Upcoming Events

See page 20

Key announcements from

Autumn Statement 2016

See pages 4 - 6

Chamber Of Commerce & Industry Ltd REPRESENTING AND WORKING FOR SOMERSET BUSINESSES www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

December 2016 /

January 2017 SOMERSET

The Somerset Business Magazine

Autumn Statement

Events

A review of the 2016

Somerset Chamber AGM

See pages 10 & 11

AGM 2016

Highlights of the

dazzling Awards 2016

See pages 14 - 18

SBA 2016

“We thoroughly enjoyed our day

out supporting a well worthy

charity, it was superbly

organised and we look forward to

attending other events in

future.”

- Andrew Jeanes

Full story page 16

Fond Farewell

A fond farewell to

Graham Knight

See page 3

Celebrating Business

Success in Somerset:

The Somerset

Business Award

Winners are

Revealed...

Full highlights page 14

Dale Edwards reflects on his first 12

months as Chief Executive

Time flies when you are having fun, or as my parents

said to me a few years ago, it flies as you get older!

Whether it is fun or age, my first 12 months as Chief

Executive of Somerset Chamber of Commerce have

absolutely flown by and whilst at times it has been

challenging, overall it has been exceptionally rewarding.

2016 is likely to be remembered for generations to

come as the year that the UK began to significantly

change its relationship with the world following the decision in June by the British

electorate to leave the EU. The resulting change of Prime Minister and the ongoing

devolution debate means that the UK and Somerset have reached an important

milestone.

As a result, early next year Somerset Chamber will be launching its new three year

‘Business Manifesto for Somerset’ which concentrates on key themes identified by

our Chamber members and the wider business and economic community of Somerset.

One of these areas is the decision by both EDF and the government to approve the

building of Hinkley Point C, which has the potential to be a ‘game changer’ for

Somerset and the South West.

Our relationship with EDF Energy continues to be strengthened and their commitment

to provide opportunities for Somerset and South West businesses continues to be

steadfast, with over £465 million contracts already awarded to South West

businesses, many of which are in Somerset, creating 650 new skilled jobs. New

opportunities will continue to be presented and l look forward to announcing many

more successes over the coming months and years.

As the year draws to a close, the Chamber will be saying farewell to our Chairman,

Graham Knight, along with fellow Board Directors, Martin Lock, Carly Warren and

Steve Leahy who are all leaving after loyal and valued full terms of service. I am sure

it will be “au reviour” rather than goodbye.

I am very proud of what the team has achieved this year, and with the coming New

Year, we will continue to help people and businesses connect, influence and represent

Somerset both regionally and nationally and provide opportunities to grow.

Dale Edwards

CEO, Somerset Chamber of Commerce

Front cover image courtesy of Simon York Photography.

Pictured (left to right): Dale Edwards, Somerset Chamber | Alex Lovell, BBC Presenter | Richard Bugler, Albert Goodman | Graham Knight, Somerset Chamber

Contents

2. A Note from Dale

3. Farewell from

Graham Knight

4. Autumn Statement

2016

7. Business News

10. Full house for

Somerset Chamber

AGM

14. SBA 2016: Winners

revealed

19. New Members

20. Upcoming Events

With Thanks to our Patrons

A Note from Dale

About us Magazine Editors

Carla Tier

Scarlett Scott-Collins

Address:

Somerset Chamber of Commerce

Equity House

Blackbrook Park Avenue

Blackbrook Business Park

Taunton

Somerset

TA1 2PX

01823 444924

magazine@somerset-chamber.co.uk

www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

Working in conjunction with the

following Somerset Chamber

members to produce and distribute

this edition:

Character Graphics

Dome Marketing

2

Farewell from Graham Knight

Graham Knight steps down as Chair of the

Somerset Chamber after six dedicated

years of service. Here, Graham writes his

final Chamber column; a fond farewell to

our valued members, and all those he has

worked with over the years

As this magazine goes to

print in December, we are

just after our 2016 AGM and

I have said farewell to the

Board and my duties as

Chairman. The constitution

dictates a maximum term for

a board member of six years

and a maximum of three

years for a Chairman, both of

which I have now reached. I

have been honoured and

privileged to hold these

positions and sincerely thank all members for their support

and encouragement, not to mention their good company,

indeed not just in that time but in the ten years since I

attended my very first event. I shall truly miss it all.

At the AGM, we also said farewell at Board level to Martin

Lock, Carly Warren and Steve Leahy, all of whom have

made exceptional contributions over their terms. We

remain grateful to them all. With the departure of a total of

four Board members including myself, we welcome Matt

Tudor, Nick Farrant, Jez Curwin and Abbie Kench as fully-

fledged Member Directors. We wish them well and thank

them in advance for their commitment.

We have long known that one of the main reasons for

joining the Chamber is the networking opportunities. We

have worked hard to achieve excellent standards for our

events and to professionally welcome all delegates. I never

underestimate the challenge of walking for the first time into

a room of strangers, all of whom seem to know one another.

For those who find that a personal challenge, I simply

encourage you to come along and join in. Not only will you

make great contacts but you will meet great people, and soon

you will be a stranger no longer. And it really helps with

making the most of your membership!

Networking also helps you to make sense of the ever

changing business world we now inhabit. In the wake of the

vote to leave the European Union, the priority must be to

boost business confidence at a time of political and

economic transition. While the Bank of England should be

commended for showing clear leadership, the monetary

policy tools at its disposal have largely been exhausted. With

UK interest rates already close to zero, further cuts are

unlikely to stimulate the real economy significantly. The

diverse array of businesses that make up the membership of

accredited Chambers across the UK and globally want to see

the government deliver a detailed plan to support

investment, hiring and growth during the coming transition

period.

My thanks go to all the Chamber Board and team members;

you have been nothing short of amazing over my six years.

And my thanks to all of those members I have met and whose

company I have enjoyed. And thanks originally to the

outstanding Strode College who, ten years ago, asked me if I

might like to join in with the Street Chamber, little did I know

where that would lead.

Personally, the email

grahamknight@somerset-

chamber.co.uk will remain

live for outstanding

business for some while.

For now I am off to walk

the dog more, a 15 month

beautiful Labrador lad

needs his exercise!

3

From our team to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas

and a wonderful New Year

4

Both Somerset Chamber Chief Executive,

Dale Edwards, and Director General of the

British Chambers, Adam Marshall, have

commented on the results of the Autumn

Statement

The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement has been warmly

received by the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, although

with a call for more information on the transport and

broadband infrastructure investments.

Somerset Chamber Chief Executive, Dale Edwards, said:

“Following ongoing uncertainty in the wake of the EU

referendum result, businesses needed a clear message from

the Chancellor that would provide confidence, certainty and

inspiration, enabling them to grow and develop a robust UK

economy.

“Although the Office for Budget Responsibility has

highlighted revised downward GDP figures in anticipation of

the effects of Brexit, it is encouraging that the projections,

whilst reducing next year, indicated an upward trajectory

from 2018 onwards.

