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Lancashire family business marks a decade of innovation with drones

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Specialist drone inspection service provider CJK Drones is preparing to mark a decade of using drones to improve the safety, efficiency and inspection of critical energy infrastructure. 

The family business operated by husband and wife Chris and Jessica Kitson provides expert-led aerial inspections for utilities, the construction and renewable energy sectors and bespoke projects, capturing data safely and efficiently. 

 With more than 25 years of engineering and construction experience between them, managing director Chris and operations manager Jessica provide clients with expert services in challenging and high-risk environments including high resolution aerial surveys and asset inspections, thermal imaging and 3D mapping, high-quality aerial photography and video and drone payload technology for specialist applications. 

Based at the University of Lancashire’s Altitude facility at AeroTech NW, Lancashire, the business has delivered more than 4,500 drone flights for clients in the North West of England, the UK and worldwide including Electricity North West, National Grid, SP Energy, Aberla Energy, Omexom (part of Vinci Group), the NHS and Tesco. 

One current key partnership is using drones to install hundreds of bird flight diverters manufactured by PLP, a Cleveland, Ohio-based global leader in engineered solutions for energy, communications, and other critical infrastructure, on live overhead power lines. 

PLP’s bird flight diverter made from plastic or aluminium makes overhead lines more visible to birds, helping to reduce bird collisions and protecting wildlife while reducing the risk of network faults, customer outages, emergency repairs and associated costs for Distribution Network Operators (DNOs). 

Jessica said: “As specialist drone pilots for PLP, we’re providing the operational expertise to safely install their equipment on live overhead power lines.  

“Recent media coverage of a bird strike creating a major power outage, leaving hundreds of customers in Devon without electricity is a timely reminder of the operational and financial damage caused by bird strikes and why proactive mitigation is essential.” 

John Bentley, regional managing director EMEA North PLP, said: “PLP is excited to be working with CJK Drones for the UK’s first drone installation of Raptor Clamps. The combination of CJK’s proven utilities flying expertise with the updated drone version of PLP’s proven and durable Raptor Clamp is an ideal way for utilities to protect wildlife and power assets in hard-to-reach, environmentally sensitive and boggy areas.” 

Jessica added: “We’re incredibly proud to be developing innovative drone technologies from our home at the centre of advanced engineering excellence that is Altitude while supporting some of the UK’s most critical infrastructure.  

“Our valued contracts recognise our commitment to delivering practical engineering solutions, investing in innovation and maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism.” 

The Altitude Facility is a nationally recognised centre for aerospace, advanced engineering and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), uniting industry, academia and government to develop the next generation of aviation and autonomous technologies. Altitude is home to one of Europe’s largest indoor flight-testing environments for uncrewed aircraft, making it an ideal base for companies like CJK Drones developing innovative drone technologies and engineering solutions. 

Developed by the Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) and championed by the Lancashire Business Board (LBB), comprising members of the county’s leading regional, national and international businesses, the Lancashire Growth Plan identifies transformational projects in five high-growth business sectors including advanced engineering and manufacturing (AEM) with the potential to attract more than £20bn of additional public and private investment.  

Together, these projects could create thousands of jobs and strengthen Lancashire’s role at the heart of the national economy. 

Prof. Miranda Barker OBE, spokesperson for Lancashire Business Board, said: “Lancashire plays a vital role in the UK economic landscape, being one of the largest and most dynamic economies in the North.  

“Home to over 55,000 businesses and supporting more than 740,000 jobs, Lancashire’s economy is powered by strengths in advanced engineering, manufacturing, nuclear energy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and sustainable industries. 

“CJK Drones’ unwavering commitment to using innovative drone technology to protect energy infrastructure and its prestigious clients in the North West, UK and worldwide reflect the AEM sector’s resilience, innovation and global competitiveness, playing a critical role in driving productivity, exports, and sustainable growth.”  

Wealth manager for Americans in Europe opens New York office

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Levitt Capital Management, the France-based wealth manager for US citizens living in Europe, has opened its first New York office.

Located in the Rockefeller Center at 1270 Avenue of the Americas, the firm’s New York Office will give the Europe-based wealth manager a US base to meet with prospective and existing clients, as well as other professionals based in the city.

Headquartered in Nice, France, Levitt Capital Management was founded to address the advice gap facing US citizens who relocate to Europe and find neither American nor European professionals able to give them the holistic advice they need.

