It has just turned midnight and it's officially the start of December. I looked outside my window and couldn’t quite believe my eyes as thick snow was settling all around. It felt somewhat magical, it felt like the festive season had properly started. Waking up that morning it was Friday meaning no lectures, the weekend had begun and I was planning on going back home. The only issue was there was snow everywhere. The roads were covered in a thick white blanket with only thin tire marks disturbing it. Back home I lived on a main road that tends to always be gritted but for some reason, the one I live on up at university hadn’t been despite being a reasonably popular road. With my car being terrible in the snow I knew it wasn’t even worth risking till some of the snow had hopefully melted so my plans were off. Despite this, I wasn’t too bothered. It was snowing and the village of Jesmond looked as if it were straight off a postcard. I went back inside, grabbed my coat and headed for the shops. Since I’d planned to go home I had no food in so I thought it was only right to go get the typical student meal of a Tesco meal deal. I love walks in the snow, the first thing I’d do on a snow day back home was get my boots on and walk the dog. Up in Newcastle, I was missing two parts of that. The dog but more importantly, the boots. I took one step out the front door and started sliding around straight away. At first, I found it quite funny but as I continued my walk to the shops I found myself becoming more and more frustrated. And then it happened, the snow finally lost its magic. That feeling of excitement I’d always get surrounding the snow had gone. It was winding me up. Back at home, you wouldn’t mind being stuck in the house, the kitchen was stocked and the house was warm. Chances were if you were stuck inside so were your mates so you’d be out having fun in the snow. This wasn’t the case at uni. Most people still went to lectures as the university wasn’t that far away. If anything the snow was just a hindrance to us all getting on with our days. Later on, the gritters would come round and I’d just manage to get my car home to Sheffield but it was a challenge. The snow meant for the first time driving my car felt like hard work rather than either relaxing or fun. I felt like I finally understood what many adults had meant when they said they didn’t like the snow. It was an annoyance, a hindrance and an all-round nuisance. In truth, it felt the same way that heavy rain, dense fog or high winds felt. It was no longer magic, it was just bad weather. I’m sure when you have young children and they get their first taste of snow that magic does return somewhat. I also do not doubt that this was just a bad case of timing and the fact it had ruined my plans somewhat spoiled my mood when before snow had been the creator of plans rather than the issue stopping them. That being said I also know the snow will only annoy me more as I get older. If I have a job where I need to get to work no matter what and working from home isn’t an option, the snow won’t be magical at that moment. It also still makes everything feel very “Christmasy” and has put me into a festive mood much earlier than usual. What I have learnt is to always bring a pair of boots with me to university, especially in the winter. Also, I found a big advantage to living on a main road I’d never realised before and probably rate gritters as one of the most important public sector jobs there is because nobody in this country is good at driving in the snow!

When you think of Aston Martin you think of iconic British sports cars. Cars that are so good even James Bond had one, so why did the company release a small city car called the Cygnet? Back in 2009, the European Union were creating new legislation to reduce CO2 emissions. The new rules meant companies had to comply with an average CO2 emissions goal across the entire range. For my companies this was fine but those who only made sports cars would find this more of a challenge. Luckily for a lot of sports car companies, they were owned by a sister company that would bring this average down. Lamborghini for example is owned by the VW group so they didn’t have to worry. Aston Martin on the other hand wasn’t owned by a company that produced your average daily commuter. At first, Aston Martin tried to push back against the European Union’s new legislation. They believed the EU should be judging a car based on the amount of CO2 it emits over its entire life. Aston Martins on average were only driven 6000 miles per year, significantly less than other cars, meaning it would add less toxins to the environment. The EU didn’t agree and the legislation was here to stay. Aston Martin had two options, become a part of a larger motor group so the average CO2 emissions from the entire range of the manufacturer could be applied or add a car to their range that had very low emissions. Not wanting to “sell out”, Aston Martin chose the latter and would create a new car to bring their range’s average emissions down. Except they didn’t create a “new” car. Instead, they had an ingenious plan. They would take a highly efficient, low-emissions car from another manufacturer and modify it for themselves. This happens all over the automotive market. Cars will be sold under different badge names to suit a certain market. All Aston Martin needed was a friendly company willing to strike a deal, one that wasn’t competing in the same market space as themselves. Toyota were just announcing their new city car, the iQ. This was a tiny city car that was easy to park and, crucially, low on emissions. For size reference think of anything like a Fiat 500 or VW Up! . The iQ looked like the perfect option for Aston Martin so the companies got together and struck a deal. Aston's design team were no longer creating a brash sports car, they were modifying an upmarket Toyota iQ. It would be called the Cygnet, named