“The announcements by the Chancellor regarding

investment in transport infrastructure are welcomed, but

more information is needed about where, when and how this

will be spent, particularly for Somerset and the South West

which have been promised road and rail improvements in

previous budgets that have not yet materialised.

“Whilst the broadband funding announcements are also

very welcome, the government must ensure that counties

such as Somerset, which has a geographically dispersed

population and business community, are not left behind.

There are still too many businesses here that are

under-connected or not connected at all, and particularly

given the government’s drive to improve productivity, this

must be a priority.

Adam Marshall, BCC Director General, said:

“Philip Hammond has delivered a

responsible, solid and focused

package that will reassure both

business and markets.

“Increased resources for local and

regional transport infrastructure,

broadband, housing and

innovation will boost business

confidence at a critical moment.

The Chancellor's strong focus on

the growth

requirements of our cities, regions and nations will not go

unnoticed in business communities across the UK.

“While business communities would have liked Philip

Hammond to go even further to support growth, they will

recognise that his hands are somewhat tied by lower tax

receipts and sharply higher borrowing forecasts. The fact

that he chose to commit significant new resources to

support growth and productivity demonstrates welcome

flexibility during a period of uncertainty and change.

“There was very little support in our business communities

for further cuts to Corporation Tax, so Philip Hammond was

right to stick with existing plans. However, we would have

liked to see more action on the high up-front taxes and costs

of doing business in the UK, particularly business rates.

“The government's decision to move to a single annual set

of tax and spending commitments will be welcomed by

businesses weary of frequent and sometimes unclear

changes of direction.”

Philip Hammond MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer

Chambers respond to Chancellor’s Spending Review

5

Autumn Statement 2016

Key announcements for business in

the Chancellor’s Spending Review and

Autumn Statement

Access to Finance

The British Business Bank will invest an additional £400

million in venture capital funds for businesses looking to

scale up.

Business Rates

Rural business rates relief to double to 100% from 1

April 2017

A new 100% business rates relief for new full-fibre

infrastructure for a 5 year period from 1st April 2017

Caps for annual increase in business rates bills

following revaluation confirmed

Insurance Premium Tax will rise from 10% to 12% in

June 2017

The government will introduce a new 16.5% VAT rate

from 1st April 2017 for businesses with limited costs,

such as many labour-only businesses

The tax and employer National Insurance advantages

of salary sacrifice schemes will be removed from April

2017 (excludes childcare, Cycle to Work and ultralow

emission cars)

Rules that limit the tax deductions that large groups

that can claim for their UK interest expenses from April

2017

New penalty for any person who has enabled another

person or business to use a tax avoidance arrangement

that is later defeated by HMRC

Employee and employer National Insurance thresholds

to be equalised at £157 per week starting from April

2017

Commitment to abolish the Autumn Statement, with

Budgets happening in the autumn from next year, along

with "Spring Statement" from 2018. The Spring

Statement will typically not include tax changes

From 6th April 2017, the amount of investment social

enterprises aged up to 7 years old can raise through

Social Investment Tax Relief will increase to £1.5

million

Environmental Taxation

Fuel duty will remain frozen for the seventh year

Housing

£2.3 billion for a new Housing Infrastructure Fund (to

fund enabling infrastructure for new housing)

£1.4 billion to provide 40,000 new affordable homes

£1.7 billion to speed up the construction of new

homes on public-sector land

Fund for a large-scale regional pilot of the Right to Buy

for housing association tenants

Transport Infrastructure

£1.1bn in new investment by 2020-21 for English local

transport networks

£220m in extra funds for traffic pinch points

£390m in new funds for ultra-low emissions vehicles

(ULEVs) and connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs)

From today until end of March 2019, 100% first-year

allowances to companies investing in charge-points for

EVs

£450m between 2018-19 to 2020-21 on trialling

digital signal technology on rail network

£80m to roll out smart rail ticketing

£5m for development funding for the Midlands Rail

Hub

Local term decisions to be informed by National

Infrastructure Commission (NIC) recommendations

Govt. investment in areas the NIC covers will rise to

over 1% of GDP by 2020-21

£27m in development funding for Oxford-Cambridge

expressway

£110m for construction of East-West Rail Digital

£1 billion to support the private-sector roll out of more

full-fibre broadband by 2020-21

Funding to support trials of 5G mobile communications

technology

From April 2017 a new 100% business rates relief for

new full-fibre infrastructure for a 5 year period

Innovation, Research & Development

The new National Productivity Investment Fund (NPIF)

will be targeted at four areas: transport, digital

communications, R&D and housing. It will provide for

an extra £23 billion of spending between 2017-18 and

2021-22

The NPIF will provide an additional £4.7 billion by

2020-21 in R&D funding.

International Trade & Investment

The government will expand support for trade provided

by UK Export Finance (UKEF) by:

Doubling its total risk appetite to £5 billion

Increasing the number of pre-approved local

currencies in which UKEF can offer support from

10 to 40, enabling more overseas buyers of UK

exports to pay in their own currency

Autumn Statement 2016

6

Labour Market & Skills

National Living Wage

The National Living Wage for those aged 25 and over

will increase by 4.2% from £7.20 to £7.50 from April

2017

National Minimum Wage

The National Minimum Wage will also increase:

for 21 to 24 year olds – from £6.95 per hour to

£7.05

for 18 to 20 year olds – from £5.55 per hour to

£5.60

for 16 to 17 year olds – from £4.00 per hour to

£4.05

for apprentices – from £3.40 per hour to £3.50

Local Growth & Devolution

Confirmation of funding allocations (£1.8 billion) for LEP

areas in England through the third round of Growth

Deals (details for individual LEPs to follow in coming

months):

£556 million for the North of England

£392 million for the Midlands

£151 million for the East of England

£492 million to London and the South East

£191 million to the South west

£3.15 to Greater London Authority by 2020-21 for

affordable housing, and devolution of adult education

budget from 2019-20

Productivity Strategy for the Northern Powerhouse

published

Confirmation that government will consult on lending

local authorities up to £1 billion at a new local

infrastructure rate of gilts +60 basis points for three

years to support infrastructure projects that are high

value for money

Regional review for APD

Pensions

The Money Purchase Annual Allowance will be reduced

to £4,000 from April 2017.

The tax treatment of foreign pensions will be more

closely aligned with the UK’s domestic pension tax

regime by bringing foreign pensions and lump sums fully

into tax for UK residents, to the same extent as

domestic ones:

The government will also close specialist pension

schemes for those employed abroad (“section

615” schemes) to new saving

Extend from 5 to 10 years the taxing rights over

recently emigrated non-UK residents’ foreign lump

sum payments from funds that have had UK tax

relief

Align the tax treatment of funds transferred

between registered pension schemes

Update the eligibility criteria for foreign schemes to

qualify as overseas pensions schemes for tax

purposes

Personal Taxation

Personal Allowance rises as planned to £11,500 from

April 2017 and £12,500 by 2020

Higher rate threshold to £50,000 by the end of the

current parliament

From April 2017, most salary sacrifice schemes will be

subject to the same tax as cash income. This will affect

types of salary sacrifice schemes differently (excludes

childcare, Cycle to Work and ultralow emission cars)

The Life Online project aims to contribute to

Europe 2020 Strategy, Rethinking Education &

Youth Guarantee by helping to address the high

rates of youth unemployment and skills gaps.

