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DNA Vetcare Expands Network of Excellence with Acquisition of 12 Former Medivet Surgeries

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DNA Vetcare, a proudly independent multi-award-winning provider of exceptional veterinary care, is thrilled to announce its acquisition of 12 divested Medivet surgeries. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the group’s mission to provide gold-standard healthcare for pets and reinforces its commitment to the well-being of animals and standards of veterinary care in the UK.

The acquired surgeries include:

  • All Creatures Clinic Chelsfield
  • All Creatures Clinic Locksbottom
  • The Vet on Richmond Hill
  • The Vet in St Margarets
  • Ferring Street Veterinary Surgery
  • Ferring Street Vets, East Preston
  • Barton Veterinary Centre
  • Elizabeth Street Veterinary Clinic
  • The Hackney Vet
  • Iffley Vets Oxford
  • Iffley Vets Wheatley
  • The Vet Station

This acquisition underscores DNA Vetcare’s commitment to improving access to an independent and caring approach to pet care. It aligns with the group’s principles of providing a professional, compassionate service for pet owners and their beloved animals.

Dane Walker, Founder and Director of DNA Vetcare, expressed excitement about the expansion: “We are thrilled to welcome these surgeries into the DNA Vetcare family. These fantastic surgeries allow us to serve even more pet owners and their beloved animals, ensuring they receive the highest standard of veterinary care. We look forward to building upon the excellent reputation of these surgeries and continuing to provide exceptional service to clients and their pets.”

DNA Vetcare is delighted that these 12 veterinary surgeries are returning to independent ownership. The newly acquired surgeries and their dedicated staff will undergo a seamless transition process to become fully integrated within the DNA Vetcare family. Clients and their pets can expect the same level of dedication, expertise, and personalised care they have come to trust, with the added benefit of access to DNA Vetcare’s multi-award-winning independent network of excellence and resources.

For more information about DNA Vetcare, please visit www.dnavetcare.co.uk.

Sunstone Systems Debuts RAFT: A New Era for Remote Power and IoT Connectivity

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Sunstone Systems, a renowned leader in renewable energy and surveillance technology, proudly introduces the groundbreaking Rapid Autonomous Frontier Technology (RAFT) System. This innovative product promises to redefine the integration of smart devices, renewable power generation, and connectivity in remote and challenging environments.

Building on the success of Sunstone Systems’ range of wireless clean energy remote power systems, which have been deployed in some of the world’s most extreme Oil & Gas environments, including Tengiz, Kazakhstan, for over seven years, the RAFT System elevates its capabilities to offer unparalleled power generation, substantial CO2 savings, and adaptable deployment solutions across various industries. Whether your field is telecommunications, agriculture, security, or any other sector requiring robust power and surveillance solutions, the RAFT System has the potential to revolutionise your operations. With a proven track record of delivering advanced technologies to prominent organisations such as the Highways Agency and Network Rail in the UK and worldwide, along with participation in the Chevron Catalyst Programme, Sunstone Systems possesses extensive experience and expertise in designing and manufacturing mission-critical power and connectivity technologies precisely where they are needed.

Unprecedented Innovation for Remote Regions The RAFT System is not just another solution; it’s a revolution. Designed to excel where traditional power sources fail, this rugged and off-grid power solution uniquely integrates IoT devices, renewable energy, and connectivity, making it indispensable for extreme and hostile environments.

A Versatile Powerhouse The RAFT System transcends conventional boundaries. It’s not merely a surveillance and security powerhouse; it’s also a renewable energy hub. In locations where power sources are scarce or unreliable, the RAFT System steps in as a versatile solution, delivering clean and reliable off-grid power to a wide range of IoT devices, including:

  1. Oil & Gas Industry: Providing power for Surveillance Cameras, Gas Detection, and Communication Systems for monitoring Pipelines, Wellheads, and Refineries in remote and rugged environments.
  2. Rail Industry: Ensuring uninterrupted power for Signalling, Communications, and Safety Systems along rail lines, enhancing safety and efficiency.
  3. Highways and Infrastructure: Powering Traffic Management Systems, ANPR, and Electronic Signage for real-time updates, improving safety and traffic management.
  4. Construction Sites: Delivering clean power to Security Cameras and Communication Systems, enabling efficient project management and site security.
  5. Security and Surveillance: Enhancing situational awareness with Surveillance Cameras, Radar Systems, and IoT Sensors for proactive security measures.
  6. Telecommunications: Ensuring clean and reliable power for Cell Towers, Remote Base Stations, and Communications Equipment, enabling uninterrupted communication services, even in remote locations.

