Henry King features in February's Funeral Service Journal

Henry was asked to take part in '20 Questions' in the February edition of the Funeral Service Journal. If you have a copy, head to page 62 to check it out! Henry said "This is a national journal so it's been nice to receive messages from funeral directors I have met all over the country."

1. What’s the most unusual request you’ve ever had? I am a big advocate for 'unusual requests'. Too often we hear families suggest music choices, followed by 'that isn't funeral appropriate'. Instead, we should be celebrating the individual. The first thought that came to mind was a family who brought two bags to the service: one with scrunched up wrapping paper and the other with pegs. As the service concluded, a wrapping paper throwing fight broke out, as the family did every Christmas. The pegs were used during the reception, to discretely attach a peg to any individual - but don't get caught! 

2. How did you fulfil it? The answer is yes - what's the question?
3. What would you want your funeral to be like? If I was to pass away tomorrow, I would like the full hog. Placed on a gun carriage and pulled through the village by black Frisesian horses. Marching band. Carried into St James the Less Church and left in repose. Heaviest coffin you can imagine. Jerusalem to be sung. And yes, I've already told my partner - pre planning!
4. Burial or cremation? I think cremation. I like the idea that 'land is for the living' and my ashes could be scattered in a memorable place for my family to visit. 
5. What song(s) would you want played at your funeral? I enjoy a vast variety of music genres, but I'd have to choose something by Edward Elgar, with London Grammar thrown in too. ‘Jerusalem’ has to be sung!
6. What attracted you to the funeral sector? My father worked in the industry, so I've grown up with it. I started casual pallbearing with him aged 16, as he didn't want me 'sitting at home on the PlayStation'. My intentions were joining the Royal Air Force, but after acquiring a full-time position aged 18, I enjoyed it that much I decided to stay. Here I am, 15 years later.
7. What’s the one thing you wish you’d known when you started? That you cannot hold onto the information of every funeral you conduct. I would walk down the high street; notice a client and I could tell you everything about the funeral we arranged 2-3 years prior. From music, to coffin, officiant, how many order of service booklets they had, how many limousines they had. It was unhealthy and it affected me mentally. 
8. If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be and why? Regulation. I take huge pride investing in my facilities, insuring we have the best equipment and care for our families and deceased. 
9. What worries you most about your business? I worry about the mental impact direct cremations are having on families. I'm not saying direct cremation is wrong and nobody should have it, but too often I'm hearing from families 'I want Dad to have a funeral, but he wanted direct cremation'. They're torn between getting the closure that will help in grief, but also respecting their father's wishes. I'm seeing families 12 months later regretting choosing a direct cremation and the realisation of the impact it will have on their mental health. 
10. What is the best part of your job? Hearing 'thank you' from a family. During what is often the most difficult time in someone's life, they take the time to thank you for the service you have provided.
11. What’s the worst? Finding a healthy balance between work and personal life. Working in this industry, we know life is too short. It's important to get that balance right.
12. What three words best describe your life in the funeral sector? Inspiring. Thankful. Legacy.
13. What advice would you give someone joining the sector now? Know your values and stick by them!
14. What’s the worst mistake you’ve ever made? Failing to understand how to run a business. You can be the best funeral director in the county, but if you don't understand business, how good you are becomes irrelevant.
15. What did you learn from it? How to recognise working 'in' the business and 'on' the business. Understanding that makes a huge difference in growth.
16. When and where were you at your happiest? When my son was born. I have a photograph of him being born, and in the same frame is my beaming, smiling face. My face hurts at the thought of how big my smile was. He changed the perspective of life and I will forever be grateful - he's only two and doesn't know it!
17. Who or what has been your biggest influence? My Dad. He believed in me and supported me when I decided to open my office in 2017. He sadly passed away in 2021 and I hope he is proud of the legacy and I continue in his name. I've written a few blogs on my website about him, including when he died. His photographs are proudly displayed in my office.
18. What are you most proud of and why? Proving the haters wrong. I was 23 when I opened my office and I got a lot of stick for it. Larger funeral directors made it difficult for me at the start, but I'm proud of the business I have created.
19. What is your biggest regret? Fiddling with the VCR when my Dad taped WrestleMania in the early 2000s. I didn't believe he had woken up to record it, so I aged around 8-10 I took it upon myself to push buttons, ultimately stopping the recording. I was so upset the following morning that I faked an illness to be off school and borrowed a friend's tape recording!
20. How do you want to be remembered? As a man my son would be proud to call 'dad'.

