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CCS Cleaning Firm Earns Esteemed Nominations and Bolsters Community Support Initiatives

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CCS is delighted to announce its recent accolades and community engagement efforts, which reflect the company’s core ethos and values. These achievements not only signify their growth but also highlight the expert, high-quality cleaning services offered to businesses and schools across the South West and London.

These nominations and awards play a crucial role in shaping the future of CCS. They not only validate the company’s dedication to excellence but also elevate its standing in the competitive market.

As these honours continue to inspire the team, CCS remains committed to maintaining high standards and pursuing continuous improvement, ensuring that they consistently deliver top-tier cleaning solutions.

Awards and Recognition

CCS was recently nominated for England’s Business Awards, acknowledging the high-quality services they offer to clients in the South West and London. This recognition underscores the company’s growth and its specialised approach to cleaning methods and processes.

Community Support

Every year, CCS actively supports local community groups and charities. Last September, the company made a donation to Time Is Precious, a local non-profit organisation. This charity assists children and families in hospitals and at home, with funds used to purchase essential medical equipment.

Each Christmas, CCS also makes a significant food donation to the local food bank in Midsomer Norton. This annual Christmas donation has become a cherished tradition, reflecting the company’s commitment to aiding families and individuals in need during the festive season.

CCS believes that everyone should experience the joy and warmth of the holiday season and is honoured to contribute to making this possible for its neighbours.

In addition to supporting the food bank, CCS is also proud to back BillyChip, an initiative aimed at helping the homeless. Through generous donations, they are able to provide essential resources directly to the most vulnerable in their local community.

BillyChip offers a straightforward yet impactful way for people to assist the homeless, and CCS is committed to supporting this cause whenever possible.

The Future of CCS

Looking ahead, CCS is dedicated to growth, innovation, and excellence in the commercial cleaning industry. With a strong foundation built on years of experience and a reputation for delivering exceptional services, CCS is well-positioned to expand its reach and influence even further.

The visibility gained from these awards allows CCS to reach a broader audience, helping them to expand their client base and grow their business. As they continue to achieve and celebrate these milestones, the team remains focused on using these successes to build a brighter future for the company and its clients.

The plan to open a new office in London is just the beginning, as CCS aims to extend its services to more regions, embrace cutting-edge cleaning technologies, and continuously refine their practices to stay ahead in the industry.

Artroom London Presents: Bringing Spaces to Life through Contemporary Art & Design

An Innovative Exhibition Curated by Vanita Barany, Launching 13th September at John Martin Gallery

Artroom London is delighted to announce the upcoming launch of Bringing Spaces to Life through Contemporary Art & Design, an extraordinary exhibition opening on 13th September at the prestigious John Martin Gallery, coinciding with the London Design Festival. Curated by Vanita Barany, CEO and Founder of Artroom London, this event aims to transform our understanding and interaction with spaces through the medium of contemporary art and design.

Discussing the inspiration behind the exhibition, Vanita Barany remarked, “When I was generously offered the gallery space by John Martin, I was both excited and terrified in equal measure. My vision for Bringing Spaces to Life was to curate a collection of contemporary works across all genres and price ranges, illustrating how introducing a painting or sculpture can completely transform the mood and personality of a space. I wanted to highlight art’s role as an integral aspect of interior design and show potential collectors how, with gentle guidance from advisors like Artroom London, they can confidently explore the art market and experience the joy of owning their own pieces. I hope I’ve hit the mark and can’t wait to welcome everyone to our exhibition!”

Coordinated by The Arts Profile, the exhibition will feature a range of innovative and thought-provoking works from distinguished contributors such as Helen Chislett Gallery, Gillian Jason Gallery, Addis Fine Art, and MDS Fine Art. This diverse collection celebrates the fusion of art and design, inviting visitors to discover how creativity can elevate and redefine the spaces we inhabit.