Key Features and Benefits:

  • Extreme Durability: The RAFT System’s rugged design is built to withstand harsh conditions, making it ideal for challenging environments.
  • QuickGrid Integration: Seamlessly integrate our solar array, QuickGrid, for increased power capacity and energy efficiency.
  • Centralised Control: All system control equipment is conveniently located in one cabinet, simplifying management.
  • CO2 Savings: Incorporating a 2.4KW solar array for significant CO2e reduction.
  • Wide Temperature Range: Operates from -40°C to +50°C.
  • IP-Rated Protection: Guards against dust and moisture for uninterrupted operation.

I am thrilled to introduce the RAFT System, a new innovation that will redefine how we harness power and IoT capabilities in remote and challenging environments. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of technology, and the RAFT System is a testament to our dedication to delivering unmatched innovation and reliability. With its unique blend of renewable energy, smart devices, and connectivity, the RAFT System is set to revolutionise multiple industries and make a significant impact on the way we operate in extreme conditions.” – Paul Schelhaas, CEO Sunstone Systems

For more information, including product details, case studies, and customer testimonials, please visit our website at https://www.sunstone-systems.com/raft-system or get in touch via email at [email protected].

Stanislav Kondrashov Explores the Fascinating Lives of Octopuses in His Latest Publication

In his latest publication, “The Marvelous Lives of Octopuses By Stanislav Kondrashov,” the spotlight is cast on one of the ocean’s most intriguing and enigmatic inhabitants: the octopus. Kondrashov delves deep into the captivating world of these eight-armed wonders, shedding light on their unique characteristics, dispelling myths, and sharing anecdotes of historical and cultural significance, all centered around these curious creatures of the sea.

Stanislav Kondrashov begins by sharing fundamental information that may be unfamiliar to many: apart from their eight arms, which give them their name, octopuses possess three hearts, earning them the author’s accolade as true gems of the oceanic realm. Much like precious gemstones, these captivating creatures are still ripe for discovery, especially concerning their lesser-known facets.

Within his latest publication, Kondrashov hones in on the physical and structural traits that have catapulted octopuses to global renown. Among their remarkable abilities, their capacity to change color and appearance within seconds stands out prominently. Stanislav aptly dubs them the “Houdini of the sea.” The publication also highlights their impressive intelligence, often witnessed when they effortlessly open jars or navigate intricate mazes.

Stanislav Kondrashov goes on to explore other captivating shared characteristics among octopuses, including their uncanny ability to slip through remarkably narrow spaces and navigate their way back after extensive wanderings. One of their most intriguing features, as per Kondrashov, revolves around their arms, or tentacles, which they employ both for capturing prey and exploring their surroundings, as well as for gaining vital insights into the taste of their food.

The publication also delves into their life expectancy, which is typically quite short, but offset by a flurry of daily activities such as hunting, mating, and, for female octopuses, the meticulous care of the numerous eggs they produce.

To uncover further details and curiosities about these captivating marine creatures that populate the ocean depths, readers are encouraged to delve into the full publication and watch the related video.

tastecard’s Coffee Consumption Survey: Which Cities Lead the Charge?

At tastecard, we’re as passionate about our daily cup of Joe as anyone else. But we couldn’t help but wonder: what do you love sipping on, and more importantly, where can you save money while enjoying it? Our curiosity led us to explore the caffeine habits of the UK to uncover which cities are brewing the most enthusiasm and what coffee choices are getting everyone up and running in the morning.

