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Grow London Global launches biggest-ever entrepreneur cohort

Grow London Global has launched its largest-ever cohort of scaling businesses, uniting 147 of the UK’s most ambitious companies to accelerate their growth and expand internationally.

The initiative, delivered by London & Partners, marks a major step in helping entrepreneurs access global opportunities through the capital’s business growth agency.

The programme’s seventh and biggest cohort to date brings together scaleups across sustainability, life sciences, fintech and cyber, enterprise and creative tech. In addition to supporting London-based entrepreneurs, the Grow London Global cohort now includes 13 companies from outside the capital, with businesses from the West Midlands and Essex joining for the first time.

The move reflects a growing appetite across UK regions to collaborate on international expansion and strengthens ties between London and local growth agencies, including Essex County Council and the West Midlands Growth Company.

A major development within this year’s launch is the introduction of Pre-Global, a six-month initiative created to support underrepresented founders, including women, in preparing to scale.

The pilot programme will provide 15 founders with the tools, connections and knowledge needed to compete on a global stage. It will focus on leadership development, access to finance and the opportunity to connect with investors and corporates, helping founders build long-term, sustainable growth strategies.

Grow London Global’s success is underpinned by a network of delivery partners providing expertise on commercial, financial, legal and operational challenges. Among these are HSBC Innovation Banking, Oury Clark, Wilson Sonsini, Bridgehead, CLA, Deel, Grant Tree, KPMG and Twenty AI. Together, they will offer participants hands-on advice and practical solutions to support their international growth journeys.

Howard Dawber OBE, London’s Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, said: “Grow London Global brings together some of the most exciting fast growing companies from across the capital as well as Essex, Scotland and the West Midlands. Our mission is to drive growth through new international business and trade links. We’re excited and proud to be working with such an impressive group of entrepreneurs, and can’t wait to show this cohort to the world, as we continue building a better and more prosperous London for everyone.”

Janet Coyle CBE, Managing Director of Grow London at London & Partners, emphasised the city’s role as a global business hub. She said: “London is the best place to scale a business – with unrivalled access to talent, funding, customers, and networks, all in one place.

“I am so proud of this launch – the biggest Grow London Global cohort yet and the beginning of Pre-Global for underrepresented founders who are at an earlier stage of their scaleup journey. We will support these incredible, ambitious companies grow and benefit from the best London has to offer.”

Among the companies joining the Grow London Global cohort are innovators using advanced technology to transform industries.

Azoma, an AI-first software platform, helps global retailers optimise product data for AI search and marketplaces. Delineate works with global brands, including The Coca Cola Company, to deliver real-time insights on campaign performance across more than 50 countries.

DiO analyses audience emotions through biometrics and voice sentiment, offering film, TV and advertising producers data-driven insights into audience engagement.

Flawless AI, based in London, pioneers AI tools for film and television editing, helping creators refine performances and reach international audiences. Moth, described as the world’s first quantum-to-consumer company, is developing entertainment products based on quantum technology.

Ivan Zhiznevsky, Founder of 3S Money, said: “I’m thrilled for 3S Money to join Grow London Global. The opportunity to connect with international corporates, take part in global trade missions and share ideas, aligns perfectly with our mission to make cross-border business seamless and inclusive worldwide.”

Christine Hartland, Co-Founder and COO of My SMASH Media, one of the participants in the new Pre-Global programme, added: “We’re thrilled to be part of the London & Partners Pre-Global Programme — exactly the kind of support that’s been missing for startups at our stage. We’re excited to learn, grow, and scale My SMASH Media into a truly global platform.”

As the Grow London Global cohort embarks on its 12-month journey, the initiative continues to demonstrate London’s position as a leading hub for international business expansion. By connecting UK scaleups with investors, partners and global markets, it aims to ensure that both London and the wider UK economy benefit from new trade opportunities and sustained entrepreneurial growth.

