Author: Lucy Contrino

A radical overhaul of the way local searches are carried out is required if the Government’s housebuilding targets are to be met, according to an industry expert. Richard Bray, managing director of the UK’s largest independent searches specialist Move Reports, said the time some Local Authorities are taking to complete local searches for property purchases is “completely ridiculous” and threatens to put the brakes on the Government’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes over the course of this parliament. “Some Local Authorities have managed to cut their waiting times for local searches, but others are still performing woefully,” said Richard,…

Last week, thousands of seafood professionals came together from more than 150 countries to celebrate the best fish and shellfish at the world’s largest seafood trade event in Barcelona, Spain. Flying the flag from the UK were over 50 exhibiting companies, who reeled in praise as one of the world’s best sources of marine delicacies. The annual Global Seafood Expo presents a unique opportunity for the UK to showcase its seafood excellence on a global stage. Attracting over 35,000 seafood industry professionals, the exhibition offers a platform for buyers, suppliers and industry experts to connect, share innovations and explore new…

With forecasters predicting that this Monday could mark the UK’s hottest June day on record since 1976, it’s clear the heat is on. Earlier this month, temperatures reached a sweltering 33.2°C, the highest of 2025 so far, sparking over 4 million Google searches for “ice cream” across the UK in the past month alone. In celebration of the sunshine, Parkdean Resorts has also spoken with the owner of viral Lake District ice cream parlour, The Little Ice Cream Shop, to uncover the UK’s most in-demand ice cream flavour of summer 2025 – just in time for the next heatwave. To also help…

Brits turn to their spice racks to beat ants, flies and fruit bugs – with cinnamon and cloves leading the charge As summer heats up and pests invade patios, gardens and kitchen windowsills across the UK, a wave of homeowners are skipping the sprays – and heading for the spice cupboard instead. According to home and garden expert Neil McKenzie from Halton Stairlifts, several little-known herbs and spices can naturally deter common summer pests – without relying on harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. “You’d be surprised what a handful of bay leaves or a dusting of turmeric can do,” says Neil. “These are…

Immediate Release July 3 The UK’s most loved Mexican restaurant, Tortilla, today launches a fresh, flavour-packed summer menu upgrade – just in time for salad season. As temperatures rise and customers start craving lighter, healthier options, Tortilla is answering the call with the launch of all-new Protein Pots and an upgraded salad offering that delivers on bold flavour without compromising on freshness or convenience. Known for serving up real California burritos and tacos, Tortilla is now tapping into the growing demand for nutritious, high-protein meals that satisfy without weighing you down. Whether you’re looking for a lighter lunch, a post-gym…

Banana Tree brings big Southeast Asian flavours and legendary Pad Thai to Mill Lane this summer – with a huge giveaway to mark its much anticipated Welsh debut Immediate release Banana Tree, the award-winning Southeast Asian restaurant, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its first-ever Welsh location right in the heart of Cardiff. And to celebrate this milestone, they’re giving away a mouth-watering 2,000 FREE Katsu curries (or Pad Thais, if that’s more your vibe) to hungry locals ready to dive into bold Southeast Asian flavours. Cardiff’s Banana Tree officially opens on Monday 2nd June this summer in the city’s…

From fence fines to tree trouble – homeowners warned of costly property pitfalls As the UK heads into peak DIY and gardening season, a leading property expert has warned that simple home improvements could land homeowners in legal hot water – or worse, facing fines worth thousands of pounds. According to Elite Realty Invest, many Brits are unaware that certain outdoor changes – from fences and driveways to garden sheds – are regulated by planning laws, local council rules, and even shared ownership agreements. Darren Gallagher, Founder and CEO of Elite Realty Invest, says: “Summer is when people tackle home upgrades,…

Born in Hong Kong and raised in Phuket, Romany started Dudu Chilli Oil with her mum as a true labour of love. Their oils are more than condiments – they’re slow-infused, fragrant seasonings inspired by family recipes and Thai herbs, made to elevate every dish. For one night only, Romany’s signature heat will meet Chop Chop’s award-winning Cantonese dishes in a carefully curated three course menu that fuses two food worlds together and turns up the heat. Start with a trio of traditional, delicate dumplings, followed by a generous a sharing feast of salt and pepper tofu, steamed seabass with…

Authentic Danish bakers Ole & Steen today announces the appointment of its new Group CMO as the brand continues to accelerate growth across its key markets. Sarah Harris joined the business on May 19th, bringing with her over 25 years of experience in retail and hospitality marketing to help shape the next chapter for the iconic Danish bakery brand. Her role will span marketing, brand, product and digital strategy across Ole & Steen’s growing presence in London, Copenhagen and New York. Sarah will also play a pivotal role in strengthening customer engagement and loyalty as the brand continues to invest in…

New contracts and product range support growth and create new jobs with Business Wales backing South Wales-based Mallows Bottling has diversified into new territory with the launch of a 5-litre squash product line – a move already delivering an estimated £700,000 in incremental annual revenue. The Llantrisant business, co-founded by father-and-son team Andy and Rhys Mallows and supported by the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme (AGP), has secured significant new contracts for the line, which includes a range of single and double-strength squash flavours. The expansion has created three new jobs, added new capacity, and strengthened the business’s resilience in a competitive…