after a baby swan about the “swan doors” found on Aston Martins. The Cygnet would be marketed as a “tender for your yacht”. They imagined most owners would be the car to take them from their Mayfair residence to their garage where they’d swap the Cygnet for a much more powerful Aston Martin to continue the rest of their journey. That’s a pretty small market to target but the point of the car was to bring those average CO2 emissions down. At first, you had to already be an Aston Martin customer just to order the car. The outside of the car unsurprisingly looked like a Toyota iQ. The front end was slightly redesigned to feature the iconic Aston Martin grille, whilst at the rear new Aston Martin styled lights were added alongside a small spoiler. The door handles would be replaced by more upmarket ones that sat flush with the car’s body. This was not only more aesthetically pleasing but also made the car more aerodynamic. Even with these changes, this didn’t feel like an Aston Martin. In regards to the interior, the designers tried their best to make this car feel like a proper Aston. There was plenty of leather placed all over the cabin where cheap plastic would be on the Toyota iQ but things like the buttons and switches were still obviously that of the Toyota. Production would begin in 2010. The car would start its life in Toyota’s factory in Japan before being sent over to Aston Martins factory in the UK. A basic white or black iQ would be sent over and then stripped down so Aston Martin could apply its paint to the standards it expected. Just the paint would take 50 hours. The previously mentioned flush door handles were dropped in favour of the original ones from Toyota. Each car would take 175 hours to create as opposed to the around 10 hours Toyota would take. All these labour hours might explain why the Cygnet was 3 times the price of the iQ at over £30,000. The market wasn’t there for the Cygnet, a luxury city car wasn’t needed. The closest competition came from the Audi A1 but this was less of a city car and more just a small one. By 2013 Aston would pull the plug on the Cygnet after only selling 800 cars. The EU legislation changed and the rise of the plug-in hybrid meant Aston Martin did not need this future icon any more.

In Britain, the tradition of Advent calendars is as deeply ingrained as a cup of tea in the afternoon. Traditionally, these calendars house a daily dose of chocolate to sweeten the countdown to Christmas. However, in recent years, the world of Advent calendar has taken a wild turn. Move over, chocolate Santas; it's time for Friends, sexy surprises, and even tools to make an appearance in the festive countdown. Weird Advent Calendars in the Black Friday Sales The Black Friday sales have unleashed a parade of unique Advent calendars, catering to every taste imaginable. From the iconic 'Friends' TV show advent calendar to Ann Summers' 12 Nights of New Sensations Sexy Advent Calendar, there's a calendar to spice up the season. And if festive socks or tools are more your style, there are options like the Happy Socks festive socks advent calendar or the Tool advent calendar. It seems that the traditional chocolate squares have some tough competition this year. While the typical Christmas calendars often feature chocolate delights, the trend of branching out into beauty, gin, whisky, or beer calendars is on the rise. However, 2023 has taken it to a whole new level, introducing spooky advent calendars, music-themed ones, and even calendars tailored for couples. Whether you're a fan of crackling pork, cheese, popcorn, or Pringles, there's a peculiar advent calendar crafted just for you. Here are some of our favourite Strange advent calendars that have cropped up in 2023 Ilchester Cheese Advent Calendar Cheese enthusiasts, rejoice! This culinary delight of an advent calendar presents 24 miniature kinds of cheese, boasting a delectable array of flavours such as Applewood, Ilchester Wensleydale Cheese with Cranberries, and the intriguing Ilchester Wensleydale Cheese and Gingerbread. Coppenrath Gramophone Musical Advent Calendar Indulge in a musical journey this festive season with the extraordinary Gramophone Musical Advent Calendar. Within its doors lie 24 mini vinyl records, each serenading you with a distinct Christmas melody. Accompanying this melodic delight is a mini-record player, adding a touch of whimsy to your holiday celebrations. 12 Days of Noodles Advent Calendar 2023 This is very different as it's based around the 12 days of Christmas. Imagine the joy of savouring a piping hot bowl of soup, a perfect respite during the chilly winter months. This unique instant noodle countdown goes beyond the ordinary, delivering a diverse array of festive flavours that are bound to tantalize your taste buds. Shocking Science Tricks Advent Calendar Immerse yourself in a world where science meets excitement, as each day unfolds an intriguing and electrifying scientific experiment or activity. This calendar not only entertains but also educates, making it an ideal choice for those who revel in the wonders of science and the joy of discovery during the festive season. Wedgwood Christmas 2023 Advent Calendar This extraordinary advent calendar stands out as the epitome of luxury, surpassing the rest with a price tag exceeding £800. Beyond being a festive delight, it transcends into a cherished family heirloom, destined to be handed down through generations. Crafted by Wedgwood, this opulent Christmas tree ornament advent calendar boasts an assortment of 25 exquisite porcelain ornaments, each adorned in the iconic Wedgwood blue. Whether you're into hot chocolate, 'Friends,' retro radios, or even a Pringles snack, these advent calendars redefine the holiday countdown. 'Tis the season for surprises that go beyond the expected, making each day leading to Christmas a quirky and delightful experience. Cheers to the weird and wonderful spirit of the festive season!

