess, Senior Director of Quality Assurance. “When we discovered Policy Express, it was clear this would meet our needs without compromise.”

Within just 90 days, Aerogen Pharma fully deployed and validated Policy Express as an electronic QMS platform within its existing Microsoft 365 environment. Built entirely within SharePoint, the solution delivered:

  • Significant cost savings vs traditional eQMS platforms
  • Full rollout in under 90 days
  • 100% training compliance within 2 months
  • Improved audit readiness and document control

Because the solution is embedded within SharePoint, teams can work directly with SOP authors, record every action automatically, and retain a clear, end-to-end audit trail. This approach ensures compliance with both European and US regulatory standards while improving day-to-day usability.

“We now have a digital system that’s not only inspection-ready but has helped our team think differently about what’s possible in SharePoint,” Burgess added.

Today, Policy Express is helping regulated organisations modernise quality and compliance processes, replacing manual workflows with scalable, inspection-ready systems that avoid unnecessary licence costs and long-term vendor dependency.

Administrators appointed to oversee future of London’s iconic Colonnade Hotel

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Administrators appointed to oversee future of London’s iconic Colonnade Hotel

It has been formally confirmed that Duncan Coutts, Rupen Patel and Nimish Patel of Coots and Boots have been appointed as Joint Administrators for The Colonnade Hotel, the well-known boutique hotel located in the heart of Little Venice, London.

This appointment signals a new phase for the historic property at 2 Warrington Crescent. The Colonnade is widely admired for its traditional English character and boasts a heritage spanning more than 160 years.

The building holds a unique place in Britain’s intellectual and cultural history:

Scientific birthplace: Originally constructed as two Victorian houses in 1865, the building later became the Warrington Lodge Medical and Surgery Home for Ladies in 1886. On 23 June 1912, the renowned mathematician and Enigma codebreaker Alan Turing was born here. A blue plaque on the exterior of the hotel marks this historic event.

A haven for Freud: During the summer of 1938, the property, then operating as the Esplanade, accommodated Sigmund Freud and his family while their Hampstead home underwent renovation. The hotel now honours this legacy with a dedicated “Sigmund Freud Suite”.

Historic features: The hotel houses one of the oldest working lifts in the UK – a distinctive gated elevator that continues to delight international visitors.

Under the new administration, efforts will focus on safeguarding the building’s heritage while considering future opportunities for the landmark.

The Administrator has confirmed that a structured marketing process is due to begin at the end of January 2026. This initiative will aim to find a suitable buyer or partner to continue the legacy of the 43-bedroom Victorian townhouse and ensure its place within London’s luxury boutique hotel market.

“The Colonnade is more than just a hotel; it is a piece of London’s history,” said Duncan Coutts, Joint Administrator. “Our goal is to manage this transition with the respect the building deserves. We are seeing significant early interest and look forward to officially bringing the property to market at the end of this month.”

For further details about the administration process or upcoming marketing activity, enquiries can be directed to Coots & Boots Limited.

New children’s book shines a light on empathy and emotional understanding

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New children’s book shines a light on empathy and emotional understanding

Hello, My Name Is Benji marks the debut children’s release from author Lynn Pogson, exploring emotional awareness, early life experiences and the vital role of compassion in young lives.

Written for children aged six to twelve, Pogson encourages readers to develop empathy, deepen their understanding of others and learn the importance of asking thoughtful, caring questions.

The story challenges traditional perceptions of behaviour and emotions, prompting both children and adults to rethink how they interpret life experiences and respond with greater kindness.

Inspired by real conversations and personal experiences, Hello, My Name Is Benji reflects everyday moments that many children encounter but often find difficult to express.

Through Benji’s journey, the book illustrates how small, unresolved issues can build over time, leading to challenges such as academic struggles, emotional difficulties and broader social concerns.

“For many years working with others in the community, I started asking ‘What happened to you?’ Lots of people just go with ‘What’s wrong with you?’” shared Lynn. “The thing is, this is applicable to both children and adults.”

She explains that her carefully chosen words aim to help interrupt ongoing patterns of misunderstanding and emotional harm.

“Who wouldn’t want their own child to recognise these issues before they step out independently into their own life and make their own choices?” added Lynn.

Although written for younger readers, Hello, My Name Is Benji is also designed to resonate with parents, carers and educators, encouraging them to recognise early emotional signals and offer support where it matters most.

Readers can also look forward to Pogson’s forthcoming title, The Magical Healing Wood, which will explore the grieving process for both children and adults.

Hello, My Name Is Benji is available on Amazon in hardback and paperback formats. The book is also available in stores at Walmart, Blackwells, Barnes & Noble, and Waterstones. 

Lynn Pogson’s works are published by Maple Publishers, a UK-based publishing group. A book trailer for Hello, My Name Is Benji is also available to view online.

