Connections - Summer 2006

John Nike's Column

The good, the bad and the ugly!

As a Vice President of the Berkshire Branch of the British Red Cross, I wish to make an appeal to the 'good' nature of the readers of Connections, particularly the business readers, by asking you for your support.

Unfortunatley, due to all the 'bad' happenings in the world - terrorism; mud slides; earthquakes; volcanic eruptions; starvation; CO emissions (greenhouse gases) - to name but a few of the disaster areas that can strike at any time making demanding challenges on the international charities, there has been a depletion of 'home' funding and there is at this time perhaps a greater need to give renewed support to the 'needs' of our local charities. One of these 'needs' is to provide a new fully equipped British Red Cross Fire & Emergency Support Vehicle to cover Berkshire and, possibly, Oxfordshire offering 'at the scene' advice and comfort to victims of major emergencies in the area.

To raise much needed funds for such a vehicle, the Berkshire Branch of the British Red Cross is holding a Charity Clay Pigeon Shoot on Friday, 15 September 2006, at The Royal Berkshire Shooting School, Pangbourne, Berkshire. There are just 25 team places and an appeal is being made to businesses in Berkshire, Oxfordshire and elsewhere to reserve a team place for this end of season day. Dylan Williams of The Royal Berkshire Shooting School will run the event and provide an exciting and entertaining day of competition following a scrumptious breakfast. After the shoot, there will be a champagne reception preceding a three course meal in enjoyable company before the prize giving and the traditional charity fundraising auction.

Not only is this a most enjoyable event but it also provides networking opportunities. Your support may be expressed through making a reservation on the enclosed application form. Team members may be notified at a later date. Please make a diary entry now and return your application form.

Despite the tragedy of the fire that hit The Swan at Streatley in May of this year following a 12 month refurbishment of the health suite (formerly Reflexions but renamed The Venus Spa) the hotel is strongly trading and work is on-going to rebuild the splendid spa. I wish to thank the staff for living through the trauma of the fire and for being so positive in ensuring that the hotel continued to trade so that the weddings would not be disrupted. It is expected that the Venus Spa will be open again prior to the Christmas period.

With the water shortage many homeowners are considering landscaping their gardens in hard materials rather than having the traditional lawn, borders and shrubberies. It is a shame that our English gardens are being affected by the change in climactic conditions but the hard fact is that this is likely to continue or get worse. A certain way of reducing this effect is to turn a part of the garden into a hard landscaped area in which so many attractive styles can be incorporated in stonework. Jubilee Building Supplies can help you with several innovative ideas that will not only keep your garden looking fresh but also interesting and decorative.

The new Lexus showroom in John Nike Way, Bracknell, is the place to visit to talk about the environment and how to help reduce the damaging emissions from motor vehicles. Lexus with the world's first hybrid luxury saloon, the GS 450h, that accelerates from 0-60mph in less than six seconds, can certainly guide you in the right direction for the future of motoring. Why not visit our Lexus showroom just for a browse and at the same time a visit to Octagon Toyota that is just across the road to see the hybrid Prius.

John Nike Leisuresport will soon have a separate snowboarding park at the Bracknell centre to excite the extreme snowboarders and skiers whilst also providing a tuition area for beginners and novices in snowboarding. The separation from the main ski slope will provide more excitement while taking away the pressure of boarders among skiers. Of course, the surface will be Perma-snowTM, the best of skiing surfaces for speed and cushioning that is ideal for boarders and skiers alike. Keep an eye on the John Nike Leisuresport website for up-to-date news. If the snow-park is as successful as we expect it to be, the design will then be taken to our other centres in Chatham, Llandudno, Plymouth and Swadlincote. The proposed new centre in Wrexham will also include a similar snow-park.

This issue of Connections is full of interesting articles and attractions. There is particular reference to the festive season that will be upon us before too long. Ideas can be found on pages X and X for providing a relaxing Christmas dinner whether for the family or the 'office do'.