Bexley Pothole row reaches Parliament

A political row over pothole repairs in Bexley has intensified after it was raised in parliament, with both local and national figures now involved in a heated exchange over the use of government funding.

The Bexley pothole row began when Labour MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, Daniel Francis, said he had personally visited every road in his constituency to identify potholes and report them to Conservative-controlled Bexley Borough Council.

Mr Francis said the aim was to ensure that the council was using its Department for Transport grant to repair road defects.

During Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer referred to the issue directly, warning that Bexley’s £895,000 road repair fund could be withdrawn if it was not properly spent. He accused the council of failing to deliver on its responsibilities to local motorists.

In response, Bexley Council wrote to the prime minister urging him to check his facts, saying that Mr Francis had misinformed the Labour leader.

In the Commons, Mr Francis told MPs: “The Conservative council cabinet member responsible for roads wrote to our local newspaper, News Shopper, asking that I stop reporting potholes because it was causing work for the council. Will the prime minister join me in urging my Conservative council to get on and spend that money to make roads, such as Mayplace Road East, safe to drive on?”

Sir Keir responded sharply, saying: “So, this is a local Conservative council telling my honourable friend not to point out potholes in case it has to fill them. That is outrageous—just like the record of the last 14 years. We know how problematic, dangerous and costly potholes are to drivers.

“That is why we have delivered record investment to maintain our roads and fix potholes. That is £1.6bn. That money has been given to councils, but it comes with strings. My message to the council to reinforce that is clear: ‘Use the money, fix the roads and show how you are carrying out repairs, or lose the money’. It is councils that should get on with the job of fixing our roads. I will make sure the Roads Minister follows up with my honourable friend.”

After the exchange, Mr Francis spoke on BBC Radio 5 Live, claiming Bexley Council had spent only £40,000 of its £895,000 road repair budget in the first three months of the financial year.

Speaking to presenter Matt Chorley, he said: “We have reported over 100 potholes. The council believes some of them don’t meet the criteria [to be filled in]. I don’t agree with that. I have created a measuring tool which is 20cm wide and I have also been measuring the depth. Some of them that they say don’t meet the criteria, I disagree with and residents have been in touch with me to say they also disagree with.”

Councillor David Leaf, who is set to become Bexley’s new council leader next month, said he was “shocked and appalled” by the comments made by the prime minister in the Commons. He said: “I think that’s outrageous and disgraceful, and it’s appalling that the prime minister didn’t check his facts… whatever the reason, it’s unacceptable and we will very robustly defend our position and expect the prime minister to correct the record.”

Councillor Richard Diment, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, and the councillor referred to by Mr Francis in parliament, also expressed anger over the remarks, calling them “outrageous” and saying they risked Bexley’s government funding. “As we learned when he was a member of this council, Mr Francis is cavalier with the facts and deliberately misled the House of Commons yesterday,” he said.

According to Mr Diment, Mr Francis reported over 150 potholes in just over a week. The council inspected each one and found that only around a quarter met the criteria for action, and just nine met the criteria for immediate work. He also disputed the MP’s claim about spending, explaining that the £40,000 figure referred only to the amount invoiced and paid, not the total committed. He said that £260,000 had already been spent and that the council had “every intention” of using the full £895,000 fund by the end of the year.

The Bexley pothole row has now become a political flashpoint between Labour and Conservative representatives, reflecting wider tensions over how local authorities use transport grants. While the council insists it is meeting its obligations and following national repair standards, Mr Francis maintains that residents are being let down by slow progress. Both sides appear determined to defend their positions, with calls for the prime minister and the Department for Transport to clarify the facts.

As the dispute continues, the focus remains on how the council will demonstrate that public money is being effectively used to improve road safety. For drivers in Bexley, the outcome of the Bexley pothole row will determine whether the borough’s roads see quicker repairs or further scrutiny from Westminster.

Paramedics call on revellers to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night Safely

With 999 calls being on the rise, Paramedics at London Ambulance Service are calling on revellers to celebrate safely this weekend as the Service prepare for Halloween and Bonfire Night in the capital city.

