Local HR consultancy firm receives dual nominations at this year’s Enterprise Vision Awards

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(Photo of Meraki HR Solutions Founder and Managing Director, Emma Browning)

Meraki HR Solutions, a forward-thinking provider of innovative human resources solutions, is proud to announce it’s double nomination at the prestigious Enterprise Vision Awards. The company and its founder, Emma Browning, have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to the business landscape and the professional services sector, respectively. Meraki HR Solutions has been nominated for the highly coveted Best Business Award, while Emma Browning has been nominated for the esteemed Professional Services Award.

The Best Business Award, open to businesses regardless of establishment timeline, celebrates companies that embody excellence in all facets of their operations. Meraki HR Solutions’ nomination underscores its commitment to innovation, growth, and delivering unparalleled HR solutions across various industry sectors.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind the creation of Meraki HR Solutions, MD Emma Browning expressed, “Our journey began with a vision to make every business we work with, a great place to work, which is particularly important with the skills shortages we are now seeing. We recognised the need for a more holistic approach to HR, one that combines technology and our extensive experience with a personalised service and support to drive meaningful results for each of our clients.”

Meraki HR Solutions has achieved significant milestones in its 10 years of business, earning the trust of clients and industry recognition along the way. From navigating dynamic market trends to fostering a culture of innovation, the company has consistently demonstrated resilience and adaptability in an ever-evolving business environment.

Similarly, Emma Browning’s nomination for the Professional Services Award celebrates her exceptional contributions to the professional services sector. From her transition from a sales and operations role into the field of human resources to her relentless pursuit of excellence, Emma has distinguished herself as a visionary HR leader dedicated to driving positive change for the clients Meraki HR work with

“I wanted to move into HR as I genuinely believe that it’s people that make or break a business – you don’t have a great business without great people. So, you need to find great people and make sure you hold onto them, which isn’t easy!” My passion for giving managers and leaders the skills to manage and motivate their teams to ensure they nurture and retain great talent, has been the driving force behind my career journey,” Emma shared.

Throughout her career, Emma has achieved remarkable milestones, earning the respect and admiration of peers, employees, and clients alike. Working for global brands such as Porsche Cars, Harley Davidson and Adecco, as well as many SME’s. Her future plans are centred around expanding the business whilst continuing to deliver unparalleled HR solutions and service for their clients.

The Enterprise Vision Awards judging panel will evaluate nominees based on various criteria, including the inspiration behind business creation, achievements and challenges to date, future plans and development, and the drive and passion behind the business. Meraki HR Solutions and Emma Browning are particularly honoured to be recognised for their contributions to their respective sectors as they have been nominated for these awards by their clients and look forward to the opportunity to showcase their business and client achievements on a national stage.

For more information about Meraki HR Solutions and Emma Browning’s contributions to the field of human resources and professional services, please visit www.merakihr.com.

About Meraki HR Solutions:

Meraki HR Solutions is a leading provider of professional, commercial, and practical human resources solutions, dedicated to empowering organisations and individuals to thrive. With a focus on leveraging their experience and creativity in finding unique solutions for each of their clients, Meraki HR Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of HR, Training and Coaching services designed to ensure their clients are first and foremost legally compliant, but that they also create a great place to work with a focus on recruiting and retaining great people, with the aim of driving organisational success.

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BLOOD BIKES OPEN DAY – 16th JUNE 2024

