25% Discount Offer with Leader Connect

Share this post on:

By Mary Ballard, Founder and Editor of Showcase Cumbria


Dear Readers,

I am thrilled to share an exciting opportunity with you! As many of you know, I have recently embarked on a journey with Leader Connect (a Cumbrian-based company), and I am eager to tell you about the incredible courses they offer. Currently, there is a fantastic 25% discount that you simply cannot miss!

What has truly impressed me about Leader Connect is the quality of their courses. They are designed to be easily integrated into your busy schedule, making it possible to learn between work/running your business and meetings. I have already gained so much knowledge from these courses, and I am confident you will too.

Affordable and High-Quality Learning

Leader Connect offers courses at an affordable price point, which is a refreshing change from what is typically available. Most courses are priced at just £11.99 each and include a recap and certification upon completion. There are also courses available for as little as £3.79, and this is before applying the 25% discount!

Expert-Led Courses

These courses are created by recognised and experienced experts in their fields, including Leader Connect’s founder, Course Director, and Coach, Neil Jurd OBE, who is also the author of “The Leadership Book.”

Neil Jurd OBE, Leader Connect’s founder, Course Director, and Coach

If you haven’t had the chance to explore Leader Connect yet, I highly recommend visiting their website here

They offer a wide range of courses with more on the way! https://leader-connect.co.uk/courses/?utm_source=Showcase+Cumbria&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Leader+Connect+Launch&utm_id=02

What You Can Expect

  • Full Podcast Collection: Dive into insightful discussions with industry leaders.
  • Exclusive Videos: Enjoy a variety of leadership videos, some of which are available without a subscription.

Special Offer

Use the code INTRO25 to get 25% off any course or the annual subscription for the first year. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills or those of your employees with top-notch content. It’s perfect for your Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

If you are interested in being a part of Leader Connect and have a course to offer, I would be happy to introduce you to Neil Jurd OBE. Just let me know! Email me on info@showcasecumbria.co.uk

Happy Learning!

Warm regards,

Mary Ballard
Founder and Editor, Showcase Cumbria

Share this post on:

Leaders as Culture Architects: Crafting a Thriving Workplace Environment

Share this post on:

By Richard Thompson, Co-Founder & Director of Odyssey Consulting Ltd

If you were building a house, you’d probably start by engaging an architect. Ideally a good one. That way, you can ensure the end product is well-built, on solid foundations fit for purpose and will last for years to come.

Workplace culture should be no different. Workplaces also need architects to craft healthy cultures that are well-built, on solid foundations, fit for purpose and will last for years to come. That’s how organisations will get the highest performance, the best retention rates and the least amount of risk.

Architects (of the building variety!) have years of training before they are let lose on the job. Leaders rarely have that luxury and are often thrown into leadership roles without the requisite learning and development to upskill them as culture architects. And that’s a mistake – organisations should be taking leadership development very seriously, investing in bespoke leadership development programmes that are tailored to their specific needs.

By its very nature, workplace culture is complex, nuanced and can be difficult to navigate. Leaders need to have the skills, knowledge and experience to handle tricky issues in order to set the tone and continually drive workplace culture forward. It’s also a never-ending job – culture shifts and changes like sand and leaders need to evolve and move with the times.

Off-the-shelf or one-off training interventions can be helpful but tend to be more educational in nature. To truly develop leaders into culture architects requires a more transformational approach that is delivered consistently over a period of time. Here’s how you can achieve that:

· Be intentional about creating a strategic goal for your leadership development programme – what are you hoping to achieve?;

· Create multiple touchpoints – workshops, 1:1 coaching, group coaching and self led-learning;

· Design content off the back of research – use your employee voice to understand where the skills and behavioural gaps are;

· Allow time for the learning to bed-in – learning touchpoints should be interspersed to allow time for reflection and practice;

· Create community learning spaces – cohorts should be encouraged to continue the conversation;

· Have an eye on return on investment – how will impact be measured to understand what comes next.

As we move towards 2025, it is a good time for employers to reflect on the culture they currently have, the culture they aspire to create and to think about how they can nurture and develop their leaders to become true culture architects.

If you would like to discuss how Odyssey Consulting Ltd can help your leaders to become culture architects, please contact Richard Thompson via email richard@odyssey-consulting.co.uk or head to odyssey-consulting.co.uk to find out more.

