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The remarkable achievement caps off an unforgettable awards season for the multi award-winning Wirral takeaway, which is now celebrating two of the top awards possible in the industry. The latest success cements Pisces’ reputation as not just one of the best chippies in the region, but one of Britain’s finest.

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For Cos, who has spent his entire life in the fish and chip industry, the recognition is the culmination of decades of dedication to perfecting the nation’s favourite takeaway. “It’s an incredible honour,” he said. “This isn’t just a personal award – it’s recognition for our amazing team, our loyal customers and my family, who have devoted their lives to the fish and chip industry.”

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Although Cos has been involved in Pisces since 2004, his roots in the industry stretch back much further. Born into one of the North West’s best-known fish and chip families, he has grown up around fryers, learning the craft from a young age. For decades, the Michael family has operated successful fish and chip shops across the region and that experience is reflected in every portion served at Pisces.

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The English Fish & Chip Awards are regarded as one of the industry’s top awards and is yet another for the Heswall shop, having won a few during the past few years. Over recent years, Pisces has consistently been recognised among Britain’s elite fish and chip businesses, including:

• Winner of Best Fish & Chip Shop in the North West 2026
• Cos Michael crowned Best Fish & Chips Fryer in the UK 2026
• Ranked among the Top 3 Most Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Fish & Chip Shops in the UK
• Named in the Top 20 and Top 40 Best Fish & Chip Shops in the UK
• Awarded the prestigious Blue Ribbon quality accreditation on multiple occasions
• Consistently achieving Environmental Health Elite Status

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Having served the Heswall community for 27 years, Pisces has become much more than a local takeaway. Today, around 2,000 orders leave Pisces every week, with deliveries made across the Wirral and visitors travelling from far and wide to sample its award-winning fish and chips. Its reputation has also attracted a host of famous faces over the years, with footballers and celebrities regularly stopping by.

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Despite its national success, Pisces has never lost sight of its local roots. Over the years, the business has raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities, schools, sports clubs and community causes, making it one of Heswall’s most generous independent businesses. For Cos, supporting the local community has always been just as important as serving great food.

Cos summarises: “Winning both the UK’s top frying accolade and the regional shop title is a huge achievement for both Pisces and the Wirral. The awards recognise not only exceptional cooking but also sustainability, consistency, innovation and outstanding customer service. It’s due to hard work and our customers we are where we are today and we will continue to give back to our community as a thank you.”

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With an enviable collection of national awards, thousands of loyal customers every week and a reputation that extends far beyond Merseyside, Pisces has firmly established itself as one of the very best fish and chip shops in Britain — and thanks to Cos Michael, it can now proudly say it is home to the UK’s Best Fish & Chips Fryer.

Pisces / 37 Milner Road. Heswall, Wirral, CH60 5RT / 0151 342 1046

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The bigger picture for music education at GCSE level remains cautiously optimistic. Last year, music GCSE results published by the Joint Council for Qualifications showed a 6.1% increase in music entries across the UK. Coupled with an 8.7% rise in 2024, this is positive change, but it takes place against a worrying backdrop: music GCSE entries in England have fallen by 25.6% since 2010. The recent removal of the English Baccalaureate, which encouraged schools to focus on non-arts subjects for their students, has gone some way in improving the situation, but the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) wanted to explore solutions from the people who know these students best – their parents. 

RPO research carried out in June among a nationally representative sample of 2,000 UK adults asked parents what they feel could be done to encourage more young people to get involved in classical and orchestral music. 

Music lessons topped the list, with 31% of those surveyed calling for more music lessons, while one in three (30%) of respondents felt that getting more young people to play in orchestras at school would be an effective way to build enthusiasm and 29% of parents called for more school trips to classical or orchestral concerts. Beyond the classroom, 23% of those surveyed felt their children would get involved with the classical sector if classical music was in mainstream music charts like the UK Top 40.

