Latest News

12/05/2009 : Thundersprint 2009 Image Gallery
15/03/2009 : A Letter of Thanks for our Partner, Joanne Charles
15/03/2009 : The Enterprise Finance Guarantee
04/03/2009 : Startups Soar in Slump
28/1/2009 : Glowing Report from the Auditor on Lexcel and Investors in People
12/8/2008 : Energy Performance Certificates
10/8/2008 : Top Tips for Selling your House
24/6/2008 : 10% Off Wills
15/6/2008 : Thundersprint 2008 Photos
13/6/2008 : Thundersprint Promotional Adverts
30/5/2008 : Thundersprint Stories
3/5/2008 : Audi R8 at Thundersprint
10/4/2008 : Gladiators' Jet Rides Again
2/4/2008 : mosshaselhurst sponsors Thundersprint
2/4/2008 : Jet Becomes Thundersprint Ambassador

Vacancies

2/4/2008 : Commercial Property Solicitor

A Letter of Thanks for our Partner, Joanne Charles

Joanne Charles has received a letter of thanks from The Cheshire Carer's Centre in Crewe after she gave a presentation on Wills and Powers of Attorney. This took place on 23rd February. The presentation was given during the 'Caring At Home' Course at Crewe Carers Resource Centre, Brierly Business Centre in Crewe.

The letter made mention of the following:

"We very much appreciated you taking the time to speak to the carers on our course, and the information you provided was invaluable.

Thank you for your support it is much appreciated".

The Enterprise Finance Guarantee

The Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) was launched by the Government in January 2009 to assist small businesses currently struggling to secure bank loans and finance.

The Government launched the scheme in the current economic climate in order to help jump start bank lending to businesses. The Government is offering a guarantee of up to 75% of the value of loans made to small businesses to a maximum of £1million for up to 10 years. The guarantee is on offer to small businesses with a turnover of less than £25million.

The guarantee can be used to guarantee new loans, refinance existing loans or to convert part or all of an existing overdraft into a loan to release capacity to meet working capital needs. Most businesses in most sectors will be eligible for the scheme. However, rules exclude businesses in the agriculture, coal and steel sectors.

Many high street lenders are offering the guaranteed loans including Barclays, HBOS, HSBC, Lloyds TSB and RBS/Natwest. The Federation of Small Businesses has found though that many bank managers were not even aware that the scheme existed and so small businesses were missing out on the opportunity.

The Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme is running until 31 March 2010.

Startups Soar in Slump

Is there a positive side to the economic downturn for some? Gerry Rooney, Senior Partner at mosshaselhurst solicitors believes that an increasing number of those made redundant during this recession will be seizing the opportunity to set up businesses for themselves.

"In true entrepreneurial spirit, I think some people will try to turn a negative into a positive, in many cases using redundancy payments to finance business startups. The credit crisis is providing the catalyst for change. People with dreams of going it alone are taking advantage of their new found freedom and the opportunity it offers," Gerry explains.

Recent figures from Companies House support the suggestion. More than 21,000 people established new businesses last December, compared to 20,000 new start-ups in December 2007.

"Irrespective of the economic situation, the UK has always enjoyed high business startup rates," continues Gerry. "It is relatively straightforward to set up a business, particularly with the popularity and success of online trading and e-communications.

Opportunity knocks

"Working from home is an increasingly viable option for many sectors. The struggle and demise of many high street brands leaves gaps in the market. People with vision may be seeing increased scope in this scenario - the opportunity to bridge those gaps," he says.

Gerry urges entrepreneurs to practice caution. "One downside of the downturn is that three in five new businesses will close within three years," he points out.

"A high proportion of startups are sole traders with no employment aspirations, so we clearly need greater Governmental support for SMEs. As a nation we are economically reliant upon businesses surviving during hard times and hopefully we'll see businesses thriving before too long," Gerry concludes.

Crunch time?

There are 2.9 million registered businesses at Companies House, 21,117 of which registered in December 2008. SMEs (small to medium sized enterprises) are finding securing credit from the banks increasingly difficult and according to a recent Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) study, only 8 per cent of small businesses revealed that the banks are offering them the Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme.

The Treasury launched this initiative last month (January 2008) to support £1.3b of new lending by banks to viable, small businesses.

Credit where credit's due

If you have recently started a new business or are considering using redundancy money to fund a new venture, impartial guidance and legal advice is at hand.

