T: +44 0 1603 505845

Latest news

SSE overplaying the cap card as it pulls the plug on merger

Commenting on news that SSE has dropped plans to merge with Npower, Sally Jaques from auto-switching service weflip, said, “While SSE are pointing to the energy price cap as the reason for pulling out of its merger with Npower, the real problem for both these companies could be the fact customers are switching away, in…

Read more

£143m* worth of unwanted gifts to be returned this Christmas

Only 69% of returns are successful; More than 4 million people returned an unwanted Christmas gift last year; The average value of unwanted gifts last year was £35.10; 7% say they had a problem returning a gift that was purchased online. According to new research** released today, an estimated £143m worth of unwanted Christmas presents…

Read more

LOST Christmas: 6.7 million* Brits lose out on gift cards

GoCompare Money urges shoppers to check expiry dates on any gift cards received this Christmas and use them as soon as possible Over a fifth (21%) plan to give gift cards as presents this Christmas; 13% of UK adults have been unable to redeem the value of a gift card; 4% have lost out because…

Read more

£20bn festive bill

UK households will spend an average of £719 celebrating Christmas One in ten will put the whole cost of Christmas on their credit card According to new research released today by GoCompare Money, the average British household expects to spend £719 on Christmas festivities this year.  Collectively, the Nation will splash out £19.5 billion on gifts,…

Read more

Shoppers urged to get their Christmas cards now

0% purchase cards offer up to 30 months interest free shopping With only six weeks left until Christmas, and the Black Friday sales likely to start earlier than ever this year, GoCompare Money is urging shoppers to get their Christmas credit cards sorted now. Time is running out for festive shoppers looking to spread the…

Read more

Five ways to ensure a successful home insurance claim

GoCompare offers tips on how to avoid joining the 1 in 6 who have had household insurance claims rejected The darker nights of autumn and winter typically mean an increase in burglary rates and weather-related insurance claims.  GoCompare Home Insurance shares five tips to help ensure that, should the worst happen, you don’t end up…

Read more

Saturday 27 October – the big energy switch on

  Research reveals that Saturday 27 October is the day the nation will turn on the central heating; After 18 months of rising energy prices it could be the most expensive winter for years; 5 MILLION households (34%) will delay turning the heating on because of the cost; Households on big energy supplier standard tariffs…

Read more

Five family travel tips for the October half-term getaway

  GoCompare Travel Insurance urges parents to do their homework when arranging travel insurance for their family; Not all annual travel policies provide cover for step-children – 39% only provide cover if the step-child lives with the insured parent; Only 55% of policies allow all insured family members to travel independently of each other; Exclusions…

Read more

Revealed: The DIY top 10

Interior redecoration, flooring and a new bathroom head the list Accidental damage warning as just 16% of home insurance policies include cover as standard A new survey* into the UK’s top home improvements reveals that a lick of paint, a new floor and a bathroom makeover top the list of work carried out by homeowners…

Read more

Cambridge lawyer helping firm become dementia-friendly

  Howes Percival is working towards becoming a dementia-friendly business.  So far, over 60 staff across the law firm’s six offices have received training and have become Dementia Friends. Amy Wallhead, a private client law specialist based in Howes Percival’s Cambridge office on Hills Road is delivering the dementia-friendly training to her colleagues. Amy is…

Read more

“Mind the trap!” – Insurers prepare to roll-over millions of drivers as peak renewal season approaches

65% of drivers let their insurer renew their policy automatically, 15% without even checking they are getting a good deal* Only 38% of motorists take the time to check the previous year’s premium to see how it has changed; Renewing without checking premiums costs motorists £1.3bn** a year; 3.2 years – average length of time…

Read more

Howes Percival advises on sale of Kelvin Power

  Howes Percival has advised the shareholders of Kelvin Power on the sale of the business to electrical, automation and ICT engineering company VINCI Energies UK & ROI for an undisclosed sum. Established in 1993, the Leicester-based Kelvin Power provides advice and designs to the global power industry and the renewable energy sector. Its areas…

Read more

Employers warned not to ask about pregnancy or children during recruitment

  Employment law expert comments on The Equality and Human Rights Commission report on senior managers’ attitudes around pregnancy and maternity discrimination; Howes Percival outlines questions employers should never ask during the recruitment process. Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival is warning employers that it is unlawful to discriminate against a prospective employee on the…

Read more

Howes Percival advises Mazars Financial Planning on acquisition

  Howes Percival has advised Mazars Financial Planning (MFP) on the acquisition of chartered financial planning firm RCL Consultancy Limited from The Embark Group. The acquisition strengthens MFP’s offering to its private clients and sees the transfer of a portfolio of high net worth and affluent clients with assets of approximately £300m, taking Mazars over…

Read more

Warning on personalised number plates as rare reg set to fetch £100,000

Personal registration plates could cost you dear if your vehicle is stolen or scrapped ‘TAX 1’ is expected to cost £100,000 when it is auctioned; Only 6% of car insurance policies specifically cover cost of personalised number plates; Owners of cars with personalised plates need to act quickly to avoid losing their cherished registration if…

Read more

How to give yourself an inflation busting pay-rise in five easy steps

  52% of UK adults haven’t received a significant pay-rise for more than three years; GoCompare shows how managing your finances can deliver an inflation busting pay-rise of up to £1,263*. With more than half (52%) of UK adults now saying they haven’t had a significant pay-rise in over three years, GoCompare has devised a…

Read more

Revealed: Where Brits plan to save and invest in 2018

  Bank or building society accounts top list despite poor returns; More people will save in a coin jar than an equity ISA or a personal pension; 25% of people can’t afford to save or invest anything in 2018; Bitcoin bubble set to grow as 7% of men say they would invest in a virtual…

Read more

UK hiding £13.bn of secret debt

  Research from GoCompare finds one in 10 are hiding debt from their partner 40% of UK adults will be carrying some form of debt (excluding mortgages) into 2018 One in 10 people with debt admit to hiding it from family, friends and partners On average, those with debt owe £6,131 14% don’t know how…

Read more

GoCompare comments as energy switching hits record high in 2017

  New figures from Energy UK reveal that a record 5.5 million customers switched electricity supplier in 2017 – a leap of 15% on the previous year.  GoCompare Energy’s spokesperson Ben Wilson   comments: “An increase in people ditching bad energy deals is certainly to be celebrated, but 5.5 million customers still represents a significant minority…

Read more

Howes Percival acts in Aspall sale to Molson Coors  

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has played a key role in the sale of Suffolk-based cider maker Aspall to American brewing giant Molson Coors.  The firm acted for the family shareholders in the sale. Founded in 1728 by Clement Chevallier and run by the eighth generation of his family, Aspall is known for…

Read more

Relying on an EHIC to cover your winter holiday mishaps could leave you with a mountain of medical bills

  Thousands of British skiers and snowboarders will be heading to Europe this winter to get their annual fix of downhill thrills. Unfortunately, many will be travelling under the misapprehension that having a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will give them all the medical cover they need. Research from GoCompare Travel has found that 69%…

Read more

Employers urged to take note of key employment law changes for 2018

Howes Percival comments on key issues and upcoming legislation 2018 is set to be a hugely important year in terms of employment law, with high profile cases and significant new legislation likely to have a major impact on employers. Howes Percival Partner and employment law expert, Paula Bailey commented, “2018 is potentially going to be…

Read more

Rising cost of living and Brexit are the biggest financial worries for 2018

  40% of UK adults anticipate that 2018 will be a very difficult year for them financially; 58% are worried about the rising cost of living/bills; 29% of people are worried about the impact of Brexit on their finances. The increasing cost of living and the impact of Brexit top the Nation’s main financial concerns…

Read more

40% of households will be ‘going without’ to pay for Christmas  

Cutting back on heating, clothes and food shopping and selling belongings to make sure Christmas happens Only 36% of UK households say they have no money worries about Christmas; 21% will be celebrating Christmas on a smaller scale than they’d like; 9% of households have sold belongings to help pay for Christmas. With the average…

Read more

Christmas shopping all wrapped up?  Time to check if it’s insured

Make sure your festive gifts are covered this Christmas and beyond   GoCompare is urging Christmas shoppers – particularly those planning to buy pricey tech items or pieces of jewellery – to spare a thought for insurance.  While most home contents policies automatically increase to cover the additional cost of festive gifts and food –…