FluidOne share how Microsoft Copilot can save time for Chamber member businesses

As a Chamber member, Fluid One works closely with small and medium sized organisations to help them improve productivity and make better use of the technology they already have. In this article, the Fluid One team share practical insights on Microsoft 365 Copilot, exploring how accessible AI tools can help Chamber member businesses save time, reduce everyday admin, and support teams facing the pressures of 2026.

An accessible opportunity for SMBs facing the challenges of 2026

For small and medium‑sized businesses, 2026 begins with a familiar challenge: producing more, faster, with limited teams and ongoing budget pressure. In this context, the arrival of AI tools that are accessible, easy to deploy, and genuinely useful in day‑to‑day work marks an important turning point. Among these, Microsoft 365 Copilot Business is emerging as a practical productivity driver; not a gadget, but a tool that integrates directly into the applications SMBs already use.

Why is Copilot becoming a strong asset for SMBs?

A large part of lost time in businesses comes from repetitive tasks, starting documents from scratch or sorting through long email threads. Work is taking longer than it should, good ideas get stuck in drafts, and frustrations rise as things fail to move forward as quickly as they need to.

On average, employees using Copilot save around 2.3 hours per week¹, time they can reinvest in higher‑value work. Copilot automates or accelerates these actions by relying on the data and tools teams already use. Unlike general AI tools, Copilot works directly within Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, OneDrive) allowing it to operate with context, accuracy and in line with the organisation’s security rules.

What can Copilot do for your team every day?

Copilot supports teams by helping them work more efficiently in the flow of work, boosting productivity without increasing costs and allowing them to focus on what matters most:

An accessible investment for small organisations

Integrated AI was once reserved for large enterprises, but Microsoft has introduced a dedicated Copilot plan designed to make AI genuinely accessible for SMBs, at a predictable and controlled cost.

For many small businesses, this removes the usual barriers to entry, allowing teams to explore AI in a practical way, without heavy upfront investment or complex implementation. It is a straightforward way to test real productivity gains, backed by familiar Microsoft 365 tools and simplified support.

Conclusion

Copilot gives SMBs exactly what they need: fewer admin bottlenecks, faster output, and secure automation built directly into the tools teams already use.

A promotional Copilot offer is available until March 31st, making now a strong opportunity to get started with minimal risk and maximum value. Click here to find out more.

¹ Source: Vodafone, Microsoft & KPMG – Microsoft 365 Copilot Productivity Trial Results (2024)

GWCA Solicitors Announced as Headline Sponsor for Worthing Museum and Art Gallery

GWCA Solicitors is delighted to announce a new partnership with Worthing Theatres and Museum (WTM) , who will serve as Headline Sponsor for the highly anticipated reopening of Worthing Museum and the landmark OPEN26 exhibition.

The year-long sponsorship will see GWCA Solicitors support the Museum's long-awaited reopening in late March 2026, following an extensive refurbishment project made possible through major funding from Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation and Museum Development South East. The redevelopment project has also been generously supported by local donors who have collectively raised over £15,000 through the Reimagining Worthing Museum campaign.

As Headline Sponsor, GWCA will be prominently featured throughout the reopening celebrations as well as the OPEN26 exhibition running from March to September. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting arts, heritage and community engagement in Worthing and the wider West Sussex region. GWCA's sponsorship will support a comprehensive programme of exhibitions and events throughout the year, helping to ensure the Museum remains accessible and welcoming for all.

