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Celebrating Excellence: The 2023 Driving Tuition Awards Recognise Leading UK Driving Educators

Business Awards UK is thrilled to present the distinguished winners of the 2023 Driving Tuition Awards, honouring the exceptional dedication and innovation exhibited by driving schools and instructors across the UK in the realm of driver education.

2023 Driving Tuition Awards Champions

  • Asia Driving School – Newcomer Driving School of the Year
  • Tunbridge Wells Driving School – Best New Driving Instructor
  • Drive Hart Limited – Innovation in Driving Tuition
  • Chris Kelly Driving School – Intensive Driving Course Provider of the Year
  • Nexgen Driver Training – Driving Instructor of the Year, Community Engagement Award
  • HGV Training (Midlands) Ltd – Driving School of the Year
  • Drive 4 Pass – Regional Driving School of the Year

2023 Driving Tuition Awards Contenders

  • Tunbridge Wells Driving School – Newcomer Driving School of the Year
  • Drive Hart Limited – Driving School of the Year, Community Engagement Award, Regional Driving School of the Year
  • GGO Driving School – Driving Instructor of the Year
  • Nexgen Driver Training – Newcomer Driving School of the Year
  • Skyline Driving School Leeds – Driving Instructor of the Year
  • HGV Training (Midlands) Ltd – Intensive Driving Course Provider of the Year
  • Drive 4 Pass – Best New Driving Instructor, Innovation in Driving Tuition

The victors of the 2023 Driving Tuition Awards have distinguished themselves through their pioneering teaching methods and steadfast devotion to driver education excellence. Asia Driving School has made an impressive entry as a leading newcomer, while Tunbridge Wells Driving School has been acknowledged for its outstanding contribution to nurturing new driving talent. Drive Hart Limited’s creative approach to driving instruction sets a new industry standard, complementing Chris Kelly Driving School’s impactful intensive driving courses.

Moreover, Nexgen Driver Training’s dual achievement underscores its holistic teaching philosophy and active community involvement, demonstrating a commitment to not merely educate but also to make a meaningful community contribution. HGV Training (Midlands) Ltd’s accolade as the top driving school underscores its comprehensive excellence, and Drive 4 Pass’s regional acclaim highlights its significant local impact.

The finalists of this year’s awards have all showcased remarkable skill and dedication to the field of driving tuition, making noteworthy contributions that raise the bar for educational standards within the industry.

The 2023 Driving Tuition Awards salute the contributions of these devoted educators and institutions, acknowledging their pivotal role in promoting road safety and driving proficiency among new drivers in the UK. Their efforts are instrumental in setting the benchmarks for quality driving education nationwide.

For additional details on the 2023 Driving Tuition Awards or to coordinate interviews with the awarded or finalists, please reach out to Business Awards UK.

Celebrating Excellence in Bereavement Care: The 2023 Funeral Services Awards

Business Awards UK proudly presents the 2023 Funeral Services Awards, honouring the dedicated organisations and individuals who provide empathetic and superior services during life’s most challenging moments. These awards recognise those who have exemplified excellence, creativity, and sensitivity in funeral services.

Winners of the 2023 Funeral Services Awards

  • Brunel Independent Funeral Directors Ltd – Funeral Director of the Year
  • Mike Warren Celebrant – Outstanding Funeral Celebrant
  • Shayne Stork Family Funeral Service – Excellence in Funeral Home Services
  • Helen Horne Funeral Directors Ltd – Funeral Service Sustainability Award
  • Scattering Ashes – Best Memorial Product Supplier
  • Cromer and District Independent Funeral Services – Best Independent or Family Run Funeral Director
  • Adriennes Flowers – Bereavement Floristry Excellence Award

Finalists of the 2023 Funeral Services Awards

  • Aubrey Kirkham Funeral Directors – Best Independent or Family Run Funeral Director
  • Poppys – Bereavement Floristry Excellence Award
  • Loving Reflection – Outstanding Funeral Celebrant
  • Rachel Henderson, Celebrant Rachel – Outstanding Funeral Celebrant
  • Helen Horne Funeral Directors Ltd – Excellence in Funeral Home Services
  • Memoria Funerals – Funeral Director of the Year
  • KC Funeral Service – Best Independent or Family Run Funeral Director
  • Jill Glencross Independent Funeral Directors Ltd – Funeral Director of the Year
  • Armstrongs Funeral Service – Excellence in Funeral Home Services
  • Aura Flights – Best Memorial Product Supplier

The awardees of the 2023 Funeral Services Awards have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to providing support and comfort to bereaved families. Centered around compassion, every winner and finalist has endeavoured to offer peace, honour, and reverence to the deceased and their loved ones.