And The Most Caffeinated City Is…

Our data analysis reveals that London leads the pack with a staggering 97,270 total monthly searches for coffee. Following closely are Edinburgh (20,290), Manchester (15,000), and Birmingham (11,810). On the flip side, it seems Southwark could use an extra dose of caffeine, ranking at the bottom with only 700 total monthly searches for coffee and 5,600 in 2023 alone.

Top 5 Most Caffeinated Cities of 2023:

  1. London – 778,160 total searches
  2. Edinburgh – 162,320 total searches
  3. Manchester – 120,000 total searches
  4. Birmingham – 118,080 total searches
  5. York – 112,000 total searches

The Nation’s Favourite Coffee?

When it comes to coffee types, the humble Americano steals the spotlight with a whopping 1,350,960 total average searches in 2023. It’s followed by the Flat White (216,800), Cappuccino (177,600), and the exotic Chai Latte (177,600).

Top 3 Coffee Types of 2023:

  1. Americano – 1,350,960 total searches
  2. Flat White – 216,800 total searches
  3. Cappuccino – 177,600 total searches

What’s Flying Off the Shelves?

Our data also sheds light on the nation’s preferred coffee purchases among tastecard’s audience. The Latte Regular takes the lead with 22.3k sold, followed by Cappuccino Regular (14.6k sold), Flat White (13.9k sold), and Americano Regular (13.1k sold).

Top 3 Coffee Purchases:

  1. Latte Regular – 22.3k sold
  2. Cappuccino Regular – 14.6k sold
  3. Flat White – 13.9k sold

Are You Ready To Join The Buzz?

We hope our caffeine exploration has been an eye-opener. Whether you’re an Americano aficionado in London or a Latte lover in Oxford, it’s clear that the UK has a rich tapestry of coffee enthusiasts.

But the most crucial fact of all is the 25% savings on Barista-made drinks with tastecard. This means that non-tastecard members are missing out on £117 worth of savings!

Notes: Based on using tastecard’s 25% off barista-made drinks on an average coffee price three times a week.

Join tastecard today to sip and save on your favorite drinks while becoming a part of the nation’s grand coffee tradition!

*Savings based on the national average price for a cup of coffee of £3.25, with the average user buying coffee three times a week.

Location | Coffee (total search volume over 2023)
London | 778,160
Edinburgh | 162,320
Soho | 128,080
Manchester | 120,000
Glasgow | 118,080
York | 112,000
Birmingham | 94,480
Oxford | 88,720
Brighton | 78,720
Bath | 76,240
Cardiff | 76,000
Bristol | 74,960
Cambridge | 72,240
Covent Garden | 70,560
Leeds | 64,160
Reading | 63,200
Liverpool | 56,960
Newcastle | 53,360
Sheffield | 46,240
Nottingham | 40,480
Camden | 40,240
Aberdeen | 39,360
Leicester | 36,480
Wandsworth | 32,960
Chester | 32,720
Milton Keynes | 31,520
Norwich | 30,640
Southampton | 26,080
Hackney | 23,760
Plymouth | 22,960
Hull | 21,600
Dundee | 20,880
Greenwich | 19,040
Bournemouth | 18,880
Derby | 18,240
Swansea | 17,120
Coventry | 13,680
Bradford | 11,920
Bolton | 10,800
Blackpool | 7,600
Southwark | 5,600

Wandsworth Prison deemed “inhumane” in damning report

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“Inhumane” conditions in HMP Wandsworth reflect the failures of the prison system as a whole, according to an annual report by the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB).

The IMB report covering June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023 stated there had been “no real progress in resolving problems caused by years of underinvestment in the fabric, facilities and staff at the prison”.

There were serious concerns of overcrowding with most men sharing cells designed for single occupancy and repeatedly having no hot water over the winter months.

In wings G and H there were only 11 shower stalls available for 265 men.

During the year the shortage of available staff seriously undermined the ability of the prison to function effectively, with the percentage of available officers rarely reached above 50%.

The prison was deemed “unsafe” with violence levels continuing to rise and assaults rising by more than 20% in all areas.