I cannot close my article without making some reference to the ugly and appalling interview that took place between Jonathon Ross and David Cameron, the Leader of the Opposition. I am sure most of the readers will have seen the programme as broadcast which in itself was most difficult for David Cameron. It could clearly be seen from his facial reaction that the innuendos that kept flowing from Ross were offensive and distasteful. The viewer only saw selected extracts from the forty minutes or so of the studio video recordings so it is difficult to really understand how David Cameron felt but seeing the final version of the programme it is enough to justify Lord Tebbit's description of Ross as a 'slob'. I wholeheartedly agree with this description and will never watch a Jonathon Ross programme again. Even before seeing the programme that included David Cameron as one of his guests I had balked at some of Ross's interviewing techniques but none of the earlier programmes were as distasteful as this particular programme. Even his reference to the daughters of Bruce Willis brought a steely look into the eyes of the father. Personally, I think that 'die-hard' should have 'laid one on him' for he deserved it! This obnoxious braggadocio should be shunned by celebrities and viewers alike and even the BBC should reconsider their relationship with Ross. Ross may wish to be a 'Peter Pan' but his shallow shadow will always be with him! Of course, this is simply my opinion and carries no influential weight at all!

Well, I have said my piece and now wish to think of more pleasant things like watching my grandchildren playing or seeing the birds and animals in the garden or seeing the enjoyment on the faces of the kids arriving for ice hockey practice. The nice things in life that bring enjoyment with pleasantness not feelings of disgust from what is meant to be entertainment.

With the school break and summer holidays almost here so much enjoyment can be felt by using the facilities of the Nike Group. Why not look us up and treat yourselves to a restful Sunday lunch at The Swan at Streatley on the Thames, or treat your family to the Sunday carvery at the Coppid Beech Hotel before going ice skating or 'ringo' sliding on the ski slope. Children's parties are very popular and well worth while for that special birthday treat.

Our next issue of Connections will be the winter edition and this will provide all the details for our festive season surprises. In the meantime, I do hope you have a most enjoyable summer.

John Nike OBE DL
Chairman

Summer shows

Both Octagon Motor Company, with its Lexus and Toyota dealerships in Bracknell and Reading, and the John Nike Leisuresport centre in Bracknell have taken to the road this summer attending some of the season's top regional events.

During a packed programme of summer events, Lexus Bracknell and Reading sponsored the Henley Festival (5-9 July) and the Octagon Motor Company had its Toyota stand at the Thames Boat Show (9-11 June) and will be at the Reading and Wokingham Agricultural Show (3 September). A Lexus stand was also at the High Wycombe Motor Show (24-25 June).

The team at the ski and snowboard centre took its fantastic mobile slope to St Joseph's Catholic Primary School's summer fete in Bracknell (1 July), the Henley Outdoor Play Scheme, at Henley-on-Thames (3-4 August) and will be at the Imperial College's Freshers' Fair (3 October) in London.

The highlight of the summer season will be The Royal County of Berkshire Show (16-17 September). With Chairman John Nike OBE DL sponsoring some elements of the event, along with the mobile slope and both Lexus and Toyota stands making appearances, the Nike Group is certainly set to attract the crowds.

Summer activities preview at John Nike Leisuresport centres

The summer holidays: six weeks, 42 days, 1,008 hours or 60,480 minutes - however you want to look at it, apart from sleeping time, the kids have a long, glorious break ahead of them and what better way to spend it than being active and outdoors?

Well, look no further because that's precisely what the children can enjoy at any of the John Nike Leisuresport centres this summer. Whether it's skiing, ice skating or sno-tubing, all the activities on offer are guaranteed to delight even the most hard-to-please youngsters!

Check out what's going on at your local centre...

Bracknell
Boasting an Olympic-sized ice rink and one of the biggest outdoor dry ski slopes in the country, Bracknell is a popular choice with snowsports enthusiasts. The centre will be running activity camps from 9am to 6pm over the holiday period. As well as skiing, ice skating and sno-tubing there will be a host of new outdoor activities on offer including dodgeball, rounders, football and golf lessons.

Bristol
Right in the heart of Bristol, the centre is an excellent place to take shelter from the summer heat. In addition to the normal range of public sessions available for all abilities, the Learn to Skate programme will keep any young, budding skaters occupied for hours. Or if you've got some thrill-seekers on your hands, try the ice karting.

Chatham
Chatham certainly has plenty to offer - it's near the coast, home to a historic dockyard and, for those aged between 10 and 16, there's the Radical Kids Activity Days held throughout the summer holidays at the town's John Nike Leisuresport centre. The activity days are skiing and snowboarding camps designed to help participants master their skills, plus there's a chance to go on the exciting Cresta Run toboggan ride.