Read more

UK households to spend £20bn* celebrating Christmas

  £726 – the average household cost of Christmas; Gifts represent the biggest Christmas expense, with an average anticipated spend of £372 per household; 18% will pay for at least part of Christmas on a credit card; Average time to repay seasonal borrowing is 3.2 months, but 14% of borrowers will take over six months…

Read more

GoCompare suggests a wider ‘current account clean-up’ as Citizens Advice warns people about unwanted subscriptions

  GoCompare supports the Citizens Advice campaign on unwanted subscriptions, and is suggesting that people review their bank and credit card statements to root out unwanted payments. Citizens Advice is warning consumers that, with the rise of subscription-based services, it may be easy to sign up for such arrangements but difficult to get out of…

Read more

What a waste! People fritter away £590 a year

  New research reveals that £30bn is wasted each year on uneaten food, clothes that are never worn, household bills and bundled TV/broadband deals   Almost three quarters (73%) of us admit to wasting money, with unworn clothes, getting stung by avoidable fees and paying over the odds for services and insurance among the everyday…

Read more

British Gas scrap SVR and replace it with ‘SBR’

GoCompare comments on the news that British Gas is to scrap its standard variable rate tariff (SVR) by April for new customers Ben Wilson from GoCompare Energy, comments: “This is a welcome move for British Gas’s five million customers who, like two thirds of all UK households, are paying much too much for their gas…

Read more

23m households will ration their energy this winter*

GoCompare calls on households to reduce the cost of their energy now by switching   85% of households will be forced to limit their energy use to save money**; Home heating is a major area identified for energy cut-backs; Only a fifth of people switched their energy supplier in last 12 months to get a…

Read more

UK households gearing up to spend a whopping £3bn in the Black Friday sales*

  Each UK household will spend on average £108 in the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales Almost a third (31%) of households will check out the sales Clothing and accessories, toys and games, and health and beauty products head this year’s sale shopping list New research**, commissioned by GoCompare Credit Cards, estimates that UK…

Read more

“App-y Christmas!” The Your DPD app reaches 2 million downloads

Unique app is set to play a major role in DPD’s 2017 Christmas peak plan DPD’s unique Your DPD app is set to play a leading role in the firm’s Christmas peak planning after passing a major landmark with its 2 millionth user download. The UK’s favourite parcel delivery company launched the ground breaking app…

Read more

Hello world!

Welcome to Grassychops. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging!

Read more

Households owed £928m* in overpaid energy bills

  39% of households are owed money from their energy provider; Average overpayment across the UK is £85 but research shows wide regional variations of £63 to £103; Only 9% of UK households in credit with their energy supplier have asked for a refund. Millions of households who have overpaid their gas and electricity bills…

Read more

Households owed £928m* in overpaid energy bills

  39% of households are owed money from their energy provider; Average overpayment across the UK is £85 but research shows wide regional variations of £63 to £103; Only 9% of UK households in credit with their energy supplier have asked for a refund. Millions of households who have overpaid their gas and electricity bills…

Read more

Help for businesses managing partnership disputes

New step-by-step guide helps business partners navigate disputes over the direction of a business Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has launched a free, step-by-step guide to help companies manage partnership disputes. The new guide is part of the firm’s ‘Litigation Maze’ series, designed to ensure organisations stay on the right side of the law…

Read more

Help for businesses managing partnership disputes

New step-by-step guide helps business partners navigate disputes over the direction of a business Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has launched a free, step-by-step guide to help companies manage partnership disputes. The new guide is part of the firm’s ‘Litigation Maze’ series, designed to ensure organisations stay on the right side of the law…

Read more

Howes Percival acts in £30m Virgin deal   

  Howes Percival has advised the management team of Acorne Limited, trading as Virgin Experience Days, as part of a £30m management buy-out of Acorne backed and funded by Inflexion Private Equity. Howes Percival advised the four-strong management team on the terms of their investment alongside business and accountancy firm, PKF Cooper Parry. Virgin Experience…

Read more

Howes Percival acts in £30m Virgin deal   

  Howes Percival has advised the management team of Acorne Limited, trading as Virgin Experience Days, as part of a £30m management buy-out of Acorne backed and funded by Inflexion Private Equity. Howes Percival advised the four-strong management team on the terms of their investment alongside business and accountancy firm, PKF Cooper Parry. Virgin Experience…

Read more

Kill ‘zombie bills’ and save £340 a year

  42% of people say they have direct debits, standing orders, subscriptions, donations and memberships they no-longer want or use This Halloween, GoCompare Money is encouraging people to carve ‘zombie bills’ out of their bank accounts as new research shows that, on average, they waste £340 a year on old direct debits, standing orders, subscriptions,…

Read more

Kill ‘zombie bills’ and save £340 a year

  42% of people say they have direct debits, standing orders, subscriptions, donations and memberships they no-longer want or use This Halloween, GoCompare Money is encouraging people to carve ‘zombie bills’ out of their bank accounts as new research shows that, on average, they waste £340 a year on old direct debits, standing orders, subscriptions,…

Read more

Trick or treat? The UK is set to spend £719m* on Halloween

Almost a third (31%) of people say they will celebrate Halloween, spending £38 on average while 40% will do nothing on the frightful day! Only 23% of UK adults welcome trick-or-treaters to their home; 26% object to the ‘Americanisation’ of Halloween festivities; Scots are least likely (48%) to celebrate Halloween, but spend the most (average…

Read more

Trick or treat? The UK is set to spend £719m* on Halloween

Almost a third (31%) of people say they will celebrate Halloween, spending £38 on average while 40% will do nothing on the frightful day! Only 23% of UK adults welcome trick-or-treaters to their home; 26% object to the ‘Americanisation’ of Halloween festivities; Scots are least likely (48%) to celebrate Halloween, but spend the most (average…

Read more

Expansion for Howes Percival’s Cambridge office

Specialist property lawyers join from Mills & Reeve and Leathes Prior Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has expanded its Cambridge office with the appointment of two specialist property lawyers. Elizabeth Thomas has joined the firm as an associate and Scott Smith has been appointed as a solicitor in Howes Percival’s commercial property team. Elizabeth…

Read more

Expansion for Howes Percival’s Cambridge office

Specialist property lawyers join from Mills & Reeve and Leathes Prior Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has expanded its Cambridge office with the appointment of two specialist property lawyers. Elizabeth Thomas has joined the firm as an associate and Scott Smith has been appointed as a solicitor in Howes Percival’s commercial property team. Elizabeth…

Read more

Terminal gripes: Overpriced food, long queues and misleading duty-free shops

GoCompare research reveals passengers’ biggest airport annoyances ahead of the busy half-term getaway Around 25 million passengers will pass through the UK’s 60 plus airports in October*, but research from GoCompare Travel** has found that for many the airport experience isn’t the ideal start to their holiday they’d hoped for. GoCompare surveyed over 1,300 UK…

Read more

Terminal gripes: Overpriced food, long queues and misleading duty-free shops

GoCompare research reveals passengers’ biggest airport annoyances ahead of the busy half-term getaway Around 25 million passengers will pass through the UK’s 60 plus airports in October*, but research from GoCompare Travel** has found that for many the airport experience isn’t the ideal start to their holiday they’d hoped for. GoCompare surveyed over 1,300 UK…

Read more

The “forgotten price rise”

  The “forgotten price rise”: up to 13.4m households* facing bigger energy bills when the heating goes back on this winter Swingeing price hikes announced in the spring are set to bite Dual fuel standard variable rates increased by between 6.9% and 9.8%; Shock for electricity customers with increases of up to 15%; Customers switching…

Read more

The “forgotten price rise”

  The “forgotten price rise”: up to 13.4m households* facing bigger energy bills when the heating goes back on this winter Swingeing price hikes announced in the spring are set to bite Dual fuel standard variable rates increased by between 6.9% and 9.8%; Shock for electricity customers with increases of up to 15%; Customers switching…

Read more

Thursday 26 October is ‘Bill-Free Day’ 2017

  Thursday 26 October is ‘Bill-Free Day’ – when the average UK household will have paid off £22,125 worth of bills in 2017 The average UK household works 299 days – almost 10 months – just to pay the bills*; Over a third (35%) of people are ‘just about managing’ to cope with rising bills;…

Read more

Thursday 26 October is ‘Bill-Free Day’ 2017

  Thursday 26 October is ‘Bill-Free Day’ – when the average UK household will have paid off £22,125 worth of bills in 2017 The average UK household works 299 days – almost 10 months – just to pay the bills*; Over a third (35%) of people are ‘just about managing’ to cope with rising bills;…

