The brains behind Harrogate’s North Studio, Rachel Woolford, was tonight named as the winner of The Apprentice on BBC.
Rachel, who began the 12-week process alongside 17 other hopefuls, has landed herself a £250,000 investment from Lord Alan Sugar.
The lucky winner, who set up her Cold Bath Road fitness business just last year, went head-to-head with Bognor Regis pie shop owner Phil Turner in tonight’s episode.
The investment will go towards expanding her business, which started in Leeds, across northern England. It offers small group fitness classes, including running, boxing, HIIT and reformer pilates.
For their last task, the two finalists had to launch their businesses.
Rachel Woolford and Phil Turner in the final. Pic: BBC Pictures.
Rachel’s team created a digital billboard and a virtual reality tour around one of her proposed gyms. She also pitched her business plan to Lord Sugar, aides Baroness Brady and Tim Campbell, as well as a room of industry experts.
In her presentation, Rachel said she planned to open five gyms in “bustling locations” in the north, including York, Manchester and Newcastle.
The Leeds woman, who called her company Studio Build in the episode, said her actual business — North Studio — focusses on “high energy and inclusive group fitness classes, which cost a little less than a personal trainer, but still offering that personal feel”.
But her success was not without hurdles, as she faced tough questions from fitness moguls, such as representatives from Barry’s, F45 and Rumble UK.
They questioned how Rachel could replicate the “personal and community” feel she said her business centres around, as well how she will ensure client and staff retention.
North Studio Harrogate
Once pitches were over, the candidates faced the infamous boardroom for the final time.
As Lord Sugar deliberated on his decision, Baroness Brady said about Rachel:
“This business is her life and her passion for it really comes across. The issue really is just how expensive it is to open gyms, and she’ll burn through your investment pretty quickly.”
Tim Campbell, the first ever winner of The Apprentice, added:
“I think the thing with Rachel is that she’s going into a great industry sector and she’s a great advocate for her product and service. It’s about the scalability of that. Can she systemise what she’s done very well at two gyms over at many, many more?”
Former contestants joined Rachel for the final episode. Pic: BBC Pictures.
After one last hit at persuasion from the two finalists, Lord Sugar made his final decision.
He said:
“Let me conclude here. This is a very tough decision, I’ve got to say because I’ve got two very, very credible people in front of me.”
“I’ve got Rachel who claims she’s making money and that she’s going to make even more when she gets the second gym up and running but gyms are with all due respect, two-a-penny.
“Specialist pies are not and it’s a market that I’m very interested in, but how can I be interested in it if there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? There’s a loss-making business at the moment which you tell me is going to turn around and be okay and that’s my dilemma.”
But it was northerner Rachel who took home the crown, and the money.
Lord Sugar concluded:
“It’s very, very hard for me. I’m having trouble here.
“But my gut feeling is telling me that, Rachel, you’re going to be my business partner.”
Now £250,000 richer and Lord Sugar’s newest business partner, Rachel Woolford is one-step-closer to expanding North Studio across the region.
Rachel said in the episode:
“To take part in the process has been incredible and to come out a winner is just something beyond my wildest dreams.
“I was 24-years-old when I started my business. I was just a girl from Leeds and now I cannot believe it, I’m going into business with Lord Sugar and he’s investing in me.”
For now, Lord Sugar’s search for his next business partner is over.
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Man, 33, charged with robbery at Harrogate jeweller
A 33-year-old man has been charged with robbery at a Harrogate jewellers last week.
North Yorkshire Police today said the man will appear at York Magistrates Court this morning (April 16) after being arrested yesterday afternoon.
The constabulary said the man was from Leeds but did not name him.
Police issued a CCTV appeal about the suspected theft of two “high value watches” from Ogden’s on James Street last Wednesday (April 10).
Read more:
Harrogate business owner through to The Apprentice final
The owner of a Harrogate business has made it to the final of the BBC’s The Apprentice.
Rachel Woolford, owner of North Studio on Cold Bath Road, is just one of two remaining contestants competing for Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment.
