CLR Service and Sales Ltd (CLR) has been awarded a Royal Warrant as a supplier of commercial catering and refrigeration equipment to His Majesty The King. The appointment is granted for a five-year term and recognises the consistently high standards of service, quality, and professionalism delivered by CLR.

Royal Warrants are a mark of recognition to companies who have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five years and who have an ongoing trading relationship. Fewer than 550 British companies hold a Royal Warrant. CLR joins a prestigious list of warrant holders to King Charles which includes household names such as John Lewis, Aston Martin, Fortnum and Mason, Burberry, Cartier and Champagne Bollinger.

Royal Warrants have been issued by the British monarchy since the 15th century, originally granted to tradespeople supplying the Royal Court. The system was formalised under King George III and expanded significantly during Queen Victoria’s reign. Today, warrants are awarded to companies or individuals who have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five consecutive years and who maintain an ongoing trading relationship. Warrant holders are authorised to display the Royal Arms as a mark of quality, reliability, and excellence.

Matthew McKenzie, Managing Director of CLR, says,

“We are proud to be recognised with a Royal Warrant. It is a testament to the professionalism, technical expertise, and commitment of our team. We have built CLR on strong foundations – high standards, reliability, and continuous investment in people and infrastructure. This recognition reflects our unwavering focus on quality and service, which has been the hallmark of CLR since day one.”

The award of the Royal Warrant marks a significant strategic milestone for CLR as it accelerates its growth across Scotland. It reinforces the company’s reputation as a trusted, high-quality supplier at a time when CLR is building relationships with public sector, hospitality, healthcare and private sector clients.

CLR has recently begun to operate across Scotland with a new base in Alloa to service central Scotland as it expands from its original bases in Aberdeen, Elgin and Inverness.

The firm is one of Scotland’s largest independent specialists in the supply, installation and maintenance of commercial catering, laundry and refrigeration equipment, operating across Scotland, supporting a wide range of industries including hospitality, healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, and the public sector.

More about CLR can be found at www.clr.ltd.

Ends 

Picture Caption (L to R)

John McKenzie, Sales Director CLR, Matthew McKenzie Managing Director CLR, John Kane, Operations Director CLR

[May, 2025] – Belton Woods Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, part of The QHotels Collection, proudly hosted the Clutch Pro Tour’s Stromberg Masters this week, welcoming rising stars of professional golf for one of the Tour’s Tier 1 headline events. The tournament concluded in dramatic fashion today, as Harry Ellis produced a superb final round of five under par to take the title.

The three-day event saw a competitive field of professionals battle it out on Belton Woods’ renowned Lakes Course, known for its challenging layout, excellent greens, and signature water features. The Stromberg Masters is one of the most anticipated events in the Clutch Pro Tour calendar, offering vital ranking points and a platform for players looking to break through to the next level of professional golf.

As the official venue for the prestigious tournament, Belton Woods continues its support for elite player development and grassroots growth through its ongoing partnership with the Clutch Pro Tour. The collaboration reflects The QHotels Collection’s commitment to helping grow the game at all levels and cement its position as one of the UK’s leading golf resort operators.

Tom Hayward, Director of the Clutch Pro Tour, commented: “It’s been a fantastic week at Belton Woods, and our congratulations go to Harry Ellis on a brilliant final round to win the Stromberg Masters. The team at Belton Woods, from Matt Bradley and his golf operations staff to the greenkeepers, have delivered outstanding conditions – the players have been very complimentary about the course and hospitality we have received.”

Belton Woods is one of seven championship venues within The QHotels Collection, offering a high-calibre golf experience for both elite and everyday golfers. With its established reputation for hosting events and welcoming atmosphere, it remains a key venue in the growth of competitive golf in the UK.

Keith Pickard, Golf, Health Club & Spa Director at The QHotels Collection, added:
“We’re delighted to have hosted the Stromberg Masters at Belton Woods and to have welcomed the Clutch Pro Tour once again. The course was in outstanding condition and the team have done a fantastic job preparing for this event – especially given the recent challenges with limited rainfall. Events like this play a crucial role in the development of professional golf, and we’re proud to support that journey. 