Brunel Independent Funeral Directors Ltd has been distinguished for its exceptional direction in funeral services. The notable celebrant services of Mike Warren Celebrant have been recognised for crafting touching and memorable farewells. Shayne Stork Family Funeral Service and Helen Horne Funeral Directors Ltd are celebrated for their service excellence and dedication to sustainability, respectively.

Additionally, Scattering Ashes has provided essential support to families in search of unique memorials, while Cromer and District Independent Funeral Services has been highlighted for its commitment to a family-focused service. The consoling floral arrangements by Adriennes Flowers have offered comfort during times of loss.

The finalists, including the compassionate work of Celebrant Rachel and the significant services rendered by KC Funeral Service and Armstrongs Funeral Service, have all maintained the utmost standards of care and dedication. The pioneering memorials by Aura Flights demonstrate a dedication to commemorating lives in distinctive manners.

The 2023 Funeral Services Awards honour those who perform their duties with grace, empathy, and a deep understanding of their profound impact. These awards not only recognise such vital contributions but also inspire continued excellence in the funeral service industry.

For further details on the 2023 Funeral Services Awards or to request interviews with the winners or finalists, please contact Business Awards UK.

Celebrating Leaders in Finance: The 2023 Wealth Management Awards

Business Awards UK is proud to present the winners and finalists of the 2023 Wealth Management Awards, a testament to the remarkable achievements in the fields of wealth management, financial advising, and estate planning. These awards recognise the exemplary individuals and firms who have excelled in their commitment to fostering their clients’ financial security and prosperity.

Winners of the 2023 Wealth Management Awards

  • Charles Wade Finance – Best Wealth Management Firm
  • Kirby & Knott Financial Planning – Financial Planner of the Year
  • Capital for Life – Retirement Planning Expert of the Year
  • Complete Estate Protection – Estate Planning Specialist of the Year
  • Leon Alden, Corcillium Wealth Management – Wealth Manager of the Year

Finalists of the 2023 Wealth Management Awards

  • James Wade, Charles Wade Finance – Financial Planner of the Year, Wealth Manager of the Year
  • Capital for Life – Estate Planning Specialist of the Year
  • TrustDocs – Estate Planning Specialist of the Year
  • Corcillium Wealth Management – Best Wealth Management Firm
  • Leon Alden, Corcillium Wealth Management – Retirement Planning Expert of the Year

The awardees of the 2023 Wealth Management Awards have distinguished themselves as paragons of financial mastery, showcasing their skill in managing complex financial scenarios to ensure their clients’ fiscal well-being. Charles Wade Finance has been acclaimed for its top-tier wealth management services. Kirby & Knott Financial Planning has earned accolades for its unparalleled advice in financial planning.

The retirement planning acumen of Capital for Life has been acknowledged, ensuring clients are well-equipped for their retirement. The dedication of Complete Estate Protection to preserving clients’ legacies through detailed estate planning has been recognised.

Moreover, the finalists have demonstrated exceptional financial insight and a deep-seated commitment to their clientele. The expertise of James Wade at Charles Wade Finance and the strategic acumen of Leon Alden at Corcillium Wealth Management have received commendation, highlighting their leadership in their respective specialisations.

The 2023 Wealth Management Awards celebrate the exceptional services and innovative strategies employed by these professionals, facilitating clients in achieving their financial aspirations with certainty and perspicacity. Their pivotal role in wealth management and financial planning significantly contributes to the economic stability and growth of individuals and families.

For more insights into the 2023 Wealth Management Awards or to request interviews with the winners or finalists, please contact Business Awards UK.

