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Adepteq Secures Elite Status in ShareGate’s Global Partner Network

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Adepteq Secures Elite Status in ShareGate’s Global Partner Network

Adepteq, a London-based expert in Microsoft 365 migration and governance solutions, has been awarded Elite Partner status under the ShareGate Partner Programme.

The distinction represents the highest achievable level within ShareGate’s international partner ecosystem and acknowledges Adepteq’s proven capability in delivering digital transformation initiatives across regions including South East England, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Manchester, Plymouth, and Portsmouth.

The Elite Partner award is given to organisations that demonstrate advanced technical proficiency using ShareGate’s migration and governance platform, coupled with a strong record of operational success for clients. ShareGate is widely used by IT teams around the world to support Microsoft 365 migration, configuration, and long-term governance.

“Achieving Elite Partner status reflects our team’s commitment to excellence in Microsoft 365 migrations and governance,” says Phil Cave, Technical Director of Adepteq. “This recognition enables us to provide our clients with enhanced support, cutting-edge tools, and streamlined solutions that keep them ahead in an increasingly complex digital landscape.”

Through its Elite credentials, Adepteq will receive increased access to ShareGate’s specialist support services, partner-only certifications, early-release product capabilities, and comprehensive assessment tools for governance and migration planning. This will strengthen the company’s ability to deliver high-level Microsoft 365 transformation support with improved speed and precision.

The ShareGate Partner Programme includes over 1,800 organisations worldwide, offering a framework of shared expertise, resources, and market opportunities. Adepteq’s new designation elevates it into a select group of partners recognised for advanced performance and delivery quality.

“Our clients benefit directly from this partnership through access to the latest migration technologies and proven governance frameworks,” adds Ian Loman, Sales Director of Adepteq. “With ShareGate’s tools and our expertise, businesses can confidently navigate their digital transformation journeys whilst maintaining security, compliance, and operational efficiency.”

About Adepteq

Adepteq is a Microsoft 365 migration and governance specialist headquartered in London, serving businesses across South East England, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Manchester, Plymouth, and Portsmouth. The company provides expert guidance on SharePoint, Teams, and Microsoft 365 implementations, with a focus on streamlined migrations and robust governance frameworks. With over 1,000 successful migrations completed, Adepteq helps organisations transform their digital workplaces whilst maintaining security and compliance standards.

Woking community urged to donate to Jewson Christmas toy appeal

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Woking community urged to donate to Jewson Christmas toy appeal

Jewson Woking has pledged to donate a truckload of gifts to the children’s ward at St Peter’s Hospital this Christmas and is calling on its customers, suppliers and the local community to help reach its goal. 

Colleagues have created a Christmas gift zone within the branch at Jewson Woking on Monument Way East, where bulk bags have been transformed into Santa’s sacks ready to receive donations of gifts for children who’ll be in the hospital during and in the run up to the festive season.  

The team has already received almost £1,500 worth of donations, helping them to purchase several items from the hospital’s Christmas wish list, including a 6ft air hockey table to replace one of the ward’s most popular toys in its playroom.  

Steven Ross, Branch Manager at Jewson Woking, said: “We know that being in hospital, especially at this time of year, can be difficult for families, so we wanted to provide some happy memories even during a difficult time. We have a long wish list of items from the hospital and we want to tick off as many of these presents as possible. It’s a wonderful cause and we know Jewson’s generous customers and partners will dig deep this festive season. 

“We’re collecting and wrapping toys which we will load onto a lorry and deliver directly to the ward on 19th December. Anyone wishing to donate toys should pop into the branch before then and speak to the team about what items are still on the list.”  

Kathryn Moore, Head of Charity at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals’ Charity, said: “We are thrilled and so grateful that Jewson has decided to support us and our youngest patients with its Christmas toy appeal. The NHS budget prioritises the latest equipment and our dedicated hardworking staff so we rely on donors and businesses like Jewson to create a little Christmas magic each year. 