Please contact mosshaselhurst solicitors on 01606 74301 or see them at www.mosshaselhurst.co.uk

Glowing Report from the Auditor on Lexcel and Investors in People

mosshaselhurst solicitors is delighted to confirm a glowing report from the Auditor on Lexcel and Investors in People. The Firm can report NO non compliances.

"We would like to offer our sincere thanks and appreciation to every member of our team who has contributed to this success"

Said Gerry Rooney, Senior Partner mosshaselhurst who went on to say...

"I was very encouraged by the auditors complimentary remarks about the firm particularly at this difficult time for businesses, isn't it great to have some good news!"

mosshaselhurst is the only firm of solicitors in the borough of Vale Royal to hold both IIP and Lexel. With offices in both Northwich and Winsford, mosshaselhurst can be contacted on 01606 74301 (Northwich) and 01606 592159 (Winsford). Alternatively contact my be made through the website www.mosshaselhurst.co.uk

Energy Performance Certificates

As from 1st October 2008 landlords will be required to show prospective tenants an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or face a fine of up to £200 per property.

In the past many landlords and letting agents have claimed that tenants would not pay any attention to an EPC when choosing a property but with increasing fuel costs tenants are now saying that they are considering fuel costs and would appreciate the introduction of EPCs to rented properties.

The introduction of the EPC only applies to new tenants and will not need to be shown to existing tenants. EPCs can be arranged through local Domestic Energy Assessors costing between £50 and £80 and remain valid for 10 years, unless the property's energy efficiency is increased in which case it is recommended that another EPC is commissioned.

Top Tips for Selling your House

With the number of home owners choosing to sell their home falling fast it is no wonder that it is now taking on average 11 weeks for sales to be achieved. According to a local agent sellers can hope to achieve on average only 90% of their asking price. These kinds of figures could dissuade potential sellers, but with inventiveness, patience and the ability to accept a lower asking price it is still possible to achieve a sale.

Top Tips for Selling

1. Local agents can be a valuable source of advice, they will know what kind of properties are selling and at what price. The agents will be able to give an indication of what potential buyers are looking for and which features in a property are attracting the most attention.
2. Agents are also encouraging sellers to provide lots of detail to potential buyers, point out new kitchens and bathrooms. Shout from the roof tops if you live in a sought after catchment area - it's this kind of thing that may attract the attention of buyers who are not familiar with the area.
3. Remove yourself from a chain. Making yourself chain-free, by entering into a short term rental property or staying with relatives, you are more appealing to potential buyers.

10% Off Wills (Please Note: This offer has now expired.)

Introducing the great summer sale at mosshaselhurst

Joanne Charles explains why this summer, the mosshaselhurst summer sale is focussed on Wills:

"Each year we notice an influx of clients at the beginning of the summer who call in or call us just before they jet off. This year we talked to several members of staff and a few clients and asked just when and what it was that prompted them to make their very first Will. Interestingly, many had done so in the weeks before taking a holiday"

And Joanne adds:

"We're often asked how important the making of a Will is and in simple terms there's a very obvious answer. By making your Will you put yourself in a position to decide what happens to all your assets after you die. Whilst there is no legal requirement to make a will, it's the best way to make sure your estate is passed to those who you would wish to benefit. Should you die without having made provision by way of a Will, your assets will be passed on to those that the law sees as appropriate and may not go those who you would like to benefit . Hopefully the following summary will help;

Here's some quick points as to why you should make a Will:

Your Will sets out exactly who you would like to benefit, after your death, from your estate. The key features are:

• You decide exactly how your assets are distributed when you die - if you don't make a Will, the law will dictate how your assets are distributed after you die.
• If you are an unmarried couple (including same-sex relationship), making a Will means you can ensure that your partner is provided for after you die.
• If you have children under 18 you can appoint a guardian in the event of your death.

Getting your Will written

There are a number of legal formalities that you need to cover in order to create a Will that will be recognised as valid. Wills drawn up by non specialists carry a serious risk of being invalid. More complicated matters may well need specialist attention and advice.

At mosshaselhurst, we're happy to see you in our offices in either Winsford or Northwich and we're equally happy to visit you at home or hospital if necessary.

