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Lee Linton-Hodges Tribute Reflects Deep Loss at Ipswich Basketball Club

The sudden death of Lee Linton-Hodges prompted a strong and personal response from those who knew him throughout his long involvement with Ipswich basketball. The Lee Linton Hodges tribute reflects the depth of feeling within the club and the wider community, shaped by a career that began in 2005 and a presence that influenced players and supporters over two decades.

Head coach Nick Drane, who had trained him since he was 15, said there was “not a moment that goes by where I’m not thinking about him”.

“Lee was the cornerstone of everything we’ve built in Ipswich over the last 20 or 25 years,” Mr Drane said. He described him as “probably the most important player, certainly that I’ve ever coached, that’s played for Ipswich Basketball Club in terms of establishing what the club means on and off the court”. This sense of legacy is a key thread running through various tributes to Lee Linton-Hodges.

He represented England at junior level before going on to play for the London Leopards. He also won the National Cup in 2018 with Hemel Storm, according to Basketball England. His achievements on the court formed only part of the story. Mr Drane said he was “such an incredible talent as a young player, such a loyal ambassador as a senior player, but far more importantly, just an incredible role model and pillar of the Ipswich community”.

He added: “An absolute foundation of this family, ethos and culture that I and we build everything around. Lee was Ipswich Basketball Club.”

Club Captain Harriet Welham supported this view, saying he would “always” be a legend of the club. She noted his closeness to the women’s team and said his partner was being supported. “The club does what the club does best, and that’s rallying together when things get tough; that’s exactly what we’ve done,” she said.

A fundraiser launched to assist his family with funeral costs raised more than £32,000. The response reflected the widespread impact he had on those who encountered him, whether through sport or community activity. Mr Drane said: “He will never be replaced on or off the court. A huge part of me is missing.”

Ms Welham said: “He will always be the legend of Ipswich Basketball Club. He’s bigger than life, the biggest, friendliest giant you’ll ever meet, and he is already and will always be missed.” Her remarks underscore how the Lee Linton Hodges tribute is shaped by memories of personality as much as performance.

The collective words of coaches, players and supporters describe someone regarded as central to the identity of the club. The tributes to Lee Linton-Hodges reflects both grief and gratitude, marking the impact of a player who shaped the culture of Ipswich basketball for many years.

Great Dunmow Carnival Rising Costs Force Organisers to Step Back

The organisers of Great Dunmow Carnival have confirmed that the long running free event can no longer continue in its current form. The announcement follows a review of compliance obligations that will significantly increase operational costs. The focus key phrase Great Dunmow Carnival rising costs captures the central issue faced by the committee as it assesses the viability of future events.

Great Dunmow Carnival has been volunteer led for 75 years and normally attracts up to 7,000 visitors. It features about 100 stalls from local businesses and charities and concludes with a firework display. Attendance has remained strong and committee co chairwoman Nicola Insley described turnout as amazing for what she called an incredibly small little town. Despite this community support, the organisers say the financial and logistical pressures created by new requirements have become too much.

At their most recent safety advisory group meeting with the local council, organisers were told there would be a substantial list of enhancements and upgrades needed to remain compliant. These changes stem from The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, known as Martyn’s Law, introduced in memory of Martyn Hett who was killed at the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017. When the legislation is enacted in 2027, venues with a capacity of 200 or more must have a plan in place in the event of an attack.

Ms Insley said meeting these obligations would cost an additional £4,000, and that extra security, stewarding and medical provision would be required. The committee issued a statement saying we fully support the law and understand how vital it is to keeping people safe. The challenge, though, is that Great Dunmow Carnival rising costs are outpacing the ability of a small volunteer group to sustain the event.

She explained that suppliers had kept their costs down for years, but expected that to change because everyone’s under pressure, aren’t they. The number of committee members has dropped and they depend on family and friends to help with stewarding and road closures. This reliance on informal support is no longer sufficient to satisfy the new demands being placed on the carnival.

The first Great Dunmow Carnival was held in 1951. Historic photographs capture children in costume and scenes that reflect the long tradition of the event. Up to 7,000 people attend today and many regard it as a key fixture in the local calendar. For the organisers, the decision to step back has been difficult.

It’s incredibly sad, Ms Insley said. You see all of the smiling faces and people genuinely do love it. She noted that so many other events are ticketed and described them as extortionate for families. The free nature of Great Dunmow Carnival has long been part of its appeal, which makes the impact of Great Dunmow Carnival rising costs even more significant.