To further enhance the event, Revitalising Spaces will include exclusive talks by notable guest speakers:

  • Kees Van der Sande: An architect with a profound appreciation for London’s heritage and listed buildings, Kees Van der Sande has led award-winning projects, including the iconic Dudley House at 100 Park Lane.
  • Sally Storey: As Creative Director of John Cullen Lighting, Sally Storey is an internationally acclaimed expert in lighting design. She has designed lighting schemes for clients across the globe and received the LIT Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.
  • Miria Harris: An award-winning landscape designer based in London, Miria Harris introduced her first garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2024. With a background in contemporary art curation, she integrates organic principles and a circular ethos into her landscape designs, working on projects from historic gardens to large public planting schemes.

The exhibition has already generated considerable interest, with leading professionals from the fields of property, architecture, interiors, and art collecting confirming their attendance. Bringing Spaces to Life through Contemporary Art & Design is poised to be a highlight of London’s dynamic art scene, offering a unique chance to engage with cutting-edge trends in art and design.

“We are excited to present an exhibition that not only showcases extraordinary talent but also challenges traditional notions of space and design,” said Barany. “Each piece has been carefully selected to engage viewers on a deeper level, transforming ordinary environments into dynamic, expressive spaces that resonate with creativity and innovation.”

Bringing Spaces to Life through Contemporary Art & Design is more than an exhibition; it is an immersive experience that redefines the role of art in our daily lives. The show is set to be an essential event for art and design enthusiasts alike.

Event Details:

  • Exhibition Title: Bringing Spaces to Life through Contemporary Art & Design
  • Website: https://www.artroomlondon.co.uk/revitalising-spaces
  • Curated by: Vanita Barany, Artroom London
  • Coordinated by: The Arts Profile
  • Venue: John Martin Gallery, London, W1S 4JG
  • Opening Date: 13th September
  • Featured Contributors: Helen Chislett Gallery, Gillian Jason Gallery, Addis Fine Art, MDS Fine Art, Saskia Kate Interiors
  • Guest Speakers: Sally Storey, Kees Van der Sande, Miria Harris, Rebecca Edmunds, Helen Chislett, Karen Howes, Katerina Spetsiou, Vanita Barany, Megan Baker, Edward Shuster, Claudia Moseley, Henrietta Thompson, Gisli Snaer

Most popular day to move house in 2024 is next week, research finds

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The most popular day to move house in 2024 is next week on Friday, August 30, research finds.

Three out of ten new home owners (29.5%) choose Friday to move in, followed by Saturday (15.7%) and Thursday (13.4%). Sunday is the least popular day to move – chosen by 5.1% of respondents.

Analysis of 630,000 removal quotes found that August was the popular month to move – chosen by 12% of respondents – followed by September (10.2%) and July (10.1%). February is the least popular month to move (just 6.2% move then).

However, there are drawbacks to moving on a Friday.

It is more expensive with removal firms, which often offer discounts for quieter days early in the week.

And if there is a hitch with the completion, a solicitor may not be able to resolve it over the weekend whereas they have more time to rectify things on a day earlier in the week.

Saturday is not classed as a business day by banks so money transfers can be impossible the day after if there are issues on a Friday.

Interiors expert and former estate agent Laura Rich from the online store Furniturebox said new home owners can add as much as £10,000 to the value of their new home in the first month without breaking the bank 

She said that new occupants can transform the look and feel of a new property by decluttering combined with clever colour changes, revamps and the addition of ‘investment pieces’ of furniture such as a classic sofa 

Here are Laura’s ten quick and easy tips for an instant home make-over and crucial buying hacks for new home owners

1 Add colour and new handles in the kitchen – the units in the kitchen may look a little dated and the handles come from another era. But completely replacing a kitchen can cost the earth – as much as £30,000 for high quality new units. A tired looking kitchen can be completely transformed with a fashionable new colour such as grey, navy blue or green instead of dated natural pine. New handles for the units can be bought for as little as £5 and give them a much more contemporary appearance.

2 Clean the carpets – it costs £4,000 to recarpet a new home but the carpets you have inherited may just need a spring clean. Get rid of those old coffee and wine stains and they will look great for a good few years. You don’t need to bring in a professional firm – a good carpet cleaner can be hired for as little as £15 for four hours.

3 Flout the grout – tatty tiles in kitchen and bathrooms can be transformed with an extra strong cleaner from a DIY store. Revamping the grouting around your tiles is as important as cleaning them, and can have a big impact. A clever trick is to invest in a £5 grout pen which can spruce up dull or yellowing grout and fresh-up the look of a bathroom, kitchen or toilet.

