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A long-established Grange-over-Sands solicitor is to merge her practice with a historic Kendal firm.

Shirley M. Evans, based in Lowther Gardens, will continue to practise in Grange as the newest member of Kendal-based Arnold Greenwood Solicitors when the businesses merge in May. 

She said: “It will still be me, behind the same desk, and with the same phone number, ready to help my clients in the way I always have.

“I’ve had a long cooperative arrangement with Arnold Greenwood, and this merger means I can offer a wider range of services to clients in and around Grange.”

Shirley qualified at University of Bristol and Chester Law College, and worked for a large law firm in Manchester before relocating to south Cumbria in the early 1990s.

After a brief period working for an Ulverston-based solicitor, she took over the company’s Grange office to establish her own practice in 1994. Her main areas of expertise include wills, probate, conveyancing, powers of attorney, and commercial property leases.

She said: “I’ve loved every minute of it and I have particularly enjoyed being in Grange. As soon as I came here I could tell that it would be an excellent community in which to work. 

“I derive great satisfaction from helping others and I have the most loyal group of clients that I could ever have hoped for. My aim has always been for clients to leave my office feeling better than when they arrive.”

Alongside her legal work, Shirley has taken an active role in the community through a variety of posts, including Vice-Chair of Kendal’s hospital trust, a governor of Kendal College, Assistant Coroner for South Cumbria, clerk to the Tax Commissioners in Kendal, and tribunal judge.

She also became involved in a local support group for bereaved parents after losing her son in a road accident three years ago.

Established in 1871, Kendal-based Arnold Greenwood covers a wide range of legal areas, including family and relationships, business and employment law, dispute resolution, and commercial property.  

Partner Lee Hughes said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Shirley to Arnold Greenwood Solicitors. Her knowledge and experience, along with her strong reputation for providing excellent service to her clients, will be a huge asset to us.

“People in Grange can expect to receive the same high-quality and personal service they are used to, with the added bonus of access to the additional areas of expertise we can offer from our Kendal office.

“This is the natural next step in the close working relationship we have had with Shirley for many years.”

A Manchester fashion label created to raise awareness of mental health issues is being championed by two north west rugby league stars.

Cerebral Clothing, which has pledged to donate 10% of its 2023 profits to mental health charity Manchester Mind, has received the endorsement of Warrington Wolves players Pete Mata’utia and Stefan Ratchford. 

Friends Charley Rich and Dan Lloyd, both 23, launched Cerebral Clothing in 2020 after suddenly losing a close friend due to a struggle with mental health.

Dan said: “Losing a close friend in that way came as such a shock to us, and we wanted to do something to help people who need support with their mental health.

“Our vision is to not only design and sell high-quality clothing, but to create a lifestyle brand that becomes synonymous with promoting awareness for mental health.

“We want to change the way young people communicate, as well as improving the overall attitude towards mental health in general.”

As well as donating part of their profits to Manchester Mind, Charley and Dan aim to organise events to raise further funds and build a supportive community promoting mental health awareness.

Manchester Mind is one of 105 local Mind associations nationwide, all of which are independent charities. 

Joanna Huddart from Manchester Mind said: “We’re touched by the kind commitment made by Cerebral Clothing, as their charity efforts will spark important conversations surrounding men’s mental health, whilst raising vital funds in aid of our services. 

“Manchester Mind are so proud to have Dan and Charley’s support and we look forward to working together this year.”

The ethos of the brand has gained endorsement from Warrington Wolves rugby league players Pete Mata’utia and Stefan Ratchford.

Pete said: “Charley and Dan’s story of losing their best friend was something that resonated with me because I’ve been through that situation myself and now I’m a big advocate for mental health.

“I try to get people to understand that it’s not the load we carry, it’s how we carry it. If we’re not speaking to each other about mental health, that’s when the load becomes heavy.”

Stefan said: “After meeting the team at Cerebral and listening to the story of the brand it was obvious that I should get involved and support them.

“Too often, people are told to ‘man up’ or ‘just get on with it’. Cerebral’s message that people need to open up about mental health is so important.”

Cerebral has gained a loyal customer following in the north west by creating high-quality unisex garments that are not only affordable, but fit well and boast a clean urban aesthetic.

