Connections - Spring 2007

Blossoming Thoughts and Changing Times

It is with sadness I received the news that Tim Valentine has decided to leave Coppid Beech Hotel, after a loyal 12 years, giving up his weekly seat at the piano in the reception foyer where he played his repertoire for our customers’ relaxation. I am sure that many of our regular diners at Rowans for the Sunday carvery will miss him as well as I shall but with his belief that he has a new calling I know that everyone will wish him well.

Tim told me that he awoke one day and felt a deep calling to follow the directions of GOD, and that is his wish and desire. Tim would like to become a lay preacher or, perhaps, a missionary but he is uncertain and waiting for this direction to come through his blossoming thoughts and dreams. What he is certain about is that he has had a calling from GOD and that he will follow this no matter what hardships he may have to endure. His delight is that his wife is fully supportive of his calling. (photo of Tim Valentine)

Last Sunday (4th February) I attended the Mayor’s Annual Civic Service at The Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Warfield in my capacity as a Deputy Leiutenant representing the Queen. I found the service so delightful with its youth element, led by Pastor Trevor Meardon of the Eternity Youth Church, performing their modern style of religious service within the whole. The Rev. Canon Dr. Brian Meardon conducted the main service and gave an enlightening sermon talking about his own calling when it came taking him from his early atheistic and scientific views into an understanding of GOD and the ways of GOD. It is, no doubt, a similar calling that has befallen Tim Valentine and I shall keep tracks on his direction in the future out of personal interest and fascination.

I also take this opportunity to make an appeal on behalf of The Church of St. Michael the Archangel by asking those reading this journal to consider making a donation towards righting the vandalism that happened recently to the refurbishment works taking place on this old Saxon church that dates back to Queen Emma in the early 11th Century. (Church photo). Perhaps I can lead the way by pledging £10,000. YOUR TURN! And, of course, any donation made will be greatly appreciated by the Rev Can Dr Brian Meardon, Vicar of Warfield/Mayor’s Chaplain.

Times have changed so much since I built the dry ski slope in Bracknell and expanded to other parts of the UK. In the early 1980’s, the whole direction was towards skiing and, during the winter season, the dry ski slopes were massively used by those customers intent on going to Europe to try out the pistes. But, during the past decade the industry has seen the numbers of skiers reduce and the number of boarders increase as the sport of boarding became more skilful and controlled. I still remember the days when boarders coming down the Solais at Val d’isere were frightening. The sound of the boarder out of control was the most threatening noise to be heard, even greater than the noise of an avalanche warning. Now, with the forming of the snow-parks in all of the ski resorts, there is a peace and everyone is relaxed.

Dry ski slopes across the UK are building snow-parks for the boarders and extreme skiers, and Bracknell will soon be opening a magnificent 100 metre long slope with demanding bowls, kickers, rollers and burms finishing with a 4.5 metre quarter pipe. Alongside, will be an area for rails, sliders, boxes and other needs. The surface will be Perma-snow^TM our patented dry ski surface system (patent 2394902), a product that is manufactured by our subsidiary, Techmat 2000 Limited, in South Wales. Perma-snow^TM provides a fast but forgiving surface that is comfortable to fall on! It is planned to roll out the extreme boarding park designed for Bracknell to the other John Nike Leisuresport centres over the next two years, subject to restrictions such as planning regulations.

Of course, not all ski centres in the UK can afford to replace their existing bristle mats with the modern blanket surface so Techmat 2000 will continue to manufacture the old style bristle matting to support these centres while there is a need for bristle. Ski centres that need to replace their worn bristle matting should contact Techmat 2000 Limited on 01633 896363/898430 to enquire about new ‘Skitech’ bristle matting or the stock of quality second hand matting. Whichever is required, Techmat 2000 can supply for your needs.

The Bracknell Ski Centre is currently recovering the intermediate slope with a new Perma-snow^TM surface and this will revitalise the slope that has reached the end of its life after three years of heavy usage. This slope was the first ever slope to be covered with the patented Perma-snow^TM System and has been essentially the R&D slope for Techmat 2000. As always, lessons have been learned and the replacement surface is an improved surface. The one major factor that came out of the trials is that even when almost completely worn away the under surface is still ski-able and very safe for all.