The two North Studio sites, in Harrogate and Leeds, currently offer small group fitness classes, including running, reformer pilates, boxing and HIIT workouts.
Over the 11-week series, the 28-year-old has sold and run a tour in Budapest, created a vegan alternative to cheese and even flogged paddling pools on a TV shopping channel.
Now, the Leeds woman has one final chance at convincing the British billionaire she is worthy of the prize money.
But her success has not come without obstacles.
In last night’s episode, the five remaining candidates were interviewed — and their business plans scrutinised — by business tycoons.
Rachel’s plan is to open three more North Studio sites in the north of England.
But Claude Littner, long-term business associate of Lord Sugar, crunched Rachel’s numbers — and not in the way she had hoped.
After failing to turn up with her company’s accounts, Mr Littner told Rachel she had made a “very serious mistake” before the interview had even started.
She told Mr Littner she spent more than £250,000 on both North Studio gyms, funded partly through a bank loan, plus monthly finances spent on equipment. But without the figures in front of him, he responded:
“All I can see is losses, loans. It’s impossible to get any idea.”
Rachel Woolford preparing for her interview. Pic: BBC Pictures.
Before Rachel thought the interviews could get much worse, they did.
Publishing pioneer Mike Soutar bought both website domains Rachel had anticipated on purchasing for her new gyms.
Her business plan included opening a site in Newcastle – or more specifically, Jesmond.
However, Mr Soutar beat Rachel to buying her desired website domain for Newcastle (www.northstudionewcastle.co.uk), as well as the Jesmond domain (www.northstudiojesmond.co.uk) – pointing out two flaws in her business plan.
The interview did, however, resolve in Rachel purchasing both domains from Mr Soutar for £34 plus VAT.
Mike Suter. Pic: BBC Pictures.
But despite the rocky interviews, Rachel was praised for her passion about her business.
Mr Soutar told Lord Sugar there may be financial “difficulties” when scaling her business, but added if it can be done right “she is definitely the person to do it”.
Lord Sugar even created a new tagline for Rachel: “You want people to get ripped in Ripon”.
When asked to convince Lord Sugar why she should be his business partner, Rachel said:
“In the first year, I turned over £85,000. However, for six months of that year, we were closed because of the pandemic.
“Now I’ve turned it into a profitable business, and I’ve got a model there that we can copy to other cities, to other locations, which I believe is successful.
“With your mentorship, I will put my all into this, as I already do. I’m willing to learn and I will continue to put my entire life into it.”
Rachel was the first contestant through to the grand final – and is now just one task away from £250,000.
It will be a battle between fitness and food as she faces owner of family-run pie business, Phil Turner, in next week’s final.
The Apprentice finalists Rachel Woolford and Phil Turner. Pic: BBC Pictures.
The final of The Apprentice will air on Thursday, April 18, at 9pm on BBC One.
You can read our interview with Rachel Woolford here.
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- ‘I didn’t go on The Apprentice to be an influencer, I’m a serious businesswoman’
- World famous orchestra coming to Harrogate
Yemi’s Food Stories: a taste of France at Kendell’s Bistro, Leeds
Yemi Adelekan is a food writer and blogger who was a semi-finalist in the 2022 series of BBC TV’s Masterchef competition.
Every Saturday Yemi writes on the Stray Ferret about her love of the area’s food and shares cooking tips – please get in touch with her if you want her to review a restaurant, visit your farm, taste the produce you sell or even share a recipe.
In the world of gastronomy, French cuisine stands as a beacon of excellence, celebrated for its rich flavours, meticulous techniques, and timeless elegance.
As a Nigerian British who lived in the West Indies and whose food is influenced by many cultures including African and the Middle East, I must confess that some of my most consulted books are my French cookbooks. That’s because I love to understand foundational cooking techniques and I adore sauces as they can make or break a dish.
Key defining factors of French cuisine include:
- Quality ingredients: French cooking begins with the finest, freshest ingredients sourced locally and seasonally. From vibrant produce to succulent meats and delicate cheeses, the quality of ingredients is paramount.