In addition to managing their financial affairs, Levitt Capital Management helps its clients integrate into their new countries of residence, introducing them to networks of like-minded individuals and providing them with curated cultural experiences via its unique “European Life Series” of events.

“Americans who relocate to Europe have uniquely complex financial needs, which advisers on either side of the Atlantic are ill-equipped to understand and address,” said Robert Levitt, Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Levitt Capital Management.

“We receive multiple enquiries every day from Americans who have realised that their portfolios, wealth structures and succession plans, which were designed for a US environment, simply don’t work in Europe, and that nobody else truly understands the complications faced by clients whose lives span both sides of the Atlantic.

“More and more clients are coming to us for advice before they make the move. That’s positive because it allows us to plan proactively to meet their goals rather than unpicking structures that are no longer working at a later stage.

“Getting to know our clients as people is hugely important to us, and our New York office gives somewhere to meet with them face-to-face from the outset. It will also establish us more firmly among the professional advisory and investment management community in New York, with whom we work on a daily basis.”

Levitt Capital Management was founded in 2022 by the veteran investment manager Robert Levitt. Mr Levitt previously established and managed a Boca Raton, Florida-headquartered hedge fund with assets of $500 million before moving to France in 2007.

He has more than 40 years’ experience in the investment industry, and regularly appears in lists of leading financial advisors on both sides of the Atlantic.

Plans approved for £40 million ‘Altura’ – Lancashire’s tallest residential tower block in Preston

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Property developer TSS Property Ltd has been given the green light to develop a 30-storey apartment block with 218 residential units, which would be the tallest residential building in Lancashire.

Designed by David Cox Architects and branded Altura, the proposed tower will be located near the Harris Quarter, which is currently undergoing a £200 million regeneration programme.

The scheme is situated between Lords Walk and Carlisle Street in the city centre and has undergone a rigorous design process, including three RIBA Places Matter Design Reviews, each of which enhances the building’s function as a key landmark for Preston.

Steven Gallagher at David Cox Architects added: “As a Preston-based practice, we take great pride in contributing to a project of this ambition, which reflects both the city’s confidence and its aspirations for the future.”

TSS Property is currently delivering City Walk, a £20m build-to-rent development comprising 122 apartments on Lords Walk. TSS anticipates work on Altura could begin in 2027.

Altura will also offer 6,700 sq ft of commercial and office space alongside a communal lounge and gym. In addition, the plans will enhance the public realm and street scene in the area by introducing a shared surface and a pedestrian-friendly environment.  

Planning permission is also granted subject to a legal agreement which comprises a financial contribution of £553,000 towards affordable housing and £16,000 for employment skills monitoring. 

Deborah Smith of S&L Planning Consultants, which advised TSS Property Ltd on planning matters, said: “The project will deliver a highly sustainable, landmark development in a key city-centre location, making efficient use of brownfield land while supporting economic growth, housing delivery, and active travel.

“The approval of this project also reflects the collaborative work undertaken with Preston City Council to ensure the scheme responds positively to both planning policy and the city’s long-term regeneration ambitions.

“It will be fantastic to see this project come to fruition and help contribute to the evolving skyline of Preston.”

New Chair for Lancaster University’s Engineering Industry Advisory Board

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Lancaster University’s School of Engineering has appointed Andy Davy as the new Chair for its Industry Advisory Board.

The Industry Advisory Board (IAB) brings together employers and professional bodies to advise on teaching and research priorities, feed skills needs into curriculum planning, and support student placements and internships. It also provides external input to accreditation and wider engagement activity, helping ensure graduates’ capabilities match sector demand and creating clear routes for companies, including SMEs, to collaborate with the School.

A long-standing member of the board, Andy Davy is Group Operations Manager at Lancaster-based Like Technologies, which provides specialist electronic and control-system support to clients across the nuclear and advanced engineering sectors, including obsolescence management and equipment repair.

In his role as Chair, Andy will lead twice-yearly IAB meetings and work with the IAB co-ordinator, Chris Lambert to agree agendas and formats. He will also review minutes and represent the board at formal engagements such as accreditation visits.