This is a three year project that runs from

1st September 2015 to 31st August 2018.

To find out more, visit

www.lifeonline.education

Join the Somerset Chamber of Commerce

Membership offers support and advice to help you

increase your profits and also helps the Chamber

increase its influence.

Membership includes:

Business lobbying and representation at local, regional and

national levels.

A range of FREE AND EXCLUSIVE services provided through

the British Chambers of Commerce.

Business Networking events with the opportunity to network

with up to 2,000 Chamber members from across the South

West.

For more details:

01823 444924 membership@somerset-chamber.co.uk

www.somerset-chamber.co.uk

7

Business News

Report confirms positive impact of LEPs

The LEP Network report, 'Leading the Way', has found that

the new cross-boundary partnerships and multi-sector

approaches to economic growth created by LEP (Local

Enterprise Partnerships) activities are delivering growth at

a fast pace. The success of the LEP model has been

attributed in the report to their ability to work directly with

local business and develop individual approaches that

reflect local differences. The report was commissioned by

the LEP Network to explore the role of LEPs in delivering

local economic growth across England.

Read more about the report:

www.lepnetwork.net/news/2016/research-reveals-

unique-impact-of-leps-on-local-economies/

Training to improve charity fundraising

skills

The Department for Culture, Media & Sport has launched a

training programme to help small local charities improve

their fundraising skills. The training will include workshops,

online courses and support from volunteers. It will cover a

range of topics including how to design a fundraising

strategy, fundraising from trusts and foundations, and how

to run a crowdfunding campaign. The programme is open to

local charities and community groups with an annual

income of up to £1 million. The training will take place in

December 2016 and charities can register now.

For further information, go to:

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/fundraising-

training-opens-for-small-local-charities

ABI publishes guide to trade credit

insurance

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has published a

new guide to encourage more firms to take out trade credit

insurance. The guide sets out the different types of trade

credit insurance, how credit insurance works and how to

apply for it. The guide also outlines the benefits of trade

credit insurance, such as protection against non-payment

and reducing bad debt. In the guide, the ABI explains how

trade credit insurance can support business growth and

can reduce the financial risks of selling to new and existing

customers or exporting overseas.

For further information:

www.abi.org.uk/News/News-releases/2016/11/ABI-

launches-new-Trade-Credit-Insurance-Guide

DIT launches new website to boost

exports

The Department for International Trade (DIT) has launched

a new website to support firms to start exporting and

expand into new markets. The GREAT.gov.uk website will

notify exporters of new contract opportunities, signpost to

sources of support and provide practical advice. Firms can

also register to become part of a new directory of UK

exporters, which DIT will use to connect them with potential

markets and overseas customers where there is demand

for their products or services.

For further information:

www.gov.uk/government/news/new-digital-service-to-

help-businesses-launch-onto-global-markets

Surge in number of community

businesses

Community businesses are growing faster than charities

and small firms, according to a report published by Power

to Change. The report, 'The Community Business Market in

2016', has revealed that the number of community

businesses increased by 5% from 2015 to 2016,

outstripping the growth of small businesses in general by

2.3% and the growth of charities by 1%. The report

includes case studies of services such as pubs, sports and

leisure facilities, and shops across the UK that are now run

as community businesses. More than 300 libraries in

England are also now run as community businesses, up

20% from 2015.

For further information:

www.civilsociety.co.uk/news/report-growth-of-

community-businesses-outstrips-charities-and-small-

businesses.html

Small firms failing to report fraud

Small and medium-sized business owners fail to report

more than £260 million worth of fraudulent activity every

year, according to research by law firm Slater Gordon. The

research has revealed that 18% of firms which are victims

of fraud do not report it to the relevant authorities. Of

those who do not report fraudulent activity, 64% said they

do not report incidents due to fear of reputational damage

to their firm. Overall, 16% of small and medium-sized firms

have been victims of fraud in the past 12 months and were

targeted by fraudsters an average of three times per year.

For further information:

economia.icaew.com/news/october-2016/smes-failing-

to-report-260m-of-fraud-slater-gordon-cyber-attacks

Source: BAD News (Business Advisers’ News)

8 14

Members’ News

Milsted Langdon Financial Services

shortlisted at top finance awards for fourth

year in a row.

Milsted Langdon Financial

Services is proud to announce

that it has been shortlisted for a

category at the Professional

Adviser Awards 2017.

Now in their twelfth year, the Professional Adviser Awards

recognise excellence in financial advice, which is why

Milsted Langdon Financial Services team is delighted to

have been shortlisted once again this year.

As one of a select number

of practices in the Adviser

Firm of the Year category,

Milsted Langdon is hoping

to secure a victory at the

awards that are scheduled

to take place at The

Brewery in London on Thursday 9 February 2017.

Speaking about their shortlisting at the prestigious

awards, Steve Horton, Financial Services Partner at Milsted

Langdon, said: “We are really excited to have been selected

again for this industry-leading honour. We feel this

shortlisting reflects the exceptional financial advice and

services that we offer our clients and is recognition of our

growth within this competitive sector.”

www.milstedlangdon.co.uk

Pardoes’ West Country Solicitors feature

in a league table of legal experts

Local law firm Pardoes have pnce

again made it into one of the most

respected league tables of their

profession.

Pardoes award-winning solicitors have

been recommended in three practice

areas in the prestigious Legal 500 guide for 2016, based

on its judgements on solicitors’ submissions and on

independent reviews carried out with clients.

The Legal 500 United Kingdom is the leading guide to law

firms in the UK.

Pardoes were highlighted for their work in Human

resources – Employment, Private client - Family, and Real

estate - Property Litigation.

Three of their solicitors were highlighted for their work -

Maeve Vickery who advises employers on transactional

issues, including TUPE transfers, Maggie Roberts, who has

an extensive caseload in public children law, and Lauren

Preedy who handles financial matters were commended.

Run Kids! Run! – Somerset’s own Forrest

Gump visits Lympsham pre-school

“Run Forrest! Run!” – Most of us know

this famous line, but did you know

that Somerset have their very own

Forrest Gump?

The 2012 Olympics inspired Jim

Plunkett-Cole to run 10k every day

with his border collie, Alfredo. He then created the Kx365

initiative for adults to be active every day for a year and

has now set about on the Forrest Gump challenge. This

month, Jim began running and he’ll travel a staggering

20,000 miles along Forrest Gump’s trail, criss-crossing the

United States, finishing in December 2019.

Hearing about Jim’s challenge, Somerset-based PR firm,

Plum Communicatioins & PR, were impressed and decided

to pay for Lympsham Pre-School’s holiday club to have a

visit from the

ultra-runner who

visits schools for

‘Talk & Run’.

Jim says: “When

I found myself

running faster,

I felt much better

mentally. I wanted others to benefit similarly; to inspire

people to be active and adventurous.”