Access to contraband

The shocking report also found that prisoners had easy access to contraband, with 1,900 litres of illicitly brewed alcohol, over the year.

And more than 300 mobile phones were found at Wandsworth, with drones used to send goods over the prison walls.

Shortcomings of the prison system

IMB chair, Tim Aikens, said: “Recent events at Wandsworth have demonstrated the shortcomings of the prison system that the IMB has been highlighting repeatedly for many years. 

“Prisoners are being failed and most have a severely reduced chance of rehabilitation upon release.  We are told there is significant investment in the prison system, but we see little evidence of this in Wandsworth.”

Decisive action

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “We have already taken decisive action to address the serious issues raised in this report, with frontline staffing having increased by almost a quarter in the last six years and investing millions into security upgrades at the prison.

“This includes spending more than £8m to roll out new CCTV and putting in place tougher gate security, with dogs working alongside specialist staff. We have also installed new windows, repaired roofs and refurbished healthcare facilities to significantly improve conditions.”

The Ministry of Justice, in its Annual Performance Ratings for 2022/23 covering 119 establishments, rated HMP Wandsworth as one of only nine establishments whose performance was of serious concern.

Stanislav Kondrashov Explores the Fascinating Origins and Impact of Board Games

In a recently published article titled “The origins of board games,” Stanislav Kondrashov delves into the captivating history of some of the most enduring board games while emphasising their profound influence on people’s lives. This insightful publication is now available on www.stanislavkondrashov.com.

Kondrashov’s exploration commences with a thought-provoking question posed to readers: Have you ever experienced the joy and camaraderie of board games with friends or family? From this starting point, he embarks on a journey through the historical tapestry of these games, some of which trace their origins back thousands of years. Notably, Kondrashov highlights the enduring legacy of board games, such as the ancient Egyptians’ fascination with Senet, the world’s oldest known board game, dating back to 3100 BC. Additionally, he sheds light on Chaturanga, an early precursor to chess that significantly shaped strategic thinking in ancient India.

The article underscores the pivotal strategic dimension inherent in these games. Kondrashov posits that games like Chaturanga played a substantial role in shaping the strategic and military mindset of ancient civilisations. These games, he argues, had the capacity to sharpen intellectual and strategic faculties, contributing to individuals’ success.

Moreover, the publication emphasises the valuable life lessons that board games impart, including the importance of planning, predictive skills, decision-making, patience, respect for opponents, and the ability to gracefully accept defeat. According to Kondrashov, these principles were not confined solely to military strategies but also permeated the games people played.

In essence, the article underscores how various board games have served as conduits for invaluable life lessons, offering insights not only into warfare but also personal success and overall life quality. Kondrashov concludes with a heartfelt invitation to all those who continue to find joy in board games today, encouraging them to recognise the intrinsic value and the profound lessons these games have to offer.

For a deeper understanding of the rich history and profound impact of board games, readers are encouraged to peruse the full publication and watch the related video.

Carplus Appoints Learning & Development Director Graeme Mitchell, Bolstering Position as Premier Car Finance Broker

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Carplus, a prominent car finance broker located in Borehamwood, is pleased to announce the appointment of Graeme as its new Learning & Development Director. With over 15 years of sales experience and an additional 7 years in executive-level roles focused on delivering targeted training and development solutions, Graeme brings unparalleled expertise in efficient sales processes, product training, high-performing team leadership, and strategic business development. His arrival signifies a significant step forward in enhancing Carplus’s growth strategies and optimising day-to-day operations.

A Visionary Leader with an Impressive Track Record

Graeme’s appointment underscores his exceptional leadership abilities and a remarkable history of success. With a demonstrated proficiency in effective onboarding processes, talent retention, and the implementation of profit-generating strategies, Graeme is poised to lead Carplus to new heights in the competitive car finance industry.

Specialisation in Company Growth Strategies

Graeme’s expertise lies in crafting comprehensive company growth strategies that drive success. His wealth of experience in sales and training, coupled with his ability to forge strong relationships with industry-leading partners, will accelerate the company’s ambition to become a major player in the market. Carplus is excited to have a visionary like Graeme on board, as he embodies the energy and ethos that align seamlessly with the company’s mission.