Read more

The Legal 500: Howes Percival receives top tier rankings for 12 different practice areas

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has been awarded top tier rankings in 12 different specialisms in the 2017 edition of The Legal 500 – the authoritative guide to the UK’s leading law firms. Howes Percival has achieved top tier rankings for: Dispute Resolution – Commercial Litigation Dispute Resolution – Debt Recovery Finance –…

Read more

The Legal 500: Howes Percival receives top tier rankings for 12 different practice areas

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has been awarded top tier rankings in 12 different specialisms in the 2017 edition of The Legal 500 – the authoritative guide to the UK’s leading law firms. Howes Percival has achieved top tier rankings for: Dispute Resolution – Commercial Litigation Dispute Resolution – Debt Recovery Finance –…

Read more

Millions of people are caught in ‘vicious circle of monthly insurance payments’  

Monthly payers are far less likely to switch than annual payers, and are being charged more for the privilege People who pay for their insurance monthly rather than annually are up to 33% less likely to switch provider, according to research from GoCompare Insurance. As a result of not switching, they are paying on average…

Read more

Millions of people are caught in ‘vicious circle of monthly insurance payments’  

Monthly payers are far less likely to switch than annual payers, and are being charged more for the privilege People who pay for their insurance monthly rather than annually are up to 33% less likely to switch provider, according to research from GoCompare Insurance. As a result of not switching, they are paying on average…

Read more

Race against time to find £420m worth of old £1 coins

“All change!” Old round pound coins cease to be legal tender on 15 October 2017 One in three people will conduct a full-scale sweep of their homes looking for old £1 coins; Almost half say they have £1 coins stashed in piggy banks and in their cars; 18% of adults will keep a round pound…

Read more

Race against time to find £420m worth of old £1 coins

“All change!” Old round pound coins cease to be legal tender on 15 October 2017 One in three people will conduct a full-scale sweep of their homes looking for old £1 coins; Almost half say they have £1 coins stashed in piggy banks and in their cars; 18% of adults will keep a round pound…

Read more

Howes Percival acts on refinance deals worth in excess of £200m

  Howes Percival’s Corporate and Construction teams in Leicester and Milton Keynes have delivered an outstanding start in the first four months of their financial year, completing a series of transactions in the refinancing sector with a total deal value in excess of £200m. The deals included the refinancing of several bridging and redevelopment loans…

Read more

Howes Percival acts on refinance deals worth in excess of £200m

  Howes Percival’s Corporate and Construction teams in Leicester and Milton Keynes have delivered an outstanding start in the first four months of their financial year, completing a series of transactions in the refinancing sector with a total deal value in excess of £200m. The deals included the refinancing of several bridging and redevelopment loans…

Read more

Seven new trainees join Howes Percival

  The leading regional law firm has welcomed seven new trainee solicitors to its offices across the East Midlands and East Anglia.  The firm has also appointed four new solicitors who have recently completed their training contracts with Howes Percival. The seven new trainees are Ben Hudson and Kieran John who will be based in…

Read more

Seven new trainees join Howes Percival

  The leading regional law firm has welcomed seven new trainee solicitors to its offices across the East Midlands and East Anglia.  The firm has also appointed four new solicitors who have recently completed their training contracts with Howes Percival. The seven new trainees are Ben Hudson and Kieran John who will be based in…

Read more

Parking mad!  Residents fighting to park outside their own homes

  29% of residents experience problems parking outside their home; 15% of people who’ve experienced parking difficulties in their street have fallen out with their neighbours over the issue; Only 36% of people living in an area with parking permits think the system reduces parking issues. Almost a third (29%) of residents now have trouble…

Read more

Parking mad!  Residents fighting to park outside their own homes

  29% of residents experience problems parking outside their home; 15% of people who’ve experienced parking difficulties in their street have fallen out with their neighbours over the issue; Only 36% of people living in an area with parking permits think the system reduces parking issues. Almost a third (29%) of residents now have trouble…

Read more

Time is ticking for 3.1 million British Gas customers to jump ship before 12.5% electricity price hike at the end of the week

  Customers could see price rises of up to £76* a year if they don’t switch The race is on for the 3.1 million British Gas customers who are on the energy giant’s standard variable tariff to switch to a better deal, as a 12.5% electricity price hike comes into effect this Friday (15 September)….

Read more

Time is ticking for 3.1 million British Gas customers to jump ship before 12.5% electricity price hike at the end of the week

  Customers could see price rises of up to £76* a year if they don’t switch The race is on for the 3.1 million British Gas customers who are on the energy giant’s standard variable tariff to switch to a better deal, as a 12.5% electricity price hike comes into effect this Friday (15 September)….

Read more

The Great Auto-Renewal Swindle

  Drivers paying up to £800m too much despite new rules on renewal letters* GoCompare warns renewal letters still encourage customer apathy 58% of drivers believe they aren’t getting their insurer’s best price at renewal Insurers writing to millions of customers to tell them their premium is going up and they don’t need to do…

Read more

The Great Auto-Renewal Swindle

  Drivers paying up to £800m too much despite new rules on renewal letters* GoCompare warns renewal letters still encourage customer apathy 58% of drivers believe they aren’t getting their insurer’s best price at renewal Insurers writing to millions of customers to tell them their premium is going up and they don’t need to do…

Read more

EAT upholds decision in in Asda equal pay case

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News The Employment Appeal Tribunal in the ASDA stores equal pay litigation has upheld the Tribunal’s decision that female claimants in retail stores can compare their pay with higher paid men in distribution centres. Comment Matthew Potter, Employment Law Partner with Howes Percival comments: “This case…

Read more

EAT upholds decision in in Asda equal pay case

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News The Employment Appeal Tribunal in the ASDA stores equal pay litigation has upheld the Tribunal’s decision that female claimants in retail stores can compare their pay with higher paid men in distribution centres. Comment Matthew Potter, Employment Law Partner with Howes Percival comments: “This case…

Read more

Nearly a third of renters say they can’t imagine ever owning their own home

  A new study has revealed that 31% of tenants in rented accommodation cannot imagine ever owning their own home. The research*, commissioned by GoCompare Mortgages, also revealed that more than a fifth (21%) of renters think that the removal of mortgage interest tax relief on buy-to-let properties, which came into force in April 2017,…

Read more

Nearly a third of renters say they can’t imagine ever owning their own home

  A new study has revealed that 31% of tenants in rented accommodation cannot imagine ever owning their own home. The research*, commissioned by GoCompare Mortgages, also revealed that more than a fifth (21%) of renters think that the removal of mortgage interest tax relief on buy-to-let properties, which came into force in April 2017,…

Read more

The biggest holiday money leaks and how to plug them

The 15 quickest ways to waste money on holiday: from rip-off car hire companies to excess baggage charges While the fall in the value of sterling has hit British holidaymakers’ spending power overseas, new research reveals that Brits abroad are potentially wasting their hard-earned cash on avoidable charges and poor deals. The research**, commissioned by…

Read more

The biggest holiday money leaks and how to plug them

The 15 quickest ways to waste money on holiday: from rip-off car hire companies to excess baggage charges While the fall in the value of sterling has hit British holidaymakers’ spending power overseas, new research reveals that Brits abroad are potentially wasting their hard-earned cash on avoidable charges and poor deals. The research**, commissioned by…

Read more

New study reveals how drivers could easily save 12% on their premiums

  Drivers could save £76 on average just by shopping around a week before their policy start date New independent research reveals how drivers can save 12% on their premiums Buying just a week before your policy start date instead of leaving it until the due date resulted in cheaper quotes in 89% of cases…

Read more

New study reveals how drivers could easily save 12% on their premiums

  Drivers could save £76 on average just by shopping around a week before their policy start date New independent research reveals how drivers can save 12% on their premiums Buying just a week before your policy start date instead of leaving it until the due date resulted in cheaper quotes in 89% of cases…

Read more

The £2bn price of being too nice

  New academic study reveals how being too nice can see people lose out significantly when it comes to financial services GoCompare launches ‘The real price of being too nice’ report with Dr Joe Gladstone of University College London Key findings include: those with fewer yeas of education and/or those who are financially distressed are…