The endeavour to raise funds for charity poses a considerable challenge, especially in the current economic climate, where people are often hesitant to part with their money without receiving something in return. The efficacy of charity boxing events, however, stands out as a commendable solution to this issue. These events not only serve as remarkable occasions for both participants and their supporters but also provide an excellent avenue for fundraising. Recently there was an event, held at Newcastle's Civic Centre, that garnered a substantial crowd rallying behind individuals—friends, family members, or partners—venturing into their inaugural boxing matches, all in the name of a noble cause. Participants received an eight-week boxing camp at no cost, courtesy of a former bronze Commonwealth Games medalist. In exchange for this invaluable opportunity, organisers mandated that each competitor raise a minimum of £100 for the designated charity, typically Mind. With 13 fights scheduled, the event featured 26 competitors, each committed to raising at least £100. This meant that before the night commenced, a minimum of £2600 had already been amassed for charity. Given that most fighters exceeded the £100 target, the starting donation surpassed £3000. However, orchestrating such events comes with its own set of expenses. Venue rental, sound and light systems, the boxing ring, and compensating essential staff such as the Master of Ceremonies, ring girls, and referees all incur costs that must be covered. Ticket sales, whether individual or as part of table purchases, contribute to meeting these operational expenses. Additionally, a percentage of the sales further bolsters the final charitable donation. Fundraising efforts persist throughout the night, with businesses from across Newcastle contributing prizes for a mid-event raffle. Prizes ranged from bottles of champagne to free boxing lessons and £50 vouchers at restaurants. The inclusion of various payment methods, including cash, card, and contactless options, ensures accessibility for attendees and maximises the potential for donations. While some may assume that minimising costs leads to higher fundraising yields, the success of this particular event lies in its meticulous presentation. A well-executed event generates more buzz, attracting increased interest from prospective participants. Beyond fundraising, these individuals relish a rare opportunity to experience the thrill of being a genuine boxer. The anticipation of one's name being announced before the ring walk, with friends and family cheering in attendance, is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience. The addition of pyrotechnics just as the competitor steps into the ring further enhances the event's allure. In essence, this well-organised event not only serves as an outstanding fundraiser but also creates lasting memories for the fighters and their supporters. Its professionalism not only elevates the overall experience but also contributes to a more substantial financial contribution to the designated charity, fulfilling the primary objective of the event.