Most certainly, by the time Easter comes around the intermediate slope will have been completely re-laid and the snow-park should be well under way although not ready for use. As usual John Nike Leisuresport will be running the very popular taster sessions and activity camps at all centres so now is the time to register your name to join one of the camps where you will meet others to form great friendships. Our camps are friendly, social, competitive, educational, fun and much more! Oh, and of course active for healthy living.

Maybe 2007 is the year for a momentous family occasion, perhaps, a wedding, birthday or special anniversary? Whatever your celebration, you’ll find either the Coppid Beech Hotel or The Swan at Streatley make delightful venues, with friendly, welcoming staff whose one aim is to make sure your event goes smoothly. With first rate, exquisite food and luxurious ambience at both hotels, you really will be impressed. Of course, both hotels are fully geared up to meet the demanding needs of businesses, whether that’s hosting a conference for hundreds or for a private board meeting for top executives. And, the hotels can cater for corporate hospitality no matter what time of the year – our expert staff can help you to plan your perfect event for the coming spring, summer or autumn season, and the very special Festive Celebrations when one can let their hair down and see out the old year whilst welcoming in the New.

Perhaps you made your New Year resolutions and one was to get fitter and healthier. Well, becoming a member of either the Venus Spa at the Swan, or at the Waves health club at the Coppid Beech will help you to keep to the resolution.

The Nike Group businesses have so much to offer and you will find interesting news throughout this issue of ‘Connections’ whether your interest is in buying a new ‘greener’ car or simply filling the one you have with petrol. Perhaps, a visit to Jubilee Building Supplies will help you to decide on a new bathroom suite or how you are going to improve your home. Rainbow Colourprint can quote you for any printing required and help you with your design concepts, so why not call them to talk about your needs whether commercial or personal.

I do hope you find this issue interesting and helpful. Do have a good Easter break and let us take care of your children at one of our activity camps.

John Nike OBE DL
Chairman

John Nike Leisuresport centres - Easter preview

Longer days, warmer weather and blossom on the trees, can only mean one thing – spring is almost here. But don’t despair at the prospect of keeping your little lambs occupied during the Easter holidays, as John Nike Leisuresport centres have something for everyone! All over the country egg-stra special activities will have them hopping with excitement to join in the fun!

Swadlincote will be offering ski and snowboarding ‘Kids’ Fun’ activity days to help children learn those essential skills. Mark Morley, Centre Manager, said: “These sessions are great for children to improve their technique, and with the Perma-snow^TM ski slope surface now installed it’s a far safer surface to learn on and the days are great fun for kids!”

An especially mischievous Easter Bunny is going to be very busy over the Easter weekend, hiding chocolate eggs around Swadlincote John Nike Leisuresport centre before hopping over to Llandudno for fun and frolics on the slopes! At Llandudno there will be special children’s introductory sessions to skiing and snowboarding. "These special Easter sessions are a great way to get kids away from the TV and try a fun and healthy sport. As a special treat kids will meet the Easter Bunny and may even receive a chocolate treat" said Nigel Treacy, Centre Manager.

And the only place for fun and games in Berkshire this Easter will be the Bracknell centre, with its ski and snowboard camps, ice skating, broomball and many other activities taking place. Dan Gomm, Ski Centre Manager, said: “We think of all the ways to keep your children occupied so you don’t have to!”

Once again, Plymouth is running its extremely popular children’s activity days. These days include skiing or snowboarding, five toboggan rides and sno-tubing, as well as lunch! Assistant Manager, Helen Ambler, said: “With so much excitement you can be assured that at the end of the day your little ones will be tired but content. It’s not only the children enjoying our facilities with friendly expert tuition on offer, many adults are also brushing up their skills and joining in the fun on the Perma-snow^TM covered slopes!”

If all that outside activity gets too much, why not hop over to Bristol where your bunnies can hone their ice-skating skills?

Finally, don’t forget that Chatham will be running learn to ski and snowboard lessons, as well as special kids’ camps. Centre Manager, Andy Rushton, said: “The children’s activity camps are always highly popular, so they should be booked early to avoid disappointment.”