Read more

The £2bn price of being too nice

  New academic study reveals how being too nice can see people lose out significantly when it comes to financial services GoCompare launches ‘The real price of being too nice’ report with Dr Joe Gladstone of University College London Key findings include: those with fewer yeas of education and/or those who are financially distressed are…

Read more

Howes Percival acts in Credo Holdings deal

  The Howes Percival Corporate teams in Milton Keynes, Cambridge and Norwich have advised the shareholders of Credo Holdings Limited, an independent own book and brokered provider of asset finance, in respect of the sale of their shares to Star Asset Finance Limited (SAFL). The deal demonstrates Howes Percival’s ability to work across offices to…

Read more

Howes Percival acts in Credo Holdings deal

  The Howes Percival Corporate teams in Milton Keynes, Cambridge and Norwich have advised the shareholders of Credo Holdings Limited, an independent own book and brokered provider of asset finance, in respect of the sale of their shares to Star Asset Finance Limited (SAFL). The deal demonstrates Howes Percival’s ability to work across offices to…

Read more

A decade on and the UK remains credit crunched

  A quarter of people say they’re not prepared for another economic downturn 46% of people feel worse off than they did in 2007; 76% think the divide between rich and poor has grown in the last decade;  Just 16% say they feel secure in their employment. A quarter say their income has stayed the…

Read more

A decade on and the UK remains credit crunched

  A quarter of people say they’re not prepared for another economic downturn 46% of people feel worse off than they did in 2007; 76% think the divide between rich and poor has grown in the last decade;  Just 16% say they feel secure in their employment. A quarter say their income has stayed the…

Read more

Howes Percival comments as Supreme Court rules tribunal fees unlawful

  Simon DeMaid, Employment Law Partner with leading regional law firm Howes Percival, comments on a stunning victory for the trade union Unison, and one of the most significant employment law rulings for many years. “This is a monumental and landmark decision in the field of employment law. In effect, the employment tribunal fees system…

Read more

Howes Percival comments as Supreme Court rules tribunal fees unlawful

  Simon DeMaid, Employment Law Partner with leading regional law firm Howes Percival, comments on a stunning victory for the trade union Unison, and one of the most significant employment law rulings for many years. “This is a monumental and landmark decision in the field of employment law. In effect, the employment tribunal fees system…

Read more

Revealed: The top 15 ways to keep kids entertained on long car journeys  

  Letting the kids watch an in-car movie tops new parent poll, but traditional games like I-Spy, still going strong; Portable DVD players, tablets, hand-held games consoles and smart phones all employed as boredom-busters; Parents urged to check car insurance cover limits for personal belongings if taking expensive portable gadgets on a road-trip. Watching a…

Read more

Revealed: The top 15 ways to keep kids entertained on long car journeys  

  Letting the kids watch an in-car movie tops new parent poll, but traditional games like I-Spy, still going strong; Portable DVD players, tablets, hand-held games consoles and smart phones all employed as boredom-busters; Parents urged to check car insurance cover limits for personal belongings if taking expensive portable gadgets on a road-trip. Watching a…

Read more

Howes Percival targets national insolvency growth following acquisition

Firm acquires specialist corporate and personal insolvency firm, Summers Nigh Law, as part of expansion plan Leading regional law firm Howes Percival is targeting further national expansion of its insolvency team following the acquisition of Summers Nigh Law, and the recruitment of Michael Green, Weightman’s former National Head of Restructuring/Insolvency. Summers Nigh Law is a…

Read more

Howes Percival targets national insolvency growth following acquisition

Firm acquires specialist corporate and personal insolvency firm, Summers Nigh Law, as part of expansion plan Leading regional law firm Howes Percival is targeting further national expansion of its insolvency team following the acquisition of Summers Nigh Law, and the recruitment of Michael Green, Weightman’s former National Head of Restructuring/Insolvency. Summers Nigh Law is a…

Read more

That’s just plane annoying!

  Unruly kids, drunk passengers – GoCompare reveals holidaymakers’ biggest in-flight irritations New research* from GoCompare has revealed UK holidaymakers biggest in-flight irritations, with seat kicking and drunk fellow passengers topping the list. GoCompare Travel quizzed over 1,300 UK adults who had flown abroad in the last five years and asked them to pick the…

Read more

That’s just plane annoying!

  Unruly kids, drunk passengers – GoCompare reveals holidaymakers’ biggest in-flight irritations New research* from GoCompare has revealed UK holidaymakers biggest in-flight irritations, with seat kicking and drunk fellow passengers topping the list. GoCompare Travel quizzed over 1,300 UK adults who had flown abroad in the last five years and asked them to pick the…

Read more

Howes Percival comments on new proposals for Wills in the hashtag age

Future Wills could be made using electronic communications and recordings     Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has cautiously welcomed the consultation announced by The Law Commission for England and Wales into the laws around Wills so as to bring them into the digital age. Describing the current legal system as ‘outdated’ and ‘unclear’, the…

Read more

Howes Percival comments on new proposals for Wills in the hashtag age

Future Wills could be made using electronic communications and recordings     Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has cautiously welcomed the consultation announced by The Law Commission for England and Wales into the laws around Wills so as to bring them into the digital age. Describing the current legal system as ‘outdated’ and ‘unclear’, the…

Read more

Instagram Generation least likely to insure their ‘beach-body’

A fifth of young people admit to travelling overseas without travel cover Most (72%) 18 to 24 year olds holiday abroad; only 55% always make sure they have travel insurance*; Average claim for medical treatment abroad is £1,300**; Travel insurance protects against expensive overseas medical bills from as little as £5.79 in Spain and £16…

Read more

Instagram Generation least likely to insure their ‘beach-body’

A fifth of young people admit to travelling overseas without travel cover Most (72%) 18 to 24 year olds holiday abroad; only 55% always make sure they have travel insurance*; Average claim for medical treatment abroad is £1,300**; Travel insurance protects against expensive overseas medical bills from as little as £5.79 in Spain and £16…

Read more

Help for businesses managing supplier contract delays

New step by step guide helps businesses navigate disputes with poorly performing suppliers   Suppliers failing to deliver on time are a common business problem, but how should businesses deal with poorly performing suppliers?  This question is answered by a new, easy to follow, flowchart which provides step-by-step guidance for businesses on the best route…

Read more

Help for businesses managing supplier contract delays

New step by step guide helps businesses navigate disputes with poorly performing suppliers   Suppliers failing to deliver on time are a common business problem, but how should businesses deal with poorly performing suppliers?  This question is answered by a new, easy to follow, flowchart which provides step-by-step guidance for businesses on the best route…

Read more

A fifth of drivers worry about driving abroad

  23% of Brits will either drive to the continent this year or hire a car while abroad; 19% of drivers who plan to drive abroad this year say they are anxious about driving in a foreign country; One in ten drivers admitted to being stopped by the police while driving overseas; Only 29% of…

Read more

A fifth of drivers worry about driving abroad

  23% of Brits will either drive to the continent this year or hire a car while abroad; 19% of drivers who plan to drive abroad this year say they are anxious about driving in a foreign country; One in ten drivers admitted to being stopped by the police while driving overseas; Only 29% of…

Read more

Defiant parents vow to carry on term-time holidaying despite risk of prosecution

Families with school-aged kids still taking drastic action to avoid the ‘family travel tax’ 53% of parents of school-aged children would be prepared for their kids to miss five or more days of school to go on a term-time holiday; Parents estimate they could save £652 by taking a term-time break compared with taking one…

Read more

Defiant parents vow to carry on term-time holidaying despite risk of prosecution

Families with school-aged kids still taking drastic action to avoid the ‘family travel tax’ 53% of parents of school-aged children would be prepared for their kids to miss five or more days of school to go on a term-time holiday; Parents estimate they could save £652 by taking a term-time break compared with taking one…

Read more

Gocompare.com warns undervalued could mean uninsured when it comes to jewellery and other valuables

  The single article limit for valuables on some home contents insurance policies can be as low as £750; Only 11% of home contents policies automatically cover your personal possessions, including jewellery and other valuables, outside of your home; 70% of policies don’t cover items in a matching pair or set; Take a selfie and…

Read more

Gocompare.com warns undervalued could mean uninsured when it comes to jewellery and other valuables

  The single article limit for valuables on some home contents insurance policies can be as low as £750; Only 11% of home contents policies automatically cover your personal possessions, including jewellery and other valuables, outside of your home; 70% of policies don’t cover items in a matching pair or set; Take a selfie and…