Llandudno
As Wales' largest resort, Llandudno is a real holiday hotspot, and the town's John Nike Leisuresport centre will be attracting tourists and locals both young and old this summer. The centre is situated at 415ft above sea level so visitors can enjoy skiing or snowboarding while admiring the stunning views. Or you could test your putting skills on the fun and challenging nine-hole Alpine Adventure Golf Course - look out for runaway chairlifts and other obstacles!

Plymouth
It may be known more for its naval history than its skiing but there'll certainly be plenty going on at Plymouth's John Nike Leisuresport Centre over the summer. Not only will the centre be running activity days - which include a three-hour ski or snowboard lesson, three rides on the Cresta Run toboggan ride and half an hour's sno-tubing - to keep the kids occupied, but mums and dads can also take to the slopes at one of the centre's Family Fun Days.

Swadlincote
A 40-minute drive from Birmingham, Nottingham and Leicester, the John Nike Leisuresport Centre in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, is accessible to an abundance of snowsports fans. The centre will be home to activity days for children during the summer holidays, when they can have a go at skiing, snowboarding, sno-tubing and tobogganing. But if you're after something a bit different why not give snow blading a whirl? Perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers, snow blades are shorter than traditional long skis, giving great balance and control.

For more information contact your nearest John Nike Leisuresport Centre: Bracknell: 01344 789000
Bristol: 0117 929 2148
Chatham: 01634 827979
Llandudno: 01492 874707
Plymouth: 01752 600220
Swadlincote: 01283 217200

Competition

What better way to relax on a sunny day than feasting on a sumptuous picnic, while winding your way along the River Thames?

Connections is offering a lucky reader a picnic-for-four on one of The Swan at Streatley's electric launches.

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize simply answer the following question:

What is the name of The Swan at Streatley's new head chef?

Email your answer to ab@coppid-beech-hotel.co.uk, or post it to Alan Blenkinsopp, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way, Bracknell, RG12 8TF, by 30 August 2006. Please remember to mark your entry 'Connections Competition'.

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

Competitions at John Nike Leisuresport centres

The John Nike Leisuresport centres in Bracknell and Llandudno will be showcasing some of the best skiing and snowboarding talents this summer and autumn.

August sees the return of the Orange Artificial Indoor and Mountain (AIM) series to the Bracknell centre. Established in 2001, the AIM series is a national competition which seeks to promote snowsports to the UK masses.

"More than just an exciting round of the competition, the AIM event at Bracknell will have a real festival vibe to it," Dan Gomm, Bracknell's Slope Manager, told Connections. "There'll be food, live music and the chance to try out the latest gear from top clothing and equipment brands."

The Bracknell John Nike Leisuresport centre will also play host to the Southern Region Snowsports freestyle competition on Saturday 24 June and a leg of the Southern Region Snowsports ski slalom race league on Saturday 15 July. Both dates are aimed at developing young athletes and are sponsored by some of the biggest names in extreme sports, like clothing brand Animal.

Snowboarding enthusiasts will then be flocking to the John Nike Leisuresport centre at Llandudno for the annual Great Orme Jam this autumn. The freestyle event is a chance for budding snowboarders of all ages to battle it out and wow the crowds with their technical tricks. Not just for glory, the competitors will also be contending for a range of fantastic prizes.

To find out more about any of the competitions, or to enter, contact the Bracknell centre on 01344 789000 on or the Llandudno centre on 01492 874707.

Weddings at The Swan

From handling your first enquiries, to waving you off as you start your new life together, the team at The Swan at Streatley will help you create the wedding of your dreams in the most unique and magical of riverside settings.

"We understand this is the biggest day of your lives and that every detail - from the ceremony and service to the food, drinks and decorations - has to be flawless," said Karl Bentley, General Manager at The Swan. "The only thing we can't guarantee will be perfect is the weather!"

The four star hotel has a selection of suites and rooms - including the stunning Magdalen College Barge - licensed to host wedding ceremonies, from intimate groups to lavish celebrations for up to 140 people. And if you have a particular theme or colour in mind, simply discuss your ideas with your in-house wedding co-ordinator, who will arrange for the venue to be beautifully dressed. Musicians can also be booked through the hotel.

Your wedding breakfast should be an event to remember, and with The Swan's flexible packages, which include two AA-rosette food, superb wines and flowers, the memories will last forever.