Visiting hundreds of schools along his way, speaking about

being active and healthy, Jim aims to encourage a

generation of children into daily physical activity. To follow

Jim’s journey or to sponsor him, visit

www.pledgesports.org/projects/jimgump

www.plum-communications.co.uk

9

A welcome boost for fashion and music

students Young people seeking a career in the

music and fashion industries were given

a huge boost last week when Trustees

from the Doris Southcott and Taunton

Maids Trusts gifted a total of £100,000

to Bridgwater and Taunton College, at

the College’s Taunton Centre.

The Trusts were

set up to help

Somerset and

North Somerset

residents aged

16 to 25 years

wishing to

pursue studies

in fashion and

textiles and music, and the College will administer the

funds on their behalf. Grants will be considered towards

specialist equipment, materials, educational visits,

external events such as fashion shows or auditions, or

additional 1: 1 lessons and support. Grant eligibility is not

necessarily dependent on household income, although

priority will be given to those in the greatest need and

those for whom the grant will make a crucial difference to

their progression to higher levels of study or employment.

College Director of Student Services, Mark Nettle said:

“Bridgwater and Taunton College is delighted to be

working with the Doris Southcott and Taunton Maids

Trusts and to have the opportunity to support young

people studying fashion, textiles and music. The funds will

go a long way towards helping our students for example,

the creation of fashion collections for end of year shows

and electronic portfolios for showcasing their skills at

interviews.”

www.bridgwater.ac.uk

Blueloop convicts re-captured but still

raising money for BBC Children In Need

At 7.30am on Friday 11th

November, four convicts

broke out of their Blueloop

House cells to escape as far as possible in 36 hours from

their HQ in Yeovil, Somerset: Julie Grant, Sales and

Marketing Manager and Sarah Hatch, Office Manager, who

are employed by Blueloop & provide IT and Cyber Security

were the first of the teams to make their getaway. They were

quickly followed by the second team of Darryn Knowles,

Business Development Executive and Ryan Grant (former

Blueloop employee). The challenge was made even harder as

neither team were permitted to use any money for travel,

food or accommodation and each team were handcuffed

together. The Blueloop Jailbreak challenge was organised to

raise donations for BBC Children in Need.

“We have been overwhelmed

by the generosity of

companies and individuals

both locally and throughout

the UK. We have been given

drinks and snacks from the

public on our Jailbreak to

keep up our energy levels. We

have been given several large

donations from local

businesses and sponsorship

from local coach companies,

passes for Oyster Cards and a tremendous response from

the railways and bus services to help both teams on their

Great Escape”, said Julie.

“We set our target of £1,500 on our Just Giving page when

we first planned the event which we thought was rather

optimistic. We did not imagine for one moment that with the

online donations, sponsor forms and cheques donated that

we would reach beyond that target.”

The teams covered a total of 3138 miles during their

Jailbreak and subsequent return back to Blueloop House.

The boys managed to make their way to Edinburgh and the

girls team were apprehended at the Police Station in Dundee

(387 miles as the crow flies from HQ). Both teams made

several new friends during the 36 hours and we received

offers for future charity work. We all need a bit of a rest first

though!

To learn more about the event and the current donations to

help, please contact fundraising@blueloop.net or visit

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/BlueloopJailBreak

www.blueloop.net

Further, Bhavani Hogarty was noted as being ‘extremely

knowledgeable, approachable and helpful’.

Guy Adams, Pardoes Managing Partner, said: "We are

delighted that Pardoes have once again been highlighted

as a top firm by such a prestigious legal guide. It comes

off the back several other recent awards."

Over four million users visit The Legal 500 website each

year.

www.pardoes.co.uk

Full house for Somerset Chamber AGM

8

This year’s Somerset Chamber AGM was

another fully-booked occasion, with 70

business people gathering to hear about

Chamber activity over the past year, its

progress and plans for the future, and

vote in a new Chairman and board

members

Held at the Holiday Inn, Taunton on Wednesday 23rd

November, the AGM was opened by departing Chairman

Graham Knight, who stepped down later in the evening

having completed his maximum term on the board.

Graham presented a review of the key highlights and

challenges for the Chamber over the past 12 months. He

explained that it had been a year of uncertainty and

financial challenges, both for the Chamber and for the UK

as a whole, but emphasised that there had been some real

positives too, including approval for the long-awaited

Hinkley Point C development, a hugely successful

Somerset Business Awards, and the Somerset Chamber’s

recent re-accreditation to the British Chambers of

Commerce. With a new team, new structure and new

partnerships in place, he said the Chamber is now in a

much stronger position to make the most of the

opportunities that lie ahead.

Following the presentation of the annual accounts, Chief

Executive Dale Edwards provided an overview of his new

three year business plan for the Chamber. The core

themes outlined within it revolve around helping

businesses to connect; influencing and representing

Somerset businesses; and providing opportunities for local

businesses to grow. He announced that the Chamber

would be launching a new business manifesto in early

2017.

Recognition was given to eight member companies that

had attained 10 years of continual Chamber membership,

with certificates presented to those in attendance.

Matthew Maynard, Director of Cricket at Somerset County

Cricket Club, spoke to guests after dinner, giving a

fascinating insight into his career, influences and coaching

philosophy. From early days playing cricket with his father,

to being influenced by cricketing stars including Sir Viv

Richards and Duncan Fletcher, through to developing his

own philosophy on how to get the most out of those he is

coaching, his interesting and entertaining anecdotes

demonstrated the clear synergies between sport and

business,

The constitutional part of the evening saw Graham Knight

step down as Chairman, handing over to Greg Saunders,

Partner at Clarke Willmott LLP, who has been on the

Chamber board for three years and Vice Chairman for the

past two. Graham thanked the Somerset Chamber team,

board and fellow members for their friendship and support

throughout the time he had been involved, first as a

member and then on the board.

Congratulations to the following members

who have attained with over 10 years

continual Chamber membership:

Ashfords LLP

Higos Insurance Services

PKF Francis Clark

JaLee First Aid Training

Jelf Insurance Brokers

Realm Limited

Samson Office Supplies

Thoroughbred Design & Print.

Outgoing Chairman, Graham Knight (Pictured Right) with new

Chairman, Greg Saunders (Pictured Left)

Guests enjoyed the networking and buffet

The Somerset Chamber of Commerce Board Members 2015/2016

10

9

Chamber Board Directors

Following our AGM, the Chamber welcomes our new board directors.

Nick Farrant

Finance Director, PKF Francis Clark

Nick brings with him well over a decade of experience as a chartered accountant having worked

in London and the South East with national and international accountancy firms prior to his

current role as a corporate services partner at PKF Francis Clark’s Taunton office.

As a fully qualified Senior Statutory Auditor, Nick has experience of working with an incredibly

broad range of businesses and not for profit organisations right across Somerset and beyond and

including sectors as diverse as food & drink, financial services, healthcare, professional sport,

manufacturing, hospitality and education to name a few.

Before joining the Board Nick had already developed a working relationship with Somerset

Chamber and has been Honorary Treasurer of Taunton Chamber of Commerce since 2011.

