Connections Magazine - Summer 2007

John Nike's column

Teamwork, Extreme Fantasies and the Community

Well, the surprise of the year is without a doubt the informal musical entertainment put on by the Nike Group employees (past and present) under the guide of 'The Grease Monkeys'. It was spectacular and surprises came with it. The 'Peter Pan' Len Stafford, the Deputy Managing Director, taking the forefront with his singing (without a doubt a forsaken pop star) and Chris Skilton, the Director of Nike Design, showing off his skills as the Lead Guitarist. Other members of the Group staff added to the dept of the band and the singers with great professionalism and the whole performance set the scene for Communications Day. (photo) For his efforts, I presented to Len Stafford an award - a genuine trophy memorabilia item worn by Elton John (provenance included) together with a voucher to visit a famous recording studio in London accompanied by three others.

Following the musical entertainment, as Chairman I welcomed the employees and wished them well in the games knowing that fierce competition would be to the forefront but reminding them it was all about teamwork. I also stated that 'cheating' should be kept to the minimum!! (photo)

It was then to the presentation of the 'Employee of the Year Awards' and I was delighted to present these to James Brown (Coppid Beech Hotel), Darren Doubtfire (Octagon Motor Company) and Sandra Murphy (Jubilee Building Supplies): all worthy recipients of this Annual Award.

The day was most successful, rewarding and instilling for the Directors, management and employees. Not only was it about teamwork within the Group but also about meeting and seeing the faces of working colleagues from other areas of the UK. A great Communications Day.

Following a major setback due to rains over the past several months, the new Extreme Snow Park under construction in Bracknell at the John Nike Leisuresport Complex ski centre had to have more extensive drainage works installed and this meant that the laid surface had to be stripped back to bare ground in certain areas. The works have now been successfully completed and the recent heavy thunderstorms truly tested the re-laid sub-base with the torrential rain; all was well and the park is scheduled to be open for the coming season. There is still a lot to do but when finished the snow-park should be a most testing are for the skiers and boarders with their extreme fantasies.

With the successes of four members of the Bracknell Freestyle Club in this year's British Championship in Laax, Switzerland from where the team brought back eight medals, I am sure all of the members are waiting to attack the twists, turns and jumps being prepared. I congratulate team members James Webb (18) and Josh Brunt (15), who won silver medals, on being selected for the British Freestyle Development Squad, and wish them well. My congratulations also extend to the whole of the Bracknell Freestyle Team who took part. (see Freestyle Club story).

It is said that a part of the success story is due to the surface of Perma-snow™ a product manufactured by our subsidiary company Techmat Systems 2000 Limited. With such a revolutionary new skiing surface, that has been tried and tested during the past three years with great success on our ski slopes, the decision was taken to order a new tufting machine to meet the demands for the product. This means that the factory has to be expanded and works to the extension will commence in July. With this success it has been necessary to employ a more professional manager with a broad knowledge of the carpet industry and the manufacturing processes. So, we welcome Anthony Johnson to the Group in this capacity. Anthony is presently going through induction visiting our ski centres and meeting the managers to understand their needs; hear their proposals; and hear the result their experiences throughout the three year R&D programme where the Perma-snow™ surface has been tested in a live and real scenario. From this gathered information, all are confident that this excellent product will become even better to meet the ever-increasing demands.

As always, there is much to do at the John Nike Leisuresport Complex from simply watching the activities through to partaking in the activities. Skiing; boarding; ice skating; ice hockey; club activities; fun skating; ringo parties; ice karting; activity days; snooker; darts and elbow propping; and much more. Birthday parties are a must for youngsters whether on the ice or on the slope. So why not contact our reception desk (01344 789000) and enquire about how your family can enjoy the fun?

And, why not a weekend stay at the Coppid Beech Hotel taking in Legoland, Windsor Castle and a river trip on the Thames - so much to do; so much to see.

The Coppid Beech Hotel has just commenced works on the multi-million programme where the bedrooms will be freshly decorated with greatly improved air conditioning through the installation of the latest equipment. The hotel team believe the bedrooms will have a 'wow' factor giving more pleasure and immeasurable comfort for our guests. The works will take just over a year to completion and we shall carry these out with the guests' comfort in mind. Our guests can rest assured that our caring staff will deal with any reported discomfort quickly.