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The Blood Bikes Cumbria Chairman – Jim White said:
“As we are now in our 10th Anniversary Year, I’m delighted to announce that Blood Bikes Cumbria will be holding a significant Open Day at Carlisle Airport on Sunday 16th June 2024 and we would be especially delighted if you could attend and provide vital coverage of this event. The 10th Anniversary Open Day promises to be a magnificent event, building upon the success of last year’s hugely popular gathering. This is a massively significant day for us, providing vital awareness, fundraising and attracting potential new members. The day itself will run from 10am until 4pm and we confirmed the attendance of the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), the Police, Fire and Ambulance Service, motorcycle dealerships, IAM and RoSPA Advanced Motorcycists, together with our partner Blood Bikes groups from Northumbria, Dumfries and Galloway and South Lakes/Lancashire. Entertainment will be provided by local blues band the Delta Gecko’s and food and motorcycle clothing retail outlets will also be there.
We are a charity, run by volunteers who freely give up their time and energy to support our North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust and Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS). All our members are unpaid and it costs our charity money to keep our vehicles on the road, so every penny we raise is vital to continue our lifesaving service. We save the NHS and GNAAS money each year delivering critical blood supplies and urgent specimens 365 days a year. More importantly, we deliver without fail. We are proud to support our community in their time of need, both Cumbrians and visitors alike. So please support us with vital PR if you can, and we hopefully look forward to seeing you on Sunday 16th June at Carlisle Airport”.


What’s going on at our Open Day?


This is a road safety focussed event and is both free to enter and open to the general public.


The event is being held at Carlisle Airport on Sunday 16th June from 10 am until 4 pm.
With the focus of the day continuing to be about road safety and skills awareness we will be running our slow speed courses in a safe and managed motorcycle environment and IAM RoadSmart and RoSPA will be doing observed ride outs, where riders will receive feedback from qualified National Observers to help improve their riding techniques.


KC Superbikes and Lloyd BMW Motorcycles Motorcycle dealerships will all be in attendance showing off the latest 2024 motorcycles. BMW, Triumph, Suzuki and Indian Motorcycles will have their mobile showroom trailers on site, with test rides available on the day.


A rapid response vehicle from the Great North Air Ambulance Service will be there, with attendance from Cumbria Police and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service who will also be advocating road safety. There will be catering vans, ice cream, donuts and live music from local blues band The Delta Geckos. Further entertainment will be provided by Workington Comets Speedway riders, Cumbria Motopark Electric Motocross bikes, Birchall Brothers Racing; and Andy’s Man Club will all be in attendance to showcase what they do.

Who are We?
Blood Bikes Cumbria is a locally based charity operating throughout north and west Cumbria, registered in England (No.1159026). We are all volunteers and we wholly rely on fundraising to maintain a continual 365 days a year service to the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust and GNAAS. We currently have 154 members: all are unpaid and willingly give up their free time and energy for the benefit of our community and for the benefit of others. We are always looking to recruit more members: all our riders & drivers have advanced rider or driver qualifications and receive expert on-the-job training. It is a rewarding and satisfying role; one that gives so much back to others in their time of need.

What Do We Do?
Blood Bikes Cumbria provides free ‘out of hours’ cover for the NHS. Every day, we transport vital lifesaving blood and laboratory samples between hospitals and medical centres in Cumbria and from the Cumberland Infirmary Carlisle to specialist laboratories in Newcastle, including the Royal Victoria Infirmary, The Freeman Hospital and the northern region National Blood and Transplant Service facility. Our service saves the NHS £400K annually, but more importantly we ensure that urgent blood and samples are delivered as soon as possible. Additionally, we deliver a daily supply of blood to the GNAAS helicopter ‘The Pride of Cumbria’ based at Langwathby and return unused items to Newcastle with the help of a relay provided by Northumbria Blood Bikes. We save GNAAS over £80K annually. The Pride of Cumbria medical team has achieved over 500 lifesaving blood transfusions throughout Cumbria: we are incredibly proud to play
our part in delivering this vital life-saving capability.

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Cumbrian Rowing club launches open-to-all bursary scheme

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Adult learn-to-row graduates ready to race at Warrington. Photo: Karen Wagstaff

A Keswick-based sports club has created a scheme to encourage more people to take up rowing, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Lakeland Rowing Club wants to attract new members from across north and west Cumberland by making learning to row as affordable as possible.