“Our air hockey table has seen better days and it’s one of the most popular toys in the playroom, so it’s amazing to hear that Jewson has already been able to purchase a new one. Our wish list includes craft supplies, colouring books, cuddly toys, technology and games – all items we use daily to keep the children busy and active so they can have fun, even during a difficult time.” 

To donate to the toy appeal, visit Jewson Woking on the corner of Monument Road and Albert Drive, down from the Lion Retail Park (postcode GU21 5LZ).  

UK Accommodation Sector Faces Higher Bed Bug Removal Expenses, Warns ThermoPest

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UK Accommodation Sector Faces Higher Bed Bug Removal Expenses, Warns ThermoPest

ThermoPest, the London-headquartered nationwide pest management provider, has observed a notable escalation in bed bug treatment costs across the UK. The trend is affecting a range of accommodation operators, including councils, hotels, student residences, HMOs and assisted living environments, where infestations often trigger operational disruption and regulatory scrutiny.

Evidence collected from ThermoPest’s remediation response work indicates a strong shift toward comprehensive heat-based treatment solutions. Compared with traditional chemical-only approaches, whole-room heat intervention is being increasingly adopted due to its higher likelihood of achieving complete eradication and reducing the need for repeat visits.

“Hotels, care providers, councils and HMO landlords are facing pressures that go beyond routine maintenance,” said James Rhoades, founder of ThermoPest Pest Control. “For hotels, the economics are immediate — an out-of-service room can quickly impact revenue. For assisted living facilities and council-managed housing, safeguarding requirements mean infestations must be resolved thoroughly. In HMOs and student accommodation, interconnected layouts allow bed bugs to spread rapidly if treatments are inconsistent.”

ThermoPest notes a growing expectation from organisations for comprehensive documentation, treatment planning and post-treatment monitoring. This shift reflects wider adoption of structured bed bug strategies rather than reactive responses.

Cross-contamination between units remains a leading cost factor, especially in older buildings with shared utilities or frequent turnover of occupants. As a result, many providers are developing clearer procedures for escalation, early identification and proactive monitoring systems.

“Bed bug control is becoming a risk-management priority for UK accommodation providers,” Rhoades added. “The organisations adopting consistent treatment standards and evidence-based approaches are seeing more predictable outcomes and lower long-term costs.”

With increasing mobility, tourism and density of living arrangements, ThermoPest forecasts continued demand growth among councils, hotels and multi-occupancy housing operators throughout 2026.

Great gifts for him this Christmas

Helen Greaney
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Great gifts for him this Christmas

Shopping for him can be tricky… especially when he insists he “doesn’t need anything”. Whether you’re buying for a foodie, a tech-lover, a serial snacker or the man who already owns three of the same jumper, this gift guide has you covered.

From genuinely useful finds to conversation-starting treats, these are presents he’ll actually love (and possibly brag about). No socks required.

Microplane container grater

Perfect for everyday prep or stylish table-side serving, the Microplane Container Grater keeps things clean and effortless as ingredients collect neatly in the container. A non-slip base ensures stability on any surface.

Microplane Container Grater Cashmere Beige Lifestyle 2

It features a coarse, ultra-sharp stainless-steel blade, a 532ml container with an airtight lid, and a wooden lid that doubles as a mini cheese board and protective cover.

Available in Anthracite Grey with a walnut lid or Cashmere Beige with a bamboo lid.

£39.95 from John Lewis


The Pickle Jar

The Pickle Jar by Nick Vadasz is a must-have for food lovers and fermentation fans alike. It’s packed with bold flavours, gut-friendly goodness and vibrant plant-based condiments.

The Pickle Jar book cover 1

From the founder of the UK’s leading pickles brand, this beautifully accessible book guides you through the art of making your own ferments, with clear, confidence-boosting techniques and plenty of inspiration. Alongside the pickling know-how, you’ll find a collection of delicious recipes showing exactly how to use your homemade ferments in everyday cooking.

£20 from Waterstones

Karisimbi Golden Rum

A carefully sourced blend of unaged and aged rums from the Dominican Republic, aged rum from Barbados and unaged pot still rum from Jamaica. With some of the aged rums up to five years old, this special golden rum is complex yet classy.