Read more

Howes Percival advises Gravity Media Group on multi-million pound acquisition

  The Milton Keynes office of leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has advised Gravity Media Group (GMG) on the multi-million pound acquisition of Input Media, one of Europe’s leading sports production companies. GMG was formed in 2000 as a holding company, and owns, operates and acquires businesses largely serving the live broadcast sector. GMG…

Read more

Howes Percival advises Gravity Media Group on multi-million pound acquisition

  The Milton Keynes office of leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has advised Gravity Media Group (GMG) on the multi-million pound acquisition of Input Media, one of Europe’s leading sports production companies. GMG was formed in 2000 as a holding company, and owns, operates and acquires businesses largely serving the live broadcast sector. GMG…

Read more

Top 10 home improvements 2017: Homeowners splash out on new bathrooms

 Gocompare.com warns homeowners that major works could invalidate their home insurance 43% of homeowners have carried out major work on their properties in the last 5 years; Updating bathrooms and kitchens, investing in energy efficient measures including new central heating systems, top the list of improvements; 41% of homeowners who have carried out major work…

Read more

Top 10 home improvements 2017: Homeowners splash out on new bathrooms

 Gocompare.com warns homeowners that major works could invalidate their home insurance 43% of homeowners have carried out major work on their properties in the last 5 years; Updating bathrooms and kitchens, investing in energy efficient measures including new central heating systems, top the list of improvements; 41% of homeowners who have carried out major work…

Read more

Five common summer-related employment law myths dispelled

Workplace temperatures, summer dress codes and holiday entitlement rules explained      Summer is a busy time of the year for holiday requests and, the hotter weather can lead to heated exchanges about maximum workplace temperatures and dress codes – leaving employers to manage a range of employment law issues. Nicola Butterworth, employment law expert at Howes…

Read more

Five common summer-related employment law myths dispelled

Workplace temperatures, summer dress codes and holiday entitlement rules explained      Summer is a busy time of the year for holiday requests and, the hotter weather can lead to heated exchanges about maximum workplace temperatures and dress codes – leaving employers to manage a range of employment law issues. Nicola Butterworth, employment law expert at Howes…

Read more

69% of Brits expect too much from an EHIC

  Nearly 7 out of 10 UK holidaymakers expect it to provide free emergency medical care anywhere in Europe and 7% think it will get them home by air ambulance 1 in 10 (10%) UK adults who’ve been abroad in the last five years have used an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to get free…

Read more

69% of Brits expect too much from an EHIC

  Nearly 7 out of 10 UK holidaymakers expect it to provide free emergency medical care anywhere in Europe and 7% think it will get them home by air ambulance 1 in 10 (10%) UK adults who’ve been abroad in the last five years have used an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to get free…

Read more

Connection, connection, connection – the new homebuyer mantra  

The estate agents’ traditional refrain of ‘location, location, location’ still matters when it comes to choosing a new home, but homebuyers are increasingly looking for ‘connection, connection, connection’, according to new research out today. The survey, commissioned by GoCompare Home Insurance, reveals that the most desirable properties are located in good neighbourhoods, with low crime…

Read more

Connection, connection, connection – the new homebuyer mantra  

The estate agents’ traditional refrain of ‘location, location, location’ still matters when it comes to choosing a new home, but homebuyers are increasingly looking for ‘connection, connection, connection’, according to new research out today. The survey, commissioned by GoCompare Home Insurance, reveals that the most desirable properties are located in good neighbourhoods, with low crime…

Read more

Are you a ‘heavy user’?  New survey reveals extent of nation’s broadband addiction

Majority of Brits now medium or heavy broadband users, yet 46% have never tested speed of their connection 50% of people now use broadband to access catch-up TV services; 34% use services like Netflix to stream films; However, 46% of Brits have never tested the strength of their broadband signal; 9% say their broadband is…

Read more

Are you a ‘heavy user’?  New survey reveals extent of nation’s broadband addiction

Majority of Brits now medium or heavy broadband users, yet 46% have never tested speed of their connection 50% of people now use broadband to access catch-up TV services; 34% use services like Netflix to stream films; However, 46% of Brits have never tested the strength of their broadband signal; 9% say their broadband is…

Read more

£1.5bn* wallowing in the ‘bank of pig’  

  7 million people regularly stash their cash in a piggy bank or coin jar; The average piggy bank or coin jar contains £43.70; 58% of coin jar savers think it’s a good way to save; Only 55% of UK adults make regular savings into a bank or building society account; Coin jar savers reminded…

Read more

£1.5bn* wallowing in the ‘bank of pig’  

  7 million people regularly stash their cash in a piggy bank or coin jar; The average piggy bank or coin jar contains £43.70; 58% of coin jar savers think it’s a good way to save; Only 55% of UK adults make regular savings into a bank or building society account; Coin jar savers reminded…

Read more

Howes Percival expands in Cambridge again as Weightmans’ former National Head joins to set up Litigation team

Hewitsons’ Senior Solicitor joins to grow Private Client practice Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has further expanded its range of services with the appointment of Litigation Partner, Michael Green and Private Client specialist, Amy Wallhead as an Associate Solicitor. The new appointments follow hot on the heels of Employment Law Partner, Matthew Potter and…

Read more

Howes Percival expands in Cambridge again as Weightmans’ former National Head joins to set up Litigation team

Hewitsons’ Senior Solicitor joins to grow Private Client practice Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has further expanded its range of services with the appointment of Litigation Partner, Michael Green and Private Client specialist, Amy Wallhead as an Associate Solicitor. The new appointments follow hot on the heels of Employment Law Partner, Matthew Potter and…

Read more

Cruise control! 5 reasons why you need specialist cruise insurance

Gocompare.com Travel Insurance warns that many standard travel insurance policies don’t cover problems specific to cruise holidays; Only a third of single trip and 37% of annual travel policies cover cruise holidays as standard. Cruise ships, equipped with a wealth of things to see and experience, are fast becoming a popular holiday choice for couples,…

Read more

Cruise control! 5 reasons why you need specialist cruise insurance

Gocompare.com Travel Insurance warns that many standard travel insurance policies don’t cover problems specific to cruise holidays; Only a third of single trip and 37% of annual travel policies cover cruise holidays as standard. Cruise ships, equipped with a wealth of things to see and experience, are fast becoming a popular holiday choice for couples,…

Read more

The 20 features that will sell your home

Energy efficiency, security and good broadband top homebuyers’  property ‘must-have’ features   Efficient central heating systems, double glazing, and secure doors and windows are top priorities for home-buyers; House-hunters rate a good broadband connection over friendly neighbours; gardens rather than garages, and a good reliable mobile phone signal as opposed to a landline phone connection;…

Read more

The 20 features that will sell your home

Energy efficiency, security and good broadband top homebuyers’  property ‘must-have’ features   Efficient central heating systems, double glazing, and secure doors and windows are top priorities for home-buyers; House-hunters rate a good broadband connection over friendly neighbours; gardens rather than garages, and a good reliable mobile phone signal as opposed to a landline phone connection;…

Read more

Howes Percival announces promotion of two new partners

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced seven senior promotions, including two new partners. Justine Flack and Tom Lawrence have been made partners in the firm; Katharine Danks and Helen Stewart have been promoted to the level of director; Hannah Ball, Alexandra Kirkwood and Matthew Thompson have been promoted to associate level. Tessa…

Read more

Howes Percival announces promotion of two new partners

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced seven senior promotions, including two new partners. Justine Flack and Tom Lawrence have been made partners in the firm; Katharine Danks and Helen Stewart have been promoted to the level of director; Hannah Ball, Alexandra Kirkwood and Matthew Thompson have been promoted to associate level. Tessa…

Read more

Parents contribute over £1,480 a year to their adult children’s living expenses

  New research from Gocompare.com finds that young people’s financial reliance on their parents could be putting families under pressure. Parents contribute an average of £123.60 a month to their children’s living expenses; 18% of parents of 17 to 25 year olds say their kids are a major drain on their finances; Over a fifth…

Read more

Parents contribute over £1,480 a year to their adult children’s living expenses

  New research from Gocompare.com finds that young people’s financial reliance on their parents could be putting families under pressure. Parents contribute an average of £123.60 a month to their children’s living expenses; 18% of parents of 17 to 25 year olds say their kids are a major drain on their finances; Over a fifth…