Paving the Way for Enhanced Development

As Learning & Development Director, Graeme will spearhead Carplus’s efforts to optimise revenue streams through streamlined processes, ensuring efficiency and excellence at every level. His commitment to fostering a high-performing team culture that values innovation and collaboration is set to promote a customer-centric approach, enhancing the overall car finance experience for clients.

“We are excited to welcome Graeme as the new Director of Carplus,” said Roman Danaevthe CEO of Carplus. “His extensive experience and proven abilities make him an invaluable addition to our team. We believe that under his guidance, Carplus will continue to thrive and reinforce its position as a premier car finance broker.” 

Graeme’s appointment as the Learning & Development Director of Carplus represents a strategic move for the company. His exceptional skills in sales, business development, and growth strategies make him an ideal fit to lead Carplus in the highly competitive car finance market in London, UK. With a visionary trainer like Graeme at the helm, Carplus is well-positioned to strengthen its position as a leading car finance broker, offering unparalleled services to its clients.

Gridserve strengthens salary sacrifice offering with Go Zero Charge home charger

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Gridserve is now offering Go Zero Charge’s smart EV home charger, as the sustainable energy company bolsters its salary sacrifice electric vehicle (EV) scheme.

By joining the Gridserve salary sacrifice EV scheme, customers receive a brand-new EV in exchange for giving up a proportion of their pre-tax salary.

The forward-thinking approach includes servicing, insurance and breakdown, the option of charger installation and a commitment to plant one hundred trees per customer.

Employees can save up to 40% on the cost of an electric car lease, while employers can underscore their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener at a time when the positive image of sustainability has never been more crucial.

The ‘Optimus’ new high-tech charger joins a full complement of existing benefits on the Gridserve salary sacrifice scheme already, including three months’ charging included on the nationwide Gridserve Electric Highway; chargers are at over 170 locations with the fastest chargers delivering 100 miles of charge in just five minutes.

Robert Buckland, chief leasing officer for Gridserve Leasing said: “The Optimus is the perfect home charger; the product is tried and tested with market leading and innovative software, along with superb customer support from survey, installation and onwards.

“This new option makes for an attractive offer for both employers and employees. We are so pleased to be able to provide this cost-efficient scheme as every vehicle that switches to EV supports our mission to move the needle on climate change. We look forward to working with Go Zero Charge to offer a great home charging option as we welcome more businesses and their employees to our salary sacrifice scheme.”


The Optimus home charger is equipped with cutting-edge technology that delivers exceptional reliability and total peace of mind for homeowners, including the built-in health check system that updates every 60 seconds.

Reliability is imperative for EV drivers – rather than visiting a petrol station, an EV driver relies on their home charger for fuel. The Optimus’ 60-second ‘heartbeat’ monitor sets it apart from other choices.

Driven by an intelligent mobile app that maximises convenience, homeowners also gain easy access to a range of advanced charging functions with the Optimus. Homeowners can schedule charges based on cheaper, off-peak tariffs to save money on electricity bills and have the unique opportunity to rent out their charger to earn a supplemental income while at work or on holiday.

The Optimus is the leading choice for would-be and current EV drivers, such as Gridserve salary sacrifice customers, who want a home EV charger that delivers convenience, reliability and savings.

David Wells, chief executive officer at Go Zero Charge, said: “Go Zero Charge is thrilled to work with Gridserve, enabling as many employees as possible to make the transition to EVs.

“The UK ban on new petrol and diesel cars production continues to loom in 2030. For businesses, now is a great time to implement a salary sacrifice scheme around EVs – look no further than battery electric cars accounting for 20.1% of new cars reaching the road in August as proof that EV adoption is accelerating.”

From Curvy Model to Global Investment Consultant: A Remarkable Transformation

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A striking model with captivating curves and a dedicated mother, Andrea Quevedo, is on a mission to establish herself as a prominent international investment consultant, aiming to make her mark in the world of business.