Its John Inman Fund, named after one of the club’s founding members, aims to ensure local residents of all ages can get involved without worrying about the cost.

Lakeland chair Julia McCumiskey said: “Rowing has a reputation as an elitist sport, but that isn’t the case at all. Our members are ordinary, local people who enjoy spending time on the water amid some of the country’s loveliest scenery.

“Rowing is great low-impact, full-body exercise, whatever your fitness level. It’s also a fabulous way to de-stress. When people are under financial pressure, they need outlets like rowing more than ever, but paying to learn or for ongoing membership can feel like an unaffordable luxury.

“Our membership fees are already the lowest in the country and, as a charity, it’s important for us that those who can afford to pay full price do so. However, we want to make rowing even more accessible, to ensure it’s open to anyone who fancies giving it a try, no matter what their financial status.”

The Derwentwater club normally charges £110 for an adult weekend learn-to-row course and £40 for a junior course. Both prices include use of club equipment and facilities for the year. Membership for subsequent years is £130 for adults, £70 for students and under-18s.

Julia continued: “Anyone struggling financially can apply to the bursary fund for help to pay. There are no intrusive forms to fill in and all applications are confidential. Just drop us an email, tell us about your circumstances in a sentence or two and what you can afford to pay, and we’ll take it from there.”

Aggie was club’s first bursary recipient. She said: “Rowing was on my mind for a long time and I always wanted to try it, especially on beautiful Derwentwater, but it was a bit tricky for me to pay for the course. With the cost-of-living crisis and other unexpected expenses, I thought I’d have to put it off for another year.

“Then I found out about the bursary. I’ve met like-minded people and felt a part of the team straight away. Being a member of the club gives me a true sense of belonging to the rowing ‘family’ and I look forward to Saturday morning sessions.”

Lakeland has places available on adult learn-to-row courses, open to over-18s, on 18-19 May, 29-30 June, 27-28 July and 24-25 August. Junior courses, for Year 7 upwards, are planned for 4-5 May, 8-9 June and 20-21 July. For details of how to apply, visit www.lakelandrowingclub.com.

Junior learn-to-row graduates after winning at Hexham Regatta. Photo: Clive Penkett
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Wild Soul Empowers Women Through Yoga Massage and Conscious CV Writing

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Wild Soul, a Cumbrian based holistic and soul-led wellness practice, is now offering Yoga Massage and Conscious CV Writing as well. These groundbreaking additions aims to empower women, ignite creativity, and drive positive change in the professional world and remaining conscious in doing so.

Why does Yoga Massage and Conscious CV Writing Matter?

Empowering Women: Wild Soul recognizes that empowerment begins within. By combining the ancient wisdom of yoga with the practicality of CV writing, women can reclaim their narratives and amplify their voices. It’s time to break free from societal constraints and embrace authenticity.

Creativity Unleashed: Yoga Massage taps into the body’s innate wisdom, releasing tension and fostering creativity. When creativity flows, so does innovation. Wild Soul invites women to explore their unique paths, infusing their CVs with originality and flair.

Breaking Patriarchal Barriers: CVs often downplay women’s achievements. Wild Soul challenges this norm. Wild Soul believe that every skill, every experience, and every passion deserves recognition. Your CV should reflect the brilliance that has been hidden away for far too long.

Holistic Approach: Founder and qualified yoga guide, Allie, brings a soulful touch to the CV-writing process. Drawing from her background as a freelance CV writer and HR professional, she holds space for women to explore their career aspirations. The result? A CV that resonates with authenticity and purpose.

Confidential Ethos: Wild Soul operates with utmost confidentiality. Your journey is sacred, and we honor that. Together, we’ll tailor cost-effective solutions to your unique circumstances, ensuring your CV reflects your true potential.

Beyond the CV: Wild Soul isn’t just about paper qualifications. Wild Soul invite you to explore confidence, inclusivity, spirituality, healing, kindness, and love. As your guide, Alex infuses playfulness and freedom into the process. There are no rigid rules—only possibilities.