Share this post on:

Top Dog Business Awards Launched: Profits to Support Eden Animal Rescue

Share this post on:

The Top Dog Business Awards, a new initiative celebrating excellence in the pet care industry, has officially been launched. This exciting event, set to take place on Friday, 16th May 2025 at The Halston, Warwick Road, Carlisle, promises a night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration.

The awards, founded by Dave and Vicky McKenna, owners of Top Dog Doggy Day Care, along with their daughter Madison, aim to recognise outstanding businesses in the dog care sector. Categories include grooming, training, retail, and veterinary services. The event will feature an esteemed panel of judges, including Hannah Wade, a Crufts Judge and Championship Dog Agility Competitor, and Sarah Bean, General Manager of Eden Animal Rescue.

Dave McKenna along with daughter Madison and wife Vicky McKenna founders of Top Dog Business Awards

In a heart-warming gesture, all profits from the Top Dog Business Awards will be donated to Eden Animal Rescue. The funds will support their fundraising efforts for a new kennel block, ensuring a better future for countless animals in need. Eden Animal Rescue is actively seeking sponsors to help make this project a reality.

Dave and Vicky’s journey began several years ago with the opening of Top Dog Doggy Day Care, a place where pets could feel at home and their owners could trust in the quality of care. Their mission has always been to offer a safe, loving, and fun environment for dogs, ensuring they are happy and healthy while their owners are away. This dedication to exceptional care is the driving force behind the Top Dog Business Awards.

The panel of judges for the awards includes industry and business experts dedicated to recognising excellence in the dog business sector:

  • Hannah Wade – Crufts Judge, Championship Dog Agility Competitor
  • Adam Roberts – Owner of CJAJ Media, Social Media Expert
  • Naomi Smith – Owner of Saltire Financial, Business Expert
  • Sarah Bean – General Manager of Eden Animal Rescue, Dog Business Expert

The event is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors, including Telfords Van Hub, Sannas, GHS Direct, Steffany Collette, Candy Print, and Saltire Financial. However they have more sponsorship opportunities and catergories? Visit Top Dog Awards Sponsorship for more details Sponsorship | Top Dog Business Awards

Also nominations now open for you to vote also Awards | Top Dog Business Awards

Categories are: Dog Walker Of The Year, Dog Kennels Of The Year, Day Care Of The Year, Dog Groomer Of The Year, Dog Breeder Of The Year, Dog Trainer Of The Year, Dog Retailer Of The Year, New Business Of The Year and Dog Vets Of The Year.

So what are you waiting for! Get in touch with them to sponsor a category and nominate! Help spread the word!

Email them on info@topdogawards.co.uk or head to https://www.topdogawards.co.uk/

Share this post on:

Newly Refurbished Lonsdale House Grand Opening Events a Resounding Success

Share this post on:
Owner Neil Cameron of newly refurbed Lonsdale House Luxury Apartments with the networking event attendees to celebrate it’s opening.

The grand opening events of the newly refurbished Lonsdale House Luxury Apartments have been celebrated as a resounding success. The first event which was on Wednesday 25th of September 2024, which was open to the general public, saw an impressive turnout of 70 attendees. Many guests shared fond memories of Lonsdale House from its days as a hotel, adding a nostalgic touch to the evening. It also highlighted the support that was in the community that this historical Grade II listed building has now been restored and will be bringing in tourists and those working to the area.

The second event to celebrate their opening was held 18th of October 2024 was an exclusive evening of networking and drinks, with a notable presence of local businesses and organisations, including Ulverston Town Council, Ulverston BID, and Cumbria Tourism.

Neil Cameron, the owner, was pictured with several attendees, including Donna Flowers Dawning from Still Life Ulverston, Sarah Davies from Cumbria Tourism, Esmeri Spruce from Spruce Interiors Ltd, Shane Francis from Roma Finance, Wendy Orr, who previously owned Lonsdale House Hotel between 1991-1998, Shirley-Anne Wilson, deputy mayor of Ulverston, Andy Arnold-Bennett from Shed One, Ulverston, Deborah Scott from Ulverston BID, Tim Bromley from Wolfe Design and Build, and Anthony Smith from Progression Solicitors.

The event was catered by local company Karen Rhodes Weddings & Events. The evening was further enriched by the presence of current guests, who joined in the celebrations and enjoyed the festivities.

The success of these grand opening events marks a significant milestone for Lonsdale House Luxury Apartments, setting the stage for its future as a place to stay in Ulverston as well an event space for hire to once again host weddings, special occasions and corporate events and workshops.