On his appointment as Chair, he said: “Chairing the board is about turning employer insight into practical outcomes. Feeding into the curriculum, helping to ensure the teaching provides the students with the knowledge, skills and behaviours that add value for local firms. That two-way flow helps students hit the ground running and gives businesses a straightforward route into the School when they need skills or fresh ideas.” 

Chris Lambert, Director of Engagement, School of Engineering, Lancaster University, said: “We very much welcome Andy as Chair of the board. His deep, front-line, industry experience and knowledge will help guide the board in its role as a sounding-board for curriculum relevance, accreditation and employability. Its members’ perspectives shape modules, open up internships and placement year roles, and guide where our engagement will have most impact.”

Trident Utilities appoints new head of procurement 

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Blackpool-based energy consultancy Trident Utilities has strengthened its leadership team as the business positions itself for its next phase of growth. 

As part of the changes, Alexandra Mottershead has been promoted to Head of Procurement & Supplier Services. Alex joined Trident in March 2022, at the height of the energy crisis, bringing a decade of experience in the energy consultancy sector. 

After graduating from the University of Manchester with a degree in Atmospheric Physics, Alex joined the industry as a fixed procurement analyst and has since built extensive expertise across risk management, trading, procurement, and supplier relations. 

Trident Utilities

In her new role, Alex will lead Trident’s risk management, trading, procurement, and supplier services functions. Her team is responsible for strategically procuring energy for customers by balancing individual organisational priorities and risks with market opportunities and net-zero objectives.  

This includes managing both fixed-term contracts and flexibly traded procurement strategies, as well as overseeing fixed and flexible Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for generators to maximise revenues while mitigating operational risk. 

Alex’s team also includes Trident’s non-commodity specialists, who provide vital updates to customers on charging, policy, and regulatory changes that may impact future energy costs. 

Alexandra Mottershead, head of procurement & supplier services, said: 

“I’m really proud to be stepping into this role at such an important moment for the energy sector.  

“My focus is on making sure organisations have the clarity and confidence they need to make informed energy decisions that support both commercial resilience and their journey to net zero. I’m also genuinely excited to be leading such a talented team as we continue to strengthen our procurement and risk management capabilities.” 

Andy Curry, head of client services, added: “Everything we do at Trident is grounded in strong data and sound science, and Alex brings a rare combination of both. Her deep understanding of the science, alongside more than a decade of hands-on industry experience, is invaluable for our clients and adds real strength to our wider leadership team. 

“Alex’s perspective will further strengthen our ability to help clients make informed, long-term strategic decisions as they seek to lock in energy efficiencies and cost savings on the path to net zero.” 

Belfast’s PACK & SEND shipping firm completes Phase 1 of Tower Museum artefact relocation

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Limitless Public Relations’ client, the specialist shipping company – PACK & SEND Belfast East – has completed Phase 1 of a complex artefact relocation project for Derry City and Strabane District Council. This involved the careful removal and transport of fragile museum pieces from the Tower Museum in Derry to conservation facilities in Belfast.

The artefacts, which include items from the Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera exhibition, have been temporarily relocated to the Ulster Museum. This is as part of preparatory work ahead of the launch of the new DNA Museum, currently under construction in the Ebrington area of the city.

Working alongside the Council’s museum and engineering teams, in partnership with conservation staff from National Museums NI, PACK & SEND Belfast East was appointed to oversee the secure transport. The high-value and historically significant objects required bespoke packaging and meticulous handling. The operation involved the removal of windows from the Tower Museum to allow for crane access, the dismantling of internal fixtures, and the waterproofing of selected items before they could be lowered from the building and loaded for transit.

PACK & SEND Belfast East is part of a network of service centres across the UK. The company was selected for the project due to its specialist experience in the shipment of fragile, large, awkward and valuable items. The company is an approved service provider to LAPADA, the UK’s largest association of professional art and antiques dealers, and has handled works by artists including Banksy, Damien Hirst and Andy Warhol.

Work is now underway to progressively move and conserve the collection as part of the council’s plans for the development of the DNA Museum. Phase 2 of the project is expected to involve more detailed cataloguing and digitisation of artefacts, alongside initiatives to engage the public through interpretation and outreach. The artefacts will return to Derry for installation in the DNA Museum, due to open in 2027.

PACK & SEND Belfast East store owner Sam Ireland said: “We were delighted to be appointed to assist with the removal and transport of such historically important material. This type of project plays to our strengths, designing and building custom packaging, managing high-risk transit, and liaising with multiple partners to ensure nothing is left to chance. We’re proud to have supported this important step in preserving and preparing these items for future public display.”