You can find out more information by heading to their website My Wild Soul | Nature based yoga and creativity in The Lake District or emailing hello@mywildsoul.co.uk

Also give their pages on Facebook Facebook and Instagram (need your Instagram handle and I will add it in) and LinkedIn page once set up a follow for all their latest events, retreats and other wellness offering and opportunities.

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Registered Care Manager

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Bluebird Care are recruiting a Registered Care Manager to join our Carlisle and Dumfries team.

Bluebird Care – Jobs in Carlisle | Indeed.com

They are looking for an experienced registered manager with a passion for delivering premium quality care.

This is a rare, but exciting opportunity to manage one of the leading and most established home care companies in the Carlisle area.

They pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality care, and they are looking for someone who is passionate, extremely dedicated, professional and motivated.

As the Care Manager you will:

  • Manage their office team to ensure they provide high levels of continuity of care and customer satisfaction
  • Be responsible for the safe and effective delivery of the service in line with legislative requirements and company policy and procedures
  • Work closely with, and report to, their Owner Directors
  • Ensure our service is compliant and of the highest quality
  • Be responsible for CQC inspections
  • Ensure the recruitment and retention of the very best care staff
  • Ensure there are sufficient numbers of suitably qualified staff allocated appropriately to meet service needs at all times
  • Implement company policy and procedures in relation to managing absence, disciplinary, capability and grievance matters
  • Maintain records & reporting systems to ensure the effective running of the business
  • Undertake training and development to keep up to date with the latest industry practice and changes in company policy
  • Organise and run regular staff team meetings to maintain effective communication within the whole team
  • Effectively manage complaints and incidents and carry out investigations accordingly
  • Manage an effective and efficient on-call system, directly or indirectly, to ensure that our customers and care experts are fully supported, and that absence and sickness does not affect the delivery of premium quality care

The successful applicant will:

  • Have experience of managing a successful home care operation and be knowledgeable in home care compliance and quality assurance
  • Must have a valid Level 5 (or equivalent) in Health & Social Care or relevant degree
  • Have previous experience of managing a CQC regulated service
  • Be able to work calmly under pressure, and have a solution focus mindset
  • Be able to effectively lead an experienced team
  • Have experience in dealing with customers, employees and stakeholders where service excellence is paramount
  • Be highly organised and be able to manage different priorities
  • Have a passion for ongoing professional development for yourself and the whole team

Why you should apply to be their Registered Care Manager:

  • Competitive salary of £35k
  • Performance related bonus
  • 28 days holiday per year
  • Opportunity to be an integral part of a developing and ambitious team

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Company pension

Schedule:

  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekend and evening availability as required

Experience:

  • Care Management: 1 year minimum

Licence/Certification:

  • Full UK Driving Licence
  • Level 5 (or equivalent) in Health & Social Care

Work authorisation:

  • United Kingdom (required)

Apply now or share with someone you know who would suit this role

http://Registered Manager Domiciliary Care – Carlisle – Indeed.com

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Brathay Trust Announces The Brathay Bursary to help 5000 Young People

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Teresa Jennings (middle) with Simon Fell MP (left) and Tim Farron MP (right)

Brathay has been at the forefront of youth development for decades. One of the ways they engage with young people is through outdoor residentials. Outdoor residentials are not mere escapades into nature; they are transformative journeys. “Research shows they support development in confidence, teamwork, wellbeing, and life skills”, explains Andy Watson, Chair of Trustees. 

However, more and more schools and families are struggling to cover the cost of residential experiences due to the continued shrinking of the public purse and cost of living hikes. 

But now, thanks to a new initiative from Brathay Trust, they aim to turn this on its head and support 5,000 more young people for the next 5 years to experience a life-changing residential at Brathay. 

The Brathay Bursary was launched last night (April 16th) at the Palace of Westminster by Brathay and Cumbrian MPs Simon Fell and Tim Farron.  

