Carpenter Box recruits 26 New Trainees onto its ‘Platinum’ training programme

A career in accountancy continues to be a popular choice for many school and college leavers, university graduates and career changers, with Sussex and South East accountancy firm Carpenter Box announcing the recruitment of 26 new trainees – a record intake for the firm.  

Eleven of the new trainees have joined Carpenter Box’s Worthing office, five have taken up positions in Crawley, four in Brighton, five in Chichester and one in Portsmouth. They are spread across the firm’s Business Services Group, Assurance & Advisory Group, Tax Services Group and Starbox team, which provides expert finance and tax advice to new media companies and digital platform content creators.

Carpenter Box Managing Partner, Alan Edwards, commented: “It’s great that the firm is in the position to offer so many talented individuals the opportunity to build their career here and to be part of our ambitious growth plans for the future. 

“I hope they take inspiration from the fact that many of our current partners, including myself,  started out as trainees with Carpenter Box, and I very much look forward to seeing them thrive in what is a supportive environment as they progress towards their professional qualifications.”        

The training programme delivered by Carpenter Box has earned both ‘Approved Employer and ‘Platinum’ status. The majority of the new trainees are embarking on a career pathway towards ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) accreditation, whilst others are pursuing ACA (ICAEW Chartered Accountant) and ATT (Association of Taxation Technicians) qualifications.

For those interested in a career in accountancy, Carpenter Box is holding a Careers Open Evening on Tuesday 19^th November between 5.30pm and 7.30pm at their main offices in Crescent Road, Worthing. Click on the following link for further details: https://www.carpenterbox.com/event/open-evening/

(Image shows six of the new trainees, back row l-r: Alex Webber, Jake Solomon, James Newman & Sophie Middleton. Front row l-r is Josh Plumb & Jiaolin Chen).

www.carpenterbox.com

Stanford Legal Services recognised for excellence and innovation ahead of national awards ceremony.

Paul Stanford of Stanford Legal Services has been recognised for his commitment to innovation, service excellence, client experience and expertise having been shortlisted at a prestigious national awards ceremony in Estate Planning Consultant of the Year.

The British Wills and Probate Awards was launched in 2018 to recognise and celebrate the firms, businesses and individuals who have delivered outstanding service and expertise to clients across the wills and probate/private client sector; and is widely considered to be an indicator of excellence and trust.

Firms shortlisted have been through a rigorous process of independent scrutiny by a panel of industry professionals who arrive at the final shortlists. The winners will be announced on the 10^th October 2024 at the gala ceremony in Manchester.

Commenting on his success, Director of Stanford Legal Services, Paul Stanford said:

“I am delighted to be shortlisted for the Estate Planning Consultant of the Year award. This nomination reflects my unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service, technical knowledge, and innovative solutions. Over the years, I have strived to assist others and engage with the community, all while focusing on continuous improvement, training, and development. This dedication has allowed me to consistently exceed client expectations, as reflected in numerous 5-star Google reviews. It is an honour to be recognised as a trusted, competent, and reliable estate planning legal services adviser.

Stanford Legal Services, led by Paul Stanford, continues to set the standard in estate planning. Paul's leadership and expertise makes him a go-to resource for complex estate planning needs, earning him a stellar reputation in the industry.”

British Wills and Probate Awards Headline Sponsor CTT Group Director Clive Ponder TEP said

“It’s an absolute pleasure and a privilege to once again be headline sponsors. The BWAP Awards recognise the very best in our industry and having the honour of being a judge this year, I’ve seen first hand the talent and dedication, and the heights of achievement this industry can reach”

“Huge congratulations to all those who’ve been shortlisted for the awards. I look forward with great enthusiasm to the 2024 winners being announced at this year’s event in Manchester in October.”

The British Wills and Probate Awards is the largest event dedicated to recognising excellence in the industry. It is hosted by Today’s Media, the publishers of trade publication Today’s Wills and Probate, an online news publication for solicitors, will writers and probate practitioners.

Further details about The British Wills and Probate Awards 2024 are available at www.britishwillsandprobateawards.co.uk. 

Join Tree Action in Making a Greener Future

Tree Action is a Community Interest Company dedicated to organising tree planting and maintenance projects on school grounds and public land. Since 2020, we have funded and organised seven school tree-planting projects in Sussex, planting between 20 to 50 trees per school. Our projects aim to connect young people and nature, and improve the local environment.

Recent Case Study: Oak Grove College

We recently completed a project at Oak Grove College in Worthing. A group of enthusiastic students participated in a plum tree planting day, which included preparing the ground, planting the trees, and adding stakes for support. This initiative expanded an existing small orchard, enhancing the school’s green space.

In addition to some fruit trees, the children planted silver birch trees to help maintain a mixed woodland and absorb pollution from the nearby road. The students have taken on the responsibility of regularly watering each tree to ensure their healthy growth. This project is a school-wide effort, with many year groups participating in various activities such as weeding and watering to help maintain the trees planted.

