Ayrshire champions business ambition at heart of Westminster
Ayrshire business leaders joined a global celebration when they attended an event at the House of Lords.
The British Chambers of Commerce brought together Chamber leaders and board members from across the UK and around the world for their annual President's Lunch in London.
The event took place within the historic Palace of Westminster, set against the stunning backdrop of the Cholmondeley Room and Terrace.
Representing the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce were CEO Claire Baird, president Craig Johnstone, vice president Steven Easton and head of projects Gillian Longmuir.
Their attendance highlighted Ayrshire's commitment to regional growth, innovation and active participation in shaping the future of business support across the UK and beyond.
Hosted by BCC president, Baroness Martha Lane Fox CBE, the event welcomed over 150 influential guests and provided a valuable platform to celebrate the vital role Chambers play in connecting and championing businesses of all sizes.
Attendees were treated to inspiring insights from a line-up of respected speakers, including Heba Bevan OBE (CEO and Founder of UtterBerry Ltd), Baroness Lane Fox and BCC chair Sarah Howard MBE.
Discussions explored the future of enterprise, leadership in a digital age and the collective impact of the Chamber network in building resilient economies.
Ms Baird, CEO of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "It was an honour to represent Ayrshire at such a significant gathering. Events like this reinforce the importance of unity