The Bursary will ensure these experiences are accessible to all. “No young person should miss out due to financial constraints” explains Teresa Jennings Chief Executive of Brathay.  

“Whether it`s scrambling up a hillside or canoeing on the lake, there are so many activities which can really help build confidence, resilience, and self-awareness in young people who might otherwise be struggling with their social and emotional development all supported by our expert facilitation. The outdoors is exhilarating, but it comes with challenges – mental and physical – that require, say, problem solving or teamwork. Learning these skills away from home in a new environment and spending time outside can help with young people who are struggling for one reason or another.” 

“But when money is tight, not least during a cost-of-living crisis, families or schools may not have the funds to be able to help children who are struggling with their mental health. And these children may not be able to enjoy the uplifting opportunities of the great outdoors. The Brathay Bursary hopes to address that.” 

The charity aims to source donations for the bursary through businesses and donations from those who can help. 

“Imagine the impact of 5,000 more young people experiencing outdoor residentials. It’s not just about them, it’s about their families, schools, and neighbourhoods. We all become part of that transformative journey. When you invest in the Bursary you invest in the future”, Andy Watson, Chair of the Trustees concludes. 

Teresa Jennings (left) with Aspiring Leaders Programme Graduates of this year, Jade Kieft (middle) and Garryck Spurgeon-Price (right) 
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Production Team Member – Part Time (Permanent)

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Are you ready to embark on a rewarding career in the food industry?

We are excited to announce an available position within our company, as we set to expand further, and invite you to speak with us about joining our team.

We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who are forward thinking, organised, detail-orientated, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. If you have a passion for great food and want to be part of a team dedicated to delivering excellence, we would love to hear from you!

3 Days per week – Tuesday, Thursday & Sunday – Approx 16 hours per week (overtime is also available)

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and assemble high quality, handmade food items following recipes and guidelines.
  • Ensure all food products meet our high standards for freshness, taste and presentation.
  • Maintain a clean and sanitary working environment, adhering to food safety regulations and best practices.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet production goals and deliver outstanding customer satisfaction.
  • Assist in inventory management, including monitoring stock levels and conducting regular quality checks.

Skill Set & Experience Requirements:

  • Knowledge and experience working within the food industry is essential.
  • Excellent organisational skills and a keen attention to detail.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and sometimes high-pressured environment, being able to problem solve and adapt to change when needed.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Flexible availability, including weekends and bank holiday working when required.

What We Offer:

  • Full training: We provide comprehensive training to ensure you have the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your role.
  • Competitive salary: We offer excellent employee rates that recognise your hard work and dedication.
  • Employee discounts: Enjoy exclusive discounts on our delicious food products.
  • Free lunch: Take advantage of a complimentary lunch and drinks during your shift.
  • Team events: Join us for fun and engaging team-building activities and events.
  • Pension package: Plan for your future with our comprehensive pension package.
  • Wellness incentives: We value your well-being and offer incentives to support self-care.

How to Apply:

If you are ready to join Lakes Sandwiches and be part of a dynamic team that values quality, teamwork, and innovation, we invite you to submit your application.

Head to https://lakessandwiches.co.uk/careers/ or email: admin@lakessandwiches.co.uk or call: 01539 723303 (Press option number 3 and leave your contact details)

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Healing the Past

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Creating the happy future you deserve

Do you want to make peace with the past and stop repeating old patterns that no longer serve you?

In my 25 years experience of counselling and spiritual coaching, I have dealt with a wide range of issues people have experienced in their life, that lead them to be unhappy an unfulfilled at some level in the present.

This one-day online workshop will teach you to clear the blocks from the past and enable you to have the future you desire.

What will be covered?

  • Identifying lessons from the past and and how to apply them to your life.
  • How to be at ease with the past and release from its grip.
  • How to identify the root cause of your unhappiness.
  • How to create the life you deserve and desire.
  • How to forgive yourself and others.
  • How to create abundance.