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Tasting notes include rich dried fruits, butterscotch, burnt sugar and caramel with a hint of vanilla and orange.

£37.63 from Master of Malt 

Buy a share in a racehorse this Christmas 

Treat him to the unforgettable thrill of becoming a racehorse owner with Racing Club!

For as little as £25, she’ll receive a share in a horse and step into the glamorous world of racing. From the moment she opens her welcome pack, she’ll enjoy regular updates on her horse’s training, progress, and race days — and even get a share of any prize money won.

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Owners can also apply for exclusive race day badges, enjoy luxury hospitality at iconic venues like Newbury, and enter ballots for stable visits to meet trainers, jockeys, and their horse.

Each share comes with full syndicate benefits, and Racing Club merchandise or gift cards make it easy for her to celebrate — or pick her own horse to back.

From £25 at Racing Club

SnapIt Screw Eyeglass Repair Kit

Make this Christmas stress-free for the dad, partner, or friend who’s always sitting on their glasses. The SnapIt Screw Eyeglass Repair Kit is a compact, pocket-sized solution that fixes eyeglasses in seconds, making it a practical and surprisingly thoughtful festive gift.

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Featuring patented SnapIt Screws with extra-long feeder tips, repairs are quick, clean, and frustration-free – no special tools required. The kit includes a double-ended screwdriver and screws compatible with most frames, including prescription glasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses, whether metal or plastic.

£5.99 from Snapitscrew.com

Homark mini massage gun

The Homark Mini Massage Gun. Perfect for on the go, it is compact, low noise, light and easy to use. Customise your massage with four interchangeable attachment heads and six massage speeds to target specific problem areas.

HOMARK 49.99 Massage Gun 3 www.debenhams.com

The deep tissue percussion targets stress and tension – and is great for neck, shoulders, spine, hamstrings, calves and feet. This is a fab gift for those who need help to relieve muscle stiffness and pain and improve blood circulation.

£49.99 from Debenhams

A Taste of Excellence: EU Showcases Europe’s Under-the-Radar Food and Drink to UK Buyers

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A Taste of Excellence: EU Showcases Europe’s Under-the-Radar Food and Drink to UK Buyers

The European Union has presented A Taste of Excellence, a new trade-focused book created to help UK retailers, importers, wholesalers, distributors, chefs and foodservice specialists explore Europe’s extraordinary food and drink landscape, including a range of “hidden hero” products that deserve greater recognition in the UK.

Produced by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI) as part of the “More Than Only Food & Drink” campaign, the guide is designed as a practical tool for professionals seeking high-quality, traceable and authentic products to expand their European ranges.

The publication contains market guidance and detailed spotlight features on numerous items—from Romania’s Telemea de Ibăneşti PDO cheese to Austria’s Steirischer Kren PGI horseradish. It also includes vivid producer case studies, highlighting traditions such as the original recipe for Estonian vodka PGI and the unique heritage behind Sweden’s Skedvi Bröd PGI bread, along with commentary from UK experts connected to the “More Than Only Food and Drink” programme. Collectively, these insights demonstrate how EU products can support menu innovation, broadening of product categories, and premium range development.

Central to the book is its mission to promote Europe’s lesser-known regional gems—foods and drinks with authentic origins, distinctive flavours and strong commercial opportunities that have not yet gained substantial exposure in the UK. Throughout, readers encounter producers representing these “hidden heroes”, many of whom carry official EU authenticity labels including Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).

Among these is Ġbejna tan-nagħaġ PDO, a traditional Maltese sheep’s-milk cheese produced using time-honoured methods such as drying, peppering and pickling, offering UK delis, cheesemongers, and Mediterranean-inspired restaurants a unique and versatile addition to their ranges. From Hungary, Gyulai kolbász PGI showcases Central Europe’s rich charcuterie heritage; this lightly smoked, paprika-seasoned sausage adds depth to small plates, sharing boards, and slow-cooked dishes, yet remains largely undiscovered in the UK despite its strong fit with emerging consumer tastes.