The Nike Group is a Berkshire based family business and also, very much, a community based business - a business serving the community. This is why it is a member of the Berkshire Community Foundation, greatly supporting the fundamentals of the Foundation and its grant funding to the county's needy. To increase this necessary support for Berkshire's voluntary groups, associations and individuals who care for the county's needy, the Foundation has implemented a programme of establishing a community fund in each of the unitary authorities. The Bracknell Forest Community Fund was launched on the 30 March this year and is the first to be established. The Fund has set a target of raising its community capital fund of £250,000 over the next five years; obviously, the sooner this is realised the sooner grant making in the Borough of Bracknell Forest will be possible out of the income from this Fund. As a major funder of the Berkshire Community Foundation, I have had to consider deeply how my Group should respond to this newly established fund in Bracknell for, inevitably, I employ a large number of 'locals' and it is the welfare of the needy who may be related to some of my employees that is probably most prominent. After careful consideration, it seems that there is only one road to follow and this is one of increasing our Group giving and, as such, I am authorising and additional annual charitable donation of £3,000 to the Bracknell Forest Community Fund with immediate effect.

My reason for penning this decision is to directly appeal to the local businesses - small and large - who have not yet established a charitable fund. My appeal is to ask those who just need that 'gentle shove' to become a funder of the Bracknell Forest Community Fund: just in a small and regular way is sufficient to provide that community help. If you are attracted to my appeal and wish to become 'connected' please contact Robin Draper and his team on 0118 930 3021 or by email infor@berkshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk. I know they will greatly appreciate your contact.

Finally, to fluff our own feathers, I want to congratulate our clay pigeon shooting team 'the Shoguns' who shot so brilliantly at the Starlight Charity Shoot held at Highclere Castle in June. Well done Chris, Gerald and Jim in supporting me to outshoot some of the finest to become 'top team'. Our score of 814 clays was 31 clays more that the next (see photos)

I wish all a good summer.

John Nike OBE DL
Chairman

Competition

What could be better on a summer's day than visiting The Swan at Streatley, savouring a delicious dinner in Cygentures, the two AA rosette restaurant, and watching the sun go down over the river before heading off for a great night's sleep in a comfortable bedroom?

The lucky winner of this edition's competition will not only win this - they'll also be pampered in the four star hotel's luxurious Venus Spa with an ISHI Tiamisu Facial for the lady, and a heavenly back massage for the gentleman.

Simply answer the question below correctly by xxx and you and a guest could enjoy all this - for free!

Question: What major anniversary is the Coppid Beech Hotel celebrating this November?

Email your answer to ab@coppid-beech-hotel.co.uk, with 'Connections Competition' in the subject box by xxxx.

And congratulations to the winner of last edition's competition, Sonja Sharpe from Reading, who won a fantastic family package at the Coppid Beech Hotel.

Terms and conditions: dates subject to availability. The prize is non-transferable.

Summer activities at JNLLs

As always, the teams at the John Nike Leisuresport centres across England and Wales have a feast of activities planned to take the stress out of school holidays, or simply provide a relaxing break for the family. So to check out what's happening at your nearest centre this summer, read on to find out more. At John Nike Leisuresport Bracknell, Llandudno, Chatham, Plymouth and Swadlincote, kids can join instructors on the slopes for activity camps that vary from half a day to a full week. Each centre offers its own activities and programmes, however, the majority offer the chance for kids to either brush up on their existing skills or learn the basics of skiing and snowboarding.

And depending on which centre your children visit, they can also try their hand at sno-tubing, snow bobbing, tobogganing and skating, at Bracknell, with additional games, such as dodgeball, rounders and bingo and perhaps even a disco. You can guarantee your children will be ready for bed by the time they get home!

Or why not have a family day out at John Nike Leisuresport Bristol's ice rink, which will be open to everyone, young and old, for a variety of sessions throughout the day and evenings. And for the more adventurous - ice hockey practice sessions will take place on Tuesday nights. Children can also attend a week-long hockey academy at the John Nike Leisuresport Bristol that offers a variety of activities including skating and a day trip to Butlins holiday camp! 'Radical Kids' days also play a part throughout the summer months at John Nike Leisuresport, Chatham and Plymouth, where children are invited to attend the days that offer skiing, snowboarding, sno-tubing and tobogganing. The days run between Monday and Friday and booking is essential, as they have proved very popular in previous years.

If it's more of a relaxing experience that you are looking for then the family BBQs or Horse Racing Nights could be just the thing at John Nike Leisuresport Chatham!

John Nike Leisuresport Llandudno will once again be offering open practice skiing and snowboarding sessions on the slopes on a daily basis this summer. In addition, they will be selling the great value 'Combo' ticket that provides discounts on sno-tubing, toboganning and Alpine Golf. The centre will also be running school activity days where they work closely with local attractions, such as the famous Great Orme Copper Mine, to offer schools a complete day package. And if you're in the Swadlincote area but haven't had a chance to get along to the centre, why not visit the town's 'Festival of Leisure'‚ taking place on 23 and 24 June? The John Nike Leisuresport Swadlincote team will be going along armed with plenty of information on the centre's activities, as well as details on the after school ski club.

For further information, contact your local John Nike Leisuresport Centre: Bracknell: 01344 789000
Bristol: 0117 929 2148
Chatham: 01634 827707
Llandudno: 01492 874707
Plymouth: 01752 600220
Swadlincote: 01283 217200

Freestyle Club

The Perma-SnowTM surface on the slope at John Nike Leisuresport in Bracknell has been a hit with everyone - especially the centre's daring Freestyle Club, which trains a number of the UK's top competitors and future Olympic stars.

Both skiers and snowboarders take part in freestyle, which involves racing down challenging courses and jumping over obstacles. The sport has four disciplines - big air, freestyle, halfpipe and ski/boarder cross races.

The Bracknell club has achieved some major triumphs. At this year's British Championships, in Laax, Switzerland, all four of the Bracknell skiers won an impressive haul of medals, including 18-year-old James Webb, who won gold, silver and bronze, and 15-year-old Josh Birch, who returned home with silver and bronze medals. The snowboard team was also very successful.

James and Josh have since been selected for the prestigious England Freestyle Development Squad and are now training at the highest level with the potential to take part in the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics, when freestyle skiing becomes a recognised sport.

"The boys have done fantastically well," said Paul Webb, Freestyle Club Chairman. "They've worked amazingly hard and have great careers ahead of them. Anyone who wants to try freestyle for themselves should come along to the Club and have a go! We are looking forward to the completion of the new Bracknell Freestyle area, which should be ready soon."

The Club meets on Sunday afternoons for dedicated training, and most members also come to Monday freestyle nights. For further information please call the Ski Department at John Nike Leisuresport, Bracknell, on 01344 789002.

Bristol's community initiatives

Staff at John Nike Leisuresport Bristol have been busy promoting the centre through a number of community schemes in recent months and the facility is reaping the rewards.

Earlier in the year, the centre teamed up with bus operator - James Bevan Coaches of Gloucester - to offer a ticket that offers savings on both travel and entrance fee, making it accessible to many people living further afield. It has been such a success; the centre is now looking at developing partnerships with other travel and tourist companies.

The site has also been working with North Somerset Council on its Young Person's Keycard Scheme to promote health, wellbeing and fitness to 11-19 years-olds. The initiative offers young people discounts on leisure services within the county.

Eddie Pearson, Manager at John Nike Leisuresport Bristol, said: "There has been a significant increase in the numbers using the Keycard Scheme over the last 12 months. On certain days of the year over 100 pupils have visited the centre and benefited from the discount card.

"We are pleased to be involved as our activities offer many benefits to children, and if we can help promote this then we are more than happy to help! We believe it's a great way of increasing fitness levels and for young people to make new friends."

Love is in the Air

Cupid has been busy at the John Nike Leisuresport centres over recent months!

Nigel Treacy, John Nike Leisuresport Llandudno Manager, popped the question to Lesley French, John Nike Leisuresport Swadlincote Assistant Manager, at the top of the Monte Rosa mountain in Italy earlier in the year. Nigel proposed by passing Lesley a snowball containing a diamond engagement ring!

He said: "It was entirely possible that Lesley may have thrown the snowball back at me, so I am very relieved she said yes!"

And Becci Sweeting and Andy Matthews, Duty Managers at John Nike Leisuresport Bristol, who met at the centre three years ago tied the knot on 9 June and plan to take their honeymoon in Thailand later in the year.

Congratulations to both couples!

Extreme sports weekends

John Nike Leisuresport, Chatham and Llandudno are hoping to raise the profile of winter sports by taking a major role in a number of extreme sports weekends over the summer months.

Following a successful weekend at the Hop Farm extreme sports event in May, the John Nike Leisuresport centre at Chatham in Kent will be the main focus at the Capstone Park extreme sports day on 29 July - the first event of its kind. The centre will be offering discounted free practice ski and snowboarding sessions and toboggan rides all day. With a BBQ and drinks area on the centre's outside patio, it's bound to be a popular spot to cool down in the hot weather!

And John Nike Leisuresport Llandudno, in North Wales, is taking part in the Llandudno Festival in September - the annual event that offers locals and visitors the chance to try their hand at a number of outdoor pursuits in the sea, on the beach and in the mountains in Llandudno.

As the centre is on the mountain overlooking the seafront in Llandudno, it's the perfect place to make the most of the festivities with skiing and snowboarding lessons and practise sessions. In addition, visitors can also enjoy free sno-tubing and tobogganing sessions.

For further information contact John Nike Leisuresport Chatham on 01634 827979 or Llandudno on 01492 874707.

Wedding season at JNLL Plymouth

John Nike Leisuresport Plymouth is not only gearing up for a summer of kids camps and activities, but also a season of wedding receptions that appear to be on the increase at the ever-popular destination! Alex King, Manager at John Nike Leisuresport Plymouth, said: "We've seen a significant growth in the number of wedding receptions and this summer is no exception, with eight bookings for celebrations between June and September. And in one weekend earlier in the year, we had three receptions! We can only put this down to the fact that it's a unique venue and we offer all our customers a very personal service. "We're currently investigating qualifying for a civil wedding license - which would be a first for one of the six John Nike Leisuresport centres. It would certainly be an extra string to our bow, and we have no doubt there would be enough interest from our local fans!"

And if you do want your marriage ceremony to take place by a slope, don't forget that the Coppid Beech Hotel has a civil license and is right next door to the John Nike Leisuresport centre in Bracknell! If you would like to find out more about the John Nike Leisuresport centre in Plymouth and its facilities, then please call 01752 600220.

Legoland package at CBH

For children, parents and grandparents, a visit to LEGOLAND Windsor is a fantastic day out. And with the great value packages available from the Coppid Beech Hotel, you can make a night of it too!

The four-star, family-friendly hotel's selection of short breaks include accommodation, breakfast, passes to LEGOLAND and heaps of fun. Prices range from £159 for a one night stay for a family of two to £505 for a family of five staying two nights. Special offers are available throughout the year - check out www.coppidbeech.com for details.

This year will be LEGOLAND's most exciting yet, with a calendar that's crammed with sensational events. New for this season is the amazing Land of the Vikings, featuring the Viking River Splash ride. This impressive ride takes visitors through a fantasy Viking world created from thousands of LEGO bricks.

Another LEGOLAND first is its children's festival (14 July), when Bob the BuilderTM and PinguTM will be live on stage! Monster trucks will be making an appearance during the Amazing Machines weekend (22 - 23 September) and the season ends with a spectacular fireworks finale (20 - 21, 26 - 28 October and 3 November).

After a day of thrills and spills, the fun continues back at the Coppid Beech Hotel, where the family can create a splash in Waves, the health club, complete with children's pool, or relax with great rooms, fabulous food and friendly service. Reception can even arrange baby-sitting, leaving mum and dad free to enjoy the hotel's live music venue, The Keller, and a late night boogie in Après, the adjacent nightclub.

For more information call the Coppid Beech Hotel on 01344 303333 or email reservations@coppidbeech.com.

Night of the Stars

The 'Night of the Stars' - the Nike Group hotels' glittering annual Oscars-style employee awards evening - took place this year on 13 May at the Coppid Beech Hotel. The awards were presented by Alan Blenkinsopp, Operations Director at the hotels, and Karl Bentley, General Manager of The Swan at Streatley.

The event was attended by staff from both The Swan at Streatley and the Coppid Beech Hotel. Winner of the prestigious Manager of the Year awards were Martin Ruebenaker, Rooms Division Manager, from The Swan and Tracey Fitzpatrick, Reservations Manager, from The Coppid Beech Hotel.

Staff at each hotel voted for their Employee of the Year, with Helena Baumann, Reservations, winning for The Swan, and James Brown, Leisure Trainer, for the Coppid Beech.

The Outstanding Achievers of the Year at the Coppid Beech Hotel were named as Jason Smith, who works in the award-winning kitchens, and Kate Withey, Food and Beverage Controller. Housekeeping staff member Marek Lochaj and Candice Fitzpatrick, who works in hotel restaurant Cygentures, were revealed as the Outstanding Achievers at The Swan.

"The Night of the Stars is always a great evening," said Alan Blenkinsopp. "It gives us a chance to celebrate and reward the talent, commitment and hard work of our fantastic staff. I'd personally like to say a huge thank you to them all!"

Communications Day

Teamwork was the theme of the day in June for approximately 250 Nike Group employees at the ninth annual Communications Day.

The day began at the Coppid Beech Hotel in Bracknell for an introduction, starting with some informal musical entertainment from 'The Grease Monkies' (a band consisting of Group employees). The Chairman, John Nike OBE DL, gave his thanks to employees and officiated the presentation of the Employee of the Year, which went this year to 3 employees: James Brown (Coppid Beech Hotel), Darren Doubtfire (Octagon) and Sandra Murphy (Jubilee Building Supplies).

It was then off to the Chairman's field for team games, such as cyber-tag and axe throwing, with the grand conclusion of a spectacular rocket launch from each team.

After the afternoon's excitement employees enjoyed a hog roast and barbecue before heading back to Après, the hotel's nightclub, for a disco and karaoke.

"The day was a great success," said John Nike, "with teams from our various units over the country, all competing and having a good time!"

Day by day guide to The Keller

Whether you're planning a mid-week night-out or a weekend celebration, The Keller - the Coppid Beech Hotel's live music brasserie - is the place to be.

And now it's introduced a special fish night on Tuesdays and a spice night on Wednesdays, in addition to its hugely popular a la carte menu, there's an option to tempt every taste.

All the big football and rugby matches are screened on The Keller's 8ft by 6ft screen - call in advance and you can reserve a table with a fantastic view of all the action.

Whatever day you choose to visit, you'll enjoy a buzzing atmosphere, cool music and great food.

Monday Celebrate the start of the week with a sensational meal! On Monday to Thursday evenings, The Keller offers its stunning a la carte menu featuring a delicious range of appetisers, meat and fish dishes, as well as pastas and salads.

Tuesday Enjoy the freshest catch-of-the-day at The Keller's weekly fish night, when a selection of fish and seafood specials are on the menu.

Wednesday Make sure you order a cooling Cobra beer, it's spice night! Each Wednesday features food from a different country - Thailand, China, India or Mexico. Call the venue on 01344 303333 to find out when they're cooking your favourite.

Friday / Saturday Put your glad rags on for a night to remember - great food, live bands and pumping disco beats.

For just £23 per person, you'll have entry to The Keller and enjoy its delicious three course special weekend menu - as well as dance your socks off in Après, the hotel's nightclub. Meals must be pre-ordered, and a £10 deposit is required per person.

This summer also sees top tribute acts performing at The Keller, including the Bohemians (6 July) - check out www.kellerandapres.co.uk or call 01344 30333 for dates and ticket information.

The Keller opening hours Monday to Thursday: 5pm -11pm. Fridays and Saturdays: 5pm - 12am, over 21s only. There is an entrance charge of £5 after 8pm.

Enjoy the river and regattas at The Swan

There's nothing better on a hot summer afternoon than cooling off by the river, and at The Swan at Streatley you can do it in style!

The four star Berkshire hotel has its own small fleet of boats, perfect for messing about on the river. This year sees the introduction of new rowing boats but, for those whose idea of relaxing is a little more laid-back, the hotel's classic electric launches are available for hire.

If you think that all that hard work might leave you peckish, call in advance and the hotel will prepare you a delicious picnic hamper, or simply sit out on the hotel's riverside terrace with a refreshing drink and a light bite from the tempting menu.

For real rowing aficionados - and those who enjoy the cream of the social season - the Henley Regatta (4 - 8 July) is a definite diary date.

And if you're looking for accommodation, The Swan at Streatley is just a short journey from the rowing mecca of Henley-on-Thames. Special transportation, dinner, bed and breakfast packages are available, costing from £220 per person for two nights.

But if you enjoy something a little more low-key - but just as competitive - then visit the Goring and Streatley Regatta (21 July). It's a fantastic family day out which, as well as rowing, also features a funfair, a parade of classic cars, live bands and a dog agility competition.

The Swan has been the main sponsor of this event for three years, providing hungry rowers and visitors with mouth-watering barbecue cuisine all day long.

For more information on all these activities and events, please call The Swan on 01491 878800 or visit www.swanatstreatley.co.uk

Summer dining at SAS

When it's been a long, hot day in the office, and the train was overcrowded and running late, the last thing you want to do on a balmy summer's evening is cook!