RELEASED: ‘IN SPIRIT + TRUTH EP’ – Discover ‘Soundtrack 1’ Official Clip: “Silent unknown – LOW” on YouTube

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‘Silent unknown’ proudly presents his inaugural EP ‘IN SPIRIT + TRUTH’, a pioneering project of our age, accompanied by the visually stirring official video for ‘Soundtrack 1’, “LOW”. This venture showcases ‘Silent unknown’s bold departure from conventional norms, embarking on a solitary journey marked by remarkable courage. “if you don’t stand up for what you believe in, What are you living for?” -Silent unknown.

Hailing from London, ‘Silent unknown’ embarked on a transformative journey, ultimately finding solace and purpose in ‘JESUS CHRIST’. His most recent work transcends traditional worship, with ‘Silent unknown’ taking the reins on virtually every aspect of the project, thereby reshaping the music industry’s landscape. His dedication to autonomy as an artist showcases his profound insight, establishing him as a pioneering figure of Congolese British heritage.

The EP comprises seven tracks, with a total duration of about 21 minutes, and will be complemented by two forthcoming music videos on YouTube, including ‘Soundtrack 2’ “STRONG” and ‘Soundtrack 3’ “STORM”.

The first video aims to console those wrestling with severe depression, instilling hope and resilience. The next video intends to fortify the fragile, introducing a new level of artistic innovation.

The series culminates with a groundbreaking video, combining emotional lyrics with cinematic quality, charting ‘Silent unknown’s transformation, attributable to his unwavering faith in ‘CHRIST’. “Turning my life around would never have been possible until I submitted my life to ‘CHRIST’.”

As ‘Silent unknown’ gears up to influence the music scene and overturn existing paradigms, he expounds that ‘IN SPIRIT + TRUTH’ signifies the profound worship of ‘JESUS CHRIST’, the author of life, through heartfelt and genuine expression, transcending mere musicality to embody his very being.

Sparkle, Style, and the Truth of Beauty: Louie Spence Stars in ‘The Aesthetic Effect’ Podcast

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The Aesthetics Effect Podcast is excited to host Louie Spence in a frank conversation about Aesthetic Perfection. Hosted by Flavio Refrigeri, Clinic Director and Founder of Fiore Aesthetics, the latest episode titled “The Pressures of Aesthetic Perfection” welcomes esteemed dancer, choreographer, and media star, Louie Spence. In this episode, Spence shares his unique take on the aesthetic world and the role of social media in setting beauty standards.

Louie Spence, a household name renowned for his extensive career, is celebrated for his involvement in Pineapple Dance Studios, “Dancing on Ice,” and “Celebrity Big Brother”. His autobiography “Still Got It, Never Lost It!” along with his charismatic TV appearances have made him a cherished personality in entertainment.

In this enlightening episode, Spence and Refrigeri discuss the complex nature of the aesthetics industry, focusing on social media’s effect on beauty perceptions. They examine the challenges encountered by individuals in the limelight and how these pressures are reflected across society. The blend of Spence’s experience in show business and Refrigeri’s expertise in aesthetics provides a thought-provoking perspective.

The Aesthetics Effect podcast, produced by the specialist agency Digital Aesthetics, is known for its informative and engaging episodes. This particular episode is essential listening for anyone fascinated by the interplay of beauty, entertainment, and social media.

“The Pressures of Aesthetic Perfection” can now be accessed on all major podcast platforms. Listen to Flavio Refrigeri and Louie Spence as they delve into a conversation that highlights evolving beauty ideals and social media’s role in influencing public perspectives.

About The Aesthetics Effect Podcast: The Aesthetics Effect is a popular podcast that delves into the latest developments and scientific progress in the beauty sector. Hosted by Flavio Refrigeri, it provides in-depth conversations with experts and celebrities, demystifying complex subjects in aesthetic treatments in an engaging manner.

UK’s Property Sector Struggles to Match Demand for Energy-Efficient Residences, iChoosr Reports Reveal

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Despite the unprecedented surge in green energy installations in 2023 and expected growth in the housing market due to decreasing mortgage rates, prospective homeowners still face challenges in identifying and selecting environmentally friendly options.