4 Perform your own garden rescue – declutter the open spaces at the front and the back of the property. Shift the bins out of view – a bin store can make things look prettier – and take that tatty old trampoline or barbecue to the tip. Trim the bushes, mow the lawn and fill those beds with new plants.

5 Size everything up – if you are investing in new furniture the best deals are online. Don’t measure a space by eye because your eyes can be deceptive. It is always better to bring a tape measure to one of the last viewings before completion or moving into a rental – and figure out all those spaces accurately.

6 Don’t overfill – just because you have an empty space to fill doesn’t mean you have to cram every space. Prioritise by highlighting your must-have new ‘investment pieces’ such as a new sofa which can transform a new room.

7 Bed in for the long-term – a small single bed may be perfect for your  seven-year-old but what happens a few years later when they are a boisterous teenager who wants to have friends round for a sleepover? If you have the room, better to invest in a bigger bed when they are younger and avoid the need to double buy when they get older and want to switch from a single to a double.

8 Get a little help from your friends – imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and if there is a look that a friend has that you love, don’t be afraid to adapt it to your own home. There may be a dining set or a coffee table they have that you know would look great in your home too. Chances are they have borrowed the idea from someone else anyway

9 Have fun – moving into a new home is undoubtedly stressful but it is also exciting. Making over your home is fun and extremely rewarding. Set yourself a timetable to do a new project each week and see how your new home shoots up in value and becomes a much nicer place to live at the same time.

10  Don’t panic – online store Furniturebox promises next day delivery virtually anywhere in the UK for orders placed by 8pm the previous day. So you can move in, get a feel for your new home and then order a new table or accessory such as mirror or rug with exact measurements so you can be sure that everything fits nicely – all to arrive the very next day.

Buzz Studios Enhances Leadership with Appointment of Industry Veteran Steve Booth as Chairman

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Buzz Studios, a leading marketing agency based in Cambridge renowned for its innovative strategies and commitment to client SEO success, has today announced the appointment of Steve Booth as its Chairman. Mr Booth brings over four decades of expertise in advertising, media, digital, and technology to the role.

Steve Booth is a highly regarded entrepreneur with an impressive history of founding and leading successful businesses. His career began as a Founding Director of Zenith Media, a key player within the Saatchi & Saatchi network. Following this, Booth established Booth Lockett Makin, a trailblazing media company that redefined industry standards. His innovative approach continued with the launch of Quantum Media, one of the pioneering digital media agencies, placing him at the forefront of the digital era. Booth’s leadership and strategic acumen were further showcased when he guided BLM Group to a successful acquisition by Havas, a global marketing services firm. Post-acquisition, he took on the role of Global Development Director at Havas, where he managed strategic growth initiatives, reinforcing his status as a leading figure in the media and marketing sectors.

After leaving Havas, Mr Booth has focused on advising agencies, media owners, and technology companies on growth and development strategies. His wealth of experience and insights will be crucial to Buzz Studios as the agency continues its rapid expansion.

Steve Booth on his new role at Buzz Studios commented:

“I am thrilled to be joining Buzz Studios at such a pivotal moment in their growth trajectory. The agency’s commitment to innovation and delivering superior results for clients is truly impressive. I look forward to working with Jonathan Orchard and the talented Buzz Studios team to further develop their capabilities and ensure they remain at the forefront of the marketing services industry.”

Jonathan Orchard, Founder of Buzz Studios, added:

“Steve’s proven track record of success and his deep understanding of the evolving marketing landscape make him a perfect fit for Buzz Studios. His guidance will be instrumental as we continue to scale our agency and deliver exceptional value to our clients. We are excited to welcome him to the team.”

Miniatura Celebrates its 100th Exhibition at Stoneleigh Park

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Miniatura, the globally recognised dolls’ house exhibition that has honoured the craft of miniatures for over forty years, is about to achieve a significant milestone with its 100th show. This landmark event is scheduled for the 14th and 15th of September 2024 at Stoneleigh Park NAEC.