Across our collection, we’re focused on growing the game – through investment in our courses, partnerships like this, and creating exciting opportunities for the next generation of talent. We’re now looking ahead to the next Tier 1 event at Forest Pines in a couple of weeks and continuing our support for the Clutch Pro Tour and its players.”

Located in the heart of Lincolnshire, Belton Woods is renowned for its challenging fairways, exceptional course conditioning, and warm welcome – qualities that continue to attract elite competition and visiting golfers alike.

For full results and leaderboard details, visit www.clutchprotour.co.uk.

Rural Aberdeenshire inn celebrates prestigious North East of Scotland Young Chef of the Year title and second place in Restaurant of the Year
Kildrummy Inn, the award-winning hotel and restaurant in rural Aberdeenshire, is celebrating further success following the North East of Scotland Chef and Restaurant of the Year Awards.
The inn’s rising culinary talent, Jay Dickson, was named Young Chef of the Year, impressing judges with his creativity, technical skill and understanding of flavour. Jay, aged 22, has been training under chef-patron David Littlewood and head chef Alex Hay and is already establishing a reputation as one to watch in Scotland’s hospitality sector.
In addition to Jay’s individual accolade, Kildrummy Inn also secured second place in the Restaurant of the Year category – a remarkable achievement for the independently owned inn, which continues to gain national and regional recognition for its commitment to local sourcing, seasonal cooking and relaxed fine dining.
The news marks another high point in what has been an exceptional year for Kildrummy Inn. In 2024, the inn was named Scottish AA Inn of the Year, won Best Hotel Experience at the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards, and was listed in The Sunday Times as one of the Top Ten Pubs in the UK. The restaurant holds two AA Rosettes, is featured in the Michelin Guide.
David Littlewood says,
“We’re incredibly proud of Jay and all that he has achieved — this award shows his hard work, talent and dedication. To also be recognised in the Restaurant of the Year category is a huge honour for the whole team. We are a small operation, but one with huge heart and ambition, and it means a great deal to see that reflected in such respected industry awards.”
Run by husband-and-wife team David and Sophie Littlewood, Kildrummy Inn has built a strong reputation for thoughtful hospitality, with an emphasis on quality, consistency and a strong sense of place. With four individually designed bedrooms, a whisky snug, private dining room and bar, the inn attracts guests from across the UK and beyond who are seeking a luxurious but authentic Highland experience.

The team at Kildrummy Inn continues to support local employment, apprenticeships, and community initiatives, and remains firmly committed to responsible tourism and sustainability practices.
This latest recognition from the region’s top chef and restaurant awards underlines the inn’s growing reputation as one of the Scotland’s leading culinary destinations – and reflects the dedication of a small, passionate team delivering exceptional experiences in the heart of Aberdeenshire.
Kildrummy Inn Is by Alford in Aberdeenshire – www.kildrummyinn.co.uk.

In a bold move described by some as “barking mad” and others as “paw-sitively inspired,” the four-legged pair are officially stepping into leadership roles as Director of Zoomies (Willow) and Head of Heritage Sniffing (Raven).

“Our guests love that Dalriada is dog friendly,” said Willow, aged 4 (in human years), speaking from her beanbag in reception. “But they needed guidance. Where to walk? What to sniff? How wet can one get before it’s considered ‘too wet’? That’s where we come in.”

She added, “More than a third of UK dog owners* now take their dogs on holiday with them. That’s, like, millions of pups. 84% of us doggos say we’re happier on holiday with our humans – and I personally think the other 16% just haven’t found the right beach yet.”

The new Dog Walk Diaries web pages feature short, scenic trails in and around Stonehaven and Royal Deeside, all described from the dogs’ perspectives. The walks are rated for squirrel sighting potential and wet fur incidents. The walks include local favourites like the Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle circular route, the dramatic cliffs at Fowlsheugh, forest adventures at Loch Kinord and the easy coastal hop to Skatie Shore – just two miles from the lodges.