I recently received an email claiming to be from the UK government, promising a £400 boost for my gas and electric bills. This of course, was a scam email asking me to enter my details to get the government rebate. I didn't fall for it, but it made me ponder the real issues at hand, specifically the impending rise in the energy price cap set to hit many households in January 2024. As we brace ourselves for colder temperatures, Ofgem, the energy regulator, has declared an average annual household bill increase from £1,834 to £1,928 – a rise of £94 or 5%. In a world where we're constantly adapting to economic shifts, this news hits hard, especially for those already facing financial challenges. The surge is attributed to higher wholesale costs faced by suppliers. Analysts speculate that prices might ease back in March, but for now, consumers must prepare for a winter with added financial strain. From January onwards, the gas price will be 7p per kWh, and electricity will be 29p per kWh. For those on prepayment meters, the typical annual bill will rise to £1,960, while quarterly cash or chequepayers will face a typical annual bill of £2,058. Standing charges, however, will remain unchanged. This price hike is concerning, especially as winter approaches. Many households are reevaluating their budgets and looking for ways to cope with the increase. One option is to explore the variety of fixed deals on the market, although Ofgem advises caution when navigating these options. I was lucky, and last June I managed to enter a fixed-rate tariff with British Gas. But the implication that this could continue past my term time is worrying. The freezing of standing charges, amid increasing fees, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Ofgem is currently reviewing these charges, reflecting the rising frustration among consumers about fees and the seeming inability to control costs. Last winter, support was offered through the Energy Price Guarantee, limiting typical bills to £2,500, along with a £400 support scheme for each household. This year, however, at the time of writing, no equivalent scheme has been announced, leaving many households anxious about the financial burden of the upcoming winter. As households are in debt to suppliers by a staggering £2.6 billion, it's clear that more needs to be done. The government's recent moves to increase pensions and benefits provide some relief, but the absence of additional direct support is palpable. The energy landscape is undeniably challenging, and as we face these uncertainties, it's crucial to stay informed, explore available options, and collectively voice our concerns. The road ahead may be tough, but with resilience and unity, we can navigate through these challenges. Stay warm and take care.

In a world dominated by digital entertainment, one classic toy continues to capture the imagination of both young and old – LEGO. As the holiday season approaches, LEGO sets become not just toys but gateways to endless possibilities. Did you know that an astounding 30 LEGO sets are sold every second in the run-up to Christmas? The appeal is undeniable, and it goes beyond just being a toy; it's a cultural phenomenon that has touched over 48% of the UK population at some point. LEGO's success story is no accident. Amidst a landscape where many children are engrossed in video games, LEGO has not only maintained its relevance but has grown to become the world's largest toy company, surpassing even industry giants like Mattel. What's remarkable is that LEGO achieved this feat with a brick design that has remained relatively unchanged for over 60 years. The enduring success of LEGO can be attributed to a few key factors: 1. Simple Yet Versatile Design: At the heart of LEGO's success is the iconic brick design – simple, versatile, and capable of sparking boundless creativity. This design has stood the test of time, proving that innovation doesn't always mean drastic change. 2. Recognizable Brand Equity: LEGO isn't just a toy; it's a brand that resonates globally. Loved by kids and adults alike, the brand has become synonymous with play, imagination, creativity, fun, learning, caring, and quality. The LEGO logo is a stamp of timeless entertainment. 3. Core Values: LEGO's commitment to core values such as "Play Well," fostering imagination, and creativity, and ensuring quality has built a strong foundation for the brand. These values are not just slogans but guiding principles that influence product development and experiences. LEGO understood early on that the bricks, on their own, are just bricks. It's the experiences created around them that elevate LEGO to something extraordinary. From Legoland theme parks to blockbuster movies and engaging video games, LEGO has ventured into creating immersive experiences. On a smaller scale, LEGO regularly collaborates with well-known brands, turning partnerships into unique experiences. Collaborations with NASA for space education, creating videos for Facebook's "Kronkiwongi" project, and crafting LEGO Speed Champions Series of vehicles with renowned car brands like Ferrari, McLaren, and Porsche are testament to their adaptability and innovation. But what about the future? With projects like Augmented Reality in the works, LEGO is not merely resting on its laurels; it's actively evolving with the times. The company remains dedicated to enhancing the play experience, embracing technology while staying true to its core values. As we marvel at the LEGO sets adorning store shelves this Christmas, let's appreciate not just the bricks but the enduring legacy of a brand that has shaped the childhoods of millions. In a world that constantly changes, LEGO stands as a beacon of timeless joy and creativity, promising to be a cherished part of our lives for generations to come. LEGO lovers, Dive into these Captivating LEGO Facts: LEGO’s founder, Ole Kirk Christiansen, crafted the name “LEGO” from the Danish words LEG GODT, meaning “play well.” If you lined up the 340 million Minifigures produced last year, it would stretch almost 7,900 km – from London, UK to Beijing, China! The famous LEGO brick we play with today is over 50 years old, with bricks from 1958 still fitting seamlessly with those made today. The moulds used to produce LEGO bricks are accurate to within 0.002 mm, ensuring high quality; only about 18 bricks in a million fail to meet standards. The world’s tallest LEGO tower is 28.7m high, made with 465,000 bricks! LEGO Minifigures are the world’s largest population, with over 4 billion around the globe! During Christmas, almost 28 LEGO sets are sold every second. LEGO attractions like LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester hire "Master Model Builders" – a dream job! Laid end to end, the number of LEGO bricks sold in a year would circle the globe over five times. On average, there are 80 LEGO bricks for every person on Earth.

