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The Yorkshire Businesswoman awards committee met this morning at the Marriott Hotel Leeds, to host the judges who have worked hard to select the winners and runners up from the hundreds of nominations we received.

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Our thanks go to Sir Rodney Walker, Dame Linda Pollard, Sinead Rocks, Eleanor Baker, Sharon Jandu OBE, Sarah Power and Andrew Cooper for judging the awards and having the difficult job of selecting our winners and runners-up who will be announced on he night, 7th March as we once again celebrate the businesswomen of Yorkshire on International Woman’s Day.

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Tickets are on sale now on the website. Don’t miss out, this is the event of the year with lots of entertainment along with some surprises and a chance to WIN A DIAMOND courtesy of Phillip Stoner Jewellers in Victoria Quarter. If you are a businesswoman working in Yorkshire, this is the place to be.

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We have some fantastic businesses joining us on the night, many of whom are main sponsors; Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors, First Direct Arena, Leeds University, Leeds City Council, Huddersfield Town AFC; Fantastic Media, Quilter Cheviot, Lloyds Bank, Royal Armouries & HSBC to name just a few! This also makes the event a great networking opportunity for your business.

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There are a few opportunities left too to be a table sponsor at just £350 which includes 2 complimentary tickets. Get your business name noticed on big screens on the night and within Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine, social media and websites.

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Book your ticket today by clicking on the ‘Awards’ header on the website.

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Mexi Bean, an independent Mexican restaurant chain from Yorkshire has partnered with the Community Foundation for Calderdale and launched its new charity fund to support local charities and initiatives in the areas where their restaurants are located.

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The company will donate a percentage of our profits from every meal to contribute to positive change and help our customers become a part of a broader effort to build stronger, more connected communities.

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“At Mexi Bean, we believe that great food has the power to bring people together, not just at the table, but throughout the community. The fund is a way for us to give back to the communities that have welcomed Mexi Bean with open arms.

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By supporting essential local projects, we aim to contribute to positive change – whether it’s helping families in need, funding educational programmes, supporting mental health initiatives or providing resources for environmental sustainability.

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When you dine at Mexi Bean, you’re not just enjoying the amazing flavours of Mexico – you’re becoming a part of a broader effort to build stronger, more connected communities,” – says Founder Danielle Best.

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About Mexi Bean
nMexi Bean Express was founded by owner Danielle Best who was inspired by the amazing flavours she experienced during her trips to Mexico.
n“I just wanted to create something that was not already on the high street. Mexican food is popular, but there aren’t many good restaurant chains serving high-quality Mexican dishes in the UK.” – says Danielle.

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“Our brand is social and exciting, making it a place where everyone can be themselves, relax and share a meal with their family and friends or enjoy a delicious meal on their own.” – Danielle adds.

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Mexi Bean restaurants and Mexi Bean Express takeaways have been serving authentic Mexican flavours with a modern twist for over 4 years.
nMexi Bean Express offers a menu that features classic Mexican favourites and has been named as one of the TOP 50 most exciting companies in Yorkshire by Insider Media and won the Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice Award in 2022.

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Mexi Bean Express already has dine-in restaurants, takeaways and dark kitchens in Brighouse, Halifax, Huddersfield and Manchester with a further location opening soon in Wakefield.

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In addition to this, their Mexi Bean food truck sells crowd favourites at festivals and food markets around the country.

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The brand is also launching a franchise to reach even more locations across the globe.

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A prominent member of Sheffield’s business community has been awarded an OBE in King Charles’ New Year’s Honours List.

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Sheffield Chamber of Commerce chief executive Louisa Harrison-Walker was awarded the honour in recognition of her sterling work supporting South Yorkshire, it’s businesses and communities.

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Louisa has led the ambitious and hugely impactful transformation of Sheffield’s Chamber of Commerce over the past five years. Her work has included restructuring the organisation, diversifying the board and representative council, increasing the balance sheets significantly and re-imagining its core membership offer – which has seen membership retention rise to 98% and the number of patrons double.

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Louisa has also built up the Chamber’s relationship with South Yorkshire’s Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), Sheffield City Council (SCC) and rewired relationships with other Regional and National Chambers, and other organisations around the UK including Business in the Community (BITC) with whom Sheffield Chamber deliver a social value programme that harnesses private sector resource for the benefit of charities and social enterprises.

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Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire, said: “Louisa is a leader who brings organisations and businesses together in a way that others cannot because she truly cares about people.