- Technique and tradition: French chefs are renowned for their mastery of culinary techniques, passed down through generations. Whether it’s the art of sauce-making, precision knife skills, or the delicate balance of flavours, French cuisine is steeped in tradition and craftsmanship.
- Attention to detail: Every aspect of French cooking, from preparation to presentation, is executed with meticulous attention to detail. From the perfectly chopped herbs to the intricately plated dishes, each element contributes to the overall harmony of flavours and textures.
- Regional diversity: France boasts a rich tapestry of culinary traditions, with each region offering its own distinct specialties and flavours. From the seafood-rich cuisine of Brittany to the hearty stews of the French Alps, exploring French cooking is like embarking on a delicious journey across the country.
- Celebration of seasonality: French cuisine is deeply rooted in the rhythm of the seasons, with dishes showcasing the best of each time of year. From vibrant spring salads to comforting winter braises, French chefs know how to highlight seasonal ingredients.
Kendell’s Bistro, Leeds
Recently I was craving the decadence of French food and wanted to wrap up what had been a ‘foodie’ month to celebrate my birthday, so I went to Kendell’s Bistro in Leeds after recommendation from work colleagues.
From the humorous words on the board about tips to the seafood menu on the board, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.
To start
The menu had the usual suspects, but my choices were inspired by the accompanying sauces. I ordered the Oeuf Aux Meurettes, a starter of poached eggs, red wine sauce, bacon, roast shallots, mushroom, garlic and sourdough croute.
Oeuf Aux Meurettes
I enjoyed the rich and dark sauce red wine sauce, saltiness from the crispy bacon and the sourdough was the perfect vessel to carry the poached eggs and soak up the delicious red wine sauce.
On arrival it almost looked like the size of a main dish but that’s because the sourdough toast underneath the eggs made it look substantial.
The second starter of mussels in a light white wine sauce with garlic and a touch of cream was delicate and perfectly seasoned. A great way to start the meal and prepare us for the indulgence that was to come.
The main course
My main was Pave D’Agneau, roast rump of lamb, aubergine feta mint, charlotte, rosemary jus and dauphinois potatoes. The sauce was glossy with a touch of sweetness, purée was elegant, and the roasted garlic was a nice touch.
Potato dauphinois was indulgent and decadent with the rich cream and it was perfectly seasoned. I could eat this all day. Aubergine with feta was a nice addition with richness of the feta but I needed a touch more salt.
Pave D’Agneau
The other main was the Loup de Mer; boneless and skinless sea bass with sliced lemon and capers cooked on a bed of fennel and tarragon en papillote. Cooking the fish in paper created a light and delicious broth.
Dessert
Ordering dessert was simply because I was too curious to give it a pass. The Ile Flotante Aux Rhubarb aka. vanilla pod custard, poached meringue, toasted almonds and rhubarb was pretty and delicious.
The second dessert of chocolate mousse with raspberry had a mousse that was thick, bitter and not overly sweet. Raspberry coulis was sharp and cut through the richness of the mousse. The brandy basket provided a base for the mousse and the crunchiness that was needed.
Chocolate mousse with raspberry
Price: Starter from £7.90 to £10.90, Mains from £19 to £32, Sides from £4.20 to £4.70 and Desserts £9 and £11.50 for a selection of French cheeses.
Verdict: The meal was well cooked, beautifully plated, delicious and indulgent from start to finish a reminder of why classic french cooking remains well regarded.
Reaching a foodie milestone
This is my 50th post for The Stray Ferret, so I want to thank all readers for your support. Please send me recommendations of places, producers and produces to check out in Yorkshire.
Read more:
- Yemi’s Food Stories: Brunch at The Hideaway in Boroughbridge
- Yemi’s Food Stories: A taste of Paradise in Killinghall
- Yemi’s Food Stories: embracing spring by celebrating seasonal produce
- Yemi’s Food Stories: Rafi’s Spicebox Harrogate
A car belonging to a missing Leeds woman has been found close to the border of the former Harrogate district.