This season is always highpoint for emergency services, with October being on course to be the busiest month of 2025 so far. There have been up to 6,500 calls received by London Ambulance Service control rooms each day over recent weekends, and additional crews will be placed here and on the road this weekend in anticipation of a busy few days ahead.

More the 400,999 calls an hour are forecasted at peak times as the month come into a close and November begins.

It is important that the 999 service is only used for serious medical emergencies, which is why the Service are asking Londoners to help them, and use the NHS wisely at this critical time.

Strategic Commander and Director of Resilience and Specialist Assets at London Ambulance Service, Natasha Wills, has said: “This weekend marks Halloween and the start of Bonfire Night celebrations across the capital. Many of you will be out trick-or-treating or attending local events, so we’re reminding everyone to stay safe and look out for one another.

“Halloween fun – and noise from fireworks – can sometimes cause a fright – especially for young children, older adults, or people with certain health conditions. Please be considerate and remember that not everyone enjoys a scare.

“If you’re out in London and plan to drink alcohol this weekend, please eat before you drink, pace yourself and plan your journey home.

“With firework displays happening across London, make sure to follow the safety guidance provided by event organisers. If you’re using fireworks at home, take extra care to follow London Fire Brigade safety advice to prevent accidents.

“Remember only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency. For non-life threatening emergencies call NHS 111 or online.”

If you need urgent medical help when it’s not an emergency, NHS111 online should be your first port of call if you are unsure what to do. You will get the support you need when using the 111 service if your medical concern is urgent but you do not need an emergency ambulance.

Through following this advice, you will also help ensure that the the Ambulance Service are able to speak to and treat the most seriously ill and injured patients as quickly as possible.

GPs and pharmacists can also help and give you advice on medicines or common problems like colds, coughs and rashes.

Grimsby Town vs Brentford Carabao Cup: Brentford Dominate 5-0 at Blundell Park

Grimsby Town’s Carabao Cup adventure came to a decisive end as Premier League Brentford delivered a clinical 5-0 victory at Blundell Park to secure their place in the quarter-finals. What began as a night of hope for the League Two side quickly turned into a showcase of the visitors’ pace, precision, and composure. There were 8,637 fans in attendance.

The Mariners started brightly, buoyed by a memorable cup run that had seen them overcome higher-ranked opponents. For the first 20 minutes, they dominated possession, pressing purposefully and creating promising opportunities. Josh Vernam and Evan Khouri caused early problems on the flanks, and goalkeeper James Pym made a couple of smart saves to keep the visitors at bay. However, the breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Mathias Jensen, who would go on to be named man of the match, collected a loose clearance on the edge of the box and curled a superb strike into the corner, giving Brentford the lead.

Four minutes later, Reiss Nelson, making his first start, raced down the right and delivered a precise cross for Keane Lewis-Potter to nod home at the back post, doubling the advantage. Before half-time, Nelson himself curled in a third goal, finishing expertly from inside the area and confirming Brentford’s dominance. By the interval, the gulf in class was clear.

Grimsby emerged after the break hoping to mount a comeback, but nine minutes into the second half, Fabio Carvalho was brought down in the box, earning a penalty which he calmly converted to make it 4-0. The visitors maintained control, and in the 75th minute, captain Nathan Collins rose highest at a Jensen corner to head in the fifth, completing a comprehensive win.

Referee Thomas Kirk oversaw a match in which Brentford outshot their hosts 11 to 3 and edged possession 53 to 47 percent, while also claiming seven corners to Grimsby’s two. The performance highlighted Brentford’s tactical cohesion and depth, with players such as Arthur, van den Berg, Pinnock, Henry, and Onyeka all contributing solid displays in defence and midfield. Jensen’s influence was pivotal, dictating the tempo, assisting, and scoring, while Lewis-Potter, Carvalho, Nelson, and Ouattara all impressed in attack. Subs Collins, Schade, Janelt, Donovan, and Kayode provided further quality as the team rotated.