Initium kicks off 2026 with five high-impact M&A completions

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Initium kicks off 2026 with five high-impact M&A completions
  • Employee-owned M&A specialist Initium Corporate Finance delivers five successful transactions in January 2026 across diverse industries
  • Deals include trade sales, private equity acquisitions and transitions to employee ownership

Initium Corporate Finance, the employee-owned corporate finance adviser specialising in sell-side mandates, has announced the completion of five major transactions in the opening weeks of 2026. The strong start to the year highlights continued buyer confidence in high-quality UK companies operating across a wide range of sectors.

The completed deals cover businesses in artificial intelligence, surveying and property consultancy, engineering and construction services, residential property operations and professional audio technology. Buyers range from strategic trade acquirers to private equity-backed platforms and employee ownership trusts, demonstrating the growing variety of exit and succession routes available to founders seeking the right long-term fit.

Collectively, the transactions reinforce Initium’s strength in delivering bespoke advisory solutions tailored to each shareholder’s objectives, values and future ambitions. Despite ongoing market complexity and increased selectivity among buyers, the firm’s recent activity shows sustained appetite for founder-led businesses with strong positioning and clear growth trajectories.

Looking beyond transaction completion, Initium continues to prioritise long-term outcomes for owners, management teams and employees alike. The firm remains actively engaged post-deal, supporting clients as they plan their next chapter and navigate life after exit.

January 2026 announced transactions

G=mc2 agrees investment with Mobeus Equity Partners

Initium advised the shareholders of a fast-growing AI-powered growth consultancy G=mc2 on a strategic sell-side transaction, supporting the business’s next phase of growth with a new long-term partner. Founded in 2017, the business operates at the intersection of data, automation and applied artificial intelligence, supporting global brands to deploy AI solutions at scale to identify consumer trends and insights.

Faithorn Farrell Timms joins Celnor Group

Initium advised the shareholders of Faithorn Farrell Timms (FFT), a multi-award-winning surveying and property consultancy employing approximately 80 people across offices in Orpington, Brighton and Potters Bar, on its sale to Celnor Group’s risk management division.

Structura transitions to employee ownership

Initium advised Structura, a specialist façade engineering and structural glass contractor, on its transition to employee ownership through the establishment of an employee ownership trust, securing long-term independence while rewarding employees with a majority stake in the business.

Prospect Estate and Lettings Agency sold to Lomond

Initium advised the shareholders of Prospect Estate and Lettings Agency on the sale of the business to Lomond, one of the UK’s fastest-growing networks of estate and lettings agencies, delivering a successful exit while positioning Prospect for continued growth as part of a national group.

CEDAR Audio becomes employee owned

Initium advised CEDAR Audio Ltd, the Cambridge-based, world-renowned audio restoration and noise-reduction technology company, on its transition to employee ownership through the creation of an employee ownership trust. Founded in 1988, CEDAR Audio’s technology is used by leading broadcasters, film studios and government agencies worldwide and has been recognised with an Academy Award®, an Emmy® and two Cinema Audio Society Awards.

Jonathan Dunn, CEO of Initium Corporate Finance, said: “In what remains a challenging and often uncertain business environment, it’s hugely encouraging to see the continued strength of demand for high-quality, well-run UK businesses. The transactions we’ve completed demonstrate that buyers are still seeking out specialist companies with strong management teams, differentiated capabilities and clear growth potential.

What’s particularly rewarding is the variety of outcomes achieved. Every business owner’s priorities are different, whether that’s maximising value, protecting culture, securing long-term independence or finding the right partner to support future growth. As a sell-side-only, employee-owned firm, we focus on tailoring the right deal options to each situation and guiding owners through those choices to reach the best possible outcome.

That commitment doesn’t stop at completion. Through our Fellows community, we continue to support clients well beyond the deal, helping them navigate the personal, professional and purpose-led opportunities that follow a successful transaction.”

Clients reflected on Initium’s technical expertise and shareholder-focused approach as key factors in achieving successful outcomes.

G=mc2 founder, Mark Luce said: “The process of selling a business is both complex and challenging, and Initium supported us every step of the way, from assessing potential acquirers through preparing the Information Memorandum and management presentations and subsequent selection of the preferred bidder, deal structuring and due diligence. During this process, we have built both respect and friendships which will endure long into the future. This is not usual in my experience, and is one of the many aspects that sets Initium apart from their competitors. I cannot recommend Initium highly enough. They are unique in their field, a very impressive team with a strong client-first culture and the skills to secure the very best outcome.”

Faithorn Farrell Timms senior partner, Colin Farrell said: “It has been a pleasure to deal with, and be advised by, the excellent team at Initium. From the outset they worked closely with us to fully understand what we were seeking in a partner, and were consistently driven and focussed, keeping the transaction on track at all stages of the process. Particularly impressive has been the round-the-clock levels of support from across the Initium team, their expertise in the negotiation phase, understanding of the finer technical points, and incredible eye for detail in financial analysis.”