For more information about Lonsdale House Luxury Apartments and upcoming events, please  follow them on social media for offers and more ; they are on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552414657722 and check out their website where you can book direct https://www.lonsdale-house.co.uk/

Neil Cameron Owner of the newly refurbished Lonsdale House Luxury Apartments Photo Credit German Ucar

Share this post on:

Essence Wellness Expands Offerings with 10 Practitioners at growing Cumbrian Health Hub

Share this post on:
Owner Gemma Hornsby-Lofthouse founder of Essence Wellness (pictured centre) alongside some of the many practitioners now at their growing health hub

Essence Wellness located in Maryport in Cumbria is thrilled to announce the expansion of its services with the addition of 10 skilled practitioners, enhancing its comprehensive health hub.

This expansion underscores Essence Wellness’s commitment to promoting holistic well-being and self-care practices.

The Practitioners and Services now there:

  • Jen Wilson, Jen Wilson Wellness: Conducts workshops focused on stress management and overall well-being.
  • Emma Dollochin, Revive Active: Offers functional fitness classes and will introduce sports massage services starting January.
  • Kerri Hunter, Wild Daisy Holistics: Specialises in massage and reflexology.
  • Charlie Stevens, Soulway Therapy: Provides sports massage and energy healing.
  • Simone Walters, Soul Work: Hosts sound baths and wellness workshops.
  • Mandy Huddart, Firefly Holistics: Offers reiki, reflexology, and Indian head and facial massages.
  • Nikki Wingfield, Solway Shiatsu & Qigong: Expert in shiatsu and qigong practices.
  • Tash Barnes, West Lakes Health: Physiotherapist, currently with the England Boxing team in Spain.
  • Sarah McAvoy, The Longevity Coach: Provides functional fitness and meditation.
  • Kerry Smallwood, Complete Foot Care: Foot care practitioner.

Gemma Hornsby-Lofthouse, the driving force behind Essence Wellness, recently transitioned from a 20-year career in the NHS to focus on wellness.

Gemma advocates for a proactive approach to health, emphasising fitness and well-being over merely treating illness. She believes in shifting the focus to living well and maintaining mobility into old age.

On the addition of the new practitioners and her very own team expanding the addition of an apprentice as well, she says, “At Essence Wellness, our mission is to empower individuals to take charge of their health through holistic practices. By expanding our team and with having such talented practitioners here in the same building, we are enhancing our ability to support the community in achieving optimal well-being and longevity.”

Owner Gemma Hornsby-Lofthouse of Essence Wellness (centre) with her team Margaret (left) and Jessica their new apprentice (right)

Essence Wellness in addition to the practitioners, offers a range of therapies themselves designed to rejuvenate both mind and body. Their services include floatation therapy, which helps relieve stress and fatigue by providing a weightless, silent environment, and red light therapy, known for its skin rejuvenation and muscle pain relief benefits. Each therapy is tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring a personalised wellness experience.

To book an appointment, you can visit their website and use the online booking system, making it easy to schedule your path to wellness https://www.essencecumbria.co.uk/wellness

Gemma Hornsby-Lofthouse founder of growing Essence Wellness in Cumbria

Share this post on:

Popular Cumbrian Guest House Triumphs at Cumbria Tourism Awards 2024

Share this post on:

Sunnyside Guest House, a beloved establishment in Keswick, has been recognised for its outstanding service and dedication over the past six years by winning the Cumbria Tourism Bed and Breakfast and Guest House of the Year 2024. This accolade follows their recent achievement as a finalist in The Family Business Community North West Awards this year also.

Owners Paul and Nicky Roper have tirelessly worked to create a memorable experience for their guests, supporting local charities like Fix The Fells and prioritising local suppliers and produce. Paul Roper expressed their pride, stating, “Winning this prestigious award is a testament to our commitment to excellence. We couldn’t have done it without the help and support of our wonderful, world class local producers and amazing guests.”

Looking ahead, Sunnyside Guest House aims to focus on sustainability while continuing to uphold the high-quality service that their guests have come to expect.

The awards ceremony was held at Kendal’s Castle Green Hotel on July 2, which was a celebration of Cumbria’s tourism industry, marking the 50th anniversary of Cumbria Tourism.

Paul Roper added, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to Cumbria Tourism and the sponsor of our category award, Dodds & Co – Chartered Accountants, for their support. We are excited to continue flying the flag for all guest houses and offering exceptional stays for our visitors. We remain committed to supporting the environment, our community, and local producers for many more years to come.”