If you're a bride looking for ideas and inspiration, come along to The Swan's wedding fair on 8 October where you can meet with the region's leading suppliers and talk to the hotel's team of wedding co-ordinators. For more information about the wedding fair, or having your wedding at The Swan, call 01491 878800 or visit www.swanatstreatley.com

Pantomime preparation at Bracknell John Nike Leisuresport centre

Connections can exclusively reveal that this year's Christmas pantomime-on-ice at the Bracknell John Nike Leisuresport centre will be the timeless fairytale classic Sleeping Beauty.

"The pantomime at Bracknell has become quite a tradition and one of the most popular festive events in the area," explained Steve Marney, Rink Manager and member of the production team.

Last year's production of Aladdin was certainly a smash hit and a hard act for this year's show to follow, which is why the production team is already hard at work.

"We have completed the basic outline of the show and are currently writing the script," continued Steve. "Auditions will be taking place in July and we will be looking for skaters of all ages from eight to 80, so get practising!"

The show will be running from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 December, tickets will be on sale from 1 June at the Bracknell centre's main reception and after the success of last year's production you'll need to book early!

There are still opportunities available for sponsorship, so if your company is interested in sponsoring the production please contact Cara Murphy or Steve Marney on 01344 789000.

Communications Day

A range of exciting activities - from archery to an awards ceremony - was enjoyed by 270 employees from across the Nike Group at its annual Communications Day.

The team-building event was held at the four-star Coppid Beech Hotel, and began in the Sequoia Suite, its largest conference space, which holds up to 350 delegates.

After a group karaoke session, featuring a specially adapted version of the Beach (Beech) Boys' Surfin' USA, the Employee of the Year awards were presented by John Nike OBE DL, Chairman of the Nike Group. The winners were Wayne Carter, Accounts Assistant with Jubilee Building Supplies, Lynn England, Acting Manager of John Nike Leisuresport in Bristol, and Elaine Cormack, Accountant for the Nike Group.

The Group then moved to the hotel's 23-acre field, which includes a 10-acre wood, and is perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities.

They split into teams and played games including quizzes, logic puzzles, laser clay shooting, axe-throwing, archery, and cyber-tag (outdoor laser tag). Depending on how well they did, each team won tokens to 'buy' equipment for the final task - building a piece of apparatus to launch an egg as far as possible. The team from Bracknell's John Nike Leisuresport got the award for 'best designed egg-launcher', while Chatham's John Nike Leisuresport team launched its egg farthest.

The afternoon was rounded off with a hog roast and barbecue on the field, then everyone headed back to the hotel to dance the night away in Après nightclub.

To book your event at the Coppid Beech Hotel, call 01344 303333, or email conferences@coppid-beech-hotel.co.uk

Christmas preview for corporates

Ah, Christmas! A time of goodwill to all men, re-runs of Only Fools and Horses, mince pies and, of course, the much-anticipated, and all-too-often forgettable office 'do'. But why not make this year's bash an affair to remember with a winter sports-themed party at your local John Nike Leisuresport centre?

"You really can have a Christmas party with a difference at the John Nike Leisuresport centres," explained Martin Weddell, Operations Director, John Nike Leisuresport Ltd. "For instance you could try your hand at ice karting at Bracknell and Bristol, take a toboggan ride at Chatham, Llandudno and Plymouth or enjoy an 'Oompah' evening at Swadlincote."

Whether you choose a traditional Alpine activity like skiing or snowboarding or opt for a more unusual one like sno-tubing or ice karting, the staff at the John Nike Leisuresport centres are committed to making yours a very memorable festive experience.

You'll need to book early to avoid disappointment so give your local John Nike Leisuresport centre a call now to see what it has to offer this Christmas:
Bracknell: 01344 789000
Bristol: 0117 929 2148
Chatham: 01634 827979
Llandudno: 01492 874707
Plymouth: 01752 600220
Swadlincote: 01283 217200

Cisco case study

The Coppid Beech Hotel recently hosted an event that helped Cisco, the world's largest maker of internet equipment, to strengthen the bond with the companies that sell its products.

"To encourage people to attend, we wanted to offer a lot - training and presentations, chances to relax and network, and an overnight stay," explained Phillip Wright, Cisco's Regional Sales Manager.

Bracknell's four-star Coppid Beech fitted the bill, with its flexible meeting facilities, two AA rosette Rowans restaurant, bars, live music venue and brasserie (The Keller), nightclub (Après), Waves health club and 205 luxury en-suite bedrooms.