Jez Curwin

Member Director, Somerset County Cricket Club

Although Jez was born in Brighton, since joining Somerset County Cricket Club as Head of

Commercial Operations in August 2012 and then moving to Taunton in May 2013 he has been

heavily involved in the local business community. His role at Somerset sees him overseeing all

business aspects of the Club including Sponsorship, Ticketing, Membership, Hospitality sales,

conference and events sales, design, marketing and everything else in between!

Following his graduation Jez joined Red Bull as Regional Brand Manager across the North West of

England then moved to Bristol as Brand Manager for the South of England. In 2003 he became

Head of Mainstream Sports and then set up his own extreme sports agency, X1 Sports,

specialising in sponsorship, elite athlete events and TV production. In 2010 he joined Bath Rugby

initially as Commercial Manager and then as Marketing and Communications Director.

Matt Tudor

Member Director, Sedgemoor Affiliate, Bridgwater College

Matt started his career as a 16-year old apprentice in the challenging environment of the Welsh

construction industry. He went on to gain a degree in Civil Engineering and Construction

Management at Loughborough University, which ultimately led to a successful teaching career.

Matt’s enduring passion for the FE sector brought him to Bridgwater and Taunton College, where

he is Director of Business Development and Marketing. During his four years at the College he

has overseen a 15% year-on-year growth in apprenticeships, particularly in engineering, which

has seen a 500% increase in the same period. Non-funded, commercial activity has become a

strategic focus for the College, underpinned by an exemplary employer engagement model that

has at its core a College-wide ‘can do’ approach and a commitment to exceptional customer

service. This work earned the College a highly prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher

and Further Education in 2016. Matt has been involved with the Bridgwater Chamber of

Commerce as well as Somerset Chamber through his excellent links with businesses in his role at

the College.

Abbie Kench

Member Director, Shepton Mallet Affiliate, The Team Experience

Abbie was delighted to join the Board of Directors back in November 2015 as a co-opted Board

Member Director. Since then, she has enjoyed working closely with the Chamber team in

supporting and guiding Somerset businesses to grow and succeed.

Abbie works closely with companies to engage professionals all over the South West. Her clients

are award- winning, fast growing, high performing teams ranging from the fastest growing company

in the South West to 1st division sports players. With 15 years of experience in group and 1:1

facilitation and a degree in Art Therapy, Abbie has worked with some of the most challenging

sectors of society including the fields of addictions, substance misuse and mental health.

Some of Abbie’s other hats include being Secretary of the Shepton Mallet & District Chamber of

Commerce - a role which involves supporting and investing her time in local community and

business events - also running around being a busy mother!

11

#Well Connected

Outgoing Chairman, Graham Knight (Pictured Right) with new

Chairman, Greg Saunders (Pictured Left)

The Somerset Chamber of Commerce Board Members 2015/2016

B2B Dinner, Ilminster

Kevin Phillips, Vodafone | Jon Beake, WRFCA | Justin Clark, Cooper Associates

Somerset Chamber AGM

Somerset Chamber members networking and enjoying a buffet dinner

Somerset Business Awards 2016

Alex Lovell, BBC Presenter | Hannah Morden & David Nicholson, DNA Worldwide | Beki Sharman, ADPR

Somerset Chamber AGM

Carly Warren, Thoroughbred | Sam McIntyre, Somerset County Cricket Club | Derek

Smart, Amberley Management

Somerset Chamber AGM - 10 Year Members

Allan Covey, Jelf Insurance | Carly Warren, Thoroughbred | Martin Lock, PKF Francis Clark | Neil Wyatt,

Higos | Dale Edwards, Somerset Chamber | Greg Saunders, Chamber Chairman, Clarke Willmott |

Jonathan Rice, Samson Office Supplies, Jason Squire & Catherine Welch, Ashfords LLP

Somerset Business Awards 2016

Helen Lacey, Red Berry Recruitment | Alex Lovell, BBC Presenter

12

9

Somerset Chamber AGM

Matt Maynard, Somerset County Cricket Club | Dale Edwards, Somerset Chamber

B2B Dinner, Ilminster

Ben Malik, Becky Bevins HR | Sarah Berry, Castle Hotel |

John McCarthy, Action Coach

Somerset Chamber & Hinkley Opportunities

Guests enjoying networking

Somerset Chamber & Hinkley Opportunities

Alan Windsor delivering a presentation on the Hinkley Supply

Chain Portal

Somerset Chamber AGM

Board Directors from 2016 together with newly appointed Board Directors for 2017

Somerset Chamber AGM

Ben Malik & Rebecca Bevins, Becky Bevins HR

Ladies Afternoon Tea & Networking

Geraldine Cross, City Centre Recruitment |

Loren Gray, Somerset Chamber

Ladies Afternoon Tea & Networking

Naomi Parker-Jones, NFU & Event Sponsor giving guests an

update on NFU

13

14

Somerset Business Awards 2016: Winners revealed

Somerset’s best businesses were

celebrated in style as the winners of this

year’s Somerset Business Awards were

announced

Twelve businesses have been honoured at this year’s

glittering awards ceremony, where nearly 400 guests

attended Wellsprings Leisure Centre to celebrate the

county’s greatest business success.

Graham Knight, former Chair of the Somerset Chamber of

Commerce, said: “The Somerset Business Awards are a

truly county wide celebration united by a passion for

business. It’s extremely gratifying to see so many new

people here this year, with an audience of 380 you are all

in good hands!”

As main sponsors of the Somerset Business Awards for the

seventh consecutive year, Albert Goodman’s Managing

Partner, Richard Bugler, said: “Albert Goodman are

immensely proud to be main sponsor. We share the same

values as many of our clients and entrants, a true family

business that has just celebrated 150 years. This evening

is a great opportunity to celebrate and showcase the best

businesses in our county.”

BBC news presenter and national TV personality, Alex Lovell,

hosted the Somerset Business Awards this year, and

announced the winners in style. Commenting on her

involvement, she said, “It’s a wonderful evening and I am

privileged and very honoured to be here. It is important to

recognise the hard work and achievements of businesses in

the South West.”

The full list of winners is as follows:

Skills for Growth Award

This year, the Skills for

Growth Award is sponsored

by Wessex RFCA. The award

recognises businesses that

are investing in their own

workforce, as well as the

wider community –

providing the opportunity

to enhance and develop the

workforce of the future. Jon

Beake from Wessex RFCA, said, “Wessex Reserve Forces’

and Cadets’ Association link businesses to the armed

forces, who are renowned for their training and

development programmes, investing in the development of

their own staff, ensuring they can promote within. It was

logical for Wessex RCFA to sponsor the awards and we feel

very privileged to have judged our finalists, all of which have

fantastic training going above and beyond for Somerset’s

future workforce.”

The award was

presented to

One Step

Recruitment Ltd.

Collecting the

award was Tansy

Maggs and Sam

Garner. Tansy said, “We haven’t entered many awards

before so it is a real honour to be stood here – we work so

hard to support the next generation. This award is for the

late Sean O’Brien who unfortunately is no longer with us, we

are all extremely proud.”