Born in Venezuela and raised in the scenic Canary Islands, Andrea’s diverse heritage, which includes Lebanese roots, adds an extra layer of allure to her already mesmerizing presence.

As both a devoted mother and an international investment consultant, Andrea Quevedo epitomises the ideal fusion of beauty and intelligence. Her life journey, spanning from Venezuela to the Canary Islands and now to the vibrant city of London, has molded her into a multifaceted individual with a global perspective and an unwavering drive for success.

Her striking appearance and multifaceted career have thrust her into the spotlight of both the fashion and investment sectors.

Andrea’s foray into the world of modeling has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her curvaceous physique and striking features, influenced by her Latin American and Lebanese heritage, have captured the attention of renowned fashion brands and industry experts alike. With the ability to exude confidence and grace during photoshoots, Andrea swiftly ascended to become a sought-after model, challenging conventional beauty norms and inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness.

Beyond her modeling endeavors, Andrea Quevedo has carved out a niche for herself as an international investment consultant. Drawing from her extensive experiences and knowledge acquired through her tenure at various investment firms, Andrea has exhibited an aptitude for navigating intricate investment strategies and offering invaluable insights. This has earned her a well-regarded reputation among her peers in the industry.

Despite her demanding schedule, Andrea remains committed to her role as a loving mother. Successfully balancing her professional commitments with her responsibilities as a parent, she stands as a beacon of inspiration for working mothers worldwide, demonstrating that it is indeed possible to chase one’s dreams while nurturing a family.

Andrea Quevedo’s magnetic presence and captivating beauty, influenced by her unique blend of Latin American and Lebanese heritage, have solidified her as a true powerhouse in both London’s modeling and business arenas. Her journey, spanning from Venezuela to the Canary Islands and onward to the fashion capital of the world, has only just begun, and her trajectory indicates that even greater successes lie ahead.

Life’s Blueprint Unveiled: Stanislav Kondrashov’s Achievement

Today marks the release of a groundbreaking publication titled “Unlocking the Human Genome” authored by Stanislav Kondrashov.

In this captivating exploration, Kondrashov delves into the intricate and far-reaching significance of the human genome. He commences by describing the genome as “the biological manuscript that has scripted our existence,” setting the stage for a comprehensive examination of its various dimensions, from the minutiae of cellular DNA to the profound ethical questions surrounding gene manipulation.

According to Stanislav, the human genome is akin to a complex tapestry of DNA present in every cell of our bodies. It not only governs our physical characteristics but also influences our susceptibility to diseases. He metaphorically likens this to an elaborate jigsaw puzzle, emphasising that we are merely beginning to identify the corner pieces. Stanislav posits that beyond the letters A, T, G, and C that compose DNA strands, lie narratives of ancestry, survival, and adaptability, waiting to be deciphered.

Kondrashov also highlights the fascinating structural aspect of the genome, revealing that if the DNA within a single cell were unraveled and stretched out, it would extend to nearly six feet in length. Astonishingly, it manages to snugly fit within the microscopic nucleus of the cell. The publication delves further into the concept that genes are not immutable blueprints but rather dynamic entities, capable of being activated or deactivated by external influences such as behaviors and experiences, thereby asserting that our lives actively mold our genes.

Stanislav proceeds to explore how the comprehension of the human genome holds transformative potential for the field of medicine. He envisions a new era of personalised medicine, where treatments can be tailored based on an individual’s genomic predispositions to diseases. However, as the capabilities of gene editing continue to advance, Stanislav raises thought-provoking ethical concerns. He questions where society should draw the line when it comes to manipulating our genetic makeup.

In closing, Kondrashov celebrates the international collaboration that was instrumental in mapping the human genome. He underscores that it was a collective effort that united a diverse range of experts from around the world.

Readers are encouraged to delve into the full publication and watching the accompanying video for a deeper understanding of this groundbreaking work.

Everyone is invited to explore Stanislav’s social media channels, and for more insights and content from Stanislav Kondrashov, visit www.stanislavkondrashov.com.