Read more

Howes Percival welcomes decision to postpone probate fee hike

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has welcomed news that the much debated new Probate fees, which were due to take effect next month, are to be postponed until at least after the general election on 8 June of this year. The proposed fee changes would have meant some estates paying up to £20,000…

Read more

Howes Percival welcomes decision to postpone probate fee hike

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has welcomed news that the much debated new Probate fees, which were due to take effect next month, are to be postponed until at least after the general election on 8 June of this year. The proposed fee changes would have meant some estates paying up to £20,000…

Read more

Howes Percival announces retirement of Senior Partner Andrew Barnes

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced the retirement of Senior Partner Andrew Barnes, after 28 years with the firm. Andrew was one of the founding partners responsible for setting up the Howes Percival Norwich office in 1989, when he moved across the city from Overbury Steward & Eaton, where he started out…

Read more

Howes Percival announces retirement of Senior Partner Andrew Barnes

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced the retirement of Senior Partner Andrew Barnes, after 28 years with the firm. Andrew was one of the founding partners responsible for setting up the Howes Percival Norwich office in 1989, when he moved across the city from Overbury Steward & Eaton, where he started out…

Read more

Howes Percival expands Cambridge office with senior Employment Partner appointment

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has expanded its Cambridge office with the recruitment of Employment Partner Matthew Potter, who specialises in all aspects of Employment law, both litigation and advisory. Matthew joins Howes Percival from Birketts where he was a Partner. With over 20 years’ experience as an employment lawyer, Matthew has extensive…

Read more

Howes Percival expands Cambridge office with senior Employment Partner appointment

  Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has expanded its Cambridge office with the recruitment of Employment Partner Matthew Potter, who specialises in all aspects of Employment law, both litigation and advisory. Matthew joins Howes Percival from Birketts where he was a Partner. With over 20 years’ experience as an employment lawyer, Matthew has extensive…

Read more

Over half of holidaymakers are giving up valuable cancellation cover by arranging their travel insurance at the last minute

  58% of travel policies bought within a week of departure; More than a fifth (27%) are bought on the same day; Just 15% are bought more than a month in advance of travelling. Research from Gocompare.com travel insurance has found that millions of holidaymakers are taking an unnecessary gamble with their holiday costs by…

Read more

Over half of holidaymakers are giving up valuable cancellation cover by arranging their travel insurance at the last minute

  58% of travel policies bought within a week of departure; More than a fifth (27%) are bought on the same day; Just 15% are bought more than a month in advance of travelling. Research from Gocompare.com travel insurance has found that millions of holidaymakers are taking an unnecessary gamble with their holiday costs by…

Read more

25 – The average age parents expect their children will leave home

Stay at home Millennials – 40% of parents worry their children will never be able to buy a home. Parents estimate that their children will be 32 before they will be able to buy a home; A fifth say their kids have a better chance of inheriting a home than buying one; Almost one in…

Read more

25 – The average age parents expect their children will leave home

Stay at home Millennials – 40% of parents worry their children will never be able to buy a home. Parents estimate that their children will be 32 before they will be able to buy a home; A fifth say their kids have a better chance of inheriting a home than buying one; Almost one in…

Read more

Broadband, current accounts and mortgages are hardest products to switch

  The annual Switching Report* from Gocompare.com reveals that broadband, current accounts and mortgages are the products that customers find the most difficult to switch. Over 1,150 consumers who have shopped around for financial services and utility products in the last 12 months were asked about their experience.  Changing home (88%) and car insurance (86%)…

Read more

Broadband, current accounts and mortgages are hardest products to switch

  The annual Switching Report* from Gocompare.com reveals that broadband, current accounts and mortgages are the products that customers find the most difficult to switch. Over 1,150 consumers who have shopped around for financial services and utility products in the last 12 months were asked about their experience.  Changing home (88%) and car insurance (86%)…

Read more

New corporate and commercial solicitor for Howes Percival’s Cambridge office

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has appointed Venetia Phipps as a solicitor in its corporate and commercial team, based in the firm’s Cambridge office.  Venetia was previously at Hewitsons LLP in the city. Venetia advises both private and public sector clients on a range of issues including acquisitions and disposals, mergers and collaborations…

Read more

New corporate and commercial solicitor for Howes Percival’s Cambridge office

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has appointed Venetia Phipps as a solicitor in its corporate and commercial team, based in the firm’s Cambridge office.  Venetia was previously at Hewitsons LLP in the city. Venetia advises both private and public sector clients on a range of issues including acquisitions and disposals, mergers and collaborations…

Read more

Brits sitting on £420m worth of soon-to-be useless money

  Current £1 coins to become worthless in October 2017 As the new 12-sided £1 coins come into circulation next week, Gocompare.com Money has found that Britain has a collective £420m worth of soon-to-be useless currency in coin jars and glove boxes. New research commissioned by the comparison site reveals that nearly half (49%) of…

Read more

Brits sitting on £420m worth of soon-to-be useless money

  Current £1 coins to become worthless in October 2017 As the new 12-sided £1 coins come into circulation next week, Gocompare.com Money has found that Britain has a collective £420m worth of soon-to-be useless currency in coin jars and glove boxes. New research commissioned by the comparison site reveals that nearly half (49%) of…

Read more

Bundling – the biggest barrier to broadband switching

  Only 17% of Brits have switched broadband provider in last 12 months; A third have never switched broadband supplier; 8% of customers disbelieve advertising claims made by broadband suppliers. According to new research, bundling – where broadband is packaged together with digital TV and/or land-line telephone services – is the main barrier to Brits…

Read more

Bundling – the biggest barrier to broadband switching

  Only 17% of Brits have switched broadband provider in last 12 months; A third have never switched broadband supplier; 8% of customers disbelieve advertising claims made by broadband suppliers. According to new research, bundling – where broadband is packaged together with digital TV and/or land-line telephone services – is the main barrier to Brits…

Read more

Probate costs set to soar – fees of up to £20,000 will apply from May 2017

  The Ministry of Justice has shocked professionals by confirming that probate fees in England and Wales are set to increase dramatically in May.  Currently, a flat fee of £155 is payable where a probate application is submitted by a solicitor.  The new tiered system will see fees linked to the size of the estate….

Read more

Probate costs set to soar – fees of up to £20,000 will apply from May 2017

  The Ministry of Justice has shocked professionals by confirming that probate fees in England and Wales are set to increase dramatically in May.  Currently, a flat fee of £155 is payable where a probate application is submitted by a solicitor.  The new tiered system will see fees linked to the size of the estate….

Read more

Gocompare.com comments on changes to compensation payments that could add £75 car insurance premiums

  The Ministry of Justice has decided to reduce the discount rate used in calculations for compensation payments for those who suffer long-term injuries, and the net result could well be higher insurance premiums for drivers. Matt Oliver from Gocompare.com Car Insurance, commented:  “First IPT increases and now this!  Drivers are being hit with news…

Read more

Gocompare.com comments on changes to compensation payments that could add £75 car insurance premiums

  The Ministry of Justice has decided to reduce the discount rate used in calculations for compensation payments for those who suffer long-term injuries, and the net result could well be higher insurance premiums for drivers. Matt Oliver from Gocompare.com Car Insurance, commented:  “First IPT increases and now this!  Drivers are being hit with news…

Read more

Motorists waste £1.5bn a year by auto-renewing car insurance*

  • 17% of motorists fall into the auto-renewal trap – automatically renewing their car insurance without checking other quotes; • Only 43% bother to check last year’s premium to see how it has changed; • Automatically renewing your car insurance could cost up to £286** • Just under a third of drivers have been…

Read more

Motorists waste £1.5bn a year by auto-renewing car insurance*

  • 17% of motorists fall into the auto-renewal trap – automatically renewing their car insurance without checking other quotes; • Only 43% bother to check last year’s premium to see how it has changed; • Automatically renewing your car insurance could cost up to £286** • Just under a third of drivers have been…

Read more

Insurance company says no? How to challenge a car insurance write off

Five things all drivers need to know about dealing with write-offs The Financial Ombudsman regularly deals with complaints from people who believe that their insurer has not properly valued their car after it has been damaged to the extent that its insurer decides it is a ‘write-off’ and uneconomical to repair. Typically, cars are considered…

Read more

Insurance company says no? How to challenge a car insurance write off

Five things all drivers need to know about dealing with write-offs The Financial Ombudsman regularly deals with complaints from people who believe that their insurer has not properly valued their car after it has been damaged to the extent that its insurer decides it is a ‘write-off’ and uneconomical to repair. Typically, cars are considered…