Dog Walk #001 – Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle Circular
Dog Walk #002 – Crawton Bay to RSPB Fowlsheugh
Dog Walk #003 – Loch Kinnord, Dinnet and Burn o’ Vat
Dog Walk #004 – Dalriada to Skatie Shore

“These are proper reviews,” explained Raven, Senior Labrador and long-time resident. “We evaluate each route based on paw-friendliness, historical interest, and the likelihood of Willow falling in a puddle. Spoiler: very high.”

Guests can explore the trails online via the Dalriada website, alongside existing guides to dog-friendly days out and tips for staying with furry family members. Each Dog Walk Diary includes a distance, walk time, key highlights and two exclusive features: Willow’s What-the-Woof? and Raven’s Reflections – essential reading for dogs of taste and their humans.

Managing director at Dalriada Kelly McAlpine added, “We’re always looking for new ways to make Dalriada more personal, warm and welcoming – and there’s no better way to do that than through the eyes (and muddy paws) of Willow and Raven. They’ve got fans across the world already. Now they’ve got a column too.”

To read the first four walk entries and meet the dogs, visit Dog Walk Diaries.

For interviews, images or further dog-related nonsense, or to donate dog treats to Willow and Raven, contact: info@dalriadalodges.com.

Ends

For more information, please contact:
Beverley Tricker Tricker Communications
Office 01224 64691 Mobile 07702 363039 btricker@trickercomms.com

* PetsPyjamas 2023 Pet Travel Survey – UK dog owners
Picture Caption – Willow Right Raven Left

Bringing Marketing Excellence North of the Border

Headquartered in Durham, Spotty Media has carved out a strong reputation as a specialist hospitality digital marketing agency since its founding in 2016. While based in England, their bespoke marketing services are now making waves across the Scottish hospitality scene. With tailored strategies designed specifically for the food, drink, and accommodation sectors, Spotty Media offers Scottish businesses the edge they need to succeed in a highly competitive market.

Whether you’re a Michelin-starred restaurant in Edinburgh, a family-run café in Aberdeen, or a boutique hotel on the Isle of Skye, Spotty Media delivers marketing solutions that speak directly to your target audience—locally and globally.

Why Scotland’s Restaurants Need a Marketing Partner

Scotland’s restaurant scene is thriving, but it’s also more competitive than ever. Post-pandemic consumer habits, rising operational costs, and increased reliance on digital discovery have shifted the hospitality landscape. Diners now search for menus on Instagram, book tables through Google, and leave reviews that make or break reputations.

That’s why working with a specialist restaurant marketing agency like Spotty Media is essential. The team understands the nuances of the hospitality sector and offers a full suite of digital services designed to get your business noticed and loved.

Core Services That Drive Results

Spotty Media’s comprehensive approach covers every aspect of hospitality marketing, including:

• Social Media Management: Keeping your profiles active, engaging, and on-brand with scheduled content, community engagement, and trend analysis.
• Chef PR & Media Relations: Showcasing culinary talent and building chef profiles through targeted PR campaigns and media coverage.
• Hospitality Website Development: Creating stunning, user-friendly websites optimised for mobile, SEO, and conversions.
• Influencer Marketing: Partnering with food and travel influencers who resonate with your brand and reach your ideal customers.
• Video and Photo Content Creation: Capturing mouthwatering visuals and behind-the-scenes footage that tell your story authentically.
• Email Marketing: Building customer loyalty and increasing repeat visits through strategic email campaigns.
• Social Media Advertising: Running targeted ad campaigns that boost footfall and drive bookings.

Local Insight Meets Global Vision

While Spotty Media operates across the UK, their growing footprint in Scotland reflects a keen understanding of the unique opportunities within the region. Scotland is rich in local produce, culinary heritage, and tourism potential—all elements that lend themselves perfectly to creative marketing campaigns.

Spotty Media ensures every campaign is informed by local insight. From highlighting seasonal Scottish ingredients to promoting participation in events like Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight or Edinburgh Fringe pop-ups, their campaigns are tailored to tap into what makes Scotland special.

Success Stories and Scottish Growth

As a trusted restaurant marketing agency, Spotty Media is already collaborating with a number of businesses across Scotland, helping them to:

• Increase online bookings and reservations
• Grow social media followings organically
• Generate press coverage in major food publications
• Enhance their digital presence with SEO-optimised websites

Clients often report higher visibility, more engaged customers, and measurable revenue growth after partnering with the agency.

Supporting Hospitality from the Borders to the Highlands

Whether you run a seafood bistro in Oban, a rooftop bar in Glasgow, or a whisky bar in Inverness, Spotty Media brings high-quality, affordable marketing expertise to your doorstep. The team works remotely and on-site when needed, offering flexible packages that suit businesses of all sizes.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Venue Unmissable

In an age where diners are digitally savvy and expectations are sky-high, it’s not enough to serve great food—you need a compelling digital presence that draws people in. Spotty Media helps Scotland’s hospitality businesses do just that. As a specialist restaurant marketing agency, they combine data-driven strategy with creative flair to tell your story and grow your brand.

Whether you’re launching a new venue or want to revitalise your existing brand, Spotty Media is ready to help you thrive in Scotland’s ever-evolving hospitality landscape.

Claire Bannerman, Vegetarian for Life’s (VfL) dedicated Roving Chef for Scotland, has reached an incredible milestone – delivering her 175th community cookery demonstration. From Glasgow to the Highlands, Claire has spent years inspiring people with her creative and nutritious plant-based recipes, tailored to older vegetarians and vegans.

From Gran’s Kitchen to a Culinary Calling

Claire’s journey to becoming a chef started in her grandmother’s kitchen. “I always wanted to work with food after learning to cook with my gran,” she recalls. Although her career began in food manufacturing, she quickly realised her passion lay in hands-on recipe development, particularly with local, seasonal ingredients. A lifelong vegetarian, Claire’s ethos revolves around making plant-based cooking both tasty and nutritious.

Claire’s connection to VfL began at a vegan festival, where she met the charity’s team. Drawn by their shared mission, she joined as Scotland’s Roving Chef, using her skills to support older adults in embracing vegetarian and vegan lifestyles.

Signature Dishes and Memorable Moments

Known for her vibrant curries, Claire credits her expertise to workshops at the Ashoka Cook School and her time in Kerala, India. “I like South Indian flavours in the sauce, but I mix up the base – tofu, paneer, or mushroom and chickpea – so there’s something for everyone,” she explains.

When asked about her most memorable meal, Claire fondly recalls her first experience with vegetarian sushi. “It was a new dish and a new way of eating. We shared long benches and bento boxes. My bench mate turned out to be Richard Branson, who also opted for the bento box!”

A Focus on Nutrition and Community

Claire’s cookery sessions are designed with older adults in mind, emphasising protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and other vital nutrients. “With smaller appetites, it’s important to make every bite matter,” she says, highlighting the importance of fortification and hydration.

Her workshops are more than just cooking classes – they’re opportunities to build connections. “Food is a great icebreaker,” Claire shares. “It’s about sharing memories and creating a sense of community.”

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

From adapting menus to suit diverse tastes to creating naturally vegan dishes, Claire embraces challenges with creativity. She’s a strong advocate for mastering tofu, calling it “super versatile.”

“Not liking tofu is like not enjoying curry,” she laughs. “You just need the right recipe.”

Looking Ahead

As demand for her cookery demonstrations grows, Claire is focused on developing sustainable menu options and ensuring they meet the nutritional needs of older adults.

“It’s an honour to help older vegetarians and vegans enjoy nutritious, delicious food,” she says. “By sharing accessible recipes, I hope to inspire others to explore plant-based cooking.”

Indeed, the search term ‘cheap family days out’ has seen a 70% increase in Google searches in the last 12 months, clearly indicating that families are on the hunt for a bargain. 

Meanwhile, according to Visit England, almost a half are either ‘cautious and being very careful’ due to the cost-of-living crisis. 