The day began with a presentation about Cisco's objectives and product positioning, held in the hotel's large Sequoia Suite, which can accommodate up to 350 people.

After a motivational seminar, the delegates split into groups for product presentations, and rotated around three smaller rooms (the versatile Pine Suites), each gaining hands-on experience of Cisco's products.

A further three rooms were used for dealership presentations, as a 'chill-out room', and as an office - which was split by a partition into two sections.

In the evening, the delegates met for drinks in Après nightclub before a sumptuous dinner, and a night to remember watching a live band play in The Keller.

"We wanted events to flow smoothly, and to keep everyone together, so having our function rooms, restaurant and entertainment venues under one roof was ideal," said Philip.

"Thanks to the hotel, everything was spot-on and timely. We never had to worry or chase to get things done - the staff were friendly, attentive, and always on hand to help."

For information about conferencing at the Coppid Beech Hotel, call 01344 303333, email conferences@coppid-beech-hotel.co.uk, or visit www.coppidbeech.com

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New chef at SAS

A talented chef with experience in several Michelin-starred restaurants, including one belonging to celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, has joined The Swan at Streatley four-star hotel as its new head chef.

John Sherry has taken the reins of the hotel's popular two AA rosette riverside restaurant, Cygnetures, and is looking forward to introducing his style - which he describes as "classical British food with a contemporary influence" - to the menu.

Scottish-born John comes to The Swan from the Restaurant Raphael Beringer in Lyon - the 'gastronomic capital' of France - where he worked as chef de cuisine from December 2004.

John is only 30 years old, but has spent 14 years honing his craft at a number of prestigious establishments, including Gordon Ramsay's Amaryllis restaurant in Glasgow where he spent time as sous chef. He has worked at eight Michelin-starred hotel restaurants in France, Switzerland and Scotland.

John said: "For me, good food is all about using fresh, quality seasonal produce, preferably sourced locally. My dishes are based on 'the classics', enhanced using modern techniques. I look forward to welcoming both regulars and newcomers to Cygnetures, and introducing some of my favourite dishes to them."

To book a table, call The Swan at Streatley on 01491 878800, or email sales@swan-at-streatley.co.uk

Rowans pastry chef award

A pastry chef at the Coppid Beech Hotel has won a prestigious prize for her stunning Roman-style sculpture of a torso, made entirely out of chocolate.

Lucy Pitchford (20) won the Junior Decorative Piece section at Le Salon Culinaire International at Hotelympia with her entry.

The torso was cast in white chocolate, which was 'tempered' (heated, cooled, then worked with at a certain temperature) to stop it melting, on a mould made from a real person! It was then hand-painted with a mixture of cocoa butter and cocoa powder, to give a marble effect.

Tubes to support the torso were cast in dark chocolate, and the drape was sculpted from modelling chocolate.

Lucy's model is not for eating, but the delectable desserts she creates for the Coppid Beech's two AA rosette Rowans restaurant certainly are - call 01344 303333 for a reservation.

Hotels Christmas preview

Imagine...a festive season when you don't have to lift a finger. Except to ask for more wine or roast potatoes, perhaps; but certainly not to peel a parsnip or do the washing up, because there's someone to do all that for you!

The four-star Coppid Beech Hotel and The Swan at Streatley have a host of ideas for making Christmas 2006 the most fun and fuss-free you've ever had.

The office party, or friendly get-together...… Book a private party in one of the Coppid Beech's luxurious function suites, and create your own menu whether you want the traditional turkey and trimmings, or something a bit different. The cost is £35.95 per person and includes crackers and novelties.

Or why not celebrate in style, with some festive fine dining at the hotels' two AA rosette restaurants? At the Coppid Beech's Rowans restaurant the package is £39.95 per head which includes crackers, hats and novelties and entry to Après, the hotel's nightclub. A formal three-course Christmas menu in The Swan's stunning Cygnetures riverside restaurant is £28.95 per head.

The Coppid Beech also has a lively brasserie at The Keller, which will be offering a delicious traditional three course festive feast, as well as hosting fantastic live bands, every Monday to Saturday night during December. The cost is £33.95 per head on Mondays and Tuesdays, £35.95 on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and £37.95 on Fridays and Saturdays - and includes entry to Après nightclub.