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“Her approach to making sure the views and experiences of everyone are respected, listened to and included, is helping to shift the culture in South Yorkshire to one of positive collaboration and partnership.

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“As a Mayor I work every day to rebuild the pride, purpose and prosperity of our region, nothing is more important to me. I’m delighted to congratulate Louisa on being included in the King’s honours today.”

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Involved in supporting successful bids for collaborative work throughout the region, Louisa has been integral to the delivery of the Community Renewal Fund, the Local Skills Improvement Plan Project (LSIP) across South Yorkshire, the Yorkshire and Humber Policy Innovation Partnership, the South Yorkshire Investment Zone and the continued campaign to re-open South Yorkshire’s regional airport.

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Louisa is also Co-Chair of South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s Business Advisory Board, has been integral to the development of the Sheffield City Goals – the city’s 10-year city strategy, launched the Health and Wellbeing Consortium and developed a senior women’s leadership network.

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Kate Josephs, chief executive of Sheffield City Council, said: “Louisa represents the city on numerous local, regional and national platforms and does so with authenticity, gravitas and insight.

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“In leading in the way she does, Louisa acts as a role model, in particular for women. She has worked with me to develop the city’s first women’s leadership network, creating a safe space for women to navigate the challenges they may face in their professional lives.

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“Every great city needs active, community minded and forward-thinking business leadership and with Louisa at the helm the Chamber has become an invaluable partner in the regeneration and resurgence of Sheffield.

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“It is without a doubt that Louisa deserves this special honour. Congratulations to her.”

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Louisa is a well-respected business leader in the city having built up and sold ethical recruitment firm Benchmark. She serves as a trustee at several key organisations and charities, a board and committee member across different initiatives in the city, and relentlessly champions Sheffield, promoting the city as the best place in the UK to start and grow a business.

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Membership organisation Sheffield Chamber of Commerce (SCCI) has provided support, advice, expertise and representation for organisations of all sizes in Sheffield for almost 170 years.

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Sheffield Chamber’s vision is to make the city one of the very best places in the UK to start, grow and run a successful and sustainable business.

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Farmers’ perseverance, dedication and enduring community spirit will be celebrated this weekend at Ripon Cathedral’s Plough Sunday Service, supported by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

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All are welcome at the service at Ripon Cathedral on Sunday 12th January 2025 which will offer blessings for the year ahead to farming families. It will also offer a poignant sense of solidarity in recognition of the vital role that farming families across Yorkshire play in producing food and managing the landscape.

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Allister Nixon, chief executive of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society said: “The Society is acutely aware of the strains that farming families operate under, whether that’s because of weather extremes, political decision-making, Bluetongue disease or other factors, and I sincerely hope that 2025 brings greater stability and new opportunities.

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“The hard work of farmers in this great county and beyond should be a source of national pride, and the Plough Sunday Service offers a welcome chance for us all to reflect on why we should value what British agriculture delivers for our plates, rural communities, precious landscapes and the economy.”

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This year, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society will hold the 166th Great Yorkshire Show on Tuesday 8th to Friday 11th July and its work to support farming continues, with events, training, bursary places and grants on offer as part of a rolling programme to further the professional development, knowledge exchange and wellbeing of those who work in the industry.

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This week, four bursary recipients of Future Farmers of Yorkshire, a network funded and supported by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, are attending the Oxford farming conferences. The Society will then be at The Ripon Show, held by Ripon Farm Services, at the Great Yorkshire Showground on Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd January.

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In the early part of the year, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society will also be holding events that will look at practical approaches to adapting to the changes announced in the Government’s Autumn Budget. More details will be announced soon.

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The Plough Sunday Service, taking place on 12th January, is an ancient festival which was revived by the Victorians. Traditionally it is celebrated on the first Sunday after Epiphany. In the Medieval period, when there was only one plough in each village, the village plough was brought into church for a blessing before ploughing began on Plough Monday, the first working day after the 12 days of Christmas. In days when work was scarce in winter, the observance looked forward to the time of sowing with the promise of a harvest to come.

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The Dean of Ripon, the Very Rev John Dobson, who will lead the service said: “Plough Sunday is one of those points in the year when we are reminded not to take God’s providence for granted and to celebrate his help and support in every season. Here at Ripon Cathedral, we are also keen to use this occasion to thank God for the farming and rural communities, praying for them as they continue to face sustained challenges and an uncertain future.”