The confectionery category is represented by Turrón de Alicante PGI from Spain. With origins dating back to the 15th century, this traditional Mediterranean nougat from south-eastern Spain is made using artisanal methods passed down through generations. Produced with locally sourced toasted almonds, honey, sugar and egg whites, the mixture is slowly cooked until crisp and breakable before being combined with whole almonds, which preserve the nougat’s distinctive crunchy texture and rich, nutty sweetness. For drinks, Kaimiškas Jovarų alus PGI, a traditional Lithuanian farmhouse ale brewed with unique local yeast and a rare no-boil technique, highlights the kind of heritage-led, craft-driven beer tradition that resonates strongly with UK specialist retailers, bottle shops and the on-trade.

By combining compelling storytelling with practical trade intelligence, A Taste of Excellence offers UK buyers a fresh perspective on European food and drink. Aligning with UK consumer trends and the growing demand for authentic and sustainable products, it is an invaluable resource to help them discover hidden gems, expand their sourcing horizons, and unlock new opportunities for growth – including seasonal opportunities offered by EU food and drink.

The book is available for digital download via the “More Than Only Food & Drink” campaign website, and copies will also be distributed at UK campaign events from early 2026. Visit the website for more details about the upcoming events in 2026.

Plates4Less publishes Christmas gift guide as demand for personal presents grows

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Plates4Less publishes Christmas gift guide as demand for personal presents grows

Plates4Less has introduced its Christmas Gift Guide to help shoppers move away from disposable festive gifts in favour of thoughtful and enduring alternatives. The guide highlights the increasing popularity of personalised number plates, which now account for about 40 per cent of the company’s annual sales.

The guide walks buyers through choosing the ideal private registration, offering tips on everything from design preferences to affordability. It also explains how a private number plate can be gifted without knowing the recipient’s full vehicle details, making it an excellent option for surprises and last-minute buyers.

For those wanting to present their gift in style, the guide includes a variety of packaging options, from free printable certificates to premium certificates ready for wrapping. Buyers can also order physical plates and may choose the Done For You Transfer Service to ensure the transfer is completed smoothly once the recipient decides to assign the plate.

With over twenty-five thousand five-star reviews, Plates4Less continues to stand as the UK’s most trusted registration specialist. The new guide aims to help customers pick a heartfelt gift that feels personal and may appreciate in value in the years ahead.

The Christmas Gift Guide is available now at Plates4Less.co.uk.

Second Ring Introduces UK’s Lowest-Cost Digital Landline as Standalone Option

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Second Ring Introduces UK’s Lowest-Cost Digital Landline as Standalone Option

Second Ring has launched a budget-friendly landline service designed to free customers from the need to bundle home phone and broadband.

A new telecoms provider, Second Ring, has entered the UK market with a standalone digital landline service that lets customers keep their home phone number without being linked to a specific broadband package.

Across most major broadband suppliers, line rental is now merged into broadband deals, with typical monthly costs ranging from the mid-£20s to around £30 depending on plan and discounts.

Second Ring’s approach is aimed at people who value having a landline but want the ability to secure a cheaper broadband deal separately.

Customers can move their existing landline number over to Second Ring, and once the number is transferred, they are free to select any broadband provider they choose — including low-cost fibre packages or mobile broadband services — without losing access to their landline.

The company is also launching what it calls the UK’s first consumer-focused pay-as-you-go digital landline. With access fees from £2.50 per month, users pay a small ongoing charge to keep their number active and then pay only for the calls they make, rather than committing to high fixed line-rental fees.

Second Ring says the model is suited to households that still need a landline number for practical purposes — such as older relatives, home alarms or security systems — but make very few outbound calls. It also targets customers wanting to avoid broadband bundles and small businesses that require a geographical landline without broadband restrictions.

The digital service works through VoIP technology and is compatible with analogue phones using an adapter, IP phones, or softphone apps on laptops and mobile devices.