The Big Day...… If you want a family lunch on Christmas Day without the worry of feeding and accommodating everyone, let the staff at the Coppid Beech or The Swan take the strain! Crackers, hats and novelties are complimentary, and you-know-who will visit with gifts for children aged 12 and under.

A three-course luncheon in The Swan's delightful Cygnetures restaurant, accompanied by live piano music, costs £85 per adult and £42.50 per child. The Swan will also host a family-focused lunch in its elegant Icknield Suite, for £69.95 per adult and £34.95 per child. And as well as live music, a magician will also be on hand to amaze and amuse!

At the Coppid Beech Hotel, the traditional Christmas Day lunch in Rowans starts with a complimentary glass of Bucks Fizz, and there will be a pianist and an entertainer to keep the kids happy. The cost is £78.95 per adult and £39.50 per child.

The hotel's Sequoia Suite is the ideal venue for a more informal affair. A table entertainer and live music will ensure that lunch is memorable for more than just the wonderful food. The cost is £68.95 per adult and £34.50 per child.

Let someone else take over entirely!… Spend the whole of Christmas in an idyllic country setting at The Swan at Streatley's three-day house party. You'll be welcomed with a Christmas Eve tea, followed by a torchlit carol singing procession. After breakfast on Christmas Day, enjoy a walk along the Thames or take part in the treasure hunt. Lunch will be a spectacular banquet in Cygnetures, followed by a lazy afternoon in lovely surroundings. You won't want to go home on Boxing Day!

For full details of all the hotels have to offer this Christmas and New Year, their festive menus, and special room rates, call the Coppid Beech Hotel on 01344 303333 and The Swan at Streatley on 01491 878800 - or download the brochures at www.coppidbeech.com and www.swanatstreatley.co.uk

Après charity night

They say that the house always wins when it comes to casinos, but Après nightclub, at the Coppid Beech Hotel, proved this wrong when it hosted a fantastic casino night with all proceeds - nearly £300 - going to local charity, the 2-TEN FM Kids Appeal Fund.

"The night was a great success," said Darren Connor, Manager at Après in Bracknell. "It was great to see people having fun playing the casino tables and at the same time raising money for a worthwhile cause."

The 2-TEN FM Kids Appeal Fund was set up by the Reading-based radio station to develop the talents and stretch the minds of the children and young people of Berkshire and North Hampshire.

"While we do like to have fun, we take our role in the community very seriously," continued Darren. "So it's a real privilege to be involved in fundraising for a charity that does such wonderful work for kids in the local community."

Nike Design

Congratulations to the team at Nike Design (Wales) - it has won planning permission for Phase Two of Bocam Park Office Complex, South Wales.

"It's great news," exclaimed Chris Skilton, Director. "We're thrilled! Nike Design has been working on this huge project from its outset in 1999. Obtaining planning permission for Phase Two, which will be one of the final developments to the site, is the icing on the cake for us."

Located just off junction 35 of the M4, Bocam Park is a 64,000 square foot complex which, as well as housing Nike Design's very own office, is the location of an extensive Mercedes Benz facility - another development that Nike Design was instrumental in creating.

Nike Design's plans for Phase Two include nine two- and three-storey buildings, which will extend the original site by some 112,353 square feet.

New Lexus showroom

The eagerly anticipated unveiling of Lexus Bracknell's exciting new showroom took place this March.

Some 200 guests including Shimpei Kobayashi, Toyota GB's Chairman, Graham Smith, Lexus GB's Managing Director, and Steve Settle, Lexus GB's Director, attended the opening ceremony along with John Nike OBE DL, Chairman of the Nike Group, and other senior Nike Group directors and managers.

"The event was a huge success," David Lamb, General Operations Director of Octagon, told Connections. "Steve Settle congratulated Octagon for its excellent achievements over the last 15 years. He then went on to talk about the future of the Lexus brand across the world and the imminent launch of a raft of new models, including the revolutionary range of hybrid vehicles which will transform motoring over the coming decades."

The showroom, which was built by Nike Construction and considered by Lexus GB as one of the finest in Europe, provides an attractive, comfortable environment where customers can view models, trim and specifications. There is also a relaxed, private area where the finer details of your dream car can be discussed.

Lexus News

May saw the release of the world's first hybrid luxury saloon, the Lexus GS 450h.