Back when I was a child in primary school and secondary school I loved performing. Where many kids my age would’ve hated any public speaking I genuinely enjoyed it. The rush you get I think is unmatched. It's a mixture of excitement and nerves at first, but once you get started and find your rhythm those nerves start to go away and the adrenaline kicks in. Now I’m 22 and at university, those chances to perform are few and far between. I really don’t care for musical theatre and I’m not studying drama like I was back in secondary school. The closest thing I had to those experiences back in school was probably at college and whilst on placement at ITK’s sister company, Novus. At college I was involved in a lot of promotional videos and content for the brand-new T-Level qualification and at Novus I'd do short videos on my time while on placement. I also did short adverts for ITK’s social media pages. These videos almost gave that same buzz but not quite. Don’t get me wrong I really enjoyed these but not to the same extent as being able to see all the eyes on you. Talking to a camera just isn’t the same. There’s not that instant feedback of a laugh or an obvious face of “this isn’t going too well”. This week I had the chance to change that thanks to a new gig I was about to start. I was going to be the MC at a student boxing event. For 3 hours my job would be to introduce fellow students into the ring and hype up a crowd full of those boxers' mates. It’d been a long time since I’d done anything remotely like this. The last time I’d spoken in front of a crowd this big was never. The closest I’d come was maybe as a 10-year-old in performance at the crucible but this was different. This was an event I’d been to and loved as a spectator and now I was essentially presenting it. I know I’m playing it up but to say I was excited was a massive understatement. I also know this night is really about the fighters. They’re the ones that had for the last 8 weeks been in a training camp, learning a sport that might be completely new to them, and then having to perform in front of a crowd. That’s extremely daunting. The point is most people there weren’t there to see me, my job was simply to help make their night better. When I first stepped into the ring I might have been looking dapper in my tuxedo but inside I was bricking it. It’d been so long since I spoke or performed in front of a crowd. I looked down at my script, I could barely read the words I was shaking that much. Then the adrenaline kicked in, and I belted out a “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to fight night!” Then that feeling came back, the rush brought a smile straight to my face and the cheers of the crowd gave me the confidence to just go for it. I introduced the night, bantered with the crowd about their choice of university and introduced the first fight. Then it was time to get back out of the ring. I sat down outside the ring. At this point, I think I finally breathed. I felt my forehead, it was dripping with sweat but I loved it. I knew I could do this and do it well. I didn’t need the script, I just needed to be me and enjoy this moment. The rest of the night went brilliantly. As I announced more fights my confidence grew and I probably stopped talking so quickly too. Before this, I’d be struggling to find something enjoyable at university. Going out isn’t the same as it used to be. I might just be getting older. It felt like I’d found a hobby almost, but one I could get paid for too. That evening I felt like a celebrity, walking out the venue people were talking to me, saying how good a job I’d done. It was instant positive feedback, something I’d been craving for so long. What was at first a daunting experience I was excited yet apprehensive about, became the best thing for my mental health in years.

The finale of Loki's second season left fans in shock and speculation. The unexpected turns and dramatic character developments have propelled the God of Mischief to an unprecedented level within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His journey from a self-serving trickster to a selfless, caring force has defied all expectations, leaving audiences reeling with surprise. The progression of Loki's character has been a remarkable highlight of the MCU. The depth of his transformation from a self-centred schemer to a selfless friend willing to risk everything for the ones he cares about has been astounding. This growth, particularly evident in the second season, has reshaped the perception of Loki's strength and power, positioning him as one of the most formidable figures in the entire MCU. The magnitude of his newfound abilities, which even rival those of characters like the Scarlet Witch, has stirred discussions and controversy among fans. His evolution into a being capable of holding the multiverse together as the "God of Stories" has drawn parallels to the Asgardian Yggdrasil and the Nine Realms, hinting at a pivotal role in potential future MCU storylines, perhaps even in the vein of the "God Emperor Doom" from the comics' Avengers: Secret Wars. The finale's revelations not only showcased Loki's ascension but also shed light on the fate of pivotal characters. Ravonna Renslayer's narrative took a surprising turn, finding herself trapped in the Void at the End of Time after her actions in the TVA. Meanwhile, the mission of the TVA has shifted towards identifying variants of He Who Remains, alluding to the introduction of exiled Kang, as referenced in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. The confirmation of the primary MCU reality as Earth-616, delivered by Mobius, further solidifies the implications of the multiverse's restructuring and the potential challenges that lie ahead. The seismic events of Loki's season 2 finale have left Marvel fans reeling with unanswered questions and anticipation. The transformation of Loki into a pivotal force within the MCU, his role in shaping the multiverse, and the challenges that await not only add depth to his character but also set the stage for an exciting and uncertain future for the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. As the God of Stories, Loki's influence on the multiverse may just be the beginning of an era of unprecedented narrative complexity and thrilling adventures.