Read more

New appointment for Howes Percival’s Family Law Team 

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has appointed Alishia Marrocco as an Assistant Solicitor in its Family Law team.  Alishia joins the East Midlands team and will primarily practice out of the firm’s Northampton office.  She joins Howes Percival from Franklins Solicitors. Alishia deals with all aspects of family law including separation, divorce, dissolution…

Read more

New appointment for Howes Percival’s Family Law Team 

  Leading regional law firm Howes Percival has appointed Alishia Marrocco as an Assistant Solicitor in its Family Law team.  Alishia joins the East Midlands team and will primarily practice out of the firm’s Northampton office.  She joins Howes Percival from Franklins Solicitors. Alishia deals with all aspects of family law including separation, divorce, dissolution…

Read more

New flowcharts aim to help businesses through the litigation maze

Step by step guides will cover the most common business disputes including unpaid invoices Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, is launching a series of dispute resolution flowchart guides to help businesses deal with the most commonly encountered litigation problems. The ‘Navigating the Litigation Maze’ series kicks-off with a step by step guide to dealing…

Read more

New flowcharts aim to help businesses through the litigation maze

Step by step guides will cover the most common business disputes including unpaid invoices Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, is launching a series of dispute resolution flowchart guides to help businesses deal with the most commonly encountered litigation problems. The ‘Navigating the Litigation Maze’ series kicks-off with a step by step guide to dealing…

Read more

The ‘switching classes’ are on the march – driven by rising car insurance and energy bills

The number of Brits switching at least one of the top 10 financial products in the last 12 months is up from 53% to 58%* Car insurance, energy, broadband, credit cards and bank current accounts among the winners as switching increases; 23% of the UK population have never switched any of the main financial products;…

Read more

The ‘switching classes’ are on the march – driven by rising car insurance and energy bills

The number of Brits switching at least one of the top 10 financial products in the last 12 months is up from 53% to 58%* Car insurance, energy, broadband, credit cards and bank current accounts among the winners as switching increases; 23% of the UK population have never switched any of the main financial products;…

Read more

Norwich & Peterborough customers left in the switching slow lane

Gocompare.com comments on news that thousands of current account holders are looking for a new bank, and it is unlikely to be an easy switch The Yorkshire Building Society announced last week that it plans to close 20 of its own branches and 28 Norwich & Peterborough (N&P) branches, with the N&P brand disappearing altogether…

Read more

Buy or lease? Best way to beat the VED deadline

  New Vehicle Excise Duty rules from 1 April 2017 will increase the purchase price and running costs of new cars. Gocompare.com Money considers options for new car buyers    Industry experts are predicting a rise in new car sales ahead of new Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rules which fundamentally change the way road-tax is…

Read more

Buy or lease? Best way to beat the VED deadline

  New Vehicle Excise Duty rules from 1 April 2017 will increase the purchase price and running costs of new cars. Gocompare.com Money considers options for new car buyers    Industry experts are predicting a rise in new car sales ahead of new Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) rules which fundamentally change the way road-tax is…

Read more

DPD tops Money Saving Expert’s customer satisfaction poll for fourth year running

  The UK’s favourite parcel delivery company DPD has been voted the best in the business for the fourth year running, in Money Saving Expert’s customer satisfaction survey. Over 11,350 people took part in the poll on Martyn Lewis’ site to find the best (and worst) parcel delivery firms.  Conducted just after the Christmas and…

Read more

DPD tops Money Saving Expert’s customer satisfaction poll for fourth year running

  The UK’s favourite parcel delivery company DPD has been voted the best in the business for the fourth year running, in Money Saving Expert’s customer satisfaction survey. Over 11,350 people took part in the poll on Martyn Lewis’ site to find the best (and worst) parcel delivery firms.  Conducted just after the Christmas and…

Read more

High heals case is a timely reminder for employers on sexist dress codes

Employment law expert comments on how to manage dress in the workplace following the report from two Parliamentary committees A joint report from two Parliamentary committees says that the Equality Act 2010 should be properly enforced to ban sexist dress rules at work, that discriminate against women. The report, entitled High Heels and Workplace Dress Codes,…

Read more

High heals case is a timely reminder for employers on sexist dress codes

Employment law expert comments on how to manage dress in the workplace following the report from two Parliamentary committees A joint report from two Parliamentary committees says that the Equality Act 2010 should be properly enforced to ban sexist dress rules at work, that discriminate against women. The report, entitled High Heels and Workplace Dress Codes,…

Read more

Money leaks cost the UK £17.6bn a year*

  com reveals the nation’s top twenty money leaks and how to plug them; Takeaway meals, snacks and coffees, failure to shop around for cheaper deals on utility bills and insurances, and paying avoidable bank and credit card charges are among the top money leaks. The UK wastes a whopping £17.6bn a year by letting…

Read more

Money leaks cost the UK £17.6bn a year*

  com reveals the nation’s top twenty money leaks and how to plug them; Takeaway meals, snacks and coffees, failure to shop around for cheaper deals on utility bills and insurances, and paying avoidable bank and credit card charges are among the top money leaks. The UK wastes a whopping £17.6bn a year by letting…

Read more

City breaks – it could be Rotterdam or anywhere, Liverpool or Rome

  City breaks are now the most popular type of holiday according to ABTA; Travel insurance is essential for city breaks abroad, but cover can vary widely; com looks at cover provided by 880 annual travel and 863 single trip travel insurance policies; Most annual travel policies also provide cover for UK city breaks. Whether…

Read more

City breaks – it could be Rotterdam or anywhere, Liverpool or Rome

  City breaks are now the most popular type of holiday according to ABTA; Travel insurance is essential for city breaks abroad, but cover can vary widely; com looks at cover provided by 880 annual travel and 863 single trip travel insurance policies; Most annual travel policies also provide cover for UK city breaks. Whether…

Read more

6 million Brits have been a victim of financial fraud

Gocompare.com Money shares its top five tips for guarding against financial fraud Over a third (34%) of Brits are worried about falling victim to fraud, according to new research released today. The poll* also found that 12% of UK adults (5.9 million people) have already been a victim of a financial fraud, while one in…

Read more

6 million Brits have been a victim of financial fraud

Gocompare.com Money shares its top five tips for guarding against financial fraud Over a third (34%) of Brits are worried about falling victim to fraud, according to new research released today. The poll* also found that 12% of UK adults (5.9 million people) have already been a victim of a financial fraud, while one in…

Read more

Free yourself from ‘zombie payments’ by taking the Current Account Clean-up Challenge and save £360 a year*

  com Money is encouraging people to take the ‘Current Account Clean-up Challenge’ and free themselves from unnecessary payments; 69% of people admit to wasting money and 57% say they haven’t reviewed their direct debits and standing orders in the last 12 months; com Money provides step-by-step guidance on how to clean-up your regular payments….

Read more

Free yourself from ‘zombie payments’ by taking the Current Account Clean-up Challenge and save £360 a year*

  com Money is encouraging people to take the ‘Current Account Clean-up Challenge’ and free themselves from unnecessary payments; 69% of people admit to wasting money and 57% say they haven’t reviewed their direct debits and standing orders in the last 12 months; com Money provides step-by-step guidance on how to clean-up your regular payments….