Since its establishment, Miniatura has stood as a leading event for miniature aficionados, displaying the very best in small-scale craftsmanship. The 100th exhibition will maintain the well-established blend of skilled artisans and devoted hobbyists, showcasing some of the world’s finest modelling techniques.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, many exhibitors have planned special events and displays. Among the highlights is Jane Laverick from Warwick, UK, who will be offering a complimentary (miniature) slice of cake to the first 100 customers each day. Kim Murdock has journeyed from Australia to present her stunning dolls, while David Bishop will provide expert guidance on wiring dolls’ houses. Moreover, Leo from Entranced Glassworks will perform the show’s inaugural glass-blowing demonstration. New exhibitors include Cornel’s Creations Ltd, who will be introducing their popular kit houses for the first time.

Attendees can look forward to enjoying top-quality miniatures, engaging with the artists, and experiencing a range of special events. The show guarantees ample public seating and wide aisles, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Situated just south of Coventry, Stoneleigh Park NAEC is easily accessible from across the UK. Visitors will benefit from extensive free parking, and a complimentary shuttle bus service will operate from Coventry train station directly to the event venue.

Andy Hopwood, the organiser of Miniatura, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming exhibition: “It is such a privilege to be able to promote the work of so many talented makers. The miniatures are obviously what visitors come to see but it’s the people that truly make this such a special show. It really is the smiling faces that makes it all worthwhile.”

Le Grá Premium Irish Lager Celebrates Victory at 2024 World Beer Awards

Le Grá Premium Irish Lager is thrilled to announce its remarkable success at the esteemed World Beer Awards 2024. The brand has been honoured with three prestigious accolades, firmly establishing its status as a leader in the global beer industry.

Country Winner – Ireland: Le Grá Premium Irish Lager has been named the top Lager representing Ireland, an accolade that highlights its superior quality and craftsmanship.

Gold Award – International Lager Category: Competing against the finest lagers from around the globe, Le Grá secured the Gold in this highly competitive category, reinforcing its international appeal and excellence.

Gold Award – Design (New Launch): Le Grá’s unique packaging was also awarded Gold for its outstanding design, a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and style.

These awards stand as a testament to Le Grá’s dedication to brewing excellence and aesthetic innovation. As a brand that captures the essence of Ireland with a contemporary twist, Le Grá continues to elevate the beer-drinking experience.

Stay tuned as Le Grá Lager celebrates this achievement and continues to offer world-class beer experiences.

For further information and promotional materials, visit their website at www.legrabeer.com or follow them on social media:

Tesonet / Žalgiris Kaunas Acquires London Lions Basketball Club

The London Lions Basketball Club, a leading professional basketball team in the British Basketball League (BBL), has been successfully acquired by Tesonet, a tech company and shareholder of Zalgiris Kaunas, a well-known Euroleague team. This acquisition follows the recent and brief period of administration the club faced. Based in Stratford, East London, the Lions have been a cornerstone of British basketball, with a history dating back to their founding in 1977 as the Hemel Hempstead Lakers.

On 30th July 2024, the London Lions were placed into administration by their debenture holder, leading to the appointment of licensed insolvency practitioners, Hasib Howlader and Nimish Patel from Hudson Weir. The administrators, regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, were tasked with overseeing the club’s operations and finding a suitable buyer to ensure its continued future.

Hudson Weir’s diligent efforts during this challenging period have resulted in the successful acquisition by Tesonet / Žalgiris Kaunas for an undisclosed amount, allowing the London Lions to preserve the legacy they have built over the last 47 years. The marketing process for the club generated significant interest and attracted multi-million-pound offers. As administrators, we were obliged to accept the offer which was in the best interest of creditors of the company.

Hasib Howlader, Joint Administrator from Hudson Weir, shared his positive outlook for the club’s future:

“We are delighted to report that Tesonet / Žalgiris Kaunas is the new owner of the club, with Hudson Weir managing to complete the sale in less than two weeks from the date the club was placed into Administration. For Nimish and myself speed was crucial regarding this administration to ensure the club did not falter during that period and the players could see a bright future ahead of them, and most importantly have the platform to join the league for the 24/25 season.”