Yemisi Mokuolu, Chair of Worthing Theatres and Museum, said: "We are thrilled to welcome GWCA Solicitors as Headline Sponsor for this momentous occasion in Worthing Museum's history. Their support demonstrates a genuine commitment to enriching cultural life in Worthing. This partnership will help us create an unforgettable reopening experience for our community and ensure that the Museum's return is celebrated in the way it deserves."

Emma Chatwell, Senior Partner at GWCA Solicitors, said: "GWCA Solicitors is proud to support Worthing Museum as it embarks on this exciting new chapter. The Museum is a vital cultural asset for our community, and we believe strongly in supporting local institutions that bring people together and enrich our town. This partnership represents a long-term commitment from GWCA to the Museum and to Worthing's cultural offering. We are looking forward to the reopening celebrations in March and to playing our part in ensuring the Museum's continued success throughout 2026 and beyond."

Ropetackle and Pilbeam Construction celebrate new partnership

Ropetackle Arts Centre has kicked off the new year on a positive note, announcing Southwick-based Pilbeam Construction as its latest business sponsor.

Chartered building company Pilbeam Construction is a well-established local success story, with strong foundations. Trading since 1955, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, complex projects on time and within budget.

Pilbeam Construction specialises in the design, build and management of projects within the residential, commercial, health and care, education, heritage and ecclesiastical sectors.

Martin Allen, Chairman of Ropetackle Arts Centre, said: “We’re delighted to welcome such a prestigious company to our growing group of business sponsors and really look forward to working with them over the coming years. Pilbeam represents many of the values we hold dear, including a strong community-focused ethos and an excellent ‘can-do’ attitude.”

Alan Corbett, Managing Director of Pilbeam says: “We’re looking forward to supporting Ropetackle which is only down the road from us.

“We know it brings a lot of joy to people living in Shoreham and beyond. We’re very proud to support this registered charity as it continues to deliver a fantastic programme.

“The Pilbeam Construction team love working on projects locally that make people’s lives better, so they will really love supporting Ropetackle too.”

The new partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence and supporting the local community, and marks an exciting step forward for both organisations.

Attracting audiences of more than 50,000 per year, supported by 600 plus Friends and Patrons and 80 plus volunteers, Ropetackle plays a unique and established role at the heart of the community, contributing around £1.4m annually to the local economy.

Ropetackle’s sponsorship scheme allows businesses to maximise brand awareness within the venue and brochure, capitalise on Ropetackle's digital presence and contribute to their corporate social responsibility objectives.

West Sussex Mind benefits from donated renovation work thanks to Southern Housing and HG Construction grant!

Vikki Turpin, manager of the Adur support hub, said: “We want our building to feel welcoming and safe, as it can feel like a big step asking for help

Mental health charity, West Sussex Mind, has received a donation of ‘work in kind’ from Southern Housing and HG Construction, transforming Corner House, its support hub in Southwick for people experiencing mental health difficulties.

The work was carried out by HG Construction at the end of 2025 to renovate and redecorate areas used for one-to-one support appointments and social activities for the charity’s service users.

The site is a converted old house, dating back to the late 19th century, and is used to deliver front-line mental health services. However, some of the areas needed renovation to create a more welcoming environment for service users and to free up more space for social activities, such as art, creative writing and get togethers, which the charity runs for people it supports. 

In 2024-25, the Adur support hub: 

·    Supported 346 service users with their mental health

·    Held 66 social activities

·    Hosted 59 mental health workshops and support groups with a total of 258 attendances.

Southern Housing and HG Construction worked closely with Vikki Turpin, manager of the Adur support hub, and Mark Palmer-Wilson, West Sussex Mind’s facilities manager, to scope out the work and complete the renovation with minimal disruption to employees and service users.

The team went above and beyond, renovating and reflooring the art room and one-to-one appointment rooms, as well as the social activities room, hallways and stairs, and downstairs lounge and toilet. 

The renovation has been positively received among staff and service users – with one service user commenting: “I love the redecoration in the social activities room and I find the green [colour] really calming.” 