For more information see https://dnamuseum.com and www.packsend.co.uk/belfasteast.  

BAKO named ‘Supplier of the Year’ at awards

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Preston-based BAKO, has been named Supplier of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Baking Industry Awards, at the Royal Lancaster in London.

Now in their 38th year, the Baking Industry Awards are the UK’s foremost celebration of excellence across the baking sector, from artisan bakers and large-scale manufacturers to suppliers, retailers, and innovators.

This year’s event welcomed more than 600 guests from across the industry for an evening honouring the best and brightest in British baking.

BAKO took home the inaugural Supplier of the Year title, with judges praising the company’s unwavering commitment to serving the baking community, significant business growth, and strategic innovation.

BAKO’s recent acquisition of Finlay’s Foods, expanding its reach across the UK and Ireland, was highlighted as a major step forward, alongside its sustained investment in operational efficiency, sustainability initiatives, and industry development.

Mike Tully, chief executive of BAKO said:

“This award is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the dedication of our teams across the UK and Ireland.

“At BAKO, everything we do is guided by our ‘by bakers for bakers’ ethos. We’re proud to support the industry we love, from local independents to national brands, with quality, service, and innovation.

“Winning Supplier of the Year at such a respected event reinforces our belief that partnership and passion truly make a difference.”

Amy North, British Baker editor, said:

“BAKO is a worthy winner of British Baker’s first-ever Supplier of the Year trophy at the Baking Industry Awards.

“Its longstanding commitment to and influential role within the baking industry deserves recognition, and our panel of judges praised the level of energy put into every aspect of the business from investments in efficiency to supporting the future of the industry, and steps on its sustainability journey.

“BAKO truly is living up to its motto of ‘by bakers for bakers.”

Founded over 60 years ago, BAKO operates from its head office in Preston, with regional headquarters in Durham, Wimbledon, and Ireland, allowing it to provide nationwide coverage and local expertise to bakeries of all sizes.

The business has grown to become one of the UK and Ireland’s leading bakery ingredient and supply specialists, offering an extensive range of products and services designed to help the baking industry thrive.

The Baking Industry Awards are organised by British Baker magazine and celebrate excellence across 14 categories, recognising individuals, teams, and businesses driving the sector forward.

For more information about Bako, visit www.bako.co.uk

Lancashire Growth Plan maps £20bn+ investment opportunity

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) has today published a Growth Plan that sets out how the county will build on its position as one of the UK’s leading economic powerhouses and deliver growth between 2025 and 2035, with a strategic focus on exploiting the potential of five high-growth business sectors around existing and proposed ‘transformational’ projects. 

Developed by the LCCA and championed by the Lancashire Business Board (LBB), the plan identifies a pipeline of major projects with the potential to attract more than £20bn of additional public and private investment. Together, these projects could create thousands of high-value jobs and strengthen Lancashire’s role at the heart of the national economy.

Following consultation with sector groups, business organisations, enterprises, local authorities, universities, colleges and MPs, the plan champions Lancashire’s interests nationally and internationally to deliver its priorities by attracting investment in innovation, infrastructure and workforce development, making the county a prime destination for global capital, venture funding, and research and development. 

Mo Isap, chair of Lancashire Business Board, comprising senior members of the county’s foremost regional, national and international firms to champion Lancashire and bring a private sector perspective to policy decisions, said:

“We brought our DNA to the development of the Lancashire Growth Plan, ensuring it builds on existing excellence in sectors while showing that we can deliver a step change in economic performance benefits not just the county, but the UK. 

“Our private sector expertise and perspective continue to inform the plan, but also strategies on transport, infrastructure, strategic development, and collaboration, detailing that Lancashire continues to be well-positioned to attract new private investment in key growth sectors.

“This prospectus showcases how Lancashire, aligned with government economic objectives, is contributing to the nation’s economic growth and that we are well positioned to play a significant role in UK plc.”

Cllr Stephen Atkinson, Chair of Lancashire Combined County Authority, said:

“This is a plan built in Lancashire, for Lancashire, but with national impact. It reflects the scale of our ambition, the strength of our business leadership, and our determination to deliver transformational projects that create opportunities across our communities and boost the UK economy.”