In the ever-evolving landscape of social media platforms, TikTok has emerged as a powerhouse, changing the way we consume content and transforming it into a potent tool for businesses to engage with their audiences. TikTok's success can be attributed to its unique format, and today, we'll explore its journey from inception, its potential impact on businesses, and the challenge it poses to traditional media. How TikTok Got Started TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, made its international debut in September 2017. However, its origins can be traced back to Douyin, an app launched in China in September 2016. Initially, Douyin was primarily focused on the Chinese market, allowing users to create and share short video clips, typically lasting 15 to 60 seconds. The app swiftly gained popularity within China, garnering millions of users and challenging the dominance of other social media giants like WeChat and Weibo. In 2018, Douyin was rebranded as "TikTok" for the global audience, marking its expansion onto the international stage. This transition allowed TikTok to adapt to the unique preferences and cultural nuances of users from various regions worldwide, effectively making it a global sensation. The Vine Connection For those who remember Vine, an app that allowed users to create and share 6-second video loops, TikTok might seem like a spiritual successor. Vine paved the way for short-form video content and established the groundwork for the success of TikTok. TikTok expanded upon Vine's concept, offering more tools, features, and a user-friendly interface, thus capturing a broader audience. TikTok's massive popularity is primarily driven by Generation Z and millennials, who embrace its short, engaging videos. The platform's algorithm tailors content to individual preferences, ensuring that users continually discover fresh, captivating content, making it a go-to source of entertainment for these younger demographics. Its intuitive, swipe-driven user interface and vast library of effects and music tracks add to its appeal, making it a highly engaging platform. The Business Perspective TikTok has become a powerful marketing tool for businesses. Here's how TikTok is beneficial for companies looking to engage with their audience: Creativity and Authenticity: TikTok encourages creativity and authenticity. Companies can connect with their audience through genuine, relatable content, often featuring behind-the-scenes glimpses and employee stories. This genuine approach helps build trust and a sense of authenticity that resonates with TikTok's user base. Trend Capitalization: TikTok trends spread like wildfire, and businesses can jump on these trends to increase their visibility and engagement. By participating in popular challenges or using trending music, brands can create a viral marketing moment, increasing their reach and impact. Influencer Collaborations: TikTok influencers have massive followings and can effectively promote products and services. Collaborating with influencers can help businesses reach a broader audience and build trust with their target market. The inherent authenticity of TikTok makes influencer endorsements all the more powerful. For a practical example of TikTok's potential for businesses, while scrolling through TikTok this morning, I stumbled upon a clip from the "Baffled Podcast." The snippet, which talked about the differences between Halloween in England and the US piqued my interest, leading me to seek out the full podcast episodes on Spotify. Intrigued by the content, I even explored the Baffled Podcast's website for merchandise. This illustrates how TikTok can drive traffic to external platforms, helping businesses expand their reach and potentially boost sales. TikTok's capacity to captivate its users' attention, even for just a minute, and generate interest in products or services is a powerful asset for businesses looking to increase their online presence. TikTok's journey from its launch to its current status as a dominant force in the social media world is nothing short of remarkable. Its ability to engage younger generations, capitalise on trends, and foster authenticity has made it an invaluable asset for businesses looking to connect with their audience. As TikTok continues to evolve, companies that harness its potential for creativity, engagement, and storytelling will find themselves well-positioned in the competitive world of digital marketing. So, if you're baffled by TikTok's success, perhaps it's time to explore its potential for your own business. With TikTok, businesses have the opportunity to reach an engaged, youthful audience and drive their growth to new heights.