“Our honest approach in communicating the facts surrounding the circumstances of the club attracted a number of eleventh-hours bidders, however, it was Tesonet / Žalgiris Kaunas who were the ultimate winner in this race for the London Lions. We are also delighted with the support provided by Frank Brumby of HCR Law who worked around the clock and over the weekend alongside us.”

“As part of the final deal, Hudson Weir was able to save the club, with no loss of jobs, a positive return to creditors, and the London Lions will be playing in the next season of the BBL. This was a very good return for all parties concerned.”

The new ownership is anticipated to bring renewed energy and resources to the club, ensuring that the London Lions continue to thrive. The London Lions are more than just a basketball team; they are a symbol of community pride and sporting excellence. With a nearly five-decade history and a deeply passionate fan base, we are confident that under the new ownership, the London Lions will continue to scale new heights.

The London Lions, originally known as the Hemel Hempstead Lakers, have undergone several transformations, including a move to Milton Keynes and a rebranding as the Milton Keynes Lions, where they won their first British Basketball League trophy in 2008. The team has been an integral part of London’s sporting scene since 2012, playing home games at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The club further expanded its presence by launching a women’s team in the Women’s British Basketball League in 2017.

ThinkCapital Launches with Cutting-Edge Trading Challenges and Advanced Platforms

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ThinkCapital offers traders distinctive routes to funded accounts with customisable trading conditions. Supported by the reputable multi-regulated broker ThinkMarkets, ThinkCapital presents three specialised trading challenges: Lightning, Dual Step, and Nexus. Traders have access to advanced platforms like ThinkTrader, TradingView, and MetaTrader 5, with optional features such as increased profit shares, Expert Advisors, and expanded drawdown options.

ThinkCapital, an innovative prop trading evaluation firm (www.thinkcapital.com), has officially launched, providing traders with the opportunity to secure larger trading accounts by participating in a range of structured challenges. Faizan Anees, CEO of the firm, stated, “Our goal is to democratize the world of Prop Trading, helping skilled traders bridge the gap between the energy and edge they possess and the access to financial resources that can maximize their abilities and foster financial independence. By offering cutting-edge technology and support, ThinkCapital aims to empower traders to excel in the dynamic world of finance, enabling them to trade confidently and reach their full potential.”

Backed by ThinkMarkets’ Reliable Infrastructure

ThinkCapital’s advanced liquidity and technology are supported by ThinkMarkets, a trusted multi-regulated broker recognised for its superior trading execution. This strategic partnership ensures that ThinkCapital delivers unparalleled trading conditions and reliability.

The core offering from ThinkCapital includes three distinct trading challenges: the Lightning Single-Phase Challenge, the Dual Step Two-Phase Challenge, and the Nexus Three-Phase Challenge. These challenges cater to a variety of trading styles, offering multiple pathways to access funded accounts. Successful participants can demonstrate their skills without risking personal capital, using virtual funds in a simulated trading environment.

State-of-the-Art Platforms and Customisable Trading Conditions

ThinkCapital (www.thinkcapital.com) provides access to state-of-the-art trading platforms, including ThinkTrader, which integrates seamlessly with TradingView, and the popular MetaTrader 5. ThinkTrader offers exclusive features such as risk management tools, TradingView charts, and a market replay function that allows traders to backtest their strategies. This selection of platforms ensures that traders can choose the tools that best suit their trading preferences. Users of ThinkTrader can also connect their accounts to TradingView, enabling direct trading from charts.

In addition to advanced platforms, ThinkCapital offers highly customisable trading conditions. Traders can enhance their experience with optional add-ons such as increased profit shares, additional drawdown limits, and more frequent payouts. This flexibility allows traders to tailor their trading environment to their specific needs, maximising their potential for success.

Global Reach and Vision

ThinkCapital’s services were officially launched on 29 July 2024 and are available globally through its online platform, with certain restrictions (more details at www.thinkcapital.com). The company is committed to offering a professional and high-tech trading environment, enabling traders to utilise their skills on advanced platforms. The evaluation process is thorough yet straightforward, requiring traders to adhere to all rules and achieve profit targets to qualify for funded accounts.