The vision focuses on exploiting the potential of five high-growth business sectors: National Security and Resilience, Clean Growth and a Nuclear Renaissance, Digital and Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence, and Culture and Tourism

Highlights of the Growth Plan

High-growth sectors and economic corridors

  • Growth focused on five sectors central to Lancashire’s economy and the UK’s future.
  • Development of the Central Belt (M55–M65 corridor), connecting Blackpool, Preston, Blackburn and Burnley.
  • Expansion of the North–South Cyber Corridor, linking Lancaster, Samlesbury and Manchester.
  • Investment in east–west transport to connect and strengthen clusters.

Flagship projects with investment potential:

Samlesbury Enterprise Zone and Innovation Hub – can enable transformational economic growth for all of Lancashire. Designed to support advanced engineering and manufacturing, hi-tech and research-led sectors, including cyber and robotics, the 120-acre site is primed to become a hub of world-class innovation, Industry 4.0 processes, and disruptive R&D. 

Warton Enterprise Zone (EZ), featuring the University of Lancashire’s Altitude facility – uniting industry, entrepreneurs, academic and government institutions to advance next-generation technology and skills capability in the exploitation of future aviation and space markets. The site includes the defence and technology leader BAE Systems, alongside Altitude, which pioneers a cluster of future air and space technology. 

Heysham Nuclear Power Stations – a cornerstone of Lancashire’s energy infrastructure, providing secure, low-carbon power and sustaining hundreds of skilled jobs. 

Springfields (Westinghouse UK) – manufacturing world-class nuclear fuel and related products for almost 75 years. The 80-hectare site is one of the most advanced nuclear fuel-generating facilities in the world. 

Blackburn Cyber Skills and Education Campus and Innovation Quarter – key to the delivery of a £250m investment framework for Blackburn Town Centre, the most significant development of its kind in the North West. Public investment has been secured for the first phase of the Campus, valued at £60m, including a high-quality office and teaching facility, offering up to 100,000 sq ft of new space, and a 15,000 sq ft cyber business centre. The site is the closest strategic development to the Samlesbury Enterprise Zone – making Blackburn an integral part of the Government’s North West Cyber Corridor between Lancaster and Manchester. 

Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone (EZ) and Silicon Sands – with more than 2,600 jobs achieved, and an estimated £300m of additional private sector development potential, 25 acres of newly unlocked commercial land is primed for development for commercial use at the EZ’s Eastern Gateway. The EZ includes the groundbreaking Silicon Sands project with the potential to become a Strategic AI and Sustainable Digital Infrastructure Hub for Lancashire and an AI growth zone. The EZ is on the North Atlantic Loop, a transatlantic fibre artery connecting America and Europe with the fastest speeds. 

Blackpool Central Leisure Development – the seven-hectare former Central Station site is one of Blackpool’s most strategically essential development sites, and central to the ambition of developing a unique world-class tourist destination with a vision to provide a unique leisure quarter which underpins Blackpool’s appeal as a national tourist destination. 

Morecambe Seafront and the Eden Effect – Morecambe, and the wider North Lancs area, will directly benefit from the Eden Project Morecambe. Conceived by the team behind the Eden Project in Cornwall, the 36-acre development was given the green light by the Government in March 2023, along with £50m of Levelling Up funding, to allow work to commence on the £100m project. 

Preston Station Quarter – Investment in Preston is driven by the 10-year City Investment Plan, a long-term vision to transform the city with close to £1bn already invested or committed. Preston is undergoing a dramatic transformation, capitalising on the nearby National Cyber Force HQ, to create major opportunities for commercial development and city living. The Preston Station Quarter Strategic Regeneration Framework encompasses 43 hectares of Grade A offices, high-density housing, and high-quality public realm. 

Burnley Town Centre and Canalside Masterplan – Burnley’s £200m masterplan is unlocking significant investment in education, canalside living, and digi-tech innovation, helping to transform the town into a vibrant hub for health, engineering, and AI-driven growth. 

Strategic Rail Programme – transforming east-west rail connectivity across Lancashire’s Central Belt will unlock growth in urban centres, expand labour markets, and improve access to education, employment and investment.  

Talbot Gateway Skills and Education Campus (Multiversity) – with phase 1 of the Blackpool and The Fylde College Multiversity set for completion in 2027, plans are underway for Phase 2, an ambitious expansion into the Talbot Gateway Central Business District to create a dynamic skills and education campus. 