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An address will be given by The Right Reverend John Inge who recently retired as Bishop of Worcester, a ploughshare will be presented at the service by members of the Yorkshire Federation of Young Farmers Clubs for a blessing by the Very Rev Dobson, and a reading will be given by a member of Future Farmers of Yorkshire.

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Outside the Cathedral will be a tractor provided by Ripon Farm Services. Local representatives of farming charities will also be in attendance and a share of the proceeds from a collection will go towards the invaluable work of FCN (Farming Community Network).

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Anyone wishing to attend the Plough Service at Ripon Cathedral on Sunday 12th January 2025 is invited to gather from 2.30pm for hot pork rolls courtesy of Angela Hullah of Tancred Farm Shop, and hot drinks kindly provided by Ripon Cathedral, before the service gets underway an hour later at 3.30pm.

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Fodder is set to undergo its biggest revamp since opening in 2009, refreshing the shop and café as well as stocking even more Yorkshire suppliers than ever.

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Work to refurbish the shop will start in January when the shop closes on Friday January 10, although the Fodder café and airstream will remain OPEN.

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Both the café and shop will close on Monday February 17 before reopening again on Monday March 17. Fodder Airstream will remain open throughout.
nVanessa Pitt, manager said: “The new refit will allow us to create a space that really puts our farmers and producers front and centre.

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“We will stock more Yorkshire suppliers than ever before, offer tasting tables to allow customers to try before they buy and create a more contemporary feel around the shop and café.

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“Stay tuned to our social media and website for sneak previews and we hope our customers stay loyal to us as the airstream and café remain open this month.”

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Allister Nixon chief executive of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society which owns Fodder said: “We have come up with a refurbishment plan that ensures that Fodder is a showcase of Yorkshire produce as well as being commercially sound for the future, enabling the Society to continue to invest back into the agricultural community.

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“Fodder is special and unique in that all of its profits go back to charity, enabling us to further support farmers through education, grants, support groups and health checks. We really appreciate our customers’ loyalty and support through the refurbishment period.”

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Look out for further updates from Fodder and the Yorkshire Agricultural Society in 2025.

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Hull College is delighted to announce that Lynette Leith, vice principal for Curriculum and Skills, has been awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in this year’s New Year’s Honours. The prestigious accolade has been awarded in recognition of Lynette’s exceptional contribution to the Further Education sector and her pivotal role in transforming Hull College into a thriving hub of learning and opportunity.

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Under Lynette’s leadership and direction of curriculum and the skills strategy, Hull College secured a ‘Good’ rating from the recent Ofsted enhanced skills inspection in October 2023. This significant milestone reflects the institution’s resurgence, highlighting the college’s Adult Provision and Personal Development as ‘Outstanding’, while its Skills and Employer Engagement were recognised as ‘Strong’ – a testament to Lynette’s focus on aligning the curriculum with the needs of the learners and the regional economy.

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Speaking about the honour, Lynette said: “Receiving this recognition is incredibly humbling. For me this reflects the wonderful FE sector and the many teams and individuals that have coached, counselled, and guided me along the way. Most importantly this is recognition of the entire Hull College team – The Hullraisers. It is a genuine privilege to work with the team every day, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. I am honoured, humbled and proud.”

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Over the past three years, Lynette has played one of the leading roles of Hull College’s transformation. Her strategic leadership, unwavering dedication to equality of opportunity and the commitment of the Hull College team, has gained the institution national, award recognition as well as its rightful place in the heart of the Hull and Humber community. Through innovative curriculum development and impressive student achievements, outstanding adult learning provision and essential partnerships that have been fostered through strong employer engagement strategies, Hull College is now recognised as a key driver of social and economic growth in the Humber region.

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Debra Gray MBE, principal and chief executive of Hull College, praised Lynette’s achievement: “Lynette’s OBE is richly deserved and underscored her pivotal role in Hull College’s journey of transformation. Her leadership and the collective efforts of the Hullraiser team has cemented our status as a vital education, training and skills resource for the community. This is a proud moment for all of us at Hull College.”

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Hull College invites the local, regional and national community to join in celebrating Lynette’s achievement as it continues to deliver world-class education and training that empowers learners and strengthens the local economy.

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Join Quilter Cheviot at Rudding Park on 4th February to find out how you an protect your financial legacy amidst political upheaval. To book, click the link below.