"We are grateful to Southern Housing and HG Construction for their ‘work in kind’ donation, which has transformed our support hub and people’s experience here. It's been great to give a much-needed refresh to the building that will benefit the community’s mental health and wellbeing for years to come."

Sophie Lowe, social value lead at Southern Housing, said: “We are delighted to be able to support West Sussex Mind and the amazing work they do in Adur and beyond supporting so many people in the local community.

“The Corner House is an important community venue and the renovation work completed by HG Construction has transformed the spaces. It’s been a pleasure to be able to support this project.”

Member Case Study: Andrew Lake – Soundcheck Audio Visual

With over three decades at the forefront of live entertainment, theatre, corporate events, and international productions, I am delighted to reintroduce myself to the Worthing and Adur Chamber community. As founder of Soundcheck Audio Visual Services, my career has been built on delivering seamless technical solutions and unforgettable experiences across meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.

From BBC touring productions to national theatre shows, cruise ship entertainment, and high-profile corporate gatherings, I have honed a reputation for precision, creativity, and operational excellence. My expertise spans advanced sound engineering, event design, and technical management, ensuring that every production, whether a boardroom presentation or a large-scale exhibition runs flawlessly. Along the way, I’ve been privileged to receive multiple industry awards, recognising not only technical mastery but also the collaborative spirit and premium service that underpin my work.

As we look ahead to 2026, I invite fellow Chamber members to consider how my knowledge and experience could elevate your upcoming events. Whether you’re planning a conference for 200 delegates that demands clarity and impact, an exhibition with Keynote stage and breakout rooms, or a meeting where every detail matters, Soundcheck AV brings the assurance of seasoned professionalism combined with a fresh, client-focused approach.

And for Chamber members, don’t miss our exclusive special offer, available now on the Members Offer page. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore how Soundcheck AV can support your next event while enjoying added value as part of your membership.

Events are opportunities to inspire, connect, and impress. With Soundcheck AV, you gain a partner who understands the stakes and delivers with confidence. Let’s talk about how we can make your next event not just successful, but exceptional.

www.soundcheck-avs.co.uk

George Square Financial Management Financial Market Commentary in Conjunction with Albemarle Street Partners

International Equities Strongest Year in Nearly a Decade

Global equities ended 2025 near all-time highs, driven by earnings strength despite persistent political and macro uncertainty. The outperformance of non-U.S. equities and the AI investment narrative remained focal points in December, though with growing complexity beneath the surface.

AI leaders Oracle and Broadcom posted strong results but suffered share price declines as investors questioned capital expenditure and the sustainability of revenue growth. Investors are increasingly differentiating between AI companies rather than buying the sector indiscriminately. The enthusiasm that propelled valuations to three-year highs now faces scrutiny over returns on AI-related investments.

The US Federal Reserve cut policy rates by 25 basis points to 3.75%, its third consecutive reduction. Chair Powell adopted a cautious stance towards further easing, however. Delayed macro data in the US show a slowing labour market, with unemployment rising to 4.6%, falling inflationary pressure, as core CPI is at its lowest since early 2021, and weakness in manufacturing. Payroll growth stalled, with job losses in three of the last six months. Despite this, third-quarter GDP expanded 4.3%, its strongest pace in two years. This contrast makes monetary policy difficult, and we need to be mindful of this in our asset allocation decisions.

UK GDP contracted 0.1% in October, marking a second consecutive monthly decline. Consumer weakness compounded disinflationary pressures, with CPI easing to 3.2%. The Bank of England cut rates by 25 basis points in a narrow 5-4 vote but signalled future reductions would be "closer calls". Business activity showed modest recovery following the Autumn Budget, with the composite PMI improving to 52.1.

The ECB held rates steady despite modest upgrades to growth and inflation forecasts for 2026. The Bank of Japan proceeded with normalisation, lifting rates to 0.75%. Long-dated yields climbed across developed markets despite widespread easing. This reflects persistent fiscal pressures complicating the transition to neutral policy.