A recent analysis released today uncovers a critical shortcoming in the UK’s property industry: none of the leading 10 estate agent portals or key property aggregator platforms, including Rightmove and Zoopla, provide a feature to sort listings by energy efficiency. This insight is according to a study by iChoosr, an entity committed to promoting renewable energy adoption.

Amidst a dramatic increase in energy prices over the previous two years, a heightened interest in energy efficiency is evident among those searching for homes. iChoosr’s suggestion to incorporate these options into property websites is supported by the latest data, which shows that 190,000 UK homes installed solar panels in the past year – the most since 2011. The organisation is keen to see enhanced support for homebuyers moving forward.

Recent findings also indicate that 69% of British adults are inclined to purchase a home with solar panels, with this preference rising to 74% among Gen Z and Millennials. Additionally, 60% of homebuyers in the UK are willing to invest more in properties that feature renewable energy sources.

George Frost, UK Country Manager at iChoosr, states: “The spike in solar panel adoption in 2023 was driven, in part, by the cost of living crisis and rising energy bills. But there has also been a significant mindset shift on installing renewable energy sources by UK homeowners and home-seekers. There is now a near-on consensus across the UK that we are knee-deep in a climate emergency, demonstrating the urgent need for the transition towards renewable energy.”

“Homeowners are more likely than ever to invest in effective and sustainable solutions to improve their home now. Schemes like Solar Together make solar panels affordable and accessible for anyone to reap their environmental and financial benefits. It feels as though estate agents and property search sites are missing a trick by not reflecting homebuyers’ enthusiasm to adopt modern green energy sources. It would be great to see estate agents take heed and add green energy sources like solar panels and heat pumps as a criterion on their websites to help homebuyers navigate the different energy options available.”

Moreover, the investment in solar panels not only aids in reducing household energy use but can also raise a property’s market value by around £2,722, ensuring its appeal and sustainability for future buyers. The addition of a solar battery allows for the optimal use of generated electricity, cutting carbon footprints by about 15%. Typically, owners of a three-bedroom house with a solar panel setup and a 5 kWh battery experience an annual energy bill saving of £669.

iChoosr works in partnership with local governments to conduct the highly effective Solar Together initiative across the UK. This programme has led to the installation of more than 29,300 solar panels, projected to cut carbon emissions by 600,000 tonnes over the next quarter-century.

POXA Launches Revolutionary Salvage Auction Site, Promising Up to 40% Savings on Vehicles

A landmark day in the salvage industry has arrived with the launch of POXA, the inaugural comprehensive salvage auction comparison website. This trailblazing platform aims to overhaul the traditional salvage buying method, providing unmatched access to over 15 top UK salvage auctions, including industry leaders such as CopartASMSynetiq, and Raw2K. POXA’s introduction guarantees vehicle savings of up to 40% for its clientele, altering the dynamics of vehicle acquisition.

POXA’s platform emerges as the quintessential solution for both expert buyers and individual hobbyists. By compiling data from assorted auctions into one unified platform, POXA delivers an unparalleled comparison tool. This ensures clear pricing and a more extensive selection of vehicles, aiding users in locating the most advantageous offers.

In the swift tempo of today’s world, time is of the essence. POXA addresses this by expediting the search process. Previously, buyers would need to dedicate hours or even days exploring various auction sites. POXA revolutionises this experience, enabling users to view listings from multiple auctions in a single, consolidated search, thus conserving precious time and effort.

One of the notable strengths of POXA is its ability to unearth hidden deals. Often, the most appealing bargains are not immediately apparent or accessible. POXA’s platform democratizes access, allowing all users to find deals that might typically be overlooked. This is especially beneficial for those in pursuit of top-quality salvage vehicles at significantly reduced costs.

POXA also heralds a new era for smaller salvage auctions. By including these smaller auctions alongside the major industry players on their platform, POXA grants them exceptional exposure to a broader audience. This visibility is crucial for smaller auctions, which often find themselves overshadowed in a marketplace dominated by larger companies. POXA enables these smaller auctions to exhibit their distinctive inventory to a varied audience, thus amplifying their sales potential and growth prospects. This inclusiveness not only aids the auctions but also enhances the range and choice for users, leading to a more dynamic and competitive market.