Vasily Petrenko, Music Director at the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, adds: “Our research this year shows that interest in orchestral music is on the rise and it’s very encouraging to see that an increasing number of people are experiencing the genre for the first time. For many people new to orchestral music, the magic of the live concert experience is usually the moment that converts curiosity into interest – and this probably explains why parents care so much about their children having the opportunity to experience playing in an ensemble at school, or to experience unique emotions in a classical concert.”

The RPO research also explored which musical instruments are popular among school children – whether they are already learning to play a specific instrument or would like to take one up. Painting a picture of what tomorrow’s orchestra might look like, the piano remains at the top of the list (35%), followed by the guitar (28%) and drums (22%). Across the country, the violin, trumpet and recorder are on the rise, chosen by 18%, 11% and 14% of respondents respectively. French horns and trombones, however, remain ‘endangered’, chosen by only 3% and 5% of children respectively. 

Sarah Bardwell, managing director of the RPO, commented on the new data: “While it is of course heartening to see a rise in music GCSE uptake – something we hope to see continue in the 2026 results – it is clear that more needs to be done to safeguard the musicians and audiences of tomorrow. The RPO’s engagement work with young people is a vital way of filling the gaps left by underfunding in formal music education, and our players find it hugely fulfilling – but this latest data shows that we need more action at a government level to build more opportunities for young people to enjoy orchestral music.”

The Barnsley-based business has been named as one of three finalists for the award, which recognises companies that have excelled in global import and export operations, expanded into new international markets and built successful overseas partnerships while contributing to the Sheffield economy.  This nomination follows the brand winning the Kind’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade earlier in the year.

The recognition follows three years of exceptional international growth for Cares Laboratory, with overseas sales increasing by 440%. The company’s products are now sold across more than 30 countries spanning North America, Europe, Asia and Africa.

A major milestone in the company’s international expansion has been its entry into the United States, where Vamoosh secured a national listing with Target. Its renowned Pet Hair Dissolver and Washing Machine Cleaner launched to market across 600 Target stores, establishing the foundations for what Cares Laboratory aims to develop as its largest export market within three years. The expansion forms part of a landmark year for Vamoosh as the British brand also celebrates its 10th anniversary.   In the last year export growth reached over 103% year-on-year, supported by an expanded distributor network and bolstered by the aforementioned retail listing with Target in the United States.

Cares Laboratory has also grown its network of specialist international distribution partners from four to twelve in just three years, creating access to markets around the world. These have included working Lumen Brands in the USA to secure the listing with Target.  Additional partnerships globally include: Aldi (Australia), EDEKA (Germany) and DM across Europe, Retail Brothers across the Nordics, McLoughlins in Ireland and Movo Group in Turkey.

Cares Laboratory also works extensively with UK suppliers,  manufacturers, designers, printers and logistics providers and maintains a longstanding relationship with Sheffield-based charity Support Dogs, raising more than £27,000 through fundraising, sponsorship and awareness initiatives. Members of the team also volunteer within Sheffield communities and charities, while the company supports apprenticeships, local education projects and community organisations across the region.

Innovation has remained central to the company’s growth. What began with Vamoosh Pet Hair Dissolver, the patented product inspired by co-founder Tom Abbey’s black Labrador Mr Chips, has developed into an expanding portfolio of specialist laundry and household cleaning solutions. Thirty per cent of current sales are now generated by products launched within the last 18 months.

Helen Parry, Managing Director of Cares Laboratory, said:

“We’re delighted to be shortlisted for the International Trade Award. Following our King’s Award for Enterprise, it’s fantastic to receive further recognition for the international growth of Cares Laboratory and the hard work of our team. We’ve made significant progress in expanding Vamoosh globally, including our recent launch into Target stores, and we’re excited to continue building on that momentum.”

The Sheffield Business Awards are now in their 25th year and celebrate businesses, organisations and individuals helping shape Sheffield’s business landscape. Cares Laboratory is shortlisted alongside Chesterfield Special Cylinders and Hothouse Beauty in the International Trade category, with the winners set to be announced at a black-tie ceremony at Sheffield’s Octagon Centre on 15 October 2026.