Find out more about Sunnyside Guest House on their website https://www.sunnysideguesthouse.com/ and follow them on social media.

Share this post on:

New private gym set to open in Penrith

Share this post on:
Proper Performance, state of the art private gym opening in Hackthorpe, Penrith

A brand-new private gym is set to open near Penrith. Located in the village of Hackthorpe, Penrith, this state-of-the-art facility will officially open its doors on Monday, 24th of June 2024.

This new private gym is founded and run by partners Callum Keen and Beth Walker who have also relocated to Cumbria recently from York. They chose Cumbria as they have always loved their visits here and feel very at home.

Proper Performance will deliver a weekly schedule of small group classes ranging from Fell Strong for runners/hikers, to Longevity training for those looking to increase strength and endurance throughout life, along with Calisthenics for those looking to defy gravity.

In addition to group sessions, Proper Performance will offer personalised private training sessions by Coach Callum Keen. Coach Keen, a former World Record Holder and MSc qualified specialist, brings over a decade of experience in human performance to the gym.

Proper Performance Co-Partner Coach Callum Keen

“We’re not just a gym; we’re a community,” says Beth Walker, one of the business partners behind Proper Performance. “Our mission is to piece together our interests, abilities, and passions into an all-encompassing service for those who want to invest in their performance and longevity.”

The gym’s design reflects our core values of honesty, enthusiasm, and compassion. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness beginner, Proper Performance welcomes you to join our supportive and empowering environment.

For more information or to book a class, visit their website at www.proper-performance.co.uk or stop by their Hackthorpe location starting 24th June 2024 or following them on Instagram: @proper__performance

Coach Callum Keen doing a bespoke training session
Share this post on:

Cumbrian Renowned Dog Day Care Service Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence with Prestigious Pet Care Awards

Share this post on:
Katy Smith and Craig Smith owners of Theas Lakeland Walks with their dog Thea who they have named the business after

Thea’s Lakeland Walks, a renowned dog day care service based in High Hesket Business Park, Carlisle, has once again demonstrated its excellence in pet care by securing several prestigious accolades. The company, known for its commitment to providing top-notch services, has been recognised as a leader in the industry, earning the title of ‘Business of the Year Finalist’ in both 2019 and 2023. Their dedication to quality care has also earned them the ‘Pet Care Specialists of the Year’ award for four consecutive years, from 2020 to 2023.

In 2021, Thea’s Lakeland Walks was a finalist for the ‘PIF Pet Services Business of the Year,’ showcasing their continued commitment to excellence. The year 2023 marked a significant milestone for the company as they were honoured with the ‘Global Recognition Award,’ a testament to their outstanding services on an international scale. Furthermore, the company’s innovative approach and dedication to the community were recognized by Theo Paphitis, a renowned business magnate, as they won the ‘Small Business Sunday Winner 2023.’

Thea’s Lakeland Walks has also made a conscious effort to operate in an environmentally friendly manner, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable business practices. Their team’s expertise is backed by qualifications in canine behaviour and certifications in pet sitting and dog walking, ensuring that every pet receives the best possible care.

“As the proud owner of Thea’s Lakeland Walks, I am deeply humbled by the recognition we’ve received. These awards are not just accolades to display; they reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence in pet care. Each honour we’ve earned, from being finalists for ‘Business of the Year’ to receiving the ‘Global Recognition Award’, fuels our passion to serve our community and the pets we adore. Our success is measured not in trophies, but in the wagging tails and happy barks of the dogs we have the privilege to care for. We pledge to continue setting the benchmark for sustainable, compassionate, and exceptional pet care services. Here’s to the journey ahead, filled with more milestones and cherished moments with our furry clients.” – Catherine Smith, owner of Thea’s Lakeland Walks.

As featured in North West Wedding Magazine and Abode2, Thea’s Lakeland Walks continues to set the standard for pet care services, not only in Cumbria but across the region.

With a comprehensive range of services and a customer-centric approach, they remain at the forefront of the industry, celebrating their achievements and looking forward to future successes.