The macro picture is one of near-term weakness, though market participants remain hopeful that reacceleration of global growth is achievable in the second half of 2026. This optimism underpins current positioning but leaves a limited margin for disappointment given elevated valuations and compressed credit spreads.

Commodities presented a mixed picture. Gold rose 1%, capping a 54% gain over the year. Copper rallied 8% on AI infrastructure investment themes. This stands in stark contrast to oil, which posted its worst year since the pandemic. Brent fell 24% (£ terms) over the year amid a persistent supply glut. Even the unexpected capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3rd failed to push energy prices materially higher.

The historic linkage of geopolitical unrest to markets has been rendered largely ineffectual through the lack of energy price pass-through. This phenomenon persisted throughout 2025, with geopolitical developments and market performance notably diverging. The implications for portfolio construction are significant as some hedges against geopolitical risk have proven less effective.

As we exit 2025, several factors support risk assets. Earnings growth is accelerating from high single digits to low double digits year-over-year. Policy rates are falling, which is supportive for both bonds and equities. Corporate balance sheets remain strong. These fundamentals underpin current valuations despite stretched multiples. The next three to six months are expected to deliver uncomfortably slow employment growth. This creates an uncomfortable backdrop for broadening equity participation until clear signs of reacceleration emerge.

U.S. equities declined 1.14% in December as market leadership rotated from technology mega-caps towards more cyclical industrial and material companies. Small-capitalisation stocks fell 1.04%. Full-year returns reached 9.29%, respectable but trailing international developed markets. Current technical indicators favour large caps over small, suggesting caution about recovery breadth.

UK and European equities delivered December's strongest returns. UK large-caps advanced 2.45%, finishing the year up 25.82%, the strongest performance since the global financial crisis. UK mid-caps rose 2.26%, ending up 12.97%. European indices rose 2.12%, capping a 26.10% gain. Asian equities gained 0.93%, with Korea and Taiwan recovering strongly from November weakness.

Fixed income showed sector bifurcation. Government bonds posted negative returns as yields rose. Credit sectors outperformed. High-yield debt returned .89%. Tight spreads reflect limited default risk, looser monetary policy, and abundant capital access, but present valuation challenges.

The content of this material is a marketing communication, and not independent investment research. As such, the legal and regulatory requirements in relation to independent investment research do not apply to this material and it is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of its dissemination. The material is for general information purposes only (whether or not it states any opinions). It does not consider your personal circumstances or objectives. Nothing in this material is (or should be considered to be) legal, financial, investment or other advice on which reliance should be placed. No opinion given in the material constitutes a recommendation by George Square Financial Management that any particular investment, security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. Although the information set out in this marketing communication is obtained from sources believed to be reliable George Square Financial Management make any guarantee as to its accuracy or completeness. George Square Financial Management shall not be responsible for any loss that you may incur, either directly or indirectly, arising from any investment based on any information contained herein.. George Square Financial Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Andy's Angels and Electric Storm Youth Collaboration.

Andy’s Angels, a bereavement charity dedicated to supporting children and families through grief, is proud to announce an exciting new collaboration with Electric Storm Youth. Beginning in January 2026, the partnership will deliver a youth work project at the Andy’s Angels Grief Play Café, designed to give young people a safe, creative, and supportive space to explore their emotions and connect with others who understand.

The Grief Play Café, a welcoming drop-in hub where families can come together to talk, play, and heal, has already made a significant difference to many local families. With Electric Storm Youth joining the project, young people aged 10–18 will now have access to dedicated youth sessions, offering activities, group discussions, and creative expression opportunities led by a qualified youth worker.

“We know how important it is for young people to have somewhere they feel understood,” said Kayla Shepherd, Founder of Andy’s Angels. “By working with Electric Storm Youth, we’re creating a space that combines grief support with youth empowerment, helping young people process loss in healthy, positive ways.”

Electric Storm Youth, known for its innovative work supporting young people across Lancing, Sompting and the wider Adur area, will bring expertise in youth engagement, mental wellbeing, and creative participation.

Together, the two charities aim to reduce isolation, build resilience, and promote open conversations about loss.

Grief can feel incredibly isolating for young people,” said Karen Jefford, CEO of Electric Storm Youth. “Through this partnership, we can give them somewhere safe to just be, to talk, connect, and know they’re not on their own. It’s about helping them find strength and hope in their own time, in their own way.

With the financial support and sincere thanks to The David Hunt Trust, the new youth project sessions will run monthly at the Grief Play Café from January 2026.

Not one, but two Worthing Women Named Among UK’s Top 100 Most Inspiring Female Entrepreneurs

Kelly O’Haire, Director of Constructive Marketing, and Rachael Dines, Director of Shake It Up Creative, have been named in the f:Entrepreneur iAlso 100 for 2026. The prestigious campaign, run by Small Business Britain, celebrates 100 incredible female entrepreneurs from across the UK who are driving growth and making a positive impact in their communities, while running successful businesses.

With over 50 years of specialist marketing experience between them, both women contribute significantly to the Worthing & Adur Chamber of Commerce and have been driving forces in helping hundreds of businesses scale and improve their digital presence. Kelly has a degree in Public Relations and runs Constructive Marketing, which specialises in the building and construction sectors while Rachael is a Chartered Marketer and runs Shake it Up Creative, which specialises in small businesses and non-profits.

Their inclusion in the iAlso 100 highlights their impact not just as business founders but as multi-achieving leaders who balance expert marketing delivery with other roles. Kelly is the Chair of Trustees for Sight Support Worthing, the Chair of Worthing Business Circle and has provided many voluntary hours of business mentoring to others.  In the same vein, Rachael is Chair of the English Martyrs Primary School registered charity, sits on the West Sussex Economic Growth Board and is a voluntary Expert in Residence for Business & IP Centre Sussex and Community Works.

“It is brilliant to feature Rachael and Kelly in this year’s #IAlso100 campaign. All of the female entrepreneurs in this year’s line-up are inspirational and remarkable role models,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, CEO and Founder of Small Business Britain.

“Their creativity, leadership, and community impact show exactly why supporting female founders is so important, not only for the UK’s economic growth but for the positive difference they make to wider society.”

“I am incredibly honoured to be recognised alongside such a dynamic group of women,” said Kelly, Founder and Director of Constructive Marketing.

As iAlso 100 members, the women will have access to exclusive events, opportunities to speak on national panels, and a platform to contribute to policy discussions impacting female business owners.

“I can’t wait to expand my network with, and learn from, brilliant, high-achieving women from across the country”, said Rachael, Founder and Director of Shake It Up Creative.

To view the full list of the 100 female business owners featured in this year’s f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100 campaign, visit https://f-entrepreneur.com/ialso-100-2026/

Call for Evidence on the tax support provided for entrepreneurs

At a recent Chamber breakfast members commented that the taxation systems are not founder friendly. Entrepreneurs are vital to the growth mission, and the government is focussed on making the UK the most attractive place in the world for founders to start and scale their businesses to success.

A call for evidence came out with the budget report on the tax support provided to entrepreneurs. This Call for Evidence seeks views on the effectiveness of existing tax incentives, and the wider tax system, for business founders and scaling firms, and how the UK can better support these companies to start, scale and stay in the UK. The government will consider responses when developing further potential reforms to tax support for entrepreneurs. Please ensure you have your say, the call for evidence closes on 28^th February 2026

In the 2025 Budget report (PDF) the government announced it had launched a call for evidence on the tax support provided for entrepreneurs:

4.72 Call for Evidence into the tax support for entrepreneurs – The government has published a Call for Evidence that seeks views on the effectiveness of existing tax incentives, and the wider tax system for business founders and scaling firms, and how the UK can better support these companies to start, scale and stay in the UK. The Call for Evidence will close on 28 February 2026.

 Full details are set out here: Tax Support for Entrepreneurs: Call for Evidence - GOV.UK.