Why not put the stresses of the day behind you by visiting The Swan at Streatley? It's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle - a haven of tranquil, luxurious calm, where you can wind down and relax.

And whether you fancy award-winning à la carte cuisine and fine wine for two in Cygentures, the Berkshire hotel's contemporary, elegant two AA rosette awarded restaurant, or getting your friends together for a gourmet burger with an ice cold beer on the riverside Terrace, you won't have to lift a finger.

Whatever you select, you're guaranteed a memorable dining experience that's excellent value, produced with the freshest ingredients. The Swan's team takes pride in sourcing the finest quality, seasonal produce from across the country, with a fair proportion sourced from local suppliers from Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

And it's not only dinner - guests are warmly welcomed for lunch and afternoon tea too.

To book a table at Cygnetures, please call 01491 878800. Booking is not required for dining on the Terrace.

CBH's 15th anniversary

There's a very special birthday to look forward to this autumn - Bracknell's Coppid Beech Hotel is celebrating 15 years of offering the very highest standards of hospitality and service.

Opening back in November 1992, the four-star Alpine-inspired hotel is now a famous local landmark and a top destination for fine dining and comfortable accommodation, whether you're visiting for business or pleasure.

To mark the event, the hotel is undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment to refresh and install environmentally-friendly air conditioning units into each of its 205 bedrooms. With the work being completed one wing at a time, disruption to guests will be minimal - and it's definitely 'business as usual' for all the hotel facilities, including Rowans restaurant, live music venue and brasserie The Keller and Après nightclub.

Alan Blenkinsopp, who has been Operations Director since the hotel opened, said: "We're very proud to reach our 15th anniversary and this refurbishment is the best possible way we could celebrate."

Fifteen years, 5,475 days or 131,400 hours… However you look at it, the Coppid Beech Hotel has enjoyed a successful life so far, and looks forward to many happy years to come!

To celebrate the anniversary, the hotel is arranging a number of special events - visit www.coppidbeech.com for full details. And don't forget to check out the next edition of Connections to see how the refurbishment is progressing.

Fifteen years in the life of the Coppid Beech Hotel

Over 752,000 hotel rooms have been let since the hotel opened in 1992

Nearly 846,000 individual guests have checked-in over the years

Rowan's - the hotel's two AA rosette restaurant - has served up over 62,500 Sunday lunches

Over 700,000 eggs have been dished up during 15 years of breakfast

The hard working housekeeping team have made a huge number of beds - over 800,000

Celebrations are popular at the hotel - over 63,000 bottles of champagne have been downed since it opened.

Racing leisure breaks at SAS / CBH

Horse racing, long known as the sport of kings, is more popular now than ever before. And with a number of top courses close to both The Swan at Streatley and the Coppid Beech Hotel, either is a great base to enjoy world class racing.

Ascot Racecourse's Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup is being held on 11 August, and it's a great family day out. As well as the racing, there's a carousel, dodgems a massive inflatable slide and a free evening concert from a top act.

Just a short drive away from the hotels, Newbury Racecourse hosts many prestigious events over the summer months. The most popular is Ladies Day (18 August) - one of the most glamorous events in Berkshire's social calendar.

There's also an exciting programme of races at Windsor Racecourse, including its widely enjoyed Monday evening meetings. The regulars to this charming course know that there's only one way to arrive - by boat from Windsor town.

For more information about racing leisure breaks at The Swan at Streatley, please visit www.swanatstreatley.com or call 01491 878800. Further details for breaks at the Coppid Beech Hotel can be found at www.coppidbeech.com or call 01344 303333.

Nike Design contract with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council

The standard of housing in the Welsh region of Rhondda Cynon Taff will be raised over the next few years thanks to Nike Design, which is one of four consultants selected to enter into framework agreements with the local council for multi-disciplinary initiatives.

The work includes providing architects, project managers, civil and structural engineers, a construction design management co-ordinator, clerk of works, quantity surveying and mechanical and electrical engineers. Initially, the work covers bringing the quality of housing stock in the borough up to modern-day standards, in line with the Government's programme of transferring Council houses to Registered Social Landlords.

Chris Skilton, Director of Nike Design, said: "These are framework agreements, not projects as such at this stage, however Rhonda Cynon Taff have set up these agreements in anticipation of needing four Consultants to meet their workload over the next four year period.

"Over the past eighteen months we have made a concerted endeavour to become more qualified to take on public sector work, so it's great to see our efforts paying off. Winning this agreement has been a major achievement - we're delighted!"