Many schools don’t have the time or resources to deliver a tree planting project on school grounds, so we fundraise and plan projects for them, enabling students to connect with and appreciate nature and contribute to combatting climate change.

We are asking for donations to continue our work. By becoming a regular donor or corporate partner, you can make a significant impact on our local environment and community, and fulfill your sustainability goals too. In return for your support, your company is welcome to engage staff in our tree-planting projects in the Adur and Worthing area. Additionally, you can display our ‘We Help Tree Action Plant Trees’ logo on your website, to showcase your commitment to sustainability.

For more information, please feel free to visit our website at: www.treeactionuk.org

Or contact us at ricky@treeaction.org.uk

St Mary’s Church in Horsham receives commemorative plaque to mark award-winning renovation

Handover ceremony after Pilbeam Construction named as winner in Sussex Heritage Trust Awards. 

St Mary’s Church in Horsham has a received a special plaque after a renovation project at the church by Southwick firm Pilbeam Construction won a Sussex Heritage Trust award.

The aim of the renovation was to improve flexibility of space in the South Aisle of the Grade-1 listed building in Causeway, Horsham, which in part dates back to 1247.

It also saw underfloor heating installed, creating a comfortable space for people to take refreshments during concerts and after services.

Judges were so impressed with the sensitive way it was achieved that they awarded the project first place in the Ecclesiastical category.

Now, having picked up the award in a ceremony at Lancing College Chapel, Pilbeam returned to Horsham to hand over a commemorative plaque to the church.

Nick O’Riordan at St Mary’s said: “We’re absolutely delighted with this award-winning project and the way it has transformed the space at St Mary’s.

“A lot of people have remarked on how wonderful it looks, completely in keeping with this very special and historic building.

“Many congratulations to Pilbeam Construction for being honoured in this way and for working with us so closely on the project. We’ll be very proud to display the plaque and to welcome people to enjoy the South Aisle at St Mary’s with us.”

Expertise was required to complete the renovation, which included digging down to put in insulation for underfloor heating pipes before adding a screed layer and ceramic tiles.

These were then topped with stylish Clipsham Stone tiles, expertly laid next to the church’s existing Victorian floor tiles.

All these works needed to be carried out with minimal disruption and damage to the fabric of the building, including the church’s famous Father Willis organ.

Alan Corbett, managing director at Pilbeam Construction, said: “This was a special project to be involved in and we were delighted to see it win an award.

“Then to come back and present a plaque to our friends at St Mary’s, and see for ourselves how well the project has been received, was inspiring. We hope the newly renovated space will be used and appreciated for many years to come.”

For more information please visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/

Criminal Groups Targeting Charities and Not For Profit Landowners in the South East

 We have received a message from the Environmental Crime Agency asking that we raise awareness around the risks of serious and organised waste crime to landowners, who can leave charitable organisations with substantial clean up costs, that can run into tens of thousands of pounds. 

There is a criminal group currently operating across the South East, where offenders have targeted scout groups.

The offenders’ method involves making an unsolicited approach to charity landowners in person/phone call or email offering free or low-cost landscaping/resurfacing, sometimes in exchange for storing some ‘soil’ on your land. 

The material is waste that has been processed, and to the untrained eye can look like a pile of soil. The cost of clearance falls to the landowner including the landfill tax, which can be substantial. A charity site has been targeted this year in Berkshire and approximately 100,000 tonnes of processed waste has been tipped. 

It is highly likely that offenders are currently scouting for new land, although two individuals were arrested for these offences on the 19th June 2024 and are currently on bail whilst investigative enquiries continue.

Please find some information here for the benefit of charity and not for profit landowners. The offenders are experienced and well organised, so please encourage your staff and volunteers if they are approached by individuals or companies offering to do free or low-cost landscaping, resurfacing or similar, be suspicious and to report their concerns promptly to the Environment Agency (0800 80 70 60) or via Crimestoppers.

GWCA Partner with Worthing Football Club

GWCA Solicitors are delighted to announce that we have partnered with Worthing Football Club and become a premium sponsor for the upcoming 2024/2025 season.

Worthing Rebels have played at Woodside Road since 1901 and are the most successful team in the Sussex Senior Cup, having won the competition 22 times. The club has gained two promotions to the National League South and the Rebels finished the 2022/23 season in their highest-ever league position in their 137-year history.

GWCA Solicitors started out in in 1915 and, like the football club, has been at the heart of the Sussex community ever since. We have a great reputation for helping people with life’s big decisions. This partnership with Worthing F.C will help develop and strengthen relationships with current and prospective clients, together with key local business and communities.

GWCA have been a statement of the Sussex legal community for over 100 years and have prided themselves by being the largest local solicitor firm in Sussex and the South coast, providing legal services for individuals and businesses. Our offices are in local towns around Worthing and across the South coast. We are proud of our strong ties with the local communities and organisations.

As part of the sponsorship, GWCA Solicitors will have prominent advertising areas within The Sussex Transport Community Stadium. You will see this as you walk into the stadium on the fencing to your left, around the pitch and in match day programmes.

Emma Chatwell, GWCA Senior Partner said “We are a local firm keen to support and promote other local businesses and are delighted to become the clubs’ one of the clubs’ premium sponsors. We are proud to stand with Worthing Football Club and look forward to supporting them as we support all existing and new clients, in every aspect of their lives.”

Inspire You Member Case Study

1. What do you do? 

We champion mental fitness for improved performance and productivity on individual, team, and organisational levels. 

With science-backed approaches, our award-winning therapy, training, and coaching business enhances motivation, connection, and stress management. 

Our bespoke solutions include workshops, webinars, and personalised coaching, bolstered by innovative online platforms and partnerships. 

With core values in Freedom, Fun and making a difference we empower organisations to thrive.

2. Why did you join the Chamber? 

I joined the chamber to connect with the local business community , seeking opportunities for collaboration, growth, and community engagement. By aligning with like-minded entrepreneurs and businesses, and accessing exclusive events, and workshops, my aim was to bolster my brand awareness and credibility within the Adur and Worthing area. Ultimately, my vision is to foster sustainable relationships, and leverage collective expertise, shopping local and being able to work ON the business as well as IN. I get energised by my local tribe.

3. What's your favourite thing about being a member? 

My favourite thing about being a member is having regular meet ups with business friends, learning something new and having fun, which when working on your own A gets me out of the house and B keeps me connected and allows me to learn from others. The sense of belonging the Chamber fosters is invaluable to me. Through regular meetups, I not only expand my professional network but I can also sound off to fellow business owners who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of being on the business journey. These connections go beyond business; they provide a supportive community that energises and motivates me. Furthermore, being part of the Chamber reinforces my commitment to personal and professional development, offering insights and perspectives that enrich my journey as a business leader especially around topics that are not my core knowledge.

www.inspire-you.co.uk

AD Fuels - Member Case Study

1. What do you do? 

I am the MD of AD Fuels, a future fuel business transporting Biomethane in both compressed and cryogenic liquid form. The fuel is used by transport operators, industry and marine and replaces the resilience on heavy oils such as diesel. The gas, especially if created through the process of anaerobic digestion, is 90% cleaner for the environment than current fuels. Our customer base is features ASDA, Tesco, Calmac Ferries, John Lewis, etc. Additionally, we also transport cryogenic liquid carbon dioxide, a by-product of anaerobic digestion, for use in the food and beverage, medical and industrial arena. Since our inception in 2018 we have quickly become the largest independently operated LNG and CNG haulier in the UK. We employ locally and currently have an employee base of 50. 

2. Why did you join the Chamber? 

We chose to join the Chamber about 3 years ago to network locally, (although our client base is national and even international) and see if we could better use local support companies, such as web design, HR, payroll, and IT.

We have met serval people who have all helped in our growth and development along the way. We also wanted to take advantage of some of the training the Chamber offered and attend the various speaker sessions which prove to be rewarding.

www.adfuels.co.uk

Fizz Creations - Member Case Study

1. What do you do? 

We sell fun novelty gifts & ranges to independent, national and international customers. We bring a smile to peoples faces.

2. Why did you join the Chamber? 

To meet other local businesses, share experiences learn from them, help each other and grow together, and to source services locally where we can.

3. What's your favourite thing about being a member? 

Hearing other peoples stories and meeting some amazing & inspiring local business people.

www.fizzcreations.com

Mindworks Escape Rooms - Member Case Study

1. What do you do? 

Mindworks Escape Rooms is a family-run, independent business which came to Worthing Town Centre in 2020 with their debut, totally original escape room game 'Smuggler's Ruin'. Now with 'Trapped For Cash' and 'Mission Berlin', Mindworks is proudly the home of THREE multi-award winning, 5-star-rated immersive experiences! Dive into the puzzle-solving adventures and unravel the mysteries! With 60 minutes on the clock, will you and your team outwit the challenges!?

2. Why did you join the Chamber? 

Mindworks was eager to join Worthing Chamber as local community means a lot to us. We're a small team, who have grown-up, live and work in Worthing. By being a part of the Chamber, we love being able to help promote our new, fun and unique leisure activity for Worthing - as well as trying to support other local businesses too! The Chamber events are always so valuable, and have led to many new connections, friends and collaborations! We're already looking forward to the next Better Business Show!

3. What's your favourite thing about being a member? 

We adore seeing teams' reactions to our experiences! After designing and building our games from the ground up, it means so much when we see everyone's excitement to cracking our puzzles, unraveling the stories we've created, and sharing their victories...!! Our favourite thing so far about being a Chamber member was treating the hard-working Chamber team themselves to a dose of escapism and fun team-building, and seeing them conquer the escape rooms!! They're an amazing team, so a lot of fun to host and work with.

www.mindworks-escaperooms.co.uk