The launch comes at a time when the UK is approaching full migration from traditional analogue phone lines to digital voice services delivered over broadband, a nationwide upgrade managed by Ofcom and Openreach.

Garage Conversion Trend Accelerates as Moving Cost Pressures Rise

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Garage Conversion Trend Accelerates as Moving Cost Pressures Rise

With property values sliding and mortgage rates still elevated, increasing numbers of UK families are deciding to stay put and improve their homes instead of entering an uncertain housing market.

Rightmove’s latest data shows house prices suffered their most significant November decline in over ten years, dropping by 1.8% in a month, with more than one in three sellers adjusting their prices downwards.

This climate has prompted a surge in interest for garage conversions, as homeowners look for cost-effective ways to create more space.

Pro Assist Property Services, a company specialising in garage refurbishments, reports a marked upswing in conversions as households seek adaptable living solutions.

“Most people don’t even use their garages for parking anymore,” said Asa Herbert of Pro Assist Property Services. “Now, that space is being turned into something useful, a home office, a gym, or an extra bedroom.”

According to Pro Assist, costs typically begin at £10,000, and many projects can be completed in approximately two weeks.

The company adds that a professionally executed conversion has the potential to increase property value by up to 10%, particularly in locations where parking availability is not a deciding factor. While the initial surge was driven by lockdown-era home working, the focus of such projects has shifted noticeably in 2025.

“Now, people want extra bedrooms, annexes, or a quiet space for relatives,” said Herbert. “A garage conversion is one of the easiest ways to get that room without moving, and in most cases, you don’t even need planning permission.”

However, experts advise proper preparation, as garages are not originally intended as living areas. Poor insulation or ventilation can lead to dampness, cold and general discomfort. “A proper survey and professional contractor make all the difference,” Herbert added.

Perfect gifts for aunty this Christmas

Helen Greaney
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Perfect gifts for aunty this Christmas

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your aunty… the woman who spoils you, sends slightly chaotic birthday texts, and always has snacks in her bag “just in case”? 

You’ve come to the right place. Whether she’s the glam aunty, the cosy-home aunt, or the one who insists she “doesn’t need anything,” this guide is packed with gifts guaranteed to make her smile or proudly say, “Oh, you shouldn’t have!” (even though you absolutely should). 

Here’s some help to find something fabulous!

Something to drink

If she likes a tipple, how about a Bellamie cherry liqueur? Bellamie® is an elegant apéritif inspired by the French ‘Guignolet’ liqueur and its signature ripe cherry flavour.

BELLAMIE 0081

Enhanced by a touch of cognac, cherry blossom, and the delicate bitterness of cherry and apricot stones, Bellamie reveals layers of bright red fruit, marzipan, and sweet spice – a lower-ABV cherry apéritif that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

For a luxurious spritzer simply add to prosecco and soda water with a sprig of rosemary for the festive feel. 

Available: £34.99 at www.distillersdirect.com

Eco Festive Wellbeing Hamper 

Delight her with a beautiful hamper packed with luxurious wellbeing treats. From pampering biodegradable face masks, to natural aromatherapy candles, delicious fairtrade dark chocolate mini-bars, and luxury plastic-free Christmas tea temples, this extra special gift box allows her to enjoy some well-deserved “me-time.”

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Available: £29.99 at boostology.co.uk

A Christmas gift for all year round with Racing Club

Give her the special thrill of becoming a racehorse owner with Racing Club! 

For as little as £25, she’ll receive a share in a horse and step into the exciting world of racing. From the moment she opens her  welcome pack, mum will enjoy regular updates on her horse’s training, progress, and race days… and even receive a share of any prize money. 

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Owners can apply for exclusive race day badges, enjoy luxury hospitality at venues like Newbury, and enter ballots for stable visits to meet trainers, jockeys, and their horse.

Each share includes full syndicate benefits, and Racing Club merchandise or gift cards let her celebrate or choose their own horse to support.