With the 2026 BRIT Awards just days away, a survey of 2,000 UK adults has revealed who they’d like to host the show, and the moments that have defined one of the music industry’s biggest nights.

Topping the list saw the Geordie presenting duo, Ant & Dec (18%). Alan Carr follows closely behind with 17% of the vote, while one in ten (10%) would happily see Jeremy Clarkson swap horsepower for star power and take to the BRITs stage.

And despite hosting the show five times previously, only 11% want to see Jack Whitehall pick up the microphone again.

The top five celebrities the nation wants to host the BRITs

Freddie Mercury’s final public appearance as he collected the Outstanding Contribution Award in 1991, was voted as the most iconic BRIT Awards moment, with nearly a quarter of the public (22%). More than three decades on, it remains a powerful reminder that the awards are about far more than trophies; they capture cultural moments that last a lifetime.

Top five most iconic moments in BRIT Awards history

It’s not just the on-stage antics that Brits have had their say on. It’s clear that old fan favourites are retaining the public’s heart with one in five Brits (20%) suggesting that Ed Sheeran deserves to walk away as the event’s biggest winner, despite being nominated for just one award.

On the flip side, only 7% think Olivia Dean – who currently tops the UK singles chart – should take the top spot, while just 4% of the public back Lola Young – even though the pair are up for the most nominations this year.

A spokesperson for Sky Bingo said: “The BRIT Awards never fail to serve up a moment – whether it’s a powerhouse performance, a jaw-dropping outfit, or the kind of on-stage chaos that has everyone rewinding their TVs.

“Our research shows that the nation might come for the music, but they stay for the mayhem. At Sky Bingo, we know a little drama keeps things interesting, and if these predictions are anything to go by, this year’s BRITs could be less ‘smooth sailing’ and more ‘hold onto your hats.’”

[LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – February 5, 2026] – The Brain Trust Charity (UK) has announced that Dr Jorge Castañeda will be honoured with the Brain of the Year 2025/2026 award, recognising his work advancing mental literacy and its practical impact on leadership, learning, and innovation worldwide. 

The award will be presented by Ray Keene, Founder and President of The Brain Trust Charity, acknowledging Dr Castañeda’s development and global application of frameworks that bridge classic thinking methodologies with the demands of modern leadership and artificial intelligence.

“Dr Jorge Castañeda’s contribution is both rigorous and highly practical,” said Ray Keene, Founder and President of The Brain Trust Charity. “His work strengthens the foundations of Mental Literacy while equipping leaders to make better decisions and build capability in a fast-changing world. This award recognises impact that is real, measurable, and global.”

Dr Castañeda’s recognised achievements include:

1) Creation and successful application of the Synergetic Intelligence framework

A leadership methodology designed to connect foundational Mental Literacy – pioneered by Tony Buzan – with today’s complexity, innovation demands, and AI-driven transformation. The framework has been implemented as a cornerstone of advanced academic programmes, including the Master of Science in Strategic Thinking and the PhD in the Neuroscience of Leadership, offering leaders a scalable, repeatable system for navigating change.

2) Invention of globally applied frameworks: Root Cause Systemic Mapping (RCSM) and FISHER

Dr Castañeda developed and deployed proprietary approaches that translate radiant thinking into practical, high-stakes organisational solutions. RCSM supports systemic problem-solving through visual thinking and root-cause clarity, while FISHER offers a structured method for driving consistent creativity and innovation.

3) Seminal research in cognitive science, multiple intelligences, and recall curves

His research has contributed evidence on how memory functions beyond simple recall – positioning memory as an engine for understanding, connecting knowledge, and building mastery. This work supports learners and professionals in converting information into repeatable, high-level skills.

4) Innovation in executive education through project-based impact

Dr Castañeda pioneered an “Applied Impact” model that replaces purely theoretical dissertations with projects aligned to an executive’s own organisation or customers – ensuring immediate ROI and positioning advanced study as a catalyst for measurable organisational growth.