The runners-up were Channel Training Ltd and Claims

Consortium Group.

Marketing and Promotion Award

Sponsored by ADPR Ltd

for the past four years,

the Marketing and

Promotion Award

celebrates businesses

with truly innovative

and creative marketing

plans, with a clearly

defined plans,

objectives and

investment, regardless

of the size, sector or budget of the campaign. Beki Sharman,

Account Manager at ADPR Ltd, commented, “At ADPR, we

have incredibly high standards, and were delighted to see

that the quality of our award entries and the companies we

visited, were among the best we’ve ever seen. The

businesses here today should be immensely proud of their

achievements.”

The award was presented to DNA Worldwide – a company

providing DNA, Drug & Alcohol Testing – for its impressive

marketing campaign within the drug sector. The entry

showed incredible business results and developed

relationships with the legal profession, as an outcome. David

at DNA Worldwide, said, “It’s an incredible award to receive,

and completely mesmerising. At DNA Worldwide we feel very

passionate about providing the opportunity to reach a point

of truth in people’s lives. It’s a fantastic achievement for us

and our team.”

The runners-up were Weston College and Reminiscence

Learning.

Environmental Award

Porter Dodson returned to sponsor the Environmental Award

again, with Scott Bowley presenting the award. In this award,

judges were looking for businesses to prove they are going

above and beyond in developing and using best practice

across a variety of environmental channels, whilst balancing

profitability for the business.

15

#SBA2016 @ChannelTraining: We're hugely

proud of our team for making

the finals of the Somerset

Business Awards 2016! Well

done to the winners! #SBA2016

@Rebecca_Bevins: The RBHR

team are very pleased to have

achieved ‘Finalist’ at the

Somerset Business Awards

#SBA2016

@Living_DNA: We had a

fantastic evening at the

Somerset Business Awards.

We’re over the moon to have

picked up two awards!

#SBA2016

@rupert_rbw: How proud is

@BathandWest of

@Jamesyy_C?! #SBA2016

@MichaelCahill12: #SBA2016

winners & finalists are receiving

lots of media coverage. If you

didn't enter this year, why not??

@kontrolit: Congrats to

@teapotcreative for winning

Business of the Year 11-25

category @SomBizAwards

#SBA2016

#SomersetWebAgenciesRock

@KarenMoreledgePR: Reflecting

on the range of businesses we

have in #Somerset following

#SBA2016. Wonderful event

again, well done team

@chambersomerset

@QuedamCentre: Well done to

our very own Charlotte Atkinson

who was a runner up in the

excellent @SomBizAwards

#SBA2016

@TheMonksYard: Big

congratulations to all the

#SBA2016 winners and

attendees last night. Any sore

heads this morning?

@dcfoulds: Great night last

night, proud of all at @SWWR -

top three charity in #Somerset -

well done team! #SBA2016

@jeremy_hyams: Had a

fantastic night at the #SBA2016

and was privileged to accept the

award for Service Excellence, on

behalf of our amazing team.

The winner was announced as Frogmary

Green Farm for the second consecutive year,

for its continued commitment. Nick and

Claire Bragg from Frogmary Green Farm

collected the award, saying, “It’s absolutely

fabulous to win this award for the second

year. It’s a fantastic achievement for our

team as we strive to do as much as we can

for the environment.”

The runners-up were Holiday Resort Unity &

Brean Leisure Park and Prolectric Services Ltd.

Albert Goodman Family Business of the Year Award

Main sponsors of the Somerset Business Awards for the seventh consecutive year

and the leading South West accountancy firm, Albert Goodman were delighted to

return to the stage to present their award. As a renowned family business, the Albert

Goodman judges were looking for an influential family business, run with two or

more members of the same family enjoying significant success whilst showing clear

succession plans for the future, ongoing development and clear financial reward.

This year’s award was presented to Holiday

Resort Unity & Brean Leisure Park. Alan and

Andrea House from the company received the

award on stage, saying, “We are completely

bowled over, thanks so much to our team. We

never thought we would be employing 250

people with over a million guests in the last

year!”

The runners-up were Oneline Surveys Ltd and

Frogmary Green Farm.

Service Excellence Award

Consistently one of the most popular awards, the Service Excellence Award was

judged by the Somerset Chamber of Commerce. Always an incredibly tough category

to judge, all the businesses visited showed true dedication to their customers. Greg

Saunders, Chairman for the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and Partner at Clarke

Willmott LLP commented, “The Somerset Chamber represents hundreds of

businesses in Somerset so there is the upmost desire to provide an excellent

service. Visiting the businesses was a great opportunity to learn from big and small

companies.”

Holding on to their crown, the award was presented

to Claims Consortium Group for the second year. For

consistently delivering outstanding service, above

and beyond the call of duty. Jeremy Hyams and

Debbie Mawer collected the award, saying, “Thank

you so much, it is a real honour and it is most

humbling to be stood here. We are obsessed with our

customers and the service they receive as well as our

staff. We are genuinely privileged to work with our

team.”

The runners-up were Willmots Transport Ltd and

Black Swan Dental Spa Ltd.

16

New Business of the Year Award

Foot Anstey LLP sponsored

the New Business of the

Year Award for 2016.

Judges were looking at

businesses with no more

than three years of trading,

showing they had the

‘X-factor’ of a new business

idea, product, service or

concept. Duncan Sykes

from Foot Anstey LLP presented the award and commented,

“We have been sponsors for the last several years, but this

was our first year as sponsor of the New Business of the

Year Award. We relish the opportunity to showcase new

talent and to be able to physically go and judge the finalists

was an amazing experience. It was great to see the top

talent of our finalists, how far advanced and progressed

they are is a true testament to their workforce. A great

bedrock of business in the region.”

The winner was announced as Puddy Vehicles Solutions

Ltd. Marcus and Louise Puddy collected the award, Marcus

said, “I am truly speechless. It’s remarkable to have

achieved this much in only 18 months, saving our

customers a total of 64 million in the process. It’s a great

accolade to receive, thank you very much.”

The runners-up were Elite Staffing Solutions (South West)

Ltd and My Day Care Services Ltd.

Somerset Manufacturer Award

This award recognises

the most innovative and

agile manufacturing

businesses in Somerset

and is sponsored by local

accountancy firm,

Monahans. Looking for

the most innovative and

agile manufacturing

businesses in the county,

the Somerset Manufacturer Award recognises a passion

for continued business improvement. Presenting the

award, Stephen Fry from Monahans said, “We are proud to

be sponsoring the Somerset Manufacturer of the Year

Award. There are more local manufacturers than you realise

and it is important to recognise their great contribution.”

The winner was announced as Swallowfield. Collecting the

award were Andy Wolfe and Lauren Hagon, Lauren said,

“This is amazing, thank you so much. This award is for our

team of 350 people in our Wellington Factory. Many of you

may not have heard of us before but our team is innovative

and works incredibly hard so this a fantastic achievement.”

The runner-up was Prolectric Services Ltd.