Structura MD, Daniel Rickman said: “We first came to Initium to increase our understanding of EOTs, and gain clarity on whether we were ready to make to transition. We were drawn by the fact that Initium themselves are employee owned, and that first-hand knowledge has proved invaluable. They have guided us with clarity, professionalism and genuine understanding of our culture and long-term objectives.”

Carpets Online Launch Signals Major Growth for S&R Carpets

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Carpets Online Launch Signals Major Growth for S&R Carpets

Carpets Online has officially launched, marking a significant step forward for S&R Carpets, the family-run flooring business with over 40 years of heritage in West Yorkshire.

The move into e-commerce follows years of rising demand from customers across the UK. Buyers regularly travelled from cities such as London, Birmingham and Manchester, attracted by the company’s reputation for quality, service and competitive pricing. Strong recommendations and repeat custom made it clear that customers wanted the same experience without the need to travel.

From humble beginnings as a single shop, the business has expanded into four successful retail locations across West Yorkshire, defying industry trends that have seen many independents struggle. As shopping habits increasingly shift online, the launch of a dedicated digital brand became the logical next step.

Carpets Online debuts with a curated selection of bestsellers and exclusive designs, all ready for dispatch within 36 hours. This ensures fast, reliable delivery while maintaining competitive prices. Standard delivery times are three to five working days across England and Wales, and four to seven days for remote regions. On several occasions, customers have even received their orders the following day after being let down elsewhere.

The range features popular collections such as Dreams, known for its luxurious 20mm soft pile, as well as the SCS Olympia and Supreme ranges, favoured for their value and colour choice. Pricing is significantly lower than many competitors, with one product offered at £17.97 per square metre compared to £33.99 elsewhere. Exclusive manufacturer-sourced ranges, including Richmond Deluxe and Dreams, are also available online.

Grey continues to dominate colour preferences, while beige is expected to return to popularity in 2025. Herringbone vinyl remains the top choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Many customers seek luxury options, including thick bedroom carpets and ultra-soft textures. Around 30% of customers are landlords or developers who rely on Carpets Online to manage full flooring projects. LVT flooring is also growing in popularity and will be a major focus for the company in 2026.

A salesperson from Carpets Online said: “Customers using the new site are already praising the personal service the team provides, which is reflected in our great reviews on Trustpilot. Rather than relying solely on online chat, staff regularly call customers to help them choose the right flooring for their home. Buying flooring is an emotional decision for many people, and speaking to a real person makes the experience easier and more reassuring.”

To support this nationwide expansion, the business has invested significantly behind the scenes. This includes moving into a new 9,000-square-foot warehouse, expanding logistics partnerships and recruiting additional staff, with a strong focus on local employment. The long-term ambition is to become a nationally recognised brand built on service, transparency and value.

To celebrate the launch, customers can use the WINTER2026 code at checkout for a limited-time discount. Mailing list subscribers can also access additional savings of between five and fifteen percent, depending on order value.

Legal Veteran Brian Hughes Turns 90 While Still Practising at Rainer Hughes

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Legal Veteran Brian Hughes Turns 90 While Still Practising at Rainer Hughes

Rainer Hughes, the award-winning law firm operating across Essex and London, is celebrating a significant milestone as its original founder, Brian Hughes, reaches his 90th birthday and continues his work as a practising solicitor.

Brian qualified in 1965 and went on to establish the firm that would eventually become Rainer Hughes. His founding vision centred on providing high-quality legal advice rooted in integrity, professionalism and strong client relationships.

Across more than six decades in law, Brian has experienced major shifts within the profession. Despite these changes, his enthusiasm for legal practice and commitment to those he represents have never diminished.

At 90 years old, he remains actively involved in the firm’s work, making him one of the longest-serving practising solicitors in the country.

Imran Essa, Partner at Rainer Hughes, said: “Brian is an absolute inspiration for us all. His experience, insight and work ethic continue to shape the culture of the firm.

“There can’t be many other 90-year-olds who are still practising, and while he has been asked many times why he hasn’t retired yet, his ongoing presence provides a tangible link between our origins and modern-day success. His career stands as a testament not only to longevity, but to a lifelong commitment to the law and to the clients he has served.”

During his 61 years in practice, Brian has dealt with an exceptionally wide range of legal issues, from criminal law and family matters to property disputes and business transactions. He also became a qualified Family Mediator in 1995.

Brian said: “I feel incredibly lucky to have reached this milestone. I cannot think of many of my original contemporaries who have lived as long as myself and I know of none who have wanted to continue to work beyond 70 years of age. My work has always been a source of great satisfaction to me and I have never felt that I wanted to retire from it.

“During my years of service, I have been able to gain a wide overview of legal practice and, as someone heavily involved in assisting fellow solicitors, and members of the public with their legal affairs through my work and my involvement in District Law Societies and the Law Society itself at Chancery Lane, I feel that I have made a worthwhile contribution to the profession and to society.”

As he marks this special birthday, Rainer Hughes is proud to celebrate both Brian’s personal achievement and the lasting legacy he has created within the firm.

Further details about Rainer Hughes can be found at rainerhughes.com.

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