Molly Ann Garbutt, 25, was reported missing last night (Tuesday, April 2) with police saying they had “immediate concerns for her welfare”.
Enquiries led officers to establish Molly’s black Renault Clio was in the Grassington area from around 7pm last night.
Her car was found by Rural Watch volunteers just before 8am today, parked off the B6265 near Dibbles Bridge at Hebden, about two miles from Greenhow in the former Harrogate district.
West Yorkshire Police issued the initial appeal for information but following the discovery of the car North Yorkshire Police has joined the search.
It said in a statement this afternoon:
“North Yorkshire Police is conducting searches and enquiries in the surrounding area in the effort to find Molly.
“These are being supported by RAF Mountain Rescue and the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association, along with a HM Coastguard helicopter.
“Molly is described as white, slim build, with long ginger hair. She was last seen wearing a brown velvet thigh-length coat, pink leggings and white boots.”
Officers have urged anyone with information or sightings of a woman in the area matching Molly’s description to report it by calling 999.
Quote North Yorkshire Police reference number 12240057708 when passing on information.
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5 things to do in Harrogate and the district this weekendHarrogate toddler enters the new year cancer free
Georgina Johnstone was just one year old when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and her family have been raising money and awareness to help children like her ever since.
In August 2022, Georgina became tired and grouchy and started to be sick each morning. Her mum, Issy Rowe, a teacher from Harrogate, thought recently prescribed antibiotics for an ear infection were to blame. But when the tablets stopped and the sickness continued, the family became worried.
Issy took her to the GP, who thought it might have been a virus or urinary tract infection. After five more days of sickness, Issy knew things weren’t right. They were referred to Harrogate District Hospital after their third visit to a doctor.
At first, the hospital had no major concerns and suggested a return visit a week later. Yet Issy persisted and an MRI scan was done the following day.
The scan found a significant cancerous mass on Georgina’s brain, and she was transferred to Leeds General Infirmary.
The SATS showed that the tumour was a quarter of the size of her brain. The tumour was cutting her brain off from her body and her family were told they would need to operate to remove it or Georgina would die.
The next day, the doctors operated on her for five hours and removed the 16cm tumour. After surgery, a 56-week treatment plan was put in place, involving high-dose chemotherapy, in seven cycles over eight weeks.
It all meant that going to nursery had to be put on hold until she was better. In December 2023, Georgina was given the all-clear.
Issy said:
“Its early days still – she only came off medication eight weeks ago, but her last scan was all clear. It’s been amazing to adjust back to family life and reality. She’s full of energy, which is lovely. You don’t realise how poorly they are until you see them better.”
Throughout her daughter’s treatment, Issy raised funds and awareness for The Brain Tumour Charity and friends and family also supported the fundraising. They have raised over £21,000 so far through completing the Three Peaks Challenge, sponsored runs, quizzes and a wellness retreat.
This year, the family have chosen to raise funds for Candlelighters, children’s cancer charity. Issy said they wanted funds to go to a local charity this year to directly help the children on the oncology ward at Leeds General Infirmary.
They have set a target to reach £5,000 – the same goal as last year – but are hoping to exceed it and even beat the £21,000 already raised.
Issy added:
“We definitely want to get more people involved and raise more money.”
They have a few fundraising events planned already involving the Three Peaks Challenge on May 11, another wellness weekend in October and one of their first events is set to be a sporting morning. The event is to be held on January 14 by Harrogate Strays Walking Football Club, a team for over-50s where Georgina’s grandfather, Derek Rowe, is a manager.
To donate to Georgina’s page click here.
Read more:
- Ripon woman to climb Yorkshire three peaks to mark one-year ‘cancerversary’
- Ripon tinsel tractor run raises £1,500 for Yorkshire Cancer Research
Northern launches £1 Harrogate line train tickets in flash sale
Train operator Northern has announced a flash sale of £1 tickets from Harrogate and Knaresborough to Leeds and York.
Five million tickets are on sale and people have until 4pm tomorrow (January 5) to purchase.