Available: From £25, Racing Club

Mystical, magical…

For some rather different offerings in the perfume world, how about these vegan-friendly scents. If she loves seeking our niche new smells and unleashing new powers, The Society of Alchemists is the place. 

Auryn EDP 2

This luxurious EDP (The Auryn) comes in a black bottle with a velvet-lined luxury box. Scents change while you’re wearing them but generally the vibe was bergamot as a strong top note, interjected with some rose, violet and patchouli with some underlying vanilla tones.

Available: £34.95 from https://thesocietyofalchemists.co.uk/ 

Sustainable surprises

 Handmade in the UK using sustainable soya wax, the Yorkshire Rhubarb scented Candle is vegan, cruelty-free and free from synthetic fragrances. The tin is also recyclable.

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 Manufactured using solar power, the Yorkshire rhubarb fragrance emulates the sweet, tangy scent of Yorkshire rhubarb and was created in homage to Bio-D’s Yorkshire roots..

Available: £12.24 at www.biod.co.uk

Retro Radio

The Baby Brighton Retro Style Portable Radio is where timeless design meets modern function. Available in elegant grey or black, this compact piece echoes the sophistication of mid-century style, with smooth curves, chrome detailing, and a minimalist silhouette that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current.

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Don’t let its vintage charm fool you — behind the classic exterior lies reliable AM/FM analogue tuning, a built-in rechargeable battery for seamless portability, and an auxiliary input for playing her own music with ease. 

Available: £40 at arighibianchi.co.uk

Leicester Welcomes the Return of Electric Shadows Chinese Film Festival

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Leicester Welcomes the Return of Electric Shadows Chinese Film Festival

Electric Shadows: Leicester Chinese Film Festival is set to make its return from 24 to 30 November, organised by the School of Creative Industries and Culture (CIC) and the newly launched Faculty of Arts, Technology and Culture (TAC) at DMU. Screenings and activities will be hosted at both Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre and Showcase Cinema de Lux.

Now a regular feature of the university’s cultural calendar, the festival is jointly coordinated by the Cultural Management Subject group and the Confucius Institute, drawing on shared expertise to celebrate Chinese cinema.

This year’s festival will begin on the evening of Monday 24 November with the UK Premiere of “Shore of Life” (2025). The programme will expand beyond film screenings to include cultural showcases, live performances, creative workshops and industry briefings, offering visitors a rich and varied experience.

Speaking about the festival’s spirit, Professor Yi Zhang, Co-Director of the Confucius Institute, remarked: “The Chinese film festival is like a luminous window into China’s soul. Each film is a vivid brushstroke on a moving canvas, allowing audiences to travel through history, culture, and emotion, and to experience the warmth and depth of Chinese stories through the universal art of cinema.”

Reflecting on the festival’s evolution, Dr Hiu Man Chan, Co-Founder of Electric Shadows and Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries at DMU, commented: “Electric Shadows is a relatively new addition to many well-known festivals in the city of Leicester. It is a true adventure to work with different partners each year to nurture its growth, at the same time exploring a space for conversation via a shared passion in the cinema. I am determined to keep it going the best I can.”

This year’s programme line-up includes:

The Shore of Life (2025, Opening Film & UK Premiere), Showcase

The Shadow’s Edge (2025), Showcase

Black Dog (2024), Showcase

Ping Pong (2012), Phoenix

The Grandmaster, Phoenix

Chinese craft workshop + Ne Zha 2 (2025), Phoenix

Industry Briefing, Phoenix

Panda Plan (2024, Closing Film), Phoenix

Now in its fourth edition, this year’s momentum has attracted one of Asia’s most established multinational financial enterprises. 

Hantec Group, founded in 1990, is committed to delivering a wide spectrum of global services, covering finance, information technology, creative culture, art collection, public utilities, advertising, and marketing.

The Group has obtained 12 internationally recognised financial regulatory licences, including those issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

The festival continues to offer internship opportunities for students from Arts and Festival Management BA and Cultural Events Management MSc. This year, 13 students from Leicester College were also part of the organising team on the opening night.

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