The Plan recognises the importance of public services, civil society and health and social care, promoting inclusive employment, cultural development and community wellbeing as essential contributors to economic growth.

 The Growth Plan is now available to stakeholders, investors and government on the LCCA website. It provides a framework for Lancashire’s future development ahead of a formal launch opportunity later this year.

Young Bakers’ festive creations head for national launch with BAKO

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

BAKO has unveiled the results of its first Young Bakers initiative, a new collaboration with Coleg Cambria and Wrights Food Group designed to inspire the next generation of bakers.

The project has delivered three festive products: an Irish Coffee Slice layered with coffee caramel and an Irish liqueur cream, a Black Forest Slice reimagined for modern tastes, and a savoury chicken, brie and cranberry Festive Slice. All three will launch to customers from 1 September 2025.

A percentage of profits from the sales will be reinvested into a dedicated fund for future projects, ensuring the Young Bakers Initiative continues to support young talent year after year. The project is supported by the Craft Bakers Association & The Worshipful Company of Bakers

The idea for the initiative originated from discussions at Coleg Cambria about how to connect education more closely with industry. With BAKO and Wrights keen to support the next generation of bakers, the partnership came together quickly and provided the perfect platform to launch the project.

Students on the Level 3 Diploma in Baking Proficiency course, Naomi Spaven 29, and Ella Muddiman, 25, also both finalists in the BIA (Baking Industry Awards) Rising Star Awards, were given a live New Product Development (NPD) brief: to create both a sweet and a savoury festive product. 

Working in their college bakery, they brainstormed, tested, and refined a series of recipes before presenting them to BAKO and Wrights.

The pair then spent time at Wrights’ factory, learning how to adapt their bakery recipes into large-scale production. Cost, consistency, and capability all had to be factored in, giving them valuable experience of the realities of NPD in a commercial environment. They were also involved in the product photography, artwork, and sales presentations, gaining a full view of how a new product moves from idea to market.

Naomi Spaven, from Mold, said: “Taking part in this project has been such a brilliant experience, it’s completely different to the artisan baking I’d done before. Seeing how products are developed on such a huge scale has been mind-blowing, from watching the production lines in action to understanding the journey from concept through to completion, being able to see it all first-hand was fascinating.

“For me, one of the highlights was the creative side, decorating the cakes and experimenting with different toppings and flavours. It was amazing to see how each of us came up with something unique, and then to see the professional photography really bring those ideas to life. At the same time, I learned so much about the more technical side of baking, especially costings, and how to balance flavour with affordability. With things like cocoa prices rising so quickly, it was a real challenge to find ways of keeping products delicious while still being commercially viable.

“The whole project has broadened my view of the industry and shown me how many opportunities there are beyond day-to-day baking. I love the hands-on side of what I do, but this has also inspired me to think about teaching and passing on my passion to the next generation. I really want young people to see that there are so many different career paths in baking, from artisan bakeries to large-scale production and new product development. It’s made me even more certain that I’m in the right industry, and I feel really excited about the future.”

Nicola Goodwill, Senior Trading Manager at BAKO, said: “This is about more than launching three new festive lines. It’s about showing young people that their creativity has a place in this industry and that their ideas can go all the way to market. Naomi and Ella have been outstanding, and we hope this becomes the first of many Young Bakers projects, building an annual programme to inspire students across the UK.”

Ella Muddiman, 24, from Chester, described the experience as transformative: “I’ve loved every step of this project. At college, you usually bake something, and it ends there, but this gave me the chance to see the whole process. From brainstorming and trialling different flavours, to adapting the recipes at Wrights so they would actually work in production, it was a huge learning curve. The challenge of making something viable for scale, especially on cost, was tough but really rewarding. I especially enjoyed the flavour trials; experimenting with combinations and finding what worked best. To know that something I helped create will be on sale this Christmas is just incredible. It proves young bakers really can make a difference, and I hope it shows others that they can too.”

Anthony Choi, Senior Commercial Manager – Foodservice Wholesale at Wrights, said: “At Wrights, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation of bakers, which is why we were delighted to partner with BAKO and Coleg Cambria on this exciting initiative.