By combining the power of a petrol engine with the environmental benefits of electrical energy the GS 450h offers the proven cleanliness and fuel-efficiency of a hybrid and the exceptional performance of a Lexus.

Substantially more economical than other sports saloons, the GS 450h returns carbon dioxide emissions of just 186g/km, markedly less than other saloons with similar engine power.

But the new environmentally friendly GS has not had to sacrifice the performance of its predecessors-- - with a combined power output in excess of 335bhp, the new model accelerates seamlessly from 0-62mph in less than six seconds.

To test drive the GS 405h or any of the Lexus range contact Lexus Bracknell on 01344 789777 or Lexus Reading on 0118 975 8877.

Toyota News

The Toyota RAV4 continues to inspire the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) market with the unveiling of its third generation model.

The new model boasts improved suspension for even better handling; more advanced safety systems for occupant and pedestrian protection; a more versatile interior design; and fresh exterior styling. These exceptional standards combine to reinforce the RAV4's reputation for all-round excellence and will prove hard for competitors to match.

Since its launch in 1994 the Toyota RAV4 has proved a constant success, with in excess of 1.8 million sales worldwide. More than 655,000 of these have been in Europe, where the RAV4 has consistently been the best-selling 4x4 passenger vehicle.

To test drive the new RAV4 or any of the Toyota fleet contact your local Octagon dealership:

Bracknell 01344 789888 Reading 0118 975 1300

Leisuresport World on eBay

The best ski and snowboard brands at bargain prices are now only a click away - Leisuresport World has gone online with eBay.

eBay, one of the world's most visited websites, works just like an auction: traders offer their products for sale and customers bid the price they wish to pay - whoever offers the highest bid buys the item. It's been such a success that many individuals and companies have set up specialist shops on the site, devoted to selling their own range of goods.

"We've been incredibly pleased with our sales success," commented Alan Connor, Manager. "Initially, we opened it as a way to quickly sell off our old stock, but it soon became clear that this was a fantastic way of doing business and reaching people further afield.

"Our customers all over the country are getting some great deals on top brand names including Helly Hanson and Salomon," continued Alan. "We constantly refresh the site with new, exciting products - check it out for yourself!"

New graduate opportunities brochure

Think you've got what it takes to make it as a manager in the Nike Group of Companies? As the onset of summer sees many students complete their university degrees, the search for the next intake of graduate trainee managers is hotting up.

"We operate two separate graduate training programmes," explained Sue Coffey, Human Resources Manager. "Our 18-month Hospitality Graduate Programme training takes place at The Swan at Streatley and the Coppid Beech Hotel, while our two-year Leisure Graduate Programme takes trainees through a comprehensive development scheme based at two or more John Nike Leisuresport centres."

Both programmes offer a challenging and rewarding introduction to operational and hands-on management. The emphasis is on developing an individual's skills and abilities, and each trainee works closely with departmental managers as they move towards achieving a range of carefully set objectives and projects.

"We're looking for graduates with a genuine passion for the industry, together with large amounts of enthusiasm, flexibility and tenacity," continued Sue. "And as we prefer to promote from within, it'll be those with the ambition and drive to become one of our operational managers in the future who stand the best chance of success."

To request a brochure about graduate opportunities in the Nike Group, contact Sue on 01344 789794, or email hr@nikegroup.co.uk

Jubilee Building Supplies

With hosepipe bans in place and predictions that parts of the South East are facing the worst drought for 100 years, it's no surprise that people are choosing hard landscaping - paving, decking, and aggregates - to add interest to their gardens, rather than thirsty plants.

And Jubilee Building Supplies, on John Nike Way in Bracknell, is just the place to talk to the experts about how best to use these products - and for both trade and domestic customers to buy them at great prices.

"We have a vast range of decorative paving and aggregates, as well as reclaimed railway sleepers and decking systems," explained Peter White, Manager. "These are all perfect materials to use to create exciting gardens which, when coupled with drought resistant plant varieties, will require little watering."

And to make it even easier to choose hard landscaping products, Jubilee Building Supplies has recently opened a new indoor display area - perfect if you're looking for ideas and inspiration, whatever the weather!

For more information on Jubilee Building Supplies' range of products please call 01344 789400 or visit the company's website at www.jubileebuildingsupplies.co.uk

Techmat

Techmat 2000 Limited's revolutionary PERMA-SNOWTM surface is currently being laid on the ski slope at Plymouth's John Nike Leisuresport centre, to be followed by Chatham in August, and Llandudno in September.