If there’s one thing Britain does well, it's sport. Most of the world's most popular sports were created in Britain. We have such a rich sporting history that we really should be proud of yet watching sport is so expensive. I’m not just talking about going to the stadium but also watching on the TV. The Premier League is the world's best domestic football league. The standard is out of this world. Even smaller teams like Luton Town have some brilliant players and have more than held themselves in the league. But watching the Premier League is far too expensive. Football was always a game for the working class yet they’re being priced out of watching their team whether that be in person or at home. To legally watch Premier League football at home you’d need not one but two broadcast packages. Most of the games are on Sky Sports but some are also on TNT Sport (previously known as BT Sport). Sky Sports starts at £37 per month, a truly ridiculous amount of money. The price of TNT Sport depends. If you have BT Broadband it's £18 per month on top of your package for everyone else it's usually £29.99 but Sky and Virgin can change the price should they wish. That means you’d be paying essentially £67 to legally watch the premier league games available in the UK. There’s also the odd Amazon Prime week where all midweek fixtures are shown on Amazon instead, that’s another £8.99pm to factor in. That price shows no value for money and really does “take the mickey” out of UK football fans. For that amount of money, you’d at minimum expect to be able to watch every game but that’s not the case. When football was first being televised fans and clubs were sceptical. There were worries it would cause attendance at games to drop. A law was passed to counteract the potential of falling attendance due to televised games. Any game on a Saturday that kicks off at 3 pm cannot be shown legally in the UK. Other countries can watch the game, however, through whichever broadcaster provides it in that country. There’s no wonder so many people turn to illegally streaming Premier League football. The “dodgy” fire stick has become a very common occurrence. Whilst I don’t own one myself I do know plenty of people that do. When you can pay the same amount for a yearly subscription on these cracked fire sticks as you would do monthly to do it legally then why would you spend so much extra money? Whilst illegally streaming games is definitely against the law there is another way to watch the Premier League that is more of a grey area than against the law. Other countries' streaming services offer prices that are much better value for money. Over in the US the streaming service ‘Peacock’ shows most premier league games. At around $6 a month, this is a very cheap streaming service, especially when compared to other platforms like Netflix. Whilst you can’t buy a peacock subscription in the UK there is a way to legally purchase Peacock. You can use a VPN (virtual private network) to make your device believe it's in a different country. Should you set your VPN to the US then you’ll be able to subscribe to Peacock and watch more premier league games than you would be able to by spending the full £67 on Sky Sports and TNT Sports. This isn’t against the law. VPNs are legal and many cyber security experts would tell you to purchase one regardless of using it to watch sports but more for online security. There are talks the premier league may eventually move away from traditional cable operators like Sky and create its own streaming platform. With the extraordinary prices Sky and TNT charge UK customers, this really needs to happen sooner rather than later. Whilst the premier league is a fantastic, modern and innovative league, its TV broadcasters are the opposite, providing the bare minimum for as much money as possible. It doesn’t suit football. This is supposed to be a working class sport yet fans are priced out of not only the stadium but also watching it at home.

Last year my opinion on Halloween changed. What I once thought was consumerism at its finest was instead a fun night out. This year however I’m falling back into that original opinion. I must admit I’m writing this before my Halloween night out begins so you might feel I’m not quite giving it a fair chance. I know I’ll enjoy the night out, that’s not the issue here. The issue is just how expensive Halloween now is. Once again, the doom and gloom of the cost-of-living crisis is showing its ugly head. Halloween costumes have never been cheap. Most basic ones at the costume shop were about £20 last year. This year they’re closer to £30. That’s already a huge chunk of money spent, and I’ve not even put the costume on yet. Nightclubs will always raise their prices around Halloween. Its basic supply and demand. More people are more likely to go out over Halloween weekend so why wouldn’t the business try to make more money? Ticket prices, at least in Newcastle, are around £5 - £7 on average. This is just an entry to the club. This year I’ve seen most tickets be around £15 and even seen some higher than £20. Luckily life is sometimes who you know and not what you know so I managed to get a discount, but it still left my ticket price at £10. So, I’ve not even made the club yet and I’m already £40 down. Not a single drink has been bought and already I’ve spent more than a weekly food shop. Drinks in nightclubs, especially on weekends, are almost not worth buying. They’re watered down and even then, they’re never the proper brands. Most students know this so will partake in every student's favourite past time… pre drinks! An average ‘pres’ before this