“This project gave two talented students a unique and valuable opportunity to work with an expert team and chefs at a leading food manufacturer, experiencing the full NPD journey from concept and recipe development through to large-scale production.

“We were impressed by the creativity and fresh thinking they brought to the table. The reworked savoury Festive Slice was a smart seasonal upgrade, while the Black Forest Slice and Irish Coffee Slice filled a clear gap in the market and complemented BAKO’s existing range beautifully.

“It’s been a fantastic way to bring new ideas into the sector and showcase the potential of young talent. We’re proud to have played a part in helping future bakers shine, and we hope this project continues to inspire and open doors for the next generation.”

Naomi is the winner of the BIA Rising Star Award 2024 and runs the Little Welsh Foodie blog. Ella has just been shortlisted for the 2025 Rising Star Award and works at Iâl Bakery in Wrexham College.

Following the success of this pilot, BAKO plans to repeat the initiative annually. This year’s programme sets aside profits to support future young baker groups, building a sustainable pipeline of bakery talent for the industry.

The Harris Museum announces grand reopening this September

Posted on by Claire Stephenson

Preston’s iconic cultural landmark is set to welcome up to half a million visitors each year following a £19 million major restoration.

Made possible with funding from Preston City Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK Government’s Towns Fund, Lancashire County Council and many other generous partners.

The Harris will officially reopen its doors to the public on Sunday, 28 September 2025 following a once-in-a-generation restoration as part of the Harris Your Place project. The transformation reimagines The Harris as a dynamic and inclusive cultural hub for the 21st century, blending art, history, community, and a refreshed library service to deliver an exciting new visitor experience.

Located in the heart of Preston, The Harris will relaunch with an impressive exhibition programme, learning spaces, family-friendly facilities, a new café and shop, and new heritage tours that celebrate its architectural and civic legacy. The reopening will mark a new chapter for one of the UK’s leading regional museums, libraries and galleries.

Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council said:

“The reopening of The Harris marks a proud and exciting moment for the city of Preston. This incredible transformation will not only safeguard our heritage but also create a vibrant, inclusive space that inspires creativity, learning and connection for generations to come. We’re immensely grateful to all our funding partners and can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors alike back through the doors of this much-loved building.

“The Harris Your Place project has been made possible thanks to the generous support of key partners. We gratefully acknowledge Preston City Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, UK Government’s Towns Fund, Lancashire County Council and Arts Council England. Their vital contributions have helped preserve The Harris for future generations while strengthening access, learning and community engagement.”

John Chesworth, Chair of Preston’s Towns Fund Board, said:

“This much-anticipated and eagerly awaited new era for The Harris represents a major element of the ongoing regeneration and rejuvenation of Preston, alongside other landmark schemes such as the transformation of Amounderness House into managed workspace and the £45m flagship Animate entertainment and leisure destination, delivering economic growth and opportunities for all in a truly revitalised city centre.”

Helen Featherstone,Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

“We are proud to be supporting the Harris Your Place project, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. Working with Preston City Council, this exciting initiative will provide a sustainable home for the Museum’s collections, which will ensure that they are accessible for local communities and visitors to learn more about the city’s rich heritage.

“We know that heritage can play a huge role furthering a sense of pride in local communities which in turn can boost the local economy, and this project is sure to be a wonderful example of that.”

County Councillor Matthew Salter, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Lancashire County Council, said:

“We’re excited to see the Preston Harris Library reopening and back in this iconic building, which is such an important part of the community.

“That’s why we have contributed £1.375m towards the project and our refreshed library. This revitalised space will continue to house Preston’s biggest library and serve as a hub for learning and education for all residents. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to this wonderful space.”

Closed since 2021, essential works have included the safe removal of asbestos from the roof, comprehensive repairs to preserve the building’s historic structure, and vital improvements to heating, lighting, and accessibility throughout the building. When it reopens, visitors can expect a fully reimagined experience, with new galleries, and community facilities.

Following the refurbishment of The Harris, annual visitors are expected to increase by approximately 100,000 on top of the existing 350,000 (in 2021).

Additionally, The Harris is unveiling a fresh new look including a redesigned logo, brand identity, and new website. The modernised branding aligns with the aims of the Harris Your Place project: inspired by community input and honouring the building’s heritage while looking confidently to the future.

More details about the reopening events, exhibitions and public programming will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information visit The Harris.