The committee believes the only way forward is for an event management company or a larger community organisation with substantial resources to take over. As Ms Insley put it, it’s just got to the point where basically a group of 10 volunteers can’t take it forward.

Stonegate Group brings gifting to life with new E-Gift Cards, just in time for Christmas

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Well, Stonegate Group have got you covered.

This year, they are turning up the festive cheer by partnering with global branded payments provider Blackhawk Network (BHN) to launch e-gift cards across its managed estate. This will make it even easier to gift unforgettable moments at pubs, bars, and venues nationwide.

Samantha Baldwin, Head of Sales at Stonegate Group, said: “We’re so excited to launch e-gift cards across our managed estate with BHN. They give our guests a whole new way to share the magic of our pubs, bars and venues – from cocktails and celebrations to relaxed lunches or big match days. Our estate is built on inclusivity, and with so many different venues to enjoy, there really is something for everyone.”

E-gift cards can be purchased now – and you can spend them in Stonegate’s managed sites nationwide – from iconic flagship sites like Tattershall Castle and Slug & Lettuce Waterloo, to much-loved brands such as Be At One, Walkabout, Popworld, Heritage Pubs, Pubsmiths and Social Pub & Kitchen.

Excited yet?

E-gifts can be bought directly via each brand’s website, making it easier than ever for people to gift memorable experiences at their favourite venues. Not only that, but guests can also pick up a MiXR e-gift card through Stonegate’s MiXR app – which will be redeemable at any Stonegate managed pub or bar – giving them the freedom to enjoy great times wherever they choose across the entire estate.

Sound good? Well the choice doesn’t stop there… from January, guests will also be able to redeem One4all Gift Cards at all Stonegate managed sites.

Partnering with BHN marks a key milestone in Stonegate’s digital journey, offering guests even more ways to celebrate, socialise, and share experiences with the people who matter.

Danielle McRobert, Senior National Accounts Manager at Stonegate Group, said: “I’m delighted to launch this new partnership and bring e-gift cards to life across our managed estate. With Christmas just around the corner, they’re a fantastic way to gift great experiences, whether you’re introducing someone new to our venues or treating someone who already has a favourite spot. It’s the kind of gift that’s guaranteed to make someone’s day.”

Anna Uprichard, VP of Commerce at BHN, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Stonegate Group, offering eGifts to their existing and new customers just in time for Christmas. Our latest research shows that over a third (35%) of Christmas gifting spend in 2025 will go towards gift cards – an 11% increase year on year. This partnership puts unforgettable customer experiences at the heart of festive gifting, making it easier than ever for people to give and receive memorable pub and restaurant moments across much-loved flagship brands.”

This launch marks the first phase of Stonegate’s gift card strategy, with plans to explore B2B, B2C third-party, and retail partnerships in the future.

Affinia Expands in Surrey with PK Group Acquisition

Affinia, an Essex-headquartered accountancy and advisory group, has expanded its presence in Surrey with the acquisition of PK Group, a firm providing accountancy, tax advisory and payroll services with offices in Richmond and Woking. The merger increases the group’s workforce to more than 600 staff and brings its total office footprint to 12 across London, East Anglia and South East England.

Patrick Kennedy, founder and chief executive of PK Group, said the decision to join Affinia followed careful consideration of partners that aligned culturally and could complement the firm’s approach. He added: “Affinia shares our high standards and commitment to excellence, and I am confident this partnership will allow us to invest in and grow our business while ensuring our valued clients remain well-supported in the years ahead.”

The acquisition is one of several undertaken by Affinia in 2025. Earlier this year, the group welcomed Opass Billings Wilson & Honey in Sidcup, Kent, and Clarkson Hyde in Sutton, further extending its reach across the South East.

Rob Harden, chief development officer at Affinia, described the integration of PK Group as a positive step for the company. He said: “We are delighted that PK Group has become part of the Affinia family. With a shared ethos of putting clients first and going the extra mile, the combination with PK Group further strengthens Affinia’s commitment to providing exceptional services and broad advice to clients across the region.”

The acquisition positions Affinia to continue delivering comprehensive accountancy and advisory services while leveraging the additional resources of a larger group. It reflects a broader strategy of growth through carefully selected partnerships that reinforce client service standards and regional coverage.