What we advise you to think about when making your Will

• The total value of your assets including property and other possessions.
• Who you would like to benefit.
• Who you think could care for any children under the age of 18 after your death.
• Who could look after your affairs, as detailed in your Will, after your death
• Keeping your Will safe
• Having made your Will, mosshaselhurst will keep the original copy safe for you free of charge. We will also provide you with copies"

So it's simple - and if you'd like to make a Will, Joanne and her team can be contacted. Please call them:

Northwich Office - 01606 74301, please ask for either Ken McRae or Julie Foundation

Winsford Office - 01606 592159, please ask for Joanne Charles

Call now to catch this special offer - 10% discount which means that a single Will costs as little as £112.50 excluding VAT!

Thundersprint 2008 Photos

View our gallery of The Thundersprint Bikeshow held at Winnington Park Rugby Club. With 100s of superb bikes on show,which also included our stall featuring Diane Youdale and a selection of cars from out friends at the PKD group.

Click Here for to View Photos

Thundersprint Promotional Adverts

Below we feature the 'in tent' promotional material that we displayed during this year's Thundersprint event. Please click on the thumbnails to view a larger image.is a selection of the adverts we displayed around our tent during this years Thundersprint event.

Thundersprint Stories

Quick reflections on a great day had by all at The mosshaselhurst stand

"We had a tremendous time and were pleased to see so many people stop by and talk to us at The mosshaselhurst stand. The highlights for me were the barrel-rolling spitfire and the symphony of sound that came with it and the general volume of bikers who were a great pleasure to meet.

The sheer number of people that were interested in our many services was enlightening. I was expecting people to be interested in Northwich based Legal Services that related to bikers such as personal injury services in and around Northwich. In reality there were a great number of people from all over the country and we had enquiries about a range of legal services in the Cheshire area and further afield"
Gerry Rooney, Senior Partner - mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"With a speciality in Personal Injury Claims, predominantly in the Cheshire area, I was really pleased to be able to speak to so many people at Thundersprint about how mosshaselhurst Solicitors can help. We had a wonderful day with so many to see and so much to talk about"
Tracey Slater, Litigation Assistant - mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"Rolling the dice was great fun, it was amazing to see how people got so excited, but not surprising in the least! - I think I quite fancied a turn in the TT, not to mention the R8! - Having said all that I'd likely need the help of my colleague, Will Hurley, very soon after taking the wheel of the R8. I'm sure that 0-60 in under 5 seconds would leave me in the need of a great Solicitor in Northwich!"
David Bannister, Family Executive - mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"Adjudicating on the 'roll the dice' stand almost gave me heart failure! -the number of times that 3 sixes appeared made me wonder if the odds were so long afterall. Perhaps I should take my own advice next time and ensure that I have my Will organised properly before taking on such things!"
Ken McRrae, Senior Solicitor, Conveyancing and Wills - mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"I really liked the 1 metre square posters that we created for the event - we had many comments from people who liked some of the inferences. I guess though that if you need a good solicitor in Northwich - 'don't get caught with your briefs down! - call mosshaselhurst'"
Joanne Caulfield - Legal Assistant - mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"Phew, what a plan to have to bring together! - but all worthwhile nevertheless. I really enjoyed the day and passing the mosshaselhurst balloons to all the little ones provided me with my highlight. I think we have quite a few 3 to 6 year old budding Solicitors in Northwich in our midst!"
Sharron Spruce, Office Manager - mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"Of course, as the biker in the practice, my highlight was the cavalcade and taking part in it. I was delighted to meet Jim Redman, Danny Webb and of course to shake hands with 'Aggo'. To have these great bikers stood together in The mosshaselhurst stand on a beautiful summers day in Northwich - well, does it get any better for a Northwich Solicitor?"
Chris Johnson, Partner mosshaselhurst Solicitors

"The atmosphere was electric, especially when the crowd grew and amassed around the' roll the dice' and 'win the TT' table. This is the only time that I have wished that I worked somewhere other than mosshaselhurst solicitors, Northwich. Unfortunately, as a member of staff I was precluded from the competition!"
Joanne Charles, Partner - mosshaselhurst solicitors

Gladiators' Jet Rides Again

Diane Youdale, who wowed over 10 million viewers with her stunning performances as "Jet" in the TV programme "Gladiators", will be in action at this year's Thundersprint held in Northwich town centre on Sunday 11 May.

Diane is a huge bike fan and is looking forward to riding again - particularly in front of the huge Thundersprint crowd.

Diane said: "I've always been a biker at heart and I loved presenting bike programmes in the past. My favourite bikes are Harley-Davidsons, which say exactly what I feel about bikes.