For Grimsby, Pym made some important early saves but could do little as the floodgates opened. Defenders Rodgers, Lavelle, McJannett, and Sweeney were stretched throughout, while midfielders McEachran, Burns, Green, and captain Green battled gamely but struggled to contain the visitors. Khouri and Vernam showed flashes of creativity and energy, with Walker providing some impact from the bench.

Brentford manager Keith Andrews praised his side’s structure and attacking play, noting how their pressing and ability to regain possession were crucial. “We grew into the game, and once we found our rhythm, we were relentless,” he said. Grimsby boss David Artell acknowledged the contrast in quality: “In the first 25 minutes, we were the better team … but we didn’t take our chances and suddenly it’s 3-0 and it’s game over.”

Despite the heavy defeat, Grimsby can take pride in their early intensity and the experience gained against top-level opposition. For Brentford, it was a perfect cup performance, blending professionalism with fluid attacking play, and it sets them up as serious contenders as they move into the quarter-finals.

Free food was distributed in Barnet last week – in a big Giveaway

Working in partnership with the Felix Project charity, Burnt Oak Leisure Centre hosted a fantastic ‘Fresh Food Giveaway’ for local people in Barnet last week.

The Felix Project is a London-based charity that rescues good-quality, surplus food and redistributes it to community centres, foodbanks and holiday schemes.

Although scheduled to begin at noon, once the word got out about the Giveaway, locals began queueing forty minutes early – where, in the end, an array of fresh produce was distributed to 260 families in just over an hour. With food such as potatoes, carrots, apples, pears and fruit juice on offer, children from Burnt Oak Nursery and Zidane Sports School also came along to take supplies home for their relatives.

The team, which was full of volunteers from ‘Better’ leisure centres, The Felix Project and Barnet Council’s Youth Justice Service, all did a fantastic job in handing out the goods and making sure that everyone got their fair share.

Leisure centres in Barnet are run by charitable social enterprise GLL under the ‘Better’ brand, in partnership with the local authority, and GLL looks forward to collaborating with The Felix Project on more Giveaway events.

Bromford Housing to Transform Customer Experience with AI-Powered Customer Service Centre Transformation

Bromford, the leading UK housing association, has appointed AI-first customer experience specialists, Sabio Group, to deliver a transformative cloud communications platform that will fundamentally reshape how the organisation serves its 110,000 customers across 46,000 homes.

Sabio will implement a new customer service centre (CSC) solution across more than 314 agents, as part of this comprehensive project. This will integrate cutting-edge AI capabilities with Bromford’s existing Microsoft Dynamics 365 infrastructure.

Managing Director for the UK and South Africa at Sabio Group, Daniel Seaborne, said: “Bromford’s selection of Sabio demonstrates the strength of our expert services capability and our track record of delivering genuinely transformative customer experience solutions.

“For over 25 years, we’ve focused exclusively on CX, and our team includes specialists who understand these challenges first-hand. What sets this project apart is our ability to combine Genesys Cloud technology with deep Microsoft Dynamics integration expertise, our proprietary IP, and a proven methodology for driving adoption and business value.

“We’re not just implementing technology – we’re partnering with Bromford to fundamentally reimagine how a modern housing association can build aspirational relationships with its residents.”

In order to empower agents with intelligent assistance, the deployment includes Genesys AI Copilot alongside Sabio’s proprietary technologies. This includes Mission Control for accelerated deployment and ongoing optimisation, and GCDEC for seamless data integration.

This appointment marks a significant step change for Bromford, replacing disparate legacy systems with a unified omnichannel platform that will allow the housing association to deliver exceptional service across voice, webchat, email and WhatsApp.

This solution will not only support Bromford’s CSC, but extend across income management, lettings, repairs coordination and field service teams.

Colin Goodbody, Head of Customer at Bromford Housing Group, said: “This is genuinely game-changing for Bromford and our customers. We’re not simply upgrading systems – we’re transforming how we connect with every person we serve. The combination of AI-powered automation, workforce optimisation tools and seamless integration with our core systems will allow us to be more responsive, more proactive and more personal in our service delivery.