Dave Monk, Voice of Essex, Dies Aged 72

Dave Monk, the broadcaster often called “the voice of Essex,” has died at the age of 72. Monk, who presented programmes on BBC Essex for 37 years until his retirement in 2023, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer the following year and had recently announced that the disease had returned.

Monk, whose real name was David Travis, joined BBC Essex at its launch in Chelmsford in November 1986. Over his long career, he covered major milestones in the county’s history and interviewed notable figures including Sir Tony Blair, Dame Vera Lynn and Sir Paul McCartney.

Before his radio career, Monk had a varied professional life. He worked as a law lecturer and solicitor, co-owned a wine bar, and performed as a nightclub DJ in the 1970s and 1980s under his “Mad Monk” persona. Former Essex police and crime commissioner Nick Alston recalled his ability to engage people both on stage and behind the turntables.

Monk was also a deputy lieutenant for Essex and an active supporter of numerous causes. Jennifer Tolhurst, Lord Lieutenant of Essex, described him as an “iconic figure” known not only for his broadcasting work but also for his warmth and commitment to local communities. He supported Havens Hospices, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Parkinson’s UK, and Colchester men’s health charity CHAPS, and was patron of Remus Horse Sanctuary and Open Road, a drugs and alcohol recovery service.

His involvement extended to local events such as the Dunmow Flitch Trials and the Essex Book Festival. Ros Green, the festival director, described Monk as “a passionate, enthusiastic, caring man” with a deep commitment to Essex and its people. Plans are underway to celebrate his memoirs, Whatever Happened To Dave Monk?, as part of the 2026 festival programme.

Monk’s passion for music and broadcasting shaped his approach to interviews. Alston recalled that even high-profile figures were put at ease by Monk’s preparation, humour, and in-depth knowledge of local issues. In 2011, a BBC Essex programme on family history revealed the true identity of Monk’s grandfather, a Canadian airman who died in 1916. This discovery led Monk to visit Canada and, years later, meet Emmanuel Macron at an Armistice centenary commemoration. Monk described introducing his “newly-found” grandfather to the French president as an “elating” experience in his book published earlier this year.

In September 2023, Monk signed off from BBC Essex for the final time, playing Goodbye-ee by Dudley Moore and Peter Cook. In his farewell, he told listeners: “Look after yourself, have a lot of fun, and don’t forget, the more you laugh, the more you live. Goodbye.”

Andrew Mason Joins PEM as Partner in Audit and Accounts Team

PEM, the Cambridge-based accountancy, tax and business advisory firm, has appointed Andrew Mason as a partner in its audit and accounts team. Mason joins PEM after serving as a partner at RSM UK’s Cambridge office and brings over 25 years of experience in audit and assurance.

Throughout his career, Mason has advised private companies, mid-market venture capital firms, private equity-backed businesses and international groups. He regularly works with clients in the technology, life sciences, manufacturing and consumer markets.

Mason began his career at PEM as a trainee, qualifying in 1997, and has spent most of his professional life in the Cambridgeshire market. His return to the firm marks a homecoming to a company with which he has a long-standing connection.

He said: “I’m delighted to be joining PEM – a firm with such a strong reputation for its people, culture and commitment to Cambridge’s business community.

“The city continues to attract exceptional talent and innovation, and PEM sits at the heart of that ecosystem.

“I look forward to helping clients capitalise on the opportunities this presents and supporting PEM’s ongoing growth strategy.”

Warren Tilbury, managing partner at PEM, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Andrew to PEM.

“His depth of technical knowledge, long-standing connections in the Cambridge market, and experience advising fast-growing and complex businesses will strengthen our team and enhance the support we offer clients navigating an increasingly challenging environment.”

The appointment highlights PEM’s focus on reinforcing its advisory capabilities and deepening its expertise in audit services, particularly for complex and growth-focused businesses in Cambridge and beyond.

Cambridge City Council Corrects Errors on Public Bins and Recycling

Cambridge City Council has admitted making errors in its communications regarding public bins and recycling in the city centre.

In August, the council faced criticism after claiming it had removed “underused” bins as part of a trial to ensure bins were “in the right place, are the right size and are emptied at the right frequency.” The council now says this statement was “incorrect,” clarifying that “no underused bins have been removed to date.”

Tim Bick, leader of the Liberal Democrat opposition to the Labour-run council, said at the time that removing bins was “pretty dangerous.” He added: “If we’re concerned about the cleanliness of the streets that people spend time in – shopping in, having coffee in – it’s difficult to see that [removing underused bins is] going to improve matters.”