5) Digital transformation and global scaling of Mental Literacy

By integrating modern digital delivery with Mental Literacy methodologies, Dr Castañeda helped expand access for CEOs, directors, and HR professionals across more than 20 countries, modernising the “Swiss Army Knife of the Brain” for the demands of the AI era.

“I’m deeply honoured to receive this recognition from The Brain Trust Charity,” said Dr Jorge Castañeda. “Mental Literacy is more relevant than ever. In the AI era, leaders need clarity, judgement, and human-centred capability at scale. My work has focused on turning powerful thinking principles into practical systems that leaders can use every day, especially under pressure.”

As part of the award-related activities, Dr Castañeda will deliver a masterclass on Synergetic Intelligence on 11 February, focused on actionable decision clarity and leadership execution in the AI era.

This marks the fifth consecutive year that Bakkavor’s Apprenticeship Programme has topped the rankings, outperforming other major employers such as Barclays, Mars, KPMG, British Airways, Asda, HSBC and Unilever.

TheJobCrowd rankings are the UK’s only employer awards for graduates and apprentices, based entirely on feedback from employees themselves, making them a significant and trusted industry benchmark.

With more than 70 new apprentices joining Bakkavor this September – in core business areas such as manufacturing, engineering and finance – Bakkavor continues to invest in early careers development through hands-on learning, real responsibility and nationally recognised qualifications.

Bakkavor has also been awarded the top spot for its Graduate Programme for the first time in the ‘Consumer Goods & FMCG Companies’ category. This reflects the exceptional commitment of Bakkavor’s Early Careers team in creating a best-in-class programme that prepares graduates for long-term success in the food manufacturing sector.

Donna-Maria Lee, Chief People Officer at Bakkavor commented: “To be recognised by TheJobCrowd—and most importantly, by our own apprentices and graduates—is a tremendous honour. These accolades are a testament to the quality of our early careers programmes and the dedication of the teams who run them. At Bakkavor, we believe in growing talent from the ground up, and we’re proud to offer young people exciting, rewarding career paths within the food industry.”

For more information on Bakkavor’s apprenticeship programme, visit:

www.bakkavor.com/careers.

Ahead of the 43rd London Marathon, research from Paddy Power Bingo reveals the nation is overflowing with confidence – just not necessarily ability.

Over four million Brits (6%) believe they could beat the world marathon record – clocking 26.2 miles in under two hours. And not after months of prep and protein shakes – they reckon they could do it with zero training.

CAN’T RUN? BECOME THE PM INSTEAD

Of course, running 26.2 miles may not be your thing. No problem. According to the research:

• 4.8 million Brits (7%) think it’d be easier to become Prime Minister than run a marathon
• 2.7 million would rather walk the entire length of England (that’s 556 miles, by the way)
• And over a million believe an Ironman triathlon – which includes a marathon after a 112-mile cycle and 2.4-mile swim – would be an easier option.

MARATHON ROUTE? APPARENTLY JUST A MYSTERY TOUR

When asked which iconic locations you pass on the London Marathon, 11% of Brits said… none. As in, zero London landmarks. No Big Ben, no Tower Bridge, no Buckingham Palace – just a long, anonymous run through who-knows-where.

And some clearly think the event is less capital city, more UK sightseeing tour:

• 12% think it passes Wembley Stadium
• 2% say the Angel of the North (which is 272 miles away)
• 1% expect to get a scenic view of the White Cliffs of Dover on their way to the finish line

TOP FIVE MARATHON MISHAPS: MOST INCORRECT LOCATIONS

DISTANCE? ANYONE’S GUESS

Despite being one of the world’s most iconic races, 43% of Brits don’t actually know how far a marathon is.

• Only 56% correctly said 26.2 miles
• 53% of women got it wrong compared to 35% of men
• And for those identifying as “Other”, a staggering 71% had no idea

THE MARATHON ‘ICK’ IS REAL

While many Brits cheer on the runners with pride, not everyone’s feeling the love.