The new 2023 range features everyday staples from comfy tracksuits and twin sets in neutral hues, to premium loungewear and baseball caps.

All products are responsibly sourced, using organic cotton and recycled fabrics, and produced in factories that meet the standards of the Fair Wear Foundation.

Charley said: “We’ve always liked to stay up to date with the latest trends and collections from our favourite designers, and that has been the starting point for our own range. 

“Essentially, we are our own target market, so we just try to design and sell what we know.

“What sets us apart is that we see it as our responsibility to use our brand to share that mental health message.

“Mental health can still be a taboo subject. We want to change the way people communicate, and help people to realise that support is there if you need it.”

Find out more at cerebralclothing.co.uk or search @cerebralclothing_ on Instagram.

Learn more about the work of Manchester Mind at manchestermind.org

An electronic signature expert has welcomed anticipated regulations allowing Remote Online Notarization across the U.S., but warns that users must ensure they offer enhanced security features to prevent fraud and forgery.

The Senate is currently considering the SECURE Notarization Act, which will set minimum federal standards for Remote Online Notarization (RON) – affecting everyday transactions such as real estate purchases.

An electronic signature expert has welcomed anticipated regulations allowing Remote Online Notarization across the U.S., but warns that users must ensure they offer enhanced security features to prevent fraud and forgery.

The RON process allows notaries public to notarize documents remotely in a paperless process using electronic signatures.

Remote notarization has already been accepted in some states, and the new regulations propose a minimum standard for its use nationwide.

Steven Tallant, CEO of Videosign Notary, based in Liverpool, UK, has welcomed moves to allow RON in all states, but says users should choose their electronic signing software carefully to ensure its security features exceed the minimum requirements.

He said: “Use of electronic signatures was increasing before the Covid-19 pandemic, but the need for social distancing accelerated its acceptance among users.

“With lockdowns behind us, electronic signing remains widespread due to the convenience and efficiency it offers, and allowing RON across all 50 states is the logical next step for this way of doing business.

“However, my advice to any reputable notary public would be to go beyond the minimum standards when notarizing documents to give their clients confidence in the security of their documents and reduce the risk of costly litigation down the line.”

The SECURE Notarization Act requires audio and video recordings to be made of remote notarizations, and sets standards for identification of signatories. The bill allows a notary public to remotely notarize electronic records involving individuals in different states and outside of the United States, subject to certain requirements. 

Steven Tallant said: “The measures proposed in the bill offer some measure of security, but we recommend that notaries public take additional precautions that go above and beyond the minimum standard..

“Videosign Notary uses AI-powered facial recognition to compare an individual with their passport or driver’s license photo to confirm their identity prior to notarization.

“Additional evidence like IP addresses and timestamps made during the remote notarization process offer an additional layer of assurance alongside the video and audio evidence gathered while tamper-proof signatures are made.

“As use of RON becomes more widespread, offering all parties peace of mind should be the top priority for notaries public.”

RON can currently be used in many states for a wide-range of legal documents, including affidavits, property transactions and power of attorney. 

The new bill will require U.S. courts and states to recognize remote notarizations performed by a notary public commissioned under the laws of other states.

The Chief Executive of a Liverpool electronic signature innovator used his company’s software to sign a new employee contract from a helicopter flying over the city.

Videosign Chief Executive Steven Tallant took to the skies to meet new Customer Success Manager Jamie Wilson and sign his new contract of employment remotely.

Steven said: “I’ve always said that our software offers businesses the flexibility to work from any location, but this proves that Videosign can be used literally anywhere you can get an internet connection.

“As well as offering our users convenience and efficiency, we also provide security features that provide incontrovertible evidence that signatures on documents are genuine.”  

Videosign is an online meeting service for remotely witnessing signatures of legal documents.

Facial-recognition software is used to verify the identity of signatories before tamper-proof electronic signatures are made, witnessed by everyone in the meeting and backed up with video and metadata evidence.

New recruit Jamie’s contract signing was witnessed in person by colleague Maria Murphy and the aerial meeting and signature was recorded via the Videosign platform.

Jamie said: “When I joined Videosign I never imagined I’d be talking to my new boss while he was in a helicopter, but it just goes to show how using the platform allows you to do business with colleagues and clients anywhere in the world – it eliminates the need to rely on face-to-face meetings even when signing contracts and documents.” 