“This investment reflects our ambition to be recognised as a leader not just within social housing, but across all people-focused industries. With Sabio’s partnership, we’re confident we can set new standards for customer satisfaction and operational excellence.”

Sabio’s combination of technical expertise, housing sector experience, and commitment to long-term partnership proved decisive in the rigorous competitive procurement process where Bromford evaluated leading market solutions – seeing them secure the project.

The implementation will include comprehensive workforce management capabilities, quality assurance tools, and advanced analytics – which are all designed to support Bromford’s strategic objectives around customer advocacy, digital channel adoption and operational efficiency.

This partnership also positions Bromford to capitalise on future innovations, with the scalable cloud architecture providing a foundation for emerging AI capabilities and channel expansion.

It is also launching a mobile app-enabled CCaaS solution for managing communications with Bromford’s field colleagues with more use cases around engineer notifications and AI to be explored as part of the ongoing customer success programme.

Brentford build momentum ahead of Carabao Cup Trip to Grimsby Town

Following a thrilling 3–2 victory over Liverpool at the Gtech Community Stadium, Brentford FC travel to Blundell Park on Tuesday night to face Grimsby Town in the Fourth Round of the Carabao Cup.

Head Coach Keith Andrews has earned widespread praise for the tactical intelligence and flexibility shown by his side. Against Liverpool, Brentford executed a well-balanced game plan that combined measured passing and positional precision to bypass the press — a style even Jordan Henderson acknowledged post-match, calling it “measured football into pockets of space, not long-ball football.”

Tactical Flexibility and Respect for the Opposition

Looking ahead to Grimsby, Andrews stressed the importance of maintaining standards and adapting tactically to each challenge.

“Every game asks different questions,” Andrews said. “Against Liverpool, it was about breaking the press with intelligent movement and measured passes. Against Grimsby, we’ll need to find new ways — more possession, clever runs in behind, and moments of individual brilliance. We’re growing as a team, developing our qualities, and finding different ways to win.”

Andrews also expressed deep respect for Grimsby Town and the football pyramid.

“I’ve got great respect for clubs like Grimsby — their history, their supporters, and what they represent in English football. These are special fixtures in the Carabao Cup. You can never underestimate anyone, so our mentality and discipline have to be right from the start.”

On Pathways and Opportunity

Still early in his Premier League managerial career, Andrews’ journey has inspired admiration for its humility and dedication. After starting his coaching badges at 29, he devoted himself to learning the craft and developing players.

“I found out early that I loved coaching — it became an obsession after my playing career,” he said. “I’ve taken bits from people like Roy Hodgson and Tony Pulis, who shaped how I see the game. I’ve always believed in putting in the hard years and being open to learning.”

He added:

“It’s refreshing that clubs are now willing to take chances on managers who haven’t necessarily followed the traditional route. What matters most is the work ethic, ideas, and willingness to grow.”

Player Focus: Lewis-Potter and Thiago’s Form

Keane Lewis-Potter has been one of Brentford’s standout performers, impressing in a more advanced role after previously filling in at left-back.

“Keane’s been excellent — confident, dynamic, and showing what a player he is in attacking positions,” Andrews said. “He’s capable of producing key moments and has earned the right to play further forward.”

Meanwhile, Thiago continues to thrive, scoring seven goals so far this season.

“Thiago’s heart and courage are enormous,” Andrews added. “He’s a nightmare to play against because of his hunger and belief. We speak every day about development and maintaining that confidence. He’s growing with every game.”

Squad Depth and Standards

With the fixtures coming thick and fast, Andrews highlighted the importance of the whole squad.

“We’ve built an environment where players support each other and push standards every day. The bench has made a massive impact recently, and those performances deserve to be rewarded. Everyone will play a part.”