The foundation of POXA is its advanced technology, crafted to provide a seamless and user-friendly interface. The website is developed with cutting-edge technology, ensuring rapid, responsive, and secure access to auction listings. This technological prowess reflects POXA’s commitment to maintaining a leading position in digital innovation in the salvage industry.

POXA is dedicated to ongoing improvement of its platform, including the addition of more auctions and new features. This ongoing commitment positions POXA as a key player in the industry, poised to redefine the experience of salvage auctions in the UK and potentially on a global scale.

Oliver Morgan, CEO of POXA, commented: “Our vision was to create a platform that not only simplifies the salvage buying process but also adds value by offering substantial savings. With POXA, we are excited to bring a revolutionary change to the industry, offering our users an unmatched experience.”

POXA invites everyone to explore its innovative platform and witness the future of salvage auction buying. Visit www.poxa.co.uk to start exploring exceptional deals today.

Mum sets up booming prom dress shop after her daughter was left heartbroken buying a gown for her school leavers’ prom

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A mum has told how she was inspired to start her booming prom dress shop after her daughter was left heartbroken buying a gown for her school leavers’ prom.

Lisa Groutage, 55, was upset at how her daughter Megan was treated as a 15-year-old searching for her dress for the prom at Lode Heath School, Solihull.

She said: “My daughter was so excited about her prom but she was left heartbroken buying her dress because she was treated as a second class citizen because she wasn’t buying a bridal dress and the shop didn’t really cater for prom girls.

“What should have been a really exciting day for both of us was a huge let down.

“I thought that I could make girls feel special and offer them a much better experience and that was the lightbulb moment for my business.

“Megan was going to pull out and I persuaded her to try a second shop where we had a better experience finding her dress. That was the moment I knew I wanted to open a prom shop – to make a difference for others.”

Lisa Groutage inside her Bridal and Prom Bar shop in Dorridge Solihull61 1

 Lisa Groutage inside her Bridal and Prom Bar shop in Dorridge, Solihull

Six years ago, Lisa opened the Bridal and Prom Bar at first in Hall Green with just 25 dresses.

It quickly took off and she now stocks more than 500 dresses at the new much bigger premises in Station Approach, Dorridge, Solihull, which Lisa moved to a year ago.

She operates with five stylists who individually pick the fairytale gown so that all their customers feel like a princess on the night of their proms.

Most mixed schools in the West Midlands – state and private – have them to celebrate the end of the school year after GSCEs – a tradition picked up from America where the prom has been part of the high school calendar for decades.

Lisa refuses to sell the same dress – even in a different colour – to two girls from the same school, so every pupil looks special on the night with a unique outfit.

Dress wars break out as girls compete for the most popular designs which can cost as much as £450.

The best seller for 2024’s proms is a £600 ball gown which has already been sold to 15 schools in the West Midlands, and the average price of a dress is between £299 and £650.

Lisa is aware that this a stretch to lots of families and she gives away dresses each year to pupils after schools nominate girls who need help. She operates a scheme with Woodrush High School in Wythall where some dresses are donated.

Customers come from as far as Grimsby to bag the best dresses after finding the shop on social media. 

Lisa lives with her husband Neil and 18-year-old son Mackenzie in Yew Tree Lane, Solihull, while their daughter Megan, 25, now works as cabin crew for the airline Jet2.

She said: “We have girls coming into the shop as early as September to book their dress for a prom which won’t be happening till the following summer.

“Obviously there is competition for the most popular designs and we do get dress wars where you have girls upset that their favourite dress is taken.

“That is why I have individual stylists for each girl so that we can pick another design from the 500 available at the shop and they will look just as good.

“The dresses are a big expense for many but what happens is families rally around and the aunty and the granny all chip in because they are determined to get their girl the dress of their dreams.”

Lisa still sells bridal dresses at her shop but she is shifting all activity to proms because it is more fun.

A former mobile hairdresser, Lisa said that prom night was an important rite of passage in any teenager’s upbringing.

She said: “It is so much more than a dress. This is a milestone in their lives – they are saying goodbye to their school and their friends and embarking on the next stage of their lives.