"The thought of launching a 1200cc Harley Night Rider off the start line in front of 30,000 cheering fans is both incredibly exciting - and more than a bit terrifying but I'm 100% up for the challenge!

"When I'm not in action on the track, I will be with my Harley on mosshaselhurst Solicitors' stand and I'm really looking forward to meeting as many fans as possible. Make sure you come across for a chat."

Gerry Rooney, Senior Partner at mosshaselhurst Solicitors, added, "We are thrilled to welcome Diane as the 'face' of mosshaselhurst - so many people remember her fondly from her 'Gladiator' days.

'We are also 'jet-set' for an exciting day at this year's Thundersprint! Everyone is invited to visit our stand, meet Diane in person and talk to members of the mosshaselhurst team to find out more about the range of services we offer local businesses and individuals.

"Whatever your legal needs - we have a specialist who can help."

For more information contact Frank Melling on 01928 740 498 or e-mail media@thundersprint.com

Audi R8 at Thundersprint

See the very latest Audi R8 supercar on the mosshaselhurst stand at Thundersprint 2008

Northwich and Winsford based solicitors mosshaselhurst today announced that they have agreed to show The What Car performance car of the year at The Northwich Thundersprint 2008.

Gerry Rooney, senior partner of mosshaselhurst solicitors said:

"We thought that the Audi R8 represented the epitome of 'safe-speed' and looked for someone that could provide an example to display on our stand at Thundersprint 2008. Graham Reedy, Managing Director of The pkd Group, a Cheshire based new and used Audi specialist came to the fore and has agreed to show The Car during the day...having seen it in the flesh, my advice to all is... prepare to drool!!!!!!"

Thundersprint takes place in Northwich over the week end of 10th and 11th May 2008.

www.thundersprint.com
www.pkdgroup.co.uk

mosshaselhurst sponsors Thundersprint 2008

mosshaselhurst solicitors based in Northwich and Winsford today announced that they have agreed to sponsor The Northwich Thundersprint 2008.

Gerry Rooney, Senior Partner of mosshaselhurst solicitors said:

"we are delighted to have taken up this opportunity and are pleased to have asked Diane Youdale (formerly Jet from Gladiators) to take part in the event"

mosshaselhurst solicitors specialise in all disciplines of the law and are the only firm of solicitors in The Vale Royal area to have have achieved not only LEXEL status, but also to have the Investors in People accreditation.

Gerry added:

"Thundersprint 2008 allows us to highlight our services to a huge number of people. Having taken a senior sponsor position at this year's event, we shall be looking to meet as many people as possible and to spread the 'mosshaselhurst word'. In addition to riding a famous Harley Davidson Motorcycle, Diane will be mingling with the crowd and talking to as many people as possible"

mosshaselhurst solicitors have an additional attraction planned for their stand, an example of the very latest 'supercar' from Audi. Graham Reedy, Managing Director of The pkd group, a Cheshire based specialist in new and used Audi cars will be showing the much lauded winner of What Car's supercar of the year award ' The Audi R8. Thundersprint takes place in Northwich over the week end of 10th and 11th May 2008.

www.thundersprint.com
www.dianeyoudale.co.uk
www.pkdgroup.co.uk

Jet Becomes Thundersprint Ambassador

mosshaselhust appoints ex Gladiator 'Jet' as Thundersprint marketing ambassador

mosshaselhurst, the Cheshire based solicitors practice located in Northwich and Winsford, have appointed Diane Youdale as a Thundersprint event Ambassador for 2008. Gerry Rooney, Senior Partner of mosshaselhurst said:

"Diane has kindly agreed to represent the firm on our various marketing initiatives over the coming financial year. We are looking forward to having Diane as ' the face' of mosshaselhurst and have many projects in the pipeline"

Diane added:

"When Gerry and the team approached me, I was instantly at ease with the mosshaselhurst ethic. Having discussed the plans for 2008 and 2009 and already being a client myself, I knew that I would relish in the opportunity to assist where I can"

See Diane representing mosshaselhurst for the first time at Thundersprint 2008 - Northwich 11th May 2008

 

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northwichoffice

2 Castle Street,
Northwich,
Cheshire
CW8 1AB

Tel: 01606 74301
Fax: 01606 871034

winsfordoffice

Grange House,
5 Grange Lane,
Winsford
Cheshire
CW7 2DH

Tel: 01606 592159
Fax: 01606 861381

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