This will mean that every John Nike Leisuresport centre will be able to offer skiers and boarders the improved ride that PERMA-SNOW gives, with fantastic feel, control and safety compared to more traditional coverings. It even makes a realistic 'swooshing' noise as you ski over it!

Tony Ward, Manager of Techmat 2000, said: "We're also in negotiation with several interested parties in Southern Europe and the Far East, who are making major developments to leisure parks. They are looking at PERMA-SNOW to meet their considerable dry ski slope requirements."

Techmat continues to upgrade its production equipment, in response to the increasing demand for PERMA-SNOW.

Lightfoots

Lightfoots garage in Bracknell has once again run its fantastic promotion to give away a cool Ferrari baseball cap with each five litre bottle of Shell Helix engine oil - and it looks like it's been even more successful than last year!

"We gave away over 200 caps in 2005 and we reckon this year will have topped that," said Greg Walsh, Manager. "And it's not just in our local area that it's gone down well - last year, there was a 20 per cent increase in sales of Helix across the whole Shell network as a result of this promotion."

Shell is Ferrari Formula 1's technical partner and develops fuels and oils especially for the team, which has the accolade of being the most successful in the history of the F1 Championship.

The engine oil recommended by Ferrari is Shell Helix Ultra, but Lightfoots also stocks the other oils in the range - Shell Helix Plus and Shell Helix Super.

Rainbow

Creating a strong visual identity is a must for even the smallest and newest of businesses - but knowing where to start can be difficult.

With its range of affordable consultancy, design and printing services, Rainbow Colourprint in Bracknell can help businesses to stand out from the crowd. "We've helped many companies in the local area and further afield to get a professional edge with stylishly printed letterheads, compliment slips and business cards," explained Andy Utton, Manager of Rainbow.

And when it comes to creating marketing, promotional and communications material Rainbow can take you through the many different design and printing options that are now available, to discover what's right for your business.

"We're here to help you with the creative and printing process, whether you already have strong ideas or if you'd like our design experts to offer a little inspiration," concluded Andy.

To give you an idea of what Rainbow can do, just flick through this issue of Connections, which recently rolled off their printers!

If you'd like to talk to Rainbow about your requirements and ideas call 01344 789500, or check out the website - www.rainbowcolourprint.co.uk - for further information.

Website update

Regular visitors to The Swan at Streatley's website (www.swanatstreatley.co.uk) will have noticed that it's had a spring clean with a smart new look.

The site now has the same contemporary appearance and user-friendly functions as the website belonging to sister hotel, the Coppid Beech. But despite its clean, elegant appearance, there's more information on the site than ever before - from details about wedding packages, fine dining and accommodation to conference services, leisure breaks and Christmas activities.

"We've put a lot of thought into making the site simple to use," explained Leslie Owensby, Website Designer at the Nike Group. "Easy-to-navigate menus mean that finding the information you need is a very fast and smooth process."

The site can now be more efficiently updated, so visitors can be assured that details on prices, menus, wine lists and special offers will be the very latest news.

Watch this space for information about exciting upgrades to all the John Nike Leisuresport centre websites, as well as brand new sites currently in production for Octagon Motor Company's Toyota dealerships in Bracknell and Reading.

BAFTA Awards

The Coppid Beech Hotel in Bracknell rolled out the red carpet recently when it hosted the town's very own glitzy BAFTAs - the Bracknell Awards For TeenAgers.

Held in the hotel's Après nightclub, the award ceremony, which honours the hard work and achievements of youngsters aged between 13 and 19 across the borough, was sponsored by John Nike, OBE DL, Chairman of the Nike Group of Companies.

"This is the fourth year of the BAFTA awards and it's wonderful that the hotel and our company chairman are involved in rewarding the remarkable successes of young people in the area," Alan Blenkinsopp, Hotel Operations Director, told Connections. "We were especially proud this year as our very own Laura Spurgen, who works in the hotel as a Food and Beverage Assistant, won an award for 200 hours of voluntary service with the Youth Sector Commitment of the Bracknell Forest Youth Forum."

Mr Nike attended the ceremony to present an award along with other local dignitaries, including Jacqui Ryder, Bracknell Forest Mayor and Gareth Barnard, Bracknell Town Mayor.