“Our customers all come back saying that their prom night was one of the best nights of their lives, and they love posting pictures on social media to remember the occasion.

“All the mixed schools around here have a prom and it is a really wonderful occasion for all the pupils. It is so special for me and my team to be part of that process.”

Dryklad: Transforming UK Construction with Advanced Rainscreen Cladding System

Dryklad is redefining the UK construction landscape with its innovative rainscreen cladding support system. Created by In-Opera Facades Ltd., Dryklad is a revolutionary solution for architects, engineers, and construction professionals, offering a more efficient, cost-effective, and thermally enhanced alternative to traditional cladding systems.

Revolutionising Modern Construction Practices

Dryklad presents a novel approach with its extruded aluminium brackets and A2 rated thermal isolator pads made of aerogel. This breakthrough technology considerably reduces the reliance on insulation in building walls, offering potential savings of up to 27% on project costs when compared to conventional support systems. The system’s lightweight yet sturdy design decreases the need for additional supports, thus lowering material consumption and total project costs.

A Perspective from the Founder

Stephen Hull, the visionary behind Dryklad, comments: “Our innovative Dryklad Support system, meticulously developed and now available in the market, is a testament to our dedication to performance and value. Our commitment to excellence, underpinned by a strategic response to the Building Safety Act, reflects our team’s extensive experience in the cladding industry. We understand the importance of meeting regulatory standards while delivering the best value for all stakeholders. We’re delighted to launch the first website for this brand, offering rich product information and an easy route for our customers to connect with our specialists, enhancing safety, performance, and overall value in architectural projects.”

Designed for Construction Industry Professionals

Dryklad is specifically engineered for professionals in the UK construction industry, including architects, building consultants, façade experts, and sustainability consultants. It addresses the distinct needs for specifying rainscreen cladding in large-scale construction projects.

Introducing a New Website with AI-Powered Assistant

The new Dryklad website is a detailed source of product information, specifications, and imagery. Featuring an AI-powered assistant, it provides an enhanced user experience and support. This digital launch is a significant step for Dryklad and its sole distributor, In-Opera Facades Ltd.

Special Launch Offer: Emphasising Customer Value

In celebration of the website launch, Dryklad is offering a 10% discount on first orders, subject to terms and conditions, reaffirming its commitment to exceptional value and service.

Core Principles of Dryklad

Dryklad operates on the core principles of excellence, growth, innovation, accountability, and responsibility, which are integral to its operations and product development strategy.

Exclusive Sale: Lochview Guest House in Ullapool at a Newly Reduced Price

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Lochview Guest House, a standout property in Highland hospitality, is now open for acquisition with a newly reduced asking price of Offers Over £550,000.

This property is a perfect example of Highland charm, providing a unique mix of sophistication and practicality, alongside awe-inspiring views of Loch Broom and the Beinn Dearg mountain range.

Key features include:

  • 7 Ensuite Guest Bedrooms
  • Separate Owner’s Accommodation with two Double Bedrooms, Lounge, Kitchen, downstairs toilet, Utility, and Garage
  • Versatile Gift Shop or Office Space
  • Majestic Views of Loch Broom from the Guest Lounge/Conservatory
  • A ¼ Acre Private Garden with Direct Access to the Loch
  • Spacious Parking for 9 Vehicles
  • Barrier-Free Access

TURNKEY OPERATION: A fully equipped and furnished guest house, ready for immediate operation or conversion into a large family residence.

EXCELLENT LOCATION: Situated on the renowned North Coast 500 route, close to local attractions and Ullapool’s bustling community, this guest house is an ideal hub for exploring the Scottish Highlands.

GREAT REVIEWS: Earning high praise from guests on various platforms and with a promising 2024 booking outlook, the property is set for a prosperous future.

The decision to lower the price to Offers Over £550,000 is due to the current owner’s new business interests in Inverness, making this a timely opportunity for discerning investors or those seeking a premium property.

Don’t miss this chance to own a celebrated Highland property at a competitive price. With high demand anticipated in 2024, swift action is advised for interested parties.

Discover your Highland sanctuary!

Contact Simon Fraser for detailed information and to schedule a private viewing.