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https://insights.quiltercheviot.com/dynamic/register.asp?event=7431&type=pc&comments=no&question=no&logo=qcfp&infono1=no&infono2=no&guests=3&session=21799

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The Yorkshire division of national homebuilder, Bellway Homes says a recent flurry of sales at its Bishop’s Gate development in Beverley show the Minster town is still very much the place East Riding buyers want to call home.

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Being built on an 11-hectare site off Woodmansey Mile, Bishop’s Gate comprises 183 homes and to date virtually two thirds of them have sold; with buyers attracted by the location and strong mix of homes, which means it appeals to buyers from all walks and stages of life.

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Amanda Thomas, Yorkshire’s sales manager, said: “Bishop’s Gate really does have all round appeal. Its location within walking distance of Beverley town centre is ideal; with many of the homes boasting Minster views; while its mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes means there’s something for everyone from first time buyers through to growing families and on to downsizers.”

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“As a result, the range of buyers has been impressively broad, but the one thing every single person has had in common is that they wanted to call Beverley home. And it’s easy to see why – the town has everything from markets and restaurants; to shops and bars; good schools; great transport links and, of course, one of the most instantly recognisable skylines of any British town.”

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Homes are built to first-rate specifications including energy saving features such as solar PV panels, EV car chargers and Smart Thermostats that all help to cut the cost of running a new home.

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“Our aim with any new development is always to build new communities that quickly become much-loved and integral parts of the area in which they’re built,” added Amanda. “Bishop’s Gate is already beginning to tick those boxes and it will be lovely to come back when it’s all sold out and enjoy a busy, happy community for myself.”

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One of Leeds’ most sought-after workspaces, Department at Leeds Dock, is opening its doors to give 10 creative, digital or tech businesses in Yorkshire the opportunity to win a free ‘Day at Department’ – designed to motivate teams for the year ahead, with inspiring workspaces, wellness and social experiences.

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The 10 winning businesses will gain exclusive access to Department’s Workshop meeting room for the day, a private space overlooking Department’s signature coworking area with wall-mounted screen, video conferencing facilities, WIFI and stationery. In addition, Department is also offering the chosen SMEs complimentary Condition gym passes, an exclusive lunchtime screening in the new on-site cinema, member discount at Fearns kitchen & bar, and bottomless tea and coffee throughout the day.

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Amy Matthams, general manager, explains: “As a workspace partner for over 200 creative and digital SMEs in the North, we know that running a small business is no mean feat in today’s market.

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“January is especially important for employee engagement and talent retention, as many employees consider new career moves at the start of the year, making it more important than ever for businesses to provide fulfilling environments for their teams. We’ve designed our Day at Department initiative to help businesses meet this challenge head-on, giving teams an inspiring space to work with access to wellness amenities, a private cinema, coffee shop, Fearns bar and waterside surroundings at Leeds Dock.”

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Amy adds: “Our Workshop meeting room is ideal for an off-site team strategy day, training session or it could help win that all-important pitch for your business. We really want to help businesses start the year in the best possible way.”

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Businesses are invited to apply for a Day at Department via the website: Win A Day At Department Leeds Dock. The offer is open to creative, media, digital and tech businesses with 8-30 employees based in Leeds or the surrounding Yorkshire area. The deadline for entries is Friday 17th January 2025, with winners announced on Tuesday 21st January 2025.

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Since opening in February 2023, Level 1 and the mezzanine workspaces at Department Leeds Dock are now largely occupied. Level 2 has since opened to accommodate growing demand, offering 3,860 sqft of more private offices, meeting rooms, content creation suite, podcasting facilities, event space with a bar, and private cinema.

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Department Leeds Dock is a flexible workspace operator with coworking, private offices and creative studios across Leeds and Manchester. The Leeds Dock location is now home to over 60 businesses in the creative, digital and tech industries, from small start-ups to larger, established businesses including Glean, Bobble Digital, Airborne Studios, CRSI, We Love This and Retail Insight.

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Get your business off to a great start in 2025 by Joining us for the first networking event of the year. Friday 7th February at Platform at Leeds Train Station from 3pm to 5pm.

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Our two fabulous guest speakers are member Nadine Hill a wellbeing and yoga expert who will show you how to stay healthy and flexible in 2025 and Sharron Wilkinson from Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield.

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As usual, the event is free for members, with a charge for non-members (see link below)

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Can’t wait to get 2025 started, let’s work together and make this a fabulous year for all.

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To reserve your place, book here:

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