You can find out more by heading https://www.theaslakelandwalks.co.uk/

Katy Smith and Craig Smith owners of Theas Lakeland Walks winning CorporateLiveWire North England Prestige Awards
Share this post on:

Cumbrian pet store celebrates double anniversary

Share this post on:
Karen Creighton owner of Arcade Pet Store in Devonshire Arcade in Penrith

Arcade Pet Store, a cherished fixture in Penrith’s Devonshire Arcade, is celebrating a dual milestone: it’s around the 70th anniversary as a beloved pet supply destination and its 9th year under the stewardship of Karen Creighton. This store has not only been a go-to source for a comprehensive range of pet supplies and expert advice for seven decades but has also flourished in the past nine years, fostering a warm community for pet enthusiasts.

Karen Creighton, the current owner whose passion for animals and background in Zoology propelled her into the pet retail industry, shares her reflections: “It was nine years ago that I embraced my love for animals and ventured into the pet retail business. This journey has been filled with delightful encounters, from wagging tails to contented purrs, and the satisfaction of meeting our customers’ needs. Celebrating this anniversary brings back the reasons I started this venture, and I look forward to many more years of contributing to the pet community.”

The Arcade Pet Store has evolved from its modest inception to a cornerstone in the Devonshire Arcade, serving not just the pets of Penrith but also creating a welcoming space for pet lovers to connect. The store’s dedication to animal welfare shines through in every carefully selected product and the insightful guidance provided by Karen and her team.

As the Arcade Pet Store embarks on its tenth year with Karen at the helm, it continues to uphold its commitment to enriching the lives of pets and their owners in Penrith and the surrounding areas.

Visit them at 16 Devonshire Arcade, Penrith, United Kingdom to join in the celebration, and don’t forget to follow their journey on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/arcadepetstore

Extensive-choice-for-pets-at-Arcade-Pet-Store-in-Devonshire-Arcade-in-Penrith
Share this post on:

Local Cumbrian Sandwich Business Named “Best Locally-Sourced Packaged Sandwich Company 2024”

Share this post on:
Mel Walmsley Owner of Lakes Sandwiches at The Sammies 2024 with their Sandwich Entry

Lakes Sandwiches, based in Kendal has once again proven its dedication to the community by being recognised as the Best Locally-Sourced Packaged Sandwich Company 2024 in the upcoming Business Elite Awards with SME News. This prestigious honour emphasises their relentless commitment to producing high quality products and cements their role as a pillar of local enterprise.

But the accolades don’t stop there. Lakes Sandwiches were also named a finalist for the People’s Choice Award – Community Champions category at the North West Family Business Awards. This nomination highlights their exceptional contributions to the community and their commitment to making a positive impact.

In addition to these recent achievements, Lakes Sandwiches reached the semi-finals of the prestigious British Sandwich Association’s “Sammies” awards earlier this year. Their custom sandwich designs, a testament to their creative spirit, have garnered industry-wide acclaim and positioned them as leaders in the culinary art of sandwich making.

Founded on the principles of freshness and local sourcing, Lakes Sandwiches has been handcrafting high-quality food-to-go products since its inception in 2014. Their range, initially created as a high-quality alternative to mass-manufactured options, has always prioritised taste and affordability without compromising on quality.

In 2017, Lakes Sandwiches took a significant step forward by rebranding their packaging and partnering with other local food producers. This move not only enhanced the quality of their ingredients, from cheeses to chutneys, but also strengthened the local food ecosystem.

“Our mission is to offer convenience food that is both fresh and tasty. We believe you don’t have to compromise on quality for meals on the go. Being recognised in all these awards is a true honour and a reflection of our team’s passion and hard work.” said Mel Walmsley, co-founder and visionary behind Lakes Sandwiches.

Lakes Sandwiches’ commitment to the community extends beyond their products. They create job opportunities for local residents, support various local charities, and actively promote local sourcing and great food within the community.

As part of their growing success and expansion, Lakes Sandwiches now offers a bespoke range tailored for Meetings, Office Lunches, Parties, and Events. Their diverse menu includes; Sandwich Platter Boxes, Picnic Lunch Bags, Afternoon Tea Boxes and Cake & Tray Bake Selections. These offerings can be explored on their website and easily ordered via their online shop.

As Lakes Sandwiches continues to grow and innovate, they invite everyone to join them in celebrating these remarkable achievements. With their eyes set on the future, they promise to keep delivering outstanding food that not only satisfies the palate but also contributes positively to the community they so proudly serve.

For more information about Lakes Sandwiches and their award-nominated offerings, please visit their website www.lakesandwiches.co.uk or call them on 01539 723303.

Award winning Lakes Sandwiches Owners Mel and Scott Walmsley
Share this post on: