Broadcaster Suzi Perry to headline Cumbria International Women’s Day
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has announced television and radio broadcaster Suzi Perry as the headline speaker for its International Women’s Day event on 9 March. The "Queen of the Pit Lane," known for her pioneering career in global motorsport, will address attendees at the Greenhill Hotel, Wigton, focusing on the theme ‘Give to Gain’.

The event aims to explore how collaboration and shared knowledge can strengthen the regional economy. Ms Perry will be joined by a panel of Cumbrian business leaders, including representatives from Cumberland Building Society, Genesis Homes, and Rebuild Site.

Lesley Robinson, Head of Business Growth & Support at the Chamber, stated: "This event is about celebrating the achievements of women across Cumbria while also creating an opportunity for open conversation, shared learning and inspiration."

The summit is sponsored by Knights and pladis, the global snacking group behind the Carlisle-founded Carr’s brand.

Book your place here.



Manchester fintech Financielle hits 350,000 downloads milestone
Manchester-based fintech Financielle has surpassed 350,000 global downloads following a £125,000 investment from GC Angels. Founded in 2021 by finance expert Laura Pomfret, the app focuses on improving financial confidence for women through community-led content and digital tools.

The investment, supported by Baltic Ventures and northern angel investors, enabled the firm to scale its technical infrastructure and launch a web-based education platform. The app now records 25,000 monthly active users and has previously been named 'App of the Day' by Apple in both the UK and US.

Ms Pomfret, who also supports underrepresented founders through the Venture Forward accelerator, said: "The investment from [GC Angels] allowed us to elevate our product and create a better experience for our community."

Marc Shirman, head of investment at GC Angels, noted the growth as "testament to the dedication of Laura" and the strength of the platform's mission.



Blackpool hairdresser raises £1,650 for prostate cancer charity
A Blackpool hairdresser has raised more than £1,600 for Prostate Cancer UK after competing in an Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) event. Samantha Matthews, 35, took part in the charity match at the Village Hotel following her father Roy’s diagnosis with stage three prostate cancer.

Training at Pure Impact Boxing Gym, Ms Matthews lost a stone in weight during the eight-week programme before facing her best friend, Tammy Stanbridge, in the ring. The event, which requires participants to undergo professional training before a public showcase, saw Ms Matthews awarded a ‘Golden Glove’ for her fundraising efforts.

“I wanted to do something to help, even if I couldn’t directly help my dad,” she said. “His type of cancer is hereditary, so I wanted to raise awareness and funds to contribute to early diagnosis for other men.”

UWCB events have raised £41m for various charities nationally, with approximately £250,000 generated in Blackpool alone.



Blackpool casino doubles slot capacity following gaming reforms
Grosvenor Casino Blackpool has doubled its gaming provision with the installation of 40 new slot machines, bringing its total to 80. The investment follows recent legislative reforms from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s 2025 Gambling Act Review, which permits land-based casinos to expand their machine allocations.

The upgrade introduces over 50 new titles to the South Promenade venue, including Fishin’ Frenzy and Eye of Horus. General Manager Dan Gibson stated the investment demonstrates a "continued commitment to provide cutting-edge gaming options," noting that the venue offers jackpots of up to £20,000. Please gamble responsibly: www.gambleaware.org.



DJH Corporate Finance advises on Arcus Consulting sale
Manchester-based DJH Corporate Finance has strengthened its standing in the 'built environment' sector by advising on the sale of Arcus Consulting LLP to Baily Garner LLP. The transaction marks DJH’s second major deal in the construction and regeneration space within the last 12 months.

The merger combines two multidisciplinary firms specialising in social housing, education, and national regeneration projects. Following a comprehensive marketing process led by DJH, Baily Garner was identified as the preferred partner to secure Arcus’s long-term future. The deal is expected to bolster the combined group’s presence across the North of England.

Jon Else, Partner at DJH, noted a "spike" in activity across property and architectural sectors, driven by increased private equity interest. Clive Sellers, Managing Partner at Arcus, praised DJH’s sector expertise, stating that joining Baily Garner allows the firms to "combine resources, expertise and ambition" for future development challenges.