The opportunity to hold the airborne meeting came about thanks to a friend of Steven’s who is training to be a commercial helicopter pilot.

Steven said: “My pilot friend was planning a flight to log as part of his training, and invited me to join him – using it as an opportunity to demonstrate the possibilities offered by Videosign was too good to miss.” 

Videosign, with bases in Liverpool and Glasgow, supports businesses in a wide range of sectors, including financial advice and conveyancing.

The company recently released a new instant-access version of the platform, allowing small businesses to sign-up and start using Videosign immediately.

Videosign was the winner of the Innovation Award in the Liverpool Echo Business Awards 2022.

Cyclists of all ages are invited to ‘Ride Lancaster’  as part of the Bay Health Festivals organised by University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust.  

The event, supported by Rosebank PR & Communications, will see a section of Lancaster’s one-way system reduced to one lane on the morning of on Sunday July 10, allowing visitors traffic-free riding from the Lune cycletrack to Dalton Square.

In Dalton Square, visitors will be able to explore the Bay Health Festivals event, including a number of cycling-related stalls and activities.  

UHMBT Lead Chaplain Ian Dewar, the organiser of the festival, said: “Cycling is great way to travel and brings massive benefits in terms of physical and mental health.

“Our cycling village aims to bring people together united by the simple pleasure of riding a bike, and hopefully encourage non-cyclists to give it a go.”

“Many newcomers to cycling can feel intimidated by traffic on the roads, which is why we’ll be creating a temporary segregated cycle route as part of this event.

“Traffic will still be able to move through the centre of Lancaster, but cyclists will be given exclusive use one of the lanes of the one-way system for a few hours to encourage beginners and families to join us.”

The event in Dalton Square will run from 9.30am to noon on Sunday 10 July. The segregated cycle route will be in place in Water Street, Chapel Street, Rosemary Lane, Stonewell and Great John Street throughout the event.

Find out more at www.thebayhealthfestivals.org.uk

Digital security software specialist Videosign has become an official sponsor of international golfer Oliver Bekker.

Videosign Chief Executive Steven Tallant met with the South African player via the company’s unique meeting software to sign the sponsorship contract.  

Tallant said: “We’re proud to have become Oliver’s newest sponsor and look forward to seeing the Videosign name on the fairways.

“South Africa is a country that has really embraced Videosign, and I’m really happy to be able to say thank you by supporting one of the country’s top sportsmen.”

Videosign is an online meeting service that uses artificial intelligence-powered facial recognition software to compare an individual with their passport or driving licence photo to confirm their identity when they sign a contract or legal document online.

The platform offers users the facility to record video and other evidence like IP addresses and timestamps when remotely witnessing signatures of legal documents.

Facial-recognition software is used to verify the identity of signatories before tamper-proof electronic signatures are made, witnessed by everyone in the meeting and backed up with video and metadata evidence.

Oliver Bekker is a seven-time winner on the South African Sunshine Tour, and was second in the 2021 South African Open.

He said: “Using Videosign to agree this new partnership was a great experience.

“There was no need for printing documents or waiting for the mail – I met Steven on Videosign, we had a conversation, and signed the contract there and then.

“This must be the easiest contract sponsorship contract I’ve ever signed.”

Videosign, with bases in Liverpool and Glasgow, supports businesses in a wide range of sectors, including financial advice and conveyancing.

The company recently released a new instant-access version of the platform, allowing small businesses to sign-up and start using Videosign immediately.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities are invited to join Lancaster’s summer time trial series.

Organised by Lancaster Cycling Club, the weekly events offer a choice of two-, six- and 10-mile courses on the traffic-free cycle race circuit at Salt Ayre Leisure Centre.

Riders race against the clock to set their best time for their chosen distance.

Father and daughter team Tim and Bex Norton share the role of Racing Secretary at the club and organise the weekly races.

Tim said: “We get riders of all abilities taking part, from serious racers to complete beginners.

“Our choice of three distances means that if you can ride a bike you can give it a try.

“The great thing about time trialling is that you’re racing against yourself – the challenge is to improve your own personal best as the season progresses.”

Lancaster Cycling Club, which was founded in 1924, aims to provide a welcoming environment for newcomers to the sport.