Objections to New Hotel Replacing Former Morleys Department Store Overruled

The landmark Morleys department store in Tooting, which closed earlier this year after 70 years of trading, is set to be transformed into a hotel following approval from Wandsworth Council. The decision comes despite opposition from hundreds of residents who had signed a petition against the proposal.

The store, a fixture on Tooting High Street since the 1950s, shut its doors in April after its independent owners said they could no longer afford the maintenance and modernisation costs needed to keep the business running.

Property investment firm Criterion Capital, which owns several multimillion-pound developments across London, will lead the conversion project. The company’s plans include retaining part of the ground floor for retail use, while redeveloping the upper floors into hotel accommodation.

Council planning officers recommended approval, arguing that the scheme would create jobs and drive local economic growth, as well as make sustainable use of an existing building that might otherwise remain vacant.

However, residents raised concerns that the site could ultimately be used as temporary accommodation, referencing a nearby development that had followed a similar trajectory. More than 400 people signed a petition opposing the conversion.

At the planning meeting, Labour councillor Sean Lawless said the community was seeking “firm assurances” that the Morleys site would operate as a genuine hotel, noting that there was “no real proof” of local demand for additional hotel space.

Councillor Matthew Tiller added: “This does feel like a wasted opportunity to provide new housing rather than yet another hotel. It would be nice, if we possibly could, to push things in that direction.”

Responding to these concerns, planning officer Nigel Granger said the building could not be repurposed for another use without a separate planning application and “major physical changes.” He also cited independent viability assessments which found that permanent housing would not be feasible on the site.

In planning documents, the council stated: “By repurposing an existing building, which would otherwise be difficult to reuse, the project provides both environmental and economic benefits. The development will generate job creation, contributing to both social and economic benefits for the local community.”

The scheme was approved by six votes to two, clearing the way for Criterion Capital to begin work on the redevelopment.

Chelsea Winter Village to Bring Festive Light Trail and Market to Royal Hospital

The Royal Hospital Chelsea is set to become one of London’s most festive destinations this winter as it welcomes the brand-new Chelsea Winter Village and Illuminations. Running from 26 November to 28 December 2025, the event will see the historic site transformed into a Christmas wonderland complete with a light trail, market, and seasonal entertainment.

Visitors will be able to explore a 1.5km illuminated route through Ranelagh Gardens, featuring 15 large-scale light installations, including a giant shooting star and an immersive walk-through bauble. The trail concludes with a light show set to music and entry to a free festive market, offering an array of food, drink, and handcrafted gifts.

The grounds will host vintage fairground rides, firepits, marshmallow toasting, and live performances from choirs and bands, creating a warm and lively atmosphere throughout the evenings. Guests can enjoy mulled wine, spiced cocktails, and a range of street food options, including slow-cooked duck wraps from The Duck Shed and sugar-dusted churros from Los Churros Amigos.

A selection of hands-on workshops will also be available, giving visitors the chance to take part in wreath-making, bauble painting, and other festive crafts. For those seeking something more competitive, the Curling Club will make its Chelsea debut, offering alpine-style indoor curling lanes suitable for both beginners and experienced players.

David Richmond CBE, Chief Executive of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, said:
“Christmas is always a special time of year at the Royal Hospital. This year, we are delighted to host the Chelsea Winter Illuminations’ inaugural light trail and winter village, which I’m sure will bring some festive cheer and be a fun activity for families.”

Tickets for the light trail start at £17.25 for children and £23.95 for adults, with prices varying by date and time. Family tickets, covering two adults and two children, are available from £37.50 to £79.50. The Winter Village area, featuring the market and entertainment, will be free to enter.

To ensure the experience is accessible to all, neurodivergent-inclusive sessions will run on 27 November, 3 December, and 18 December, with adjusted sound and lighting levels during early evening timeslots.

The Chelsea Winter Village and Illuminations aims to provide a new seasonal highlight for Londoners and visitors alike, combining festive tradition with creative design and community spirit in one of the city’s most iconic settings.