For more information contact your local John Nike Leisuresport centre:

Bracknell 01344 789000
Bristol 0117 929 2148
Chatham 01634 827979
Llandudno 01492 874707
Plymouth 01752 600220
Swadlincote 01283 217200

Bristol Truancy-free zone campaign

‘Think twice about truancy’ – that’s the message to parents and children behind an innovative campaign launched for the whole of Bristol at the Ice Rink last December, with 35 high-profile sites across the city delivering the Truancy Free Zone message.

The scheme, organised by Bristol City Council, is designed to discourage children from playing truant and, in particular, to deter parents from taking their children from school for unacceptable reasons, such as going shopping. Special truancy stickers for shops and leisure venues have been produced to let pupils know that they will not be served during school hours unless they have a permission slip from school.

Bristol Ice Rink Manager, Eddie Pearson, said: “We completely support the project at this John Nike Leisuresport centre. We always aim to provide a safe, enjoyable environment for children and families. But it would be completely irresponsible for us to serve children during school time. Kids want to have fun, but they need to understand that if they go to school and work hard when they grow up they will be able to afford to go skating whenever they want.”

Bracknell Demo nights

Bracknell John Nike Leisuresport centre has turned up the style level this winter by organising a series of special evenings to demonstrate the newest ski and snowboard gear.

During the ‘demo nights’, ski and snowboard experts took to the slopes to display gear suitable for all levels of experience – from beginners to pros – as well as putting on an impressive show for those who just came along to watch!

The nights were a great success for both the centre and the suppliers, with exhibitors including top brands such as K2 skis, Atomic, Never Summer, Scott and Ride.

Dan Gomm, Ski Centre Manager, said: “These nights are a fantastic way for people to see the latest snow gear being put to the test. It really gives customers an insight into the workings of equipment, and helps them make the right purchase for what they need.”

Record weeks at Chatham

A big congratulations to Chatham John Nike Leisuresport centre which reached record numbers this winter on its ski slopes and tobogganing.

Record levels of open practice skiers and boarders took to the slopes, and over 2000 customers used the toboggan run in the February half-term. The newly installed Perma-snow^TM slopes encouraged many people to give dry-slope skiing a try, even if they had been discouraged by the less user-friendly surface of the slopes in the past.

Andy Rushton, Centre Manager at Chatham John Nike Leisuresport centre, said: “The slopes are now more realistic than ever and it’s definitely helped people to improve their technique and skills. Because of the authentic feel of the slopes, it has really encouraged regular and new customers to get on the slopes to warm up for their skiing holiday, or simply for fun.”

Andy continues: “It’s fantastic to have achieved such record numbers. The staff have all worked brilliantly dealing with the increased number of people and everyone enjoyed themselves, which gave the centre a wonderful atmosphere. We hope we can only better this in the future!”

Llandudno /grey market

With wonderful beaches, rugged scenery, fascinating wildlife and of course the John Nike Leisuresport centre’s ski slope, it’s no wonder that Llandudno, Wales’ biggest tourist resort, attracts so many visitors.

Nigel Treacy, manager of Llandudno’s John Nike Leisuresport centre, has worked hard to make sure that the centre is appealing to customers from all age groups, including the over 60s. “As a nation we’re staying younger longer. And there’s no reason why the older market shouldn’t enjoy our facilities as much as the children do – indeed they seem to have as much energy, if not more, than the teens who hit our slopes!” said Nigel.

To ensure its appeal across the generations, the centre has made some adjustments, including a special offer on tea and scones for the over 60s. And the improved café, complete with fireplaces, is really cosy and inviting – a great place for après ski!

And at 315 feet above sea level the amazing view from the café is an attraction in itself – a relaxing place to sit and watch the world go by. Nigel added: “There’s something for all the family at the centre, from the slopes to the toboggan run, and the café.”

And as if to prove the centre’s appeal to older generations, last year a lively fellow of 100 years old, demonstrated that it is never too late to have some fun as he jumped on the toboggan and enjoyed it as much as any youngster!

Swadlincote update

The bustling centre of Derby is not the typical place you’d expect to find skiers and snowboarders. But last November, Swadlincote John Nike Leisuresport centre took to the road to erect a mobile ski slope in the city centre to promote winter sports.

Free ski and snowboard lessons, as well as sno-tubing sessions, were on offer at the 60 square metre mobile Perma-snow^TM slope which proved a huge hit, with over 100 people using the slope over the three days.