When: Saturday 18th May 2024

Investment: £110

To book your place or find out more Debbie Loring 07946 339050

Debbie@yogenwisdom.com

“Our thoughts have energy, they are stored at a cellular level in our physical body as well as in our minds. They form part of who we are. They influence everything.” – Debbie

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Sober events group provides safe space for young adults to socialise in Cumbria

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Showcase Cumbria heard about Twentee-Total from one of their founders, Carmen de Castro and delighted with their permission to share about it.

Learnt that Twentee-Total is a dynamic group that brings together young adults, primarily in their 20s, who reside in Cumbria.

They connect, engage, and inspire. Life in your twenties is a pivotal time for personal growth, networking, and forging meaningful connections so fantastic that Twentee-Total provides the platform for young adults to come together, learn, and create lasting memories.

What they have done so far!

  1. Sold-Out Events: Over the past few months, they have organized a series of sold-out events alongside local businesses that cater to diverse interests. From workshops and outdoor adventures, their events are designed to enrich lives and foster friendships.
  2. Local Collaboration: They collaborate with local businesses. By partnering with them, they enhance the quality of their meet-ups and contribute to the community’s vitality.
  3. Online Presence: People can stay connected to them via Facebook and Instagram (@twenteetotal) where they share event details, stories, and glimpses of our vibrant community.

Get Involved

Have questions? Want to join their next event? Reach out to them via email twenteetotalofficial@gmail.com or social media. Twentee-Total is more than just a group; it’s a supportive network where friendships flourish and possibilities abound.

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Showcasing Hawkshead

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Written by David Rippin, University lecturer and landscape photographer, Hawkshead

The Church of St Michael and All Angels, on an early winter’s evening. The hills of the Fairfield horseshoe are visible in the distance. (Credit: Photo Rippin)

Just a few miles south of busy and bustling Ambleside lies the village of Hawkshead – an oasis of calm, steeped in history and stunning Lakeland beauty, with so much to recommend it. Despite its small size, there is plenty to see and do, with something for everyone.

Spectacular night skies are visible from within and around Hawkshead. (Credit: Photo Rippin)

Hawkshead began as a medieval market town and is famous for its cobbled streets and classic whitewashed Lake District cottages. In the village centre on a small hill, stands the striking 17th Century Church of St Michael and All Angels. This is a wonderful spot to survey the village and the wider area. Hawkshead is also famous for its association with both William Wordsworth, who attended the Grammar School, and Beatrix Potter, who lived at nearby Hill Top.

The village is richly served by coffee shops, cafes, bars and bistros, as well as numerous shops, including the famous Hawkshead Relish, the only Grasmere Gingerbread shop outside of Grasmere, a delicatessen and our very own chocolate factory.

The village sits beside the beautiful and adventure-filled Grizedale Forest, while to the south lies the serene Esthwaite Water, a prime fishing spot and home to ospreys.

One of the many patches of glorious woodland to be found around Hawkshead. (Credit: Photo Rippin)

A myriad of footpaths begin in Hawkshead. The spectacular Tarn Hows is just a 45 minute walk, or a short drive away, and a fantastic bridleway leads cyclists and walkers alike to the glorious Wray Castle on the shores of Windermere. To the east of the village lies the summit of Latterbarrow, and the undulating terrain of Claife Heights.

With its 360-degree views, the Coniston Range, the Fairfield Horseshoe and the Langdale Pikes are all visible. The views from here are magical and varying throughout the year, and being just a stone’s throw from the village, are another reason why Hawkshead is truly the place to be, all year round.

The village of Hawkshead from the south. (Credit: Photo Rippin)

Check out David Rippin Photography website PhotoRippin

Give @VisitHawkshead Instagram and Twitter/X page a follow

#visithawkshead on Instagram | Hashtags

VisitHawkshead (@VisitHawkshead) / X (twitter.com)

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