Young Business Employee of the Year Award

Sponsored by Clarks, this awards celebrates the young

talent of Somerset businesses, who have been with their

respective firms for up to three years. Nominated by their

employer, judges look for an individual who has made a

significant impact to their company. Belinda Deery from

Clarks said, “Clarks are a big employer in the South West,

with 1,600 staff. We are extremely proud of our Somerset

roots, starting with a young Cyrus and James who founded

the company, based on principles of community and

opportunity. The category was competitive and the quality

was incredibly high, judging gave us real food for thought.”

The award was given to James

Cox from The Royal Bath & West

of England Society, for his

outstanding contributions to the

business. James received his

award, saying, “Thank you to

Royal Bath & West. This is

probably the longest gap year

you’ve ever heard of! I would also

like to thank my Dad, as well,

without him I would never have

applied for the job.”

The runners-up were Charlotte Atkinson (Quedam Shopping

Centre, Yeovil) and Sam Price (Integrated Data Needs).

Business of the Year 1-10 Employees Award

The Business of the Year Awards are consistently popular

each year, amongst all Somerset businesses, looking for the

complete package. Sponsored by Glyder Ltd, the Business of

the Year 1-10 Employees looks at smaller businesses within

Somerset, looking for overall outstanding success.

Presenting the award, Tim and Bethan Baigent from Glyder

Ltd, Tim said, “We are thrilled to be here for the eighth year.

The quality of entrants were exceptionally high, making our

job very difficult!”

The winner of the

award was Care

Focus (South West)

CIC. CEO Claire

Waddon, said, “We

did not think we’d

win! Thank you to

Somerset Chamber

and Albert Goodman

and of course our team at Care Focus SW. We aim to come

together and make success and we are very grateful to

receive this award, but this is for every social worker out

there who strives to make the services out there better for

our mums and dads.”

The runners-up were Farm Toys Online and Petruth

Paddocks Limited.

17

@GemmaLRobinson1: Great eve

@SomBizAwards. Thanks to

everyone @chambersomerset

from @PlumCommsPR &

#congrats to the winners!

#SBA2016

@Hub_Yeovil: #SBA2016 we

only went and won!!

#CharityoftheYear #SoProud

#Achievement

@MandyBridge: Thank you to

the fantastic @SomBizAwards

@chambersomerset team, a

great evening had by all.

Congratulations to all finalists!

#SBA2016

@AG_LLP: That’s the

@SomBizAwards over for

another year, a great night! Well

done to all nominees, winners

and @chambersomerset

#SBA2016

@pfkFrancisClark: Congrats to

@SomBizAwards

#FamilyBusiness of the year

winner @BreanSands. Well done

to runners up @OnelineSurveys

@frogmarygreen #SBA2016

@YeovilChamber: proud to be

working with @YeovilCollege -

deserving winners at #SBA2016

@YeovilInnovate:

Congratulations to all the

winners @SomBizAwards.

Somerset is a great place to do

business! #SBA2016

#somersethour

@CareersAtHigos: Thanks to all

at the @SomBizAwards. We

came away with a buzz after

hearing about all the great

achievements of Somerset

Businesses #SBA2016

@OneStepRecruit: The Somerset

Skills for Growth Award 2016 is

sitting in One Step

Recruitment's office & we are

over the moon! #SBA2016

#winners

@YeovilCollege: So pleased for

everyone working and learning

at the College! Winner of the

Business of the Year 51+

Employees! #SBA2016

Business of the Year 11-25 Employees Award

The next size up, the Business of the Year Award for 11-25 Employees, was again

sponsored by A.C. Mole & Sons. This award celebrates SMEs in Somerset, who show

they can stand out from the crowd and deliver great results, on a slightly larger

scale. Rob Selley at A.C. Mole & Sons, said, “We are very proud to be sponsoring this

award. The judging process was a fascinating experience, highlighting the quality of

the businesses in Somerset. The finalists should be proud of what they’ve

achieved.”

This year, the award was given to

Teapot Creative Ltd. Directors Barry Tottle &

Lizzie Ginbey took to the stage to collect the

award. Lizzie said, “This is truly amazing,

thank you to Somerset Chamber and A.C.

Mole & Sons for deeming us worthy of this

accolade. A huge thanks to our team!”

The runners-up were Filberts Fine Foods Ltd

and Rebecca Bevins HR Consultancy Ltd.

Business of the Year 26-50 Employees Award

Returning to sponsor this award, EDF Energy judged the

Business of the Year 26-50 Employees Award. The

judges were looking at larger businesses, who could

clearly demonstrate passion, drive and success within

their business. David Eccles from EDF Energy,

commented, “We are delighted to be sponsors. The go

ahead of Hinkley C is a once in a lifetime opportunity for

up to 25,000 people in the local area. Developing the

supply chain with Somerset businesses will result in the

coming together of many local people.”

The award was presented to DNA Worldwide Ltd, who

took away two Awards on the evening. David Nicholson

and Hannah Morden-Nicholson accepted the award, and said, “Well now we are

completely speechless! If it wasn’t for the team and the sponsors, this wouldn’t be

possible. DNA Worldwide is one big family across the world and the future looks very

exciting.”

The runners-up were Oake Manor Golf Club Ltd and Melhuish & Saunders Ltd.

Business of the Year 51+ Employees Award

Higos Insurance Services Ltd returned once

again to sponsor the Business of the Year 51+

Employees at the Somerset Business Awards.

Focusing on the biggest businesses in Somerset,

this award celebrates those businesses who

deliver outstanding results on a larger scale,

whilst ensuring solid business processes are

maintained. Neil Wyatt, Head of Marketing at

Higos Insurance Services Ltd, commented,

“Somerset is the heartland of successful

businesses and we are delighted to sponsor this award. It was an extremely tough

year for judging truly Somerset businesses at their best, the finalists should be

proud of their achievements.”

18

The award was presented to Yeovil College. Jacquie Dean and

Mark Bolton took to the stage to accept the award. Jacquie

said, “It’s such a thrill to receive this award. Yeovil College has

transformed in recent years and the college is strong because

it works so hard with the businesses and communities it

serves, big and small, they are all part of the success.”

The runners-up were Claims Consortium Group and Bridgwater

& Taunton College.

Charity of the Year Award

Sponsored by Clarke Willmott LLP for the third year, the

Charity of the Year Award showcases those charities working

selflessly within Somerset, making a real difference within the

county. Roger Seaton at Clarke Willmott LLP, commented,

“Undoubtedly, this is the most important of the evening and

the quality of the charities was so high. It was so inspiring to

visit each charity, meeting individuals and seeing how they

tirelessly give back to the community.”

With three incredible charities, it is

also the toughest category, and

this year it was presented to The

Hub Yeovil, Community Support

Charity. Collecting the award and

receiving a cheque for £1,145,

Clive Tuck, CEO said, “Wow! A huge

thank you to Somerset Chamber.

Our amazing team have changed

so many lives in so many ways.”

The runners-up were Secret World

Wildlife Rescue and We Hear You,

who received a total of £575 each. One lucky finalist, Channel

Training, won £1,000 worth of advertising with Heart FM

(media partners for the Awards).