• 10% dislike seeing fully grown adults in fancy dress
• 8% moan about the traffic
• 3% say marathon runners give them the ick
• 2% admit they hate pretending to care by clapping for hours on the sidelines

LIE TO ME, MARATHON EDITION 

Turns out over five million Brits (7%) have straight-up lied about completing a marathon. Top reasons?

• “It’s easier than admitting I haven’t” – 46%
• “I thought I’d be judged” – 32%
• “I exaggerated a half marathon” – 22%
• And yes, 7% did it to “impress someone they fancy”

LONDONERS LEAD THE PACK… IN FALSE BELIEF 

Leading the charge in overconfidence are Londoners, with a full 10% believing they could leg it around the capital’s 26.2-mile route in under two hours without any training and still be home in time for Sunday roast.

Not far behind are the proud people of Manchester, Belfast and Birmingham, with 9% of locals in each city backing themselves to break records, Eliud Kipchoge-style.

WHAT PADDY POWER BINGO HAS TO SAY

On behalf of Paddy Power Bingo, Paddy Power said: “Only in Britain could millions of people believe they can run faster than the actual world record holder – without so much as a warm-up.

“We salute the confidence. But let’s be honest – most would be out of breath halfway through tying their laces.

“That’s why at Paddy Power Bingo, we reward stamina of a different kind – like lasting a full game without needing a nap.”

To test your luck from the comfort of your sofa – no trainers required – head to Paddy Power Bingo.

Super Taste status is given to products that are judged to be well made, balanced, and delicious, from a panel of 250 independent professional chefs and sommeliers.

Osavi’s Super Omega 2900mg Omega 3 fish oil is extracted from sustainably fished pelagic fish, providing a high concentration of essential unsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA that help to maintain normal heart function.

Marta Krupa, Product Leader, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive the Superior Taste Award from the International Taste Institute. This recognition means so much to us because it reflects our passion for creating products that not only support health but also taste great.

“Our Super Omega 2900mg Omega 3 fish oil was created with care and dedication from our team to quality and sustainability, and it is incredibly rewarding to know that it’s been recognised by a panel of experts. We could not be more excited to share this achievement with our customers and continue bringing them the very best.”

Learn more about Osavi’s Super Omega 2900mg Omega 3 fish oil, including its range of health benefits and recommended use on Osavi’s website.

Osavi is a leading provider of high-quality health and wellness products designed to empower individuals to live healthier, happier lives. The brand offers a range of innovative health products backed by scientific research and formulated with premium ingredients.

Four of Osavi’s products were honoured by the Health & Wellbeing’s Wellness from Within awards.

The Awards celebrate beauty, health, food and fitness products, with the aim of helping consumers understand which supplement is best for their needs. The awards are decided by an extensive judging panel, composed of high-profile industry-leading experts.

Two of Osavi’s products received gold awards, which represent the highest honours available to brands.

Osavi’s B-Complex with Choline and Inositol received gold in the Energy and Vitality Category, with Super Strong Omega + D3 was awarded gold in the Brain Health Category.

Additionally, Osavi received two further silver awards. Silver badges are awarded to stand-out products that impressed the judging panel with their exceptional quality, innovation and overall impact.

Osavi’s Inulin was awarded silver in the Gut Health Category, while their Magnesium received silver in the Sleep Category.

Marta Krupa, Product Leader, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive four Wellness from Within Awards. This recognition means so much to us because it reflects our passion for creating products that not only support health but also taste great.

“It is incredibly rewarding to know our products have been recognised by a panel of experts. We could not be more excited to share this achievement with our customers and continue bringing them the very best.”

The awards recognised Osavi’s main focus on ingredient quality for its consumers.

Osavi’s range meets the highest industry standards, offering safe and sustainable friendly products for consumers. All products meet the essential lab tested requirements for purity and composition. Each batch is tested in an independent, accredited laboratory ensuring 100% positive results.

For more information visit the Osavi website (https://osavi.com/en)