The tickets are valid for travel between Wednesday, January 10, and Friday, March 1, 2024 ,and must be booked at least seven days in advance of travel.
Mark Powles, commercial and customer director at Northern, said:
“The ‘Flash Sale’ extends to every corner of our network, with £1 tickets up for grabs for both local and longer, cross-country journeys.
“We hope the ‘Flash Sale’ will inspire people to get out and about across the region, for those moments that matter most – days out with the family, catch-ups with friends or for no reason other than to enjoy the beautiful countryside and coastlines our region has to offer.
“As always, customers should book early to avoid disappointment. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.”
People can buy the tickets online, on Northern’s website or its app.
Destinations along the Leeds line eligible for the discount are:
Bradford Forster Square, Carlisle, Chester, Doncaster, Halifax, Harrogate, Huddersfield, Ilkley, Knaresborough, Knottingley, Lancaster, Manchester Victoria, Morecambe, Nottingham, Selby, Sheffield, Skipton and York.
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Women’s fashion retailer to open Harrogate store tomorrow
Women’s fashion retailer Best Kept Secret will open a new Harrogate store tomorrow.
The shop, which launched in 2016, was previously based in Kirkby Overblow.
Owned by Fiona Martin, it sells a wide range of women’s clothing, including evening wear, shoes, accessories and everyday items. It also operates an online store.
Ms Martin said the new store presented an opportunity to expand the shop’s personal shopping experience.
Groups can book private shopping evenings and there are also plans to hold more fashion shows at the new venue, she added.
Ms Martin told the Stray Ferret that after seven years of trading in the village it was “time for a change.”
She added:
“The Best Kept Secret social media account was hacked in August this year and we lost 10,000 followers.
“It had a real impact, so we thought it was a good time for a change and we decided to move into town.”
Best Kept Secret closed its doors in Kirkby Overblow yesterday. The new Harrogate store can be found on Cheltenham Parade.
Ms Martin said:
“We’ve already got gorgeous, loyal customers and we can’t wait to meet new ones too.
“Being in town will be great and will be easier for people to travel to – especially groups that book a bespoke shopping evening with a glass of fizz!
“People can expect even more affordable and stylish brands – we’re just so excited.”
Best Kept Secret will be open seven days a week.
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- Late night Christmas shopping in Pateley Bridge tonight
Book Club Save the World at Park Playground in Leeds
This article is sponsored by Park Playground.
Who knew a group of eight middle aged women could have so much fun romping around a distant planet, fighting aliens and solving the world’s clean energy crisis in about an hour?
When I suggested a virtual reality experience at Park Playground to members of my Harrogate book club, it’s fair to say they were a little sceptical. This was tech that they’d no idea about but, I successfully argued, would make us pretty cool with our kids and grandchildren.
I had already been to Park Playground on a wet August day with an eleven year old and had a blast…literally. I was convinced Book Club would also find it hilarious.
Group of visitors to Park Playground in Leeds, Photograph provided by Park Playground
Off we set from Harrogate for a night out in Leeds, beginning with our session at Park Playground.
Ahmad was hosting us and we began by taking a virtual lift to the top of a sky-scraper. Once at the top, the doors opened and we each had to walk a plank off what felt like the top of the Burj Khalifa. If you can’t stand heights like me, it’s so real it’s terrifying. I couldn’t do it – but some of my fellow book lovers did it, egged on by the rest of us, shouting encouragement.
So the scene was set for our main session – a journey to a distant planet to collect a crystal which produces clean energy. We fought aliens (big and small) and an enemy army so we had to work as a team. Team work is very hard when you all start acting like teenagers and spend much of the session screaming and howling with laughter.
Our mission was eventually accomplished and we had saved the planet. Pheww. Book Club were awesome!
The technology is so impressive – you feel as though you really are jetpacking and the aliens who come at you are intimidating. It’s serious fun.
Park Playground is not just for the kids – it’s for everyone. I think every Book Club should go – as should every work team.
You enter another world, you are immersed in your new surroundings and it’s one of the best hours I’ve had this year.