Working together with Bridgwater & Taunton College, the

finalists were filmed by Media students to create a short film

about the business and what winning means to them. These

were shown on the Awards night and form part of the

students’ final course results.

The prestigious Somerset Business Awards would not be

possible without the amazing work and contributions from

Somerset Chamber members including Bright Productions

who supported the Awards with the staging, sound and AV

equipment, Food 4 You catering, for providing guests with a

gourmet three-course dinner, followed by a cheese course

from Somerdale International Ltd. Newsquest and Heart FM,

this year’s Media Partners, and ADPR Ltd for looking after the

PR of the Somerset Business Awards. And finally thank you to

Simon York Photography for photographing the Awards.

For more information, please visit

www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk, or follow the Awards

on Twitter, using @SomBizAwards and #SBA2016 for all the

latest news and updates.

More pictures from the evening can be found at

www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk

19

New Members

360VoucherCodes Marketing & Promotion

Mike Meade

01202 862794

www.360vouchercodes.co.uk

Amitec UK Ltd Blast Cleaning & Coatings

Andrew Maynard

01275 342236

www.amitec.co.uk

Apples and Oranges Telephone Answering Service

Dawn Davis

01823 247130

www.applesandoranges.co.uk

Channel Training Outdoor Education & Training

James Whittaker

07973 525639

www.channeltraining.co.uk

Clearbook Management Consultancy Ltd John Skinner

07789 998632

john@clearbrookcs.onmicrosoft.com

COACH Outdoor Activities Charity

Ian Payne

01823 703703

www.coach-taunton.org.uk

Commsplus Ltd Telecommunication Suppliers

Tracey Bryan

01934 882226

www.commsplus.co.uk

Copybook Ltd Global Business Network

Andy Fields

01392 281080

www.copybook.com

DNA Legal Advanced DNA Testing

Hannah Morden

07842 125319

www.dna-worldwide.com

Future First Inspiring Education Charity

Sarah McCammon

07491 664274

www.futurefirst.org.uk

Hydrock Design Engineering Consultancy

James McKechnie

07921 264955

www.hydrock.com

Identity Workwear Ltd Workwear, Branding, Display

Emily Gordon

01460 432862

www.identityuk.com

Intelligent Technical Services Health & Safety Training

Melvyn Klass

020 8958 1605

www.intelligenttechnicalservices.com

Kazlin Commercial Finance Commercial Finance Experts

Peter Robinson

01626 777337

www.kazlincommercialfinance.co.uk

M J Baker Foodservice Ltd Local Foodservice Supplier

Kevin Blakely

01626 837677

www.mjbakerfoodservice.co.uk

Mantech Safety Systems Limited Safety Systems Installer

Penelope Meakin

01625 560920

www.mantechsafetysystems.com

NDC Global Auditors Ltd ISO Consultancy Auditing

Training

Ian Fielding

0844 826 6006

www.ndcmanagement.co.uk

Norton Trailers Off-Road Transport

Alistair House

01934 815555

www.nortontrailers.co.uk

Prowash Catering Equipment Catering, Equipment, Kitchen

Russell Priest

01934 418177

shelley.prowash@live.co.uk

Puddy Vehicle Solutions Fleet Management Solutions

Marcus Puddy

07801 472247

www.puddyvsolutions.co.uk

Reed Holland Associates Limited Chartered Architects

Jonathan Scanlan

01823 336479

www.reed-holland.co.uk

Sampson Hall Ltd Leadership, Strategy,

Development

Nicky Dunn

0844 848 9594

www.sampsonhall.co.uk

SecureArm Cyber Security Services

Durgan Cooper

07971 123489

www.securearm.co.uk

Sig Plc Building Products Distributor

Mark Nicholls

0114 295 6300

www.sigplc.com

Simon Plant Commercial Photographer-Retoucher Photography, Retouching, Video

Simon Plant

07850 534086

www.plantphoto.com

Smudge Packaging, Branding, Design

Grant Wright

01458 252794

www.smudgestudio.co.uk

The Royal Clarence Hotel Hotel, Accommodation,

Contractor

Paul Chatwin

01278 783138

www.royal-clarence-hotel.com

UKForex Foreign Exchange Services

Jarrod Cole

020 7614 4136

www.ukforex.co.uk

Wavepower Developing Wave Energy

Martin Bowles

01458 836556

www.wavepower.com

Western Logistics Limited Logistics, Freight, Storage

Perry McCloy

0845 122 2962

www.westernlogistics.co.uk

We are excited to welcome our newest members of the Somerset Chamber. For more information on Somerset Chamber membership and what we can do for your business, please contact

Alistair Tudor, Membership Sales Manager, on 01823 444924 or alistairtudor@somerset-chamber.co.uk

Somerset Chamber Events Calendar

For more information on our events, including sponsorship opportunities, please email

events@somerset-chamber.co.uk or call 01823 444924

(All costs inclusive of VAT except where detailed)

Partner/Sponsor Partner/Sponsor

Call 01823 444924 Email events@somerset-chamber.co.uk

Partner/Sponsor Somerset Chamber Christmas Coffee Morning - Friday 16th December

Our first Business to Business Dinner (B2B) of 2017 will be held at the Cooper Associates County

Ground. This is the perfect event to make new business contacts over a delightful three course

dinner.

Time: 19.00 Venue: Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton

Cost: Members £28.00 Non-members £56.00

Partner/Sponsor Business to Business Dinner, Taunton - Tuesday 17th January

Back by popular demand, the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, in association with SJM Training,

will be hosting a half day workshop on Excel reporting solutions to help make data analysis simple

and effective. Places are extremely limited.

Time: 09.00 Venue: Somerset Chamber offices, Taunton

Cost: Members £45.00 Non-members £90.00

Excel Reporting Solutions Workshop - Wednesday 25th January Partner/Sponsor

To keep up to date with all of our events, please visit

www.somerset-chamber.co.uk/events/somerset-chamber

We would love for you to join us for a breakfast update in partnership with the Somerset County

Council where Patrick Flaherty, CEO will provide an annual update on the council’s current

initiatives.

Time: 07.30 Venue: The Canalside, Bridgwater

Cost: Members £20.00 Non-members £40.00

In a bid to spread some Christmas cheer, the Somerset Chamber of Commerce are inviting

members to join us for mince pies and coffee with the team. As a gift to our members and a

thank you for your continued support, this will be free of charge to attend.

Time: 10.00-12.00 Venue: Somerset Chamber offices, Taunton

Cost: FREE

Political Briefing Event with Somerset County Council - Thursday 26th January Partner/Sponsor

Fancy networking with businesses across the border? We are delighted to be teaming up with

Devon Chamber of Commerce for our first Meet the Neighbours lunch at Woodbury Park Hotel,

Exeter. These events are typically very well attended, so we advise that you book early to avoid

disappointment.

Time 12.00 Venue: Woodbury Park Hotel, Exeter

Cost: Members £25.00 Non-members £50.00

Partner/Sponsor Meet the Neighbours, Devon - COMING SOON

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year