year would cost you maybe £10 max. A small bottle of vodka would be max £7 for the local shop and then the mixer of your choice would be max £1.50. That’s not the case anymore. Even the cheapest bottle of vodka is around £10, the mixer will be under £2. We’re now on at least £50 and I’m still not at the club. You can have plenty of pre-drinks but at some point, you’re still probably going to want a drink. A standard single vodka with lemonade or cola will set you back around £4 but with it being Halloween prices will no doubt rise. If you’re like me and don’t enjoy holding a drink in the club, you might be more inclined to purchase a Jager bomb. Problem with bombs is on their own they’re far too expensive but when you purchase 3, they sound more affordable. I always fall for this in clubs I have to admit. On average 3 bombs is about £10 but sometimes you’ll get 4 for £10. Now we’re on £60 and still quite early into the night. It’s come to the end of the night, and you’ve managed to only purchase one drink or maybe a round in the club. You’re feeling hungry and fancy a takeaway. Best hope you’ve got some money left cause takeaways are very expensive nowadays. Anything you want will be once again around £10. If you want a pizza, you’ll be looking at even more. It’s time to go home. If you live close to the city centre, you’re lucky and will be able to walk home. I’ve walked back plenty of times, but it does take about an hour. A taxi takes about 10 minutes max. On a weekend that taxi will cost around £15 bringing the total cost of the night to around £80. I think £80 is quite a reasonable estimate too. It can be done a bit cheaper, but it can also be done for a lot more money. The point is that it’s simply too much. I know going out isn’t an essential, I’m not for one minute trying to claim it is. But life, especially as a student, is also about having some fun. Halloween is one of these events that young people look forward to but when its going to cost me £50 minimum how can it be justified, especially when the actual price could be a lot more. Luckily, I can reuse a costume for last year but that still doesn’t stop the price of everything else being ludicrous. The narrative that students go out all the time is complete rubbish, many of us can’t even afford the rent.

Working away from home whilst at university means I often don’t really know what’s going on at the office. As with any workplace, colleagues come and go but I never really get a chance to say goodbye to the people leaving us or hello to any new recruits. Last month’s staff bonding event gave me the perfect opportunity. The last time I’d seen anyone from work was Christmas, we were in September so it’s fair to say it had been some time. For those unaware I started at Novus on placement for my T-Level qualification and was then offered a part-time role here at ITK. One of my favorite parts of the placement was being back in the workplace. The relationships you form with your colleagues I think are vital to being productive and making work enjoyable. I can be a big driving force behind the team if everybody gets along. Of course, not everybody will get along in the workplace but especially in small businesses, I think it’s so important to have a good relationship with your colleagues. For our last staff Team Building night out, we truly had a bit of everything. We started off with a fabulous meal at Doncaster’s Relish Bar and Grill. This gave me a great opportunity to catch up with everyone. After going from seeing the team at least two days a week to seeing them twice a year there was plenty to talk about. It also gave me a great opportunity to meet the new members of the team. I say new but in truth, they’d been here a while now I’d just not had the opportunity to see anybody yet in 2023. For anybody wondering, I had a Seafood linguine which tasted just as delicious as it sounded. After the meal, we split into two teams and headed for an escape room challenge. I love escape rooms; they really do force people out of their shells. Working as a team to piece all the clues together requires many different skills that whilst we might not have had individually, we did have as a team. When you finally crack the clue and unlock the next part that’s very rewarding, even if it’s not that meaningful, it’s fun. Escape Rooms in my opinion are the ultimate bonding exercise. They aren’t age restricting so those on placement or apprenticeships can still join in. They force you to communicate with people you might not have outside that room. Even those who are shy will find themselves joining in one room where there are not too many people. It's a lot less daunting than talking to a big group. My group didn’t manage to escape but Novus and ITK boss Brett did manage to escape leading to his ever-gracious victory celebrations. Afterward, we headed to the local Wetherspoons for a quick drink and continued our conversations. Being able to catch up with my colleagues and tell them all about my university experience was great. Before I went to university, I spent a lot of time in the Novus office talking about how much I couldn’t wait to go so being able to finally talk about things that had happened felt really good personally. This is why having these staff bonding events is so important. The post-covid business won’t have everybody in the office every day. People will work from home or maybe work different days with other people even in small businesses. Without your staff you won’t be successful so keeping staff morale high alongside a sense of being part of a team I personally think is so valuable to your business.