Toyota - vehicles for businesses

Did you know that Toyota offer a range of commercial vehicles for businesses that are well designed to carry out a variety of tasks, dependable and cost-effective?

Toyota's small lorry vehicle the Dyna, is specially designed to allow for narrow site access, with a body width of just 1,695mm and a short wheelbase which makes even tight corners easy to manoeuvre. With a choice of the powerful 2.5 or 3.0 litre direct injection turbo diesel engine ensures that there's plenty of pulling power when you need it.

Need a van? Then the Hiace could be right for you. With a payload of up to 1,180 kg, and a loading height of 525mm the Hiace can quickly and easily be forklift-loaded and unloaded. And with a sliding nearside door, plus a turning radius from 5.5 metres (short wheelbase model), the Hiace can work in the smallest of urban spaces and now comes with a new range of engines and improved specification including electric windows and CD player.

Renowned as a workhorse truck that just keeps on going - off-road, on road and in all weather conditions - nothing seems to stop the Toyota Hilux! It's120bhp, 2.5 litre or the new 3.0 170bhp D4-D diesel engine gives you power, while its engineered suspension results in such high levels of comfort that you might need reminding you're in a pick-up!

For more information on the Hilux, Hiace, Dyna, or any of the Toyota range, call your local Octagon dealership:

Bracknell 01344 789888
Reading 0118 975 1300

Lexus Hybrids

With road tax breaks, exemption from city centre congestion charges and low emissions, hybrid cars have become a must have for friends of the environment. Haven't found the right one yet? See if Lexus can tempt you with its green credentials!

The RX400h resolves an age-old paradox by making sporting high performance, low fuel consumption and reduced emissions compatible. It has a 3.3-litre V6 Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) petrol engine and two electric motors that work in harmony to deliver smooth, V8-style power and responsiveness. Together, the engines can whisk the RX400h from 0 to 62 mph in under 8 seconds!

If you think a luxury four-door car with low CO2 emissions is not possible, then think again. Enjoy a near silent ride in Lexus's GS450h as the electric motor glides you through town and, for when you need the extra power, the 3.5 litre V6 kicks in. What's more, the kinetic power generated from the brakes charges the battery - making this one clever car!

A wide range of features comes as standard - rain-sensing wipers, a touch-screen display and operating system, Bluetooth® connections, a CD player, keyless entry, cruise control, auto-dimming mirrors, heated seats and adaptive front headlights, plus 18" alloys.

Finally, targeting the limousine market is the LS600h - the world's most powerful luxury hybrid. Packed with technologically advanced features and sporting a 445bhp petrol-electric hybrid V8, it's perfect for those that desire the very latest technology, without sacrificing environmental performance. And a spacious, leather interior, the option of a standard or long-wheelbase, four or five-seats with a massage function are just some of the features available.

Driving through towns, the electric motor does nearly all the work, leaving you in near silence. On the open road the 5.0 litre V8 engine stretches its legs, giving you 0 to 62 mph in just 6.3 seconds. With a top speed of 155mph (limited), 31mpg and ultra low CO2 emissions at 219g/km it looks like the LS600h, alongside the GS450h and RX400h, could be the machines that change the face of luxury cars.

Toyota biggest car manufacturer

It was confirmed earlier this year that Toyota has overtaken American rival General Motors (GM) to become the world's largest car maker.

The Japanese manufacturer sold 2.35m vehicles in the first three months of this year, putting it just ahead of GM, which sold 2.26m vehicles during the same period.

Toyota has been performing well on a global basis and is thought that high oil prices over the last 18 months has shifted buyers towards more fuel efficient cars such as the class leading hybrid, Toyota's Prius.

David Lamb, Director of Octagon Motor Company Toyota's showroom in Bracknell and Reading, said: "Here at Octagon we've always known that Toyota cars are something special and it's great that people are now noticing this. And these amazing sales figures are testament to the reliable, efficient and stylish vehicles Toyota produces. We're delighted to be selling the world's number one!"

Leisuresport World update

Summer is not usually the time of year when you think of the ski, snowboard and ice-skating shop Leisuresport World - but think again!

Not only does Leisuresport World continuously receive new stock and products from its well known manufacturers - Saloman, Risport and CCM - it also offers mid-season reductions in store and online at http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Leisuresport-World

And, although temperatures maybe soaring, don't forget that your little ones still need protection on the slopes and ice at their John Nike Leisuresport centre summer camps - see page xx for details. So check out Leisuresport World for all their equipment needs!