Read more

 Businesses urged to prepare for major employment law changes in 2017

  2017 is set to be a very significant year from an employment law perspective, with the introduction of new regulations which will require large compliance projects to take place within most organisations.  Howes Percival Partner and employment law expert, Paula Bailey; “Not only will employers still be tackling issues arising from case law developments,…

Read more

 Businesses urged to prepare for major employment law changes in 2017

  2017 is set to be a very significant year from an employment law perspective, with the introduction of new regulations which will require large compliance projects to take place within most organisations.  Howes Percival Partner and employment law expert, Paula Bailey; “Not only will employers still be tackling issues arising from case law developments,…

Read more

The 17 best ways to save money in 2017

Thrifty consumers resolve to save money in 2017 by using money-off vouchers, switching energy and insurance providers, cutting back on take-aways and sticking to a budget As new research* reveals that over a third (35%) of people need to reduce their outgoings in 2017, Gocompare.com Money shares the nation’s top 17 money savings tips for…

Read more

The 17 best ways to save money in 2017

Thrifty consumers resolve to save money in 2017 by using money-off vouchers, switching energy and insurance providers, cutting back on take-aways and sticking to a budget As new research* reveals that over a third (35%) of people need to reduce their outgoings in 2017, Gocompare.com Money shares the nation’s top 17 money savings tips for…

Read more

£355m* worth of unwanted Christmas gifts set to be returned

28% of people have encountered problems when trying to return unwanted gifts Shoppers share their top tips for a successful return 11% returned an unwanted Christmas present last year; Average value of gifts returned was £60.40; Research highlights problems with returning online purchases. According to new research released today, an estimated £355m worth of unwanted…

Read more

£355m* worth of unwanted Christmas gifts set to be returned

28% of people have encountered problems when trying to return unwanted gifts Shoppers share their top tips for a successful return 11% returned an unwanted Christmas present last year; Average value of gifts returned was £60.40; Research highlights problems with returning online purchases. According to new research released today, an estimated £355m worth of unwanted…

Read more

Timely warning!  Employer not liable for injuries from staff punch-up after Christmas party

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News In Bellman v Northampton Recruitment Ltd, a company was not vicariously liable when one of its directors punched an employee at drinks following the company Christmas party. The decision centred on whether the assault had taken place “in the course of employment” and a distinction was…

Read more

Timely warning!  Employer not liable for injuries from staff punch-up after Christmas party

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News In Bellman v Northampton Recruitment Ltd, a company was not vicariously liable when one of its directors punched an employee at drinks following the company Christmas party. The decision centred on whether the assault had taken place “in the course of employment” and a distinction was…

Read more

The top 20 ways savvy-shoppers plan to save money this Christmas

  Loyalty cards, vouchers, discount codes and good old fashioned planning and budgeting top the list of smart shoppers’ Christmas money saving tips; £753 per household – estimated average cost of celebrating Christmas this year; 8% of people no-longer enjoy Christmas because of the financial pressures it brings. Christmas may be ‘the most wonderful time…

Read more

The top 20 ways savvy-shoppers plan to save money this Christmas

  Loyalty cards, vouchers, discount codes and good old fashioned planning and budgeting top the list of smart shoppers’ Christmas money saving tips; £753 per household – estimated average cost of celebrating Christmas this year; 8% of people no-longer enjoy Christmas because of the financial pressures it brings. Christmas may be ‘the most wonderful time…

Read more

Homeowners owed £1billion in overpaid gas and electric bills

  66% of homeowners are in credit on their energy bills; The average overpayment is £86.60; Research comes as small supplier GB Energy Supply collapses. Millions of homeowners with a positive balance on their utility bills are owed, on average, £86.60 by their energy supplier.  Collectively, this means energy providers are profiting from a whopping…

Read more

Homeowners owed £1billion in overpaid gas and electric bills

  66% of homeowners are in credit on their energy bills; The average overpayment is £86.60; Research comes as small supplier GB Energy Supply collapses. Millions of homeowners with a positive balance on their utility bills are owed, on average, £86.60 by their energy supplier.  Collectively, this means energy providers are profiting from a whopping…

Read more

£753 – The cost of Christmas for the average British household

Brits set to spend £21 billion on presents, parties, pantos and festive food According to new research released today by Gocompare.com Money, the average British household expects to spend £753 on Christmas festivities this year.  Collectively that’s a staggering £21 billion splashed out on presents, food and drink, parties and decorations.* Presents for friends and…

Read more

£753 – The cost of Christmas for the average British household

Brits set to spend £21 billion on presents, parties, pantos and festive food According to new research released today by Gocompare.com Money, the average British household expects to spend £753 on Christmas festivities this year.  Collectively that’s a staggering £21 billion splashed out on presents, food and drink, parties and decorations.* Presents for friends and…

Read more

“We’re ready” – DPD reveals plan for record Peak

From Black Friday to the January sales, DPD’s unique range of services give customers more convenience and choice than ever With Black Friday just over a week away, the UK’s favourite parcel delivery company, DPD, has revealed its plans for handling an anticipated record number of parcels over the Christmas Peak. The company is planning…

Read more

“We’re ready” – DPD reveals plan for record Peak

From Black Friday to the January sales, DPD’s unique range of services give customers more convenience and choice than ever With Black Friday just over a week away, the UK’s favourite parcel delivery company, DPD, has revealed its plans for handling an anticipated record number of parcels over the Christmas Peak. The company is planning…

Read more

Howes Percival expands Estates team with two senior appointments  

  Howes Percival has expanded its highly regarded Estates team with two senior appointments in its Norwich office.  Jonathan Wortley joins the firm as Partner and James Daynes has been appointed as an Associate. Jonathan Wortley, Partner Jonathan has 37 years’ experience in wills, trusts and probate, and also property matters.  For the last three…

Read more

Howes Percival expands Estates team with two senior appointments  

  Howes Percival has expanded its highly regarded Estates team with two senior appointments in its Norwich office.  Jonathan Wortley joins the firm as Partner and James Daynes has been appointed as an Associate. Jonathan Wortley, Partner Jonathan has 37 years’ experience in wills, trusts and probate, and also property matters.  For the last three…

Read more

Placing employee on garden leave during redundancy process may make dismissal unfair

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News In Thomas v BNP Paribas Real Estate, the EAT allowed an employee’s appeal against a tribunal’s finding that his dismissal was fair, notwithstanding that the tribunal had considered that the redundancy consultation process was “insensitive” and “perfunctory” especially as the employee was placed on garden…

Read more

Placing employee on garden leave during redundancy process may make dismissal unfair

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News In Thomas v BNP Paribas Real Estate, the EAT allowed an employee’s appeal against a tribunal’s finding that his dismissal was fair, notwithstanding that the tribunal had considered that the redundancy consultation process was “insensitive” and “perfunctory” especially as the employee was placed on garden…

Read more

2016 National Business Awards: DPD wins Customer Focus Award for the third time

  The UK’s favourite parcel delivery company DPD has been named the winner of The Customer Focus Award in the 2016 National Business Awards – for a record third time. DPD beat off stiff competition from nine other finalists including Utility Warehouse, Pets Corner, Vanarama and OVO Energy, to win the hotly contested Customer Focus…

Read more

2016 National Business Awards: DPD wins Customer Focus Award for the third time

  The UK’s favourite parcel delivery company DPD has been named the winner of The Customer Focus Award in the 2016 National Business Awards – for a record third time. DPD beat off stiff competition from nine other finalists including Utility Warehouse, Pets Corner, Vanarama and OVO Energy, to win the hotly contested Customer Focus…

Read more

Inappropriate final written warning cannot be relied on to fairly dismiss

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News In Bandara v British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has ruled that the BBC had unfairly relied upon a “manifestly inappropriate” final written warning when dismissing a senior producer. Comment Hannah Pryce, Employment Law expert with Howes Percival comments: “The EAT felt…

Read more

Inappropriate final written warning cannot be relied on to fairly dismiss

Howes Percival comments on the cases impacting employment law News In Bandara v British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has ruled that the BBC had unfairly relied upon a “manifestly inappropriate” final written warning when dismissing a senior producer. Comment Hannah Pryce, Employment Law expert with Howes Percival comments: “The EAT felt…

Read more

Nation’s favourite binge-worthy box sets

  Netflix and AMC share the honours but what is the nation’s favourite binge-worthy box set for when winter is coming? 59% of people’s ideal winter evening is a cosy night in with TV or a box set More are planning to watch Game of Thrones this winter than any other box set 27% prefer…

Read more

Nation’s favourite binge-worthy box sets

  Netflix and AMC share the honours but what is the nation’s favourite binge-worthy box set for when winter is coming? 59% of people’s ideal winter evening is a cosy night in with TV or a box set More are planning to watch Game of Thrones this winter than any other box set 27% prefer…

Read more

Matalan teams up with DPD to make life easier for busy families

Matalan adds all 222 stores to the DPD pickup network  Leading family clothing and home retailer Matalan is the latest big name brand to sign-up for the DPD Pickup parcel shop network, reinforcing its commitment to customer service and convenience. Matalan have rolled out the DPD Pickup service to all its 222 stores nationwide, which…

Read more

Matalan teams up with DPD to make life easier for busy families

Matalan adds all 222 stores to the DPD pickup network  Leading family clothing and home retailer Matalan is the latest big name brand to sign-up for the DPD Pickup parcel shop network, reinforcing its commitment to customer service and convenience. Matalan have rolled out the DPD Pickup service to all its 222 stores nationwide, which…

Read more