Dan Jones, operations manager at Experiences.co.uk, said: “Easter can present the challenge of keeping the kids entertained while sticking to a budget. 

“We hope that these exciting five experiences for under £25 will offer something different while providing long lasting memories.” 

60 Minute Bounce Centre Session 

Jump for joy…children, and adults alike, will jump at the chance to experience these indoor sessions where bouncing is the name of the game. 

They are a great way to exercise while having fun as a family and because they take place indoors can be enjoyed no matter the weather. 

Paddington Bear Tour in London – Child 

Young fans of the bear with the stare will love this official Paddington Bear walking tour of London. 

The two-and-a-half hour tour starts at Paddington Station before proceeding to memorable locations from the books and films, including Portobello Road Market. 

Slip N Slide Water Adventure Ticket – Devon 

An 86-metre-long waterslide awaits children and adults looking for a one-hour watery thrill that promises plenty of family fun. 

When the waterslide excitement has finished, then it’s a lovely setting to enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside. 

Wizards London Bus Tour of Harry Potter Locations – Child 

This wizardry experience for young Harry Potter fans starts off from King’s Cross St Pancras station in a tour bus with an expert guide. 

Highlights include visiting locations such as Platform 9 ¾, plus locations that were used as backdrops including The Leaky Cauldron and Gringotts Bank. 

East Kent Railway Tickets for Two 

Evoke the golden era of train travel with a leisurely four-mile round trip travelling through rolling Kent countryside and also through the Golgotha tunnel. 

There’s also the chance to explore the visitor centre and small museum, or take a relaxing walk in the nearby Knees Woodland. 

For more information about Experiences.co.uk, and its full range of activities, visit www.experiences.co.uk.  

With just days to go until Sunday 30th March, the extraordinary experiences with DrivingExperience.com can be booked online up to the last minute. 

Dan Jones, operations manager at DrivingExperience.com, said: “If it’s got four wheels, then chances are you can drive it with DrivingExperience.com. 

“Such a wide range of experiences means there’s sure to be the perfect package for mum this Mother’s Day. After all, Mother’s Day is a very special time and these are very special vehicles.” 

Supercars are always a perennial favourite and the Treble Supercar Blast can be booked as a special offer for Mother’s Day, reduced to just £69 from £109. Behemoths available for mum to drive include Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Aston Martins. 

Off-road action is possible with the Off Road Challenge 2 for 1 which offers a full day of adventure including quads, buggies and rally karts. A pub lunch is also included before heading back to the action. 

Mums who want to drive sideways can enjoy the Learn to Drift Half Day Drifting Experience with 6 Passenger Laps. This extreme driving experience includes learning drifting, doughnuts and figures of 8 before finishing with an unforgettable high-speed passenger ride.  

It’s possible to super-size the action with an awesome 60 Minute Extended HGV Driving Experience which allows mum to drive a 44-ton DAF truck accompanied by a qualified instructor – it could even be the start of a new career. 

With DrivingExperience.com there’s even the chance for mum to go ‘airborne’ with a 1:1 Hovercrafting Adventure. The fun-packed experience includes flying over water and land – a unique ‘surf and turf’.  

Dan added: “Our experiences have been designed to provide an adrenaline rush in a safe environment, so mum can rest assured she’ll be in good hands.” 

For more information about DrivingExperience.com, visit www.drivingexperience.com.  

Mother Mercy (Newcastle upon Tyne)

Nestled within Newcastle’s historic Cloth Market, Mother Mercy is a chic, independent cocktail bar that has gained recognition as one of the UK’s top 50 bars. Known for its expertly crafted drinks and stylish interior, this hidden venue offers a premium drinking experience in an intimate setting. With additional secret locations in Sunderland, Mother Mercy remains a top destination for those in the know.

Leave Me Alone Lisa (Newcastle upon Tyne)

For a more relaxed and quirky atmosphere, Leave Me Alone Lisa is the go-to spot. Tucked away on Blandford Street, this dive bar specializes in tequila-based drinks and has a distinct urban vibe. With an unassuming entrance, finding this bar feels like stumbling upon a well-kept secret, making it a perfect hideaway for those seeking an offbeat drinking experience.

All Seeing Eye (Newcastle upon Tyne)

Hidden within the Blackie Boy on Groat Market, All Seeing Eye is an art deco-inspired speakeasy that transports guests to a different era. Accessed through a secret entrance, this stylish cocktail bar boasts a carefully curated menu of classic and contemporary cocktails, making it a must-visit for cocktail lovers looking for an exclusive experience.

The Wobbly Duck (Newcastle upon Tyne)

Located in Old Eldon Square, The Wobbly Duck is a small yet characterful micropub with an impressive selection of craft beers. Despite its central location, this cozy hideout feels removed from the hustle and bustle of Newcastle’s nightlife, offering a quiet retreat for those who appreciate good beer in a relaxed setting.

Marsden Grotto (South Shields)

Perhaps one of the most unique drinking spots in the North East, Marsden Grotto is a historic gastropub partially built into a cliff face. Overlooking the stunning coastline of South Shields, this hidden treasure combines breathtaking views with a fascinating past. Whether you’re enjoying a pint or dining by the sea, the setting is unmatched in its charm and intrigue.

The Ship (Saltburn-by-the-Sea)

A true historic gem, The Ship in Old Saltburn dates back to the 18th century. Tucked away near the coastline, this hidden pub is steeped in history and offers a warm, traditional atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for a drink after a coastal walk or seeking a quiet escape, The Ship is a perfect destination for those who appreciate character and history in their watering holes.

Conclusion

For those willing to seek them out, these hidden bars offer some of the best and most unique drinking experiences in the North East. Whether you’re after expertly crafted cocktails, craft beer, or a historic setting, there’s a secret bar waiting to be discovered. So next time you’re out for a drink, why not skip the usual spots and uncover something extraordinary?

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to ensure they understand – and adhere to – the Highway Code changes which were introduced on 29 January 2022.

The changes were intended to ensure that those who can cause the most harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce danger to others. Specifically the changes include:

• Giving priority to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross at junctions
• Requiring drivers to give way to cyclists going straight ahead when turning in or out of junctions
• Establishing safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists and horse riders
• Encouraging the “Dutch Reach” method when opening car doors to avoid hitting cyclists.

However, three years on, GEM is concerned that the new rules – and the responsibility now placed on drivers – are not well enough understood.

In 2023, 405 pedestrians were killed on the roads of Great Britain with 6067 seriously injured¹. 87 pedal cyclists were killed with 4,942 seriously injured.

In 2024, figures from the British Horse Society³ show that in 2024 there were 58 horses killed in road incidents, with 97 seriously injured. Additionally, 3,118 road incidents were reported to the Society – mostly relating to vehicles passing too close, too fast or both.

GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said: “This has been one of the most frequently asked questions by GEM members, many of whom feel they do not have a clear understanding of their increased responsibility under the 2022 ‘hierarchy of road users’. They worry that this could lead to confusion and conflict.

“The changes were welcome when they came out as they reflect a shift towards prioritising the safety of vulnerable road users and encouraging more considerate behaviour on the roads. However, they have no chance of being effective when so few drivers appear to know about them or are confused as to what they should be doing differently.  

“It is also concerning to read surveys which suggest that as many as half of drivers are unaware of the ‘new’ rules.

“We encourage the government to lead the way in correcting this situation. A clear communication campaign to car drivers is vital if we want them to know what they are now expected to do differently.”

GEM has complied a brief summary of the Highway code changes and what car drivers should now do:

• Be more vigilant at junctions. Give way to pedestrians and cyclists.
• Maintain safe distances when passing vulnerable road users
• When overtaking a cyclist at up to 30mph, allow a space of at least 1.5 metres. If you are driving faster than this, ensure the space you allow is greater.
• When passing a horse on the road, slow down to a maximum of 10mph and allow a space of at least two metres as you go past.
• Take extra care when turning, ensuring you don’t cut across cyclists or horse riders.
• Be mindful of the harm you can cause and adjust your driving accordingly.