Leisuresport World stores are located at every John Nike Leisuresport centre.

Open morning at Jubilee

The mezzanine display area at Jubilee Building Supplies hosted a special breakfast event back in April to showcase the area designed to display its extensive selection of paving, Indian stone and aggregates.

Invitations were issued to all Jubilee customers and the general public via a full-page advert in the local newspaper. On arrival, the guests were offered breakfast while representatives from various suppliers were in attendance to offer advice on all aspects of product choice, design and installation, Peter White, Manager of Jubilee Building Supplies, said: "Our mezzanine area is great whatever the weather! Because it's inside it means that you can visit the display in all weather conditions. I'm delighted with the success of our event - the sales completed from the morning really made it worthwhile."

If you live in the Bracknell area, keep an eye on the local press for adverts of the next breakfast morning at Jubilee.

Techmat

The new Snow Park at the Bracknell John Nike Leisuresport centre is scheduled to open for the next season. The park has been specially designed for extreme snowboarders and will feature permanent jumps, rails, a quarterpipe on the PERMA-SNOW TM surface supplied by Techmat.

John Nike, the inventor of PERMA-SNOW TM, said: "The Snow Park will be a fantastic facility for snowboarders, and the fact that it's covered in PERMA-SNOW TM makes it even better. The realistic surface allows boarders to practice and perform just as they would be doing on real snow. And the softer surface is kinder to snowboarder, making tumbles a lot more forgiving!"

Shell V-Power diesel

If you drive a diesel car then you'll have even more of a reason to fill up at Lightfoots in Bracknell this summer. The garage will be one of the first Shell dealerships in the country to sell Shell V-Power Diesel, specially designed to deliver more power from your fuel, for longer.

Over time, deposits can build up in diesel fuel injection systems, reducing engine power and Shell V-Power Diesel has been specially formulated to help remove and prevent these deposits. It is the first and only UK premium fuel to use revolutionary GTL (gas to liquid) technology which ensures exceptional purity, which means it burns more cleanly and efficiently than conventional diesel.

And to prove its capabilities, last year a car powered by Shell V-Power Diesel race fuel won the Le Mans 24 hour endurance race for the first time. And not only did it win - it was four laps ahead of the competition!

Greg Walsh, Manager of Lightfoots garage, said: "Although Shell V-Power Diesel is a premium fuel, the extra miles per gallon and power by far out-weigh paying a few pence extra."

Rainbow's new clients

Congratulations to Rainbow Colourprint, which has gained two new contracts in Bracknell.

It will now be working with electronics giant Siemens to produce digitally printed and bound installation documents, as well as audit summary pads. The other new client is local software company WINFRASOFT, a Mircosoft gold certified partner, and Rainbow will be printing document folders and inserts for this.

Keith Campbell, Account Manager at Rainbow, said: "These new contracts are fantastic - it means we get to do something different and have added to our ever-expanding client base. It shows Rainbow to be one of the best printers in the area, for value for money to quality finish and promptness. The whole team should be proud of themselves."

Graduate trainees - success stories

If you've recently graduated and dream of a career in the hospitality or leisure industry - and enjoy getting stuck into a challenge just as much as having fun - then why not apply for a position on the Nike Group's Graduate Trainee Programme?

You can apply for either the hospitality programme, where you'll learn all about how the Coppid Beech Hotel and The Swan at Streatley operate, or on the leisure scheme, where you'll be based at two John Nike Leisuresport centres.

Both programmes, which commence in autumn, offer a great introduction to your career and are highly respected throughout the industry. And, because the Nike Group believes in promoting from within, it's possible that if you're up to the challenge, a long and rewarding career in the company could be yours.

One Nike Group employee who is very aware of the opportunities the programme can lead to is Jane Campbell. Starting as a Graduate Manager back in 1995, after graduating from Huddersfield University with a HND and degree in hotel, catering and institutional management, she is now the Coppid Beech Hotel's Deputy Food and Beverage Manager.

"I thoroughly enjoyed and learned a huge amount from the programme and the mentors I had along the way," she said. "It gave a real insight from ground level up into the running of each area and how they contribute to the overall running of the hotel. My initial training here has been invaluable to me throughout my career."

And her training proved so successful that last year, Jane won the Coppid Beech Hotel's coveted Manager of the Year award!

For more information about applying for the Graduate Trainee Programme contact the Human Resources team on 01344 789799.