ThinkCapital’s vision is to set a new benchmark in the proprietary trading industry by providing innovative technology, various challenges, advanced platforms, and the option to transfer eligible profit shares to traders’ personal ThinkMarkets accounts. Their mission is to empower traders by providing the tools and opportunities necessary to excel and develop their trading skills, making ThinkCapital a key partner for traders aiming to grow their accounts.

Transformulas International to Integrate QR Code Technology

Transformulas, a leading innovator in the skincare industry, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Prove Anything to utilise their SmartLinks platform, aimed at enhancing customer engagement and data capture across all digital channels, as well as airline and retail partners.

By the end of 2024, Transformulas will incorporate SmartLinks’ advanced QR Code technology across all its packaging.

Transformulas specialises in non-invasive skincare solutions, embodying the ethos of “Beauty Without Surgery.” With a commitment to evidence-based results and integrity, the brand has cultivated a loyal customer base over the past 20 years. Transformulas offers a range of skincare products that have proven their efficacy over time, consistently delivering high-performance results backed by clinical trials.

This collaboration with Prove Anything, a leader in connected packaging and digital product information, represents a significant advancement in the company’s mission to merge skincare with innovative technological solutions.

SmartLinks is an approved partner of GS1 UK for the implementation of their new Digital Link standard, which will see all consumer barcodes phased out and replaced with dynamic QR codes. These codes will link to digital product information, customer service, and commerce channels.

“Partnering with Prove Anything is a fantastic opportunity for both businesses,” said Kirk Thomason, Head of Digital and Commerce for Transformulas. “Our shared commitment to enhancing customer experiences and ensuring transparency in data collection makes this collaboration a perfect fit. We are thrilled to integrate their SmartLinks’ technology into our packaging, providing an elevated level of interaction for our customers.”

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

  • Enhanced Customer Experience: Interactive packaging enabling customers to easily access product information, usage tips, and exclusive offers.
  • Efficient Data Collection: Seamless data capture to better understand customer preferences and improve product offerings.
  • Increased Transparency: Providing customers with direct access to detailed product information, fostering trust and reliability.
  • Innovative Engagement: Utilising the latest QR Code technology to create a more engaging and informative shopping experience.

The integration will be completed by the end of 2024 across Transformulas’ core product ranges, with no additional cost to consumers. Transformulas aims to set a new benchmark in the skincare industry by combining top-tier products with cutting-edge technological solutions.

London Women’s Clinic Confirms Egg Freezing Equals IVF Success in UK’s Largest Study

London Women’s Clinic, one of the UK’s leading IVF clinics, has unveiled a 15-year study on the success of IVF using eggs that were frozen and later thawed, a method not previously recommended by the HFEA.

The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Reproductive Biomedicine Online, conclusively demonstrates that egg freezing is a dependable option for women looking to extend their fertility or delay pregnancy.

Once considered less reliable and even criticised as potentially unethical, the study has shown that egg freezing yields consistent and predictable results comparable to traditional methods, based on data from over 2,280 patients.

‘When our results are considered alongside those from other large centres, in the USA, we have a body of evidence which is consistent in its findings and reassuring for patients,’ stated Professor Nick Macklon, Medical Director of the London Women’s Clinic and an author of the study. ‘The consistency of the results suggests that the doubts still commonly expressed about the reliability of egg freezing are misplaced.’

The HFEA, the UK’s fertility regulator, reported a significant increase in egg freezing in its 2022 annual treatment trends report, with an 81% rise in egg freezing treatments recorded that year.

The HFEA attributed the surge in egg storage cycles to advancements in freezing technology, particularly the vitrification process. Improved survival rates, the HFEA noted, have bolstered women’s confidence in freezing eggs.

The London Women’s Clinic study revealed that among patients who had frozen and thawed their eggs, one in four went on to have a baby, with the success rate rising to one in three when all embryo transfers were included. This rate increased to 57% for those who had stored their eggs before the age of 35. These results are on par with those of standard IVF using fresh eggs, taking into account age, egg quality, and egg quantity.

‘It thus seems reasonable to conclude,’ added Professor Macklon, ‘that based on our results and those of other studies, egg freezing and thawing can provide a very real opportunity for women to achieve pregnancy and live birth at a time of their choosing.’