Bex said: “There’s a fantastic atmosphere at the events each week. We get whole families coming along to take part and a huge spread of ages from young children to people in their 70s.

“Everyone is really friendly and supportive, and the emphasis is on enjoying being on your bike and being part of a community of cycling enthusiasts.”

The events take place at Salt Ayre from 7pm every Thursday from Spring to Autumn. The club also organises hill-climb races during the summer.

Participants will need their own bike, a helmet and front and rear lights in order to take part.

Riders can pre-register or sign-up at the event.

Entry fees are £6 for members of Lancaster Cycling Club or Salt Ayre Cog set and £8 for non-members (£3 for under-16s). Membership of Lancaster Cycling Club costs £10 per year and is required after participating in three time trials.

For more information or to pre-register, visit facebook.com/groups/lancastercyclingclub or email racingsecretarylcc@gmail.com

Pioneering electronic signature developer Videosign has secured new investment of £1.15m as it continues to develop its innovative online security platform.

The company, with bases in Liverpool and Glasgow, has developed a unique electronic signature platform that uses artificial intelligence-powered facial recognition and video technology to verify the identity of document signatories.

Videosign Chief Executive Steven Tallant said: “Videosign already offers unprecedented levels of security and confidence for anyone using electronic signatures.

“This new investment will help us to continue Videosign’s development and offer even higher levels of security to our clients.”

The investment has come from the Moonstone Group, which provides a portfolio of compliance, education and fintech solutions to the financial services market in South Africa.

Hjalmar Bekker, Chief Executive of Moonstone, said: “Use of Videosign is well established at Moonstone, and it is a platform we trust for a range of business applications, from remote contracting to exam invigilation.

“Use of electronic signatures is only going to increase, and we believe that Videosign will play a pivotal role in its growing acceptance among users, bringing document-signing into the 21st century.”

Videosign is an online meeting platform with the facility to record video and other evidence like IP addresses and timestamps to allow for e-commissioning and remote witnessing of signatures on legal documents ranging from affidavits to contracts.

The platform’s AI-powered facial recognition software compares an individual with their passport or driving licence photo to confirm their identity. It also has the ability to link to external identity databases for further checks.

Tamper-proof electronic signatures can then be made, witnessed by everyone in the meeting and backed up with video and metadata evidence.

Videosign already enjoys popularity among financial advisors, thanks to the improved customer experience it offers and its integration with the widely-used Iress Xplan advice software.

Steven Tallant said: “This investment is an indication of how integral the Videosign platform has become to Moonstone’s operations.

“This is an exciting time for Videosign, and we have plans to continue improving our security features to offer even stronger levels of assurance and compliance to our customers and lead the way in this evolving way of doing business.”

Entrepreneurs launching new businesses in north Lancashire and south Cumbria this year have chance to secure a grant worth £894 for a year’s free membership of a worldwide networking organisation.

Business Networking International (BNI) has active groups all over the country, including the LA5 group, covering north Lancashire and south Cumbria.

Lancaster-based financial planner Peter Walmsley, a founder member of the LA5 group, said: “The pandemic has made 2020 incredibly tough for businesses, so BNI has introduced this grant scheme to help give a boost to a new start-up.

“We are seeing many people losing their jobs or finding their existing business is no longer viable, which is why we want to help people launching a new venture this year to get access to the support that BNI offers.

“We want to hear from anyone interested in applying for the grant so they can come along to one of our weekly online meetings and find out what we’re all about.”

BNI offers a structured approach to networking that encourages and trains members to work together to generate opportunities for each other’s businesses.

Local groups provide a valuable source of income for businesses as well as offering the chance to benefit from the collective knowledge, experience and support of other members.

Peter said: “Starting out in business can be daunting, but if you’re a member of BNI you don’t have to face the challenges alone. We’d love to help someone to get their business off the ground this year.”

Owners or employees of businesses launched in 2020 are eligible to apply. The business must be the applicant’s main work activity. One free membership is available for each BNI group, and grants will be awarded following an application process.Deadline for applications is December 8, 2020.

LA5 meets via Zoom from 9.30am to 11.30am every Tuesday.

To find out more and arrange a visit to the LA5 group, email BNILA5@outlook.com