Mark Morley, Manager of Swadlincote John Nike Leisuresport centre, said: “People can often find winter sports intimidating, but by making it easier for people to get to a slope, we showed that snowsports can be not only accessible but fun too! It’s been met with great enthusiasm and I’m hoping to see a lot of the people who’ve tasted what we have to offer back at Swadlincote on the slopes.”

Venus Spa re-opens at The Swan at Streatley

The Swan at Streatley was not only busy preparing for Christmas at the end of last year, but also another very special occasion – the opening of the beautiful Venus Spa! And the re-opening could not have come at a better time, allowing guests to be the first to enjoy some festive pampering!

Venus Spa’s Roman-themed facilities include a mineral bath, whirlpool spa bath, sauna, steam room and treatment rooms that provide a range of innovative beauty and holistic therapies for men and women. Highly trained therapists offer face and body treatments from spa favourites, Elemis, as well as unique chocolate and wine based therapies from Italian skin specialist ISHI.

The treatment menu offers a full range of massages, body wraps, facials, hand and foot treatments and holistic therapies such as Reiki and reflexology. Personal grooming services – waxing, pedicures, manicures and fake tan application – are also available.

As well as the spa area, Venus Spa is also equipped with a state of the art gym, which is kitted out with the latest Life Fitness cardiovascular and weight-training machines.

Ben Smith, Manager of Venus Spa, said: "Our aim at Venus Spa is to provide a world of relaxation, where guests can immerse themselves in the calming spa waters and indulge in treatments that will restore inner and outer radiance and peace of mind. We want everyone to go away feeling pampered and relaxed. So if you’re after the ultimate relaxation experience this spring, why not escape to the warmth and comfort of Venus Spa.”

Membership is for those over 18 years of age and allows full use of all facilities during opening hours and costs £55 per month, plus a £250 joining fee. Daytime membership is available at £25 per day.

For further information on membership, spa packages or to book a treatment, please call 01491 878800, email venusspa@swanatstreatley.co.uk or visit www.venusspa.co.uk

Sausage competition

The ‘Two Counties Sausage Competition’ reached a sizzling finale at The Swan at Streatley last November when Gabriel Machin Butchers of Henley-on-Thames was awarded the Supreme Sausage Champion of Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

Organised by The Swan at Streatley and the Coppid Beech Hotel, the competition was supported by the Local Food Groups for Berkshire and Oxfordshire and Lucas Ingredients, who supplied the prizes. Eleven independent retailers and sausage makers from across the two counties submitted 29 products in a battle of the bangers!

The competition entries were categorised into four groups – traditional pork, speciality pork and Berkshire or Oxfordshire sausage. And a panel of expert judges evaluated the products, awarding a total of 22 certificates.

Karl Bentley, general manager of The Swan at Streatley, said: “We’re really pleased with how successful our first sausage competition went and have already started planning the next one for later in the year.

“There was a lot of healthy rivalry between sausage producers and retailers from the two counties and many first-class sausages produced, but unfortunately there could only be one overall winner. We showcased the supreme champion sausage on the menus both here and at the Coppid Beech Hotel which was a sizzling success with the customers!”

Ian Blandford, of Gabriel Machin, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded Supreme Champion of Berkshire and Oxfordshire and Category Champion of the Oxfordshire Sausage. It’s been great taking part in the competition organised by the hotels and we look forward to taking part in the next event!”

Royal Ascot

And they’re off! Spend a day at Royal Ascot experiencing the thrills of some of the best horseracing in the world, and why not round the day off by spending the evening at the nearby four-star Coppid Beech Hotel in Bracknell.

Just a short drive from Ascot, the alpine-styled hotel has put together a special racing package for all those that enjoy having a flutter at one of the most popular race meetings of the British social calendar. The offer includes one night’s accommodation, including breakfast and a glass of champagne, for a fabulous price of £205 per double room and £185 per single room per night. And take a tip from us – it’s a great bet!

As well as the hotel’s two AA-rosette restaurant, Rowans, that offers a variety of tantalising menus, it boasts a fabulous health and fitness club, the Venus Beauty Therapy room, a live music venue and brasserie – The Keller - and its own nightclub, Après, for anyone wanting to dance the night away!