The council confirmed it is reviewing bin provision across Cambridge to ensure appropriate placement and capacity.

In addition to the bin statement, the council also admitted an error in a Freedom of Information Act response. The previous FOI reply incorrectly stated that zero waste was recycled from public bins in the city centre. A council spokesman said: “Part of a previous FOI response was also inaccurate. We apologise for these errors and are working to improve internal checks surrounding such requests.”

Some city centre bins are serviced by refuse vehicles equipped with a division to separate recyclable and general waste. The waste is then taken to a Thalia-run facility in Waterbeach, where recyclable content is processed and sorted in line with regulatory requirements.

The council’s clarifications follow public scrutiny and highlight the need for accurate information on city services, particularly regarding waste management and recycling.

NRG Therapeutics Appoints Paul Thompson as Chief Development Officer

NRG Therapeutics, a neuroscience company based in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, has appointed Dr Paul Thompson as its new chief development officer. Thompson will lead development of NRG5051, an oral small molecule inhibitor targeting the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), with potential applications in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), motor neuron disease (MND), and Parkinson’s disease.

Dr Thompson brings over 25 years of experience in translational research, early clinical development, and pharmaceutical R&D, with a focus on neurology. He most recently served as chief science officer at Mission Therapeutics for five years, overseeing the delivery of inhibitors for renal and central nervous system disorders. Prior to that, he was clinical science director at ONO Pharma UK, managing early-phase clinical development programmes. His earlier career was spent at GSK, where he progressed from laboratory biomarker research to director of neurology discovery medicine, leading global project teams.

He also advises the Michael J Fox Foundation on its Targets to Translation programmes and continues to provide guidance to UK neurology start-ups.

The appointment follows several other senior hires by NRG, supported by its £50m Series B financing, which has expanded the team to 12. The funding provides resources for a Phase 2 clinical proof-of-concept study of NRG5051 in ALS/MND, as well as a Phase 1b study generating clinical data in Parkinson’s patients.

Dr Thompson said: “I am looking forward to working with the NRG Therapeutics team to drive forward NRG5051 as potentially the first disease-modifying therapeutic for sporadic ALS/MND and dementia indications such as Parkinson’s.

“Developing new drugs to treat neurological diseases is very challenging, but I have been very encouraged by the compelling in vivo efficacy data for NRG5051 in rodent models of Parkinson’s and ALS/MND that has validated the molecules’ novel MoA and demonstrated the therapeutic potential of NRG5051.

“I was also excited to see NRG5051 results in reduction in neurofilament light chain, the clinically validated fluid biomarker of neurodegeneration.”

Neil Miller, co-founder and chief executive of NRG Therapeutics, added: “Paul is a fantastic addition to the team, and I welcome him into NRG.

“His skills and expertise will enable us to efficiently progress NRG5051 through first-in-human clinical trials and into a PoC in ALS/MND, and to lay the ground for development in other indications including Parkinson’s.

“He joins at a pivotal time as we seek to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of NRG’s first-in-class mPTP inhibitors as disease modifying medicines for neurodegenerative diseases.”

The appointment of Dr Thompson underscores NRG Therapeutics’ commitment to advancing its pipeline of neurology-focused treatments and highlights the role of experienced leadership in progressing innovative therapies for neurodegenerative disorders.

H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Suffolk Backyard Flock

A case of bird flu has been confirmed in a backyard flock of poultry near Chedburgh in Suffolk. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) reported that the H5N1 virus was detected in poultry and captive birds on the premises on Wednesday.

In response, Defra has imposed a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone around the affected site. All birds on the premises will be humanely culled to prevent further spread of the virus.

Since 27 October, Suffolk has recorded confirmed cases of H5N1 in Lawshall, Woodbridge, Honington, Elveden, Lakenheath and Claydon. This latest outbreak brings the total number of confirmed bird flu cases in England this year to 50.

An avian influenza prevention zone, which came into effect on 6 November, applies to sellers of poultry products and keepers with more than 50 birds. The measure aims to reduce the risk of transmission among flocks.

Bird flu is caused by a virus that primarily infects birds, but it can occasionally affect other animals. Public health authorities say the risk to people is very low. Individuals are advised to avoid touching or moving sick or dead birds.

The detection in Suffolk highlights ongoing vigilance in managing avian influenza and enforcing biosecurity measures to protect both domestic flocks and wild birds.