To find out more about the Royal Ascot package call the Coppid Beech Hotel on 01344 303000 or visit www.coppidbeech.com

Easter Preview

Looking for a cracking time this Easter? Then look no further than the special Easter weekend package at Bracknell’s Coppid Beech Hotel, where there’ll be egg-stra special fun and frolics for the whole family. With a chocolate Easter egg hunt, as well as competitions and games, and a visit to LEGOLAND - a trip to the Coppid Beech Hotel will make Easter 2007 one of your family’s most memorable ever!

From Friday 6 April until Sunday 8 April, the four-star hotel will be celebrating Easter with a great value two-night Family Break package, costing £455 for a family of four. The price includes two nights’ accommodation, dinner on Friday and Saturday, breakfast on Saturday and Sunday and a two-day pass to LEGOLAND for the family, as well as entertainment at the hotel.

Throughout the weekend of fun, there will be a whole host of activities for parents and children, including a chocolate Easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday.

And on top of that, the hotel’s two AA-rosette restaurant Rowans, will be pulling out all the stops to provide a fantastic spread throughout the weekend, with an array of Easter-themed buffet dishes and bunny cookies for the kids.

Families are free to spend the weekend visiting the fun-filled theme park LEGOLAND in nearby Windsor and with over 50 interactive rides, live shows and attractions, it’s guaranteed to keep everyone entertained. Guests can also enjoy the superb facilities at the John Nike Leisuresport Centre next to the hotel, which include a ski-slope and Olympic-sized ice rink. The hotel also boasts Waves Health and Fitness Club, with a 12.5 metre swimming pool, children’s paddling pool, steam room, sauna and spa bath, as well as the Venus Beauty Therapy room.

And if that’s not enough, once the kids have gone to bed, parents who have any energy left can enjoy relaxing in The Keller, the hotel’s live music venue and brasserie or the hotel’s nightclub, Après. Reception can arrange a baby-sitter for the evening.

To find out more about the Easter package call the Coppid Beech Hotel on 01344 303000 or visit www.coppidbeech.com

Big season at The Keller

Got that Friday feeling? If so, then head down to the Coppid Beech Hotel in Bracknell, where the hotel’s popular live music venue and brasserie, The Keller, will be playing host to an array of top class tribute bands to really get you in the party mood.

Due to ever-popular demand, The Keller has lined up a great selection of tribute bands between now and September, including The Phoney Beetles (9 March), Platinum Abba (5 April and 14 September), Elvis (4 May), Robbing Williams (22 June) and the Queen Tribute Band – The Bohemians (6 July). Tickets for the tribute bands (apart from Robbing Williams, which is £XX) are £10 each and include entry to the hotel’s nightclub, Après.

Ian Crozier, Manager of The Keller, said: “The line up of bands we’ve got over the spring and summer months is just phenomenal. We really will be able to guarantee you a great night out at The Keller. And with the hotel’s facilities on our doorstep, if you don’t want to make the journey home, you can always stay overnight!”

If you do want to make a night of it, the Coppid Beech Hotel is offering a special Friday Feeling Package of £125, which includes two tickets to see one of the bands, plus dinner in The Keller, bed and breakfast for two people.

Full listings for The Keller and its sister nightclub venue can be found at www.kellerandapres.co.uk.

John Sherry

Since he joined The Swan at Streatley as Head Chef a year ago, John Sherry’s food is fast becoming renowned as some of the best and most exciting locally. In recent months the hotel’s two AA rosette awarded restaurant, Cygnetures, has been a popular destination for food-lovers!

Scottish-born John’s latest project has been to create a new daily menu that showcases fresh, seasonal and local produce, and the results have been testament to his indisputable talents.

John said: “Experimenting with seasonal produce, and creating fresh and simple dishes that really entice the taste buds, has always been something I’ve enjoyed doing. We have a great selection of British produce on our doorstep and we should take full advantage of this. Where possible, local ingredients will always form the basis of my dishes.”

John continues: “I am keen to develop Cygnetures into one of the most exceptional places to eat in Berkshire. When customers come for lunch or dinner, we aim to create an unforgettable experience, with first-class dining and service.”

And as if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, why not sign up for one of John’s speciality dinners, organised in association with local suppliers? Going on last year’s event, it’s one you won’t want to miss!

If you are interested in booking a table at the Cygnetures restaurant or would like to know more about John’s speciality dinners, call The Swan at Streatley on 01491 878800, email sales@swanatstreatley.co.uk or visit www.swanatstreatley.co.uk

Conferencing

Whether you’re hosting a company conference, team building event or board meeting, the Coppid Beech Hotel and The Swan at Streatley can accommodate all requirements.

With the combination of its convenient location, flexibility and friendly staff, the Alpine-style, Coppid Beech Hotel is a perfect venue for company conferences, award dinners, training courses and product launches.

The hotel’s flexible conference spaces and smaller meeting rooms, combined with its other facilities – a stylish restaurant and bars, live music venue, a fully equipped health club, its own sophisticated nightclub, 205 superb bedrooms and the neighbouring dry ski slope and winter sports complex – gives any company an enormous amount of choice. Located along the picturesque banks of the River Thames, luxury four star hotel, The Swan at Streatley, is a delightful choice for any company event, offering a variety of top quality function rooms, 23 acres of private grounds, its own private island and the unique Magdalene College Barge.

Its beautiful setting, first class service and two AA rosette restaurant, Cygnetures, make it an ideal place to host an intimate or special company event. And when all the hard work is done, delegates can enjoy relaxing in the recently re-opened Venus Spa – the ultimate relaxation experience.

Both hotels are happy to help you plan and co-ordinate your event in any way they can, from arranging transport, activities to entertainment. To find out more about the conferencing facilities at the hotels, call The Swan at Streatley on 01491 878800 or the Coppid Beech Hotel on 01344 303000, or visit their websites at www.swanatstreatley.com or www.coppidbeech.com

ISO9001:2000 success for Techmat

Following on from Nike Design’s recent success, fellow Nike Group company Techmat – manufacturers of Perma-snow^TM, the revolutionary artificial ski slope surface – has also been awarded with the prestigious ISO9001:2000 quality management standard.

The international standard recognises Techmat’s ongoing commitment to quality across all its processes and activities, particularly in its efforts to ensure customer satisfaction and its dedication to staff development.

“To gain the standard, we had to prove to an independent assessor that we met all the various criteria, which required hard work from the whole team,” comments Tony Ward, Manager at Techmat.

“But it’s definitely been worth it. Achieving this standard demonstrates to our customers that when they choose us, they can be absolutely sure we’ll put them first. The fact that this is an internationally recognised standard is also a major benefit to us, as we are currently in discussions with potential customers across the world.”

New contract for Nike Design

Nike Design is celebrating after being awarded a prestigious framework agreement from one of Cardiff’s main educational establishments, Coleg Glan Hafren. The agreement will see Nike Design taking care of all the college’s architectural, civil, structural engineering and landscape work for the next five years.

Chris Skilton, Managing Director, Nike Design, said: “One of our newest recruits to the Nike Design team, architect Phill Richards used to work with the college – and it was keen to retain his services. So we’re delighted to welcome both a new colleague, as well as a great new client.”

Coleg Glan Hafren is a dynamic and expanding college that provides further and vocational education to over 13,000 students. Running over 300 courses, it’s very proud of its buildings and is committed to providing high quality facilities for all who study and work there.

Nike Design’s framework agreement with the college began in 2006, and the company has already been involved in three planning applications and several external works projects.

“We’re working on a number of exciting initiatives for the college,” continued Chris. “It really is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our expertise across a variety of design and construction management disciplines. We have, for example, already installed a rainwater reclamation scheme to help the college reduce its water consumption.”

Nike Design’s latest project for the college was to design a new dance studio – it’s hoped that construction will be completed very soon.

Success of Leisuresport World online

The world’s most famous online auction website – eBay – has just got even better with the launch of a new shop, Leisuresport World, now available 24/7 for all your ice hockey, ice skating, ski and snowboarding needs.

The benefits of an eBay shop made it an obvious choice for Leisuresport World. The clear illustrations and details of products, straight-forward way of buying and low overheads means customers get all the quality they have come to expect from the Nike Group, at low prices and with the convenience of shopping online. Plus they will be able to find a more extensive range than is available in the shops, with brands such as Saloman, Risport, Nike and Belati.

Alan Connor, Manager of Leisuresport World, said: “This is a fantastic advancement for us – we can reach so many more customers through the internet. And if people see something they like in the shop, but find it too cumbersome to carry home, they can just go and order it online at the eBay shop and conveniently have it delivered!”

To shop either go online at http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Leisuresport-World or visit one of the shops in your local John Nike Leisuresport centre at Bracknell, Bristol, Chatham, Llandudno, Plymouth and Swadlincote.

Toyota news

Toyota has started the New Year on a high with the launch of its brand new model – the much-anticipated Auris, an exciting new addition to the family hatchback market.

When creating the vehicle, Toyota’s designers worked from the ‘inside out’ – an approach that has allowed them to maximise useable space in the cabin, and offer high levels of comfort through striking features such as its flat rear passenger floor and high window surfaces.

The Auris has been launched in both three and five door models, and with a selection of two petrol – 1.4 VVT-i and 1.6 Dual VVT-I – and three diesel engines, 1.4, 2.0 and 2.2D-4D. The 2.2D-4D is equipped with Toyota’s unique D-CAT clean diesel technology, which reduces nitrogen oxides and particulate emissions.

And the car’s great looks reflect how well it drives. The Auris has a strong, dynamic appearance, with a wide body to give it a stable look and sharply defined styling to give it a crisp, fresh feel.

To test drive the new Toyota Auris, or any other car in the Toyota range, please contact the Octagon Toyota Centre in Bracknell on 01344 789 888, or in Reading on 0118 975 1300.

Octagon news

Octagon Motor Company Limited might sell vehicles in a wide range of colours, but the company itself is going green! Following a recent agreement with waste management experts Oakside Environmental, the majority of Octagon’s waste is now more efficiently recycled.

With busy sites in both Bracknell and Reading, Octagon produces a fair amount of waste. “And it’s not just the volume that’s the issue,” explained David Lamb, General Operations Director, Octagon Motor Company Limited, “Automotive sites like ours can produce waste that needs to be dealt with in a particular way to protect the environment.”

To tackle this challenge, Octagon has employed the services of Oakside, a company that specialises in managing waste from the automotive industry. At Octagon, virtually all waste is now carefully segregated into different containers before being taken away, and because Oakside operates a no-landfill policy, it’s then recycled.

“The initiative is working very well indeed,” commented David. “Reducing and recycling waste and protecting the environment has to be a priority for us all, so we at Octagon are delighted to be involved and do what we can to help.”

Octagon Motor Company Limited has teamed up with Bracknell and Wokingham College to offer students on the Young Apprentice programme work experience at its Bracknell and Reading sites.

The Young Apprentice programme requires students from Easthampstead Park School and Ryeish Green School to have 50 days’ work experience in their chosen vocational career, in addition to their studies at the College. At Octagon, the students work with Toyota’s After-sales service technicians, gaining hands-on experience of vehicle maintenance in a professional environment.

“Our involvement with the programme helps us shape the workforce of the future,” said Keith Barnard, Centre Principal and Group After-sales Manager at Octagon. “It means we can train our teams on our own products to our own high standards.

“Now, through Young Apprenticeships, we can assess which bright youngsters with practical aptitude have the potential to join Octagon on a full apprenticeship programme, training with us and in Toyota GB’s own academy.”

Lexus News

Thanks to its innovative engineering and advanced hybrid technology, the new Lexus LS 600h sets new standards of performance, design, safety, efficiency and low emissions in the luxury car sector.

The LS 600h is the first car in the world to use a full hybrid V8 system, featuring a new lightweight 5.0 litre petrol engine combined with two high output electric motors and a large capacity battery pack. Its economical fuel consumption of 29 miles per gallon, and low carbon dioxide emissions outperform all its petrol rivals.

But despite these environmentally-friendly achievements, the LS 600h has not sacrificed any power, easily equalling the performance of conventional petrol V12 engines.

Its class-leading safety features include an advanced variant of the Lexus Pre-Crash Safety system, which uses highly specialised cameras to detect obstacles on the road ahead. This, in combination with its Driver Monitoring System and Reader Pre-Crash Safety System, mean that the LS 600h offers the highest content of sophisticated preventative safety in the world.

And as well as all this, the LS 600h both the driver and passengers the ultimate in comfort, with luxurious innovations including reclining rear seats with footrests and massage functions, rear seat cushioned airbags and body heat-sensing climate control.

To test drive the LS 600h, or any of the Lexus range, contact Lexus Bracknell on 01344 789 888 or Lexus Reading on 0118 975 8877.

Jubilee widens landscaping range

With the spring bulbs bursting into flower and the sun again tempting us outside, it’s time to start thinking about preparing the garden for summer – it’s not that far away!

And a visit to Bracknell’s Jubilee Building Supplies is a great place to start. It’s packed with everything you need to create an interesting and beautiful garden and, thanks to recently increased ranges of garden landscaping products, there’s more choice this year than ever.

“We took the decision to expand our stockholding and are now able to offer a much wider choice of landscaping items – from decorative chippings and water features to large ornate rocks,” said Peter White, Manager at Jubilee Building Supplies.

And if you need some inspiration for what to do with your garden this year, don’t forget to drop in on Jubilee’s indoor garden display area to check out its fencing and decking products – as well as cobblestones, Indian stone circles and arbours.

“As the leading independent builders merchants in the area, we’re constantly striving to improve the choice and quality of the products we supply,” continued Peter. “So whether you’re just looking for ideas and browsing, or know what you want to buy, we’re sure to have plenty to catch your eye.”

PERMA SNOW on all JNLL slopes

There are smoother rides and softer landings across the John Nike Leisuresport centre slopes now that Techmat has completed its project to resurface the slopes at each centre with Perma-snow^TM.

Known as the ‘ultimate’ artificial slope surface, Perma-snow^TM was developed by Techmat 2000. “It’s a world away from the sharp bristles of traditional surfaces,” explained Tony Ward, Manager of Techmat. “Perma-snow^TM is made from looped plastic filaments that result in a speedier descent and safely cushioned landings. It feels, reacts and even looks just like real snow!

“It’s also very easy to install either as a replacement on existing sites, or on brand new slopes. Maintenance is easy, too – replacing worn or damaged areas is a very simple task.”

Nigel Treacy, Manager of the John Nike Leisuresport Centre in Llandudno, said: “We’ve not looked back since we had Perma-snow^TM installed. Both our skiing and snowboarding customers have reported that it’s a much more authentic experience, while the instructors here believe that beginners feel much more confident on Perma-snow^TM, and improve at a far faster rate on the new surface as it offers similar sliding characteristics to snow.

“Children are also much happier learning on the slopes, as it doesn’t hurt as much when they fall. It’s fantastic that customers at John Nike Leisuresport centres across the country can now enjoy the benefits of Perma-snow^TM.”

New client for Rainbow

Rainbow Colourprint has had a great start to the New Year by adding a new name to its ever-expanding list of prestigious clients – Berkshire’s independent day and boarding establishment, Wellington College.

“The College is a fantastic client to have on board and we’ve come together at a very exciting time,” said Keith Campbell, Account Manager at Rainbow Colourprint. “This year is the College’s 150th anniversary and we’re currently working on a range of materials to support its anniversary appeal to raise funds for new facilities.

“Our aim with the College – as with every client – is to work together to create a long-lasting relationship and exceed its every expectation in terms of quality and service. We produced its Christmas cards in 2006, and hope that will be the first of many years to come!”

Rainbow boasts an impressive client list from across a variety of sectors including Johnson & Johnson, Ferrero and Heineken.

Competition

Spring is a favourite time of year for many people, the skies are blue, the air is fresh and the sun is finally re-appearing!

It’s a great season to be out and about and visiting places – and if you’re the lucky winner of this issue’s competition you and your family can enjoy a great break, courtesy of the Coppid Beech Hotel.

The prize features two-night stay at the four-star Bracknell hotel, for two adults and two children (worth £300), to be taken during the Easter weekend (6 – 9 April 2007). During your visit, you can check out some of the exciting local attractions such as historic Windsor and Ascot racecourse – or why not take the kids to Legoland?

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, answer this simple question:

What is the name of the Coppid Beech Hotel’s nightclub?

Please email your answer to ab@coppid-beech-hotel.co.uk, with ‘Connections competition’ in the subject box, by xxxxxx,

Terms and conditions apply. Dates subject to availability. The prize is non-transferable.

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And congratulations to reader Sian Spashett, who was the lucky winner of the competition in the last issue of Connections. Her prize was ski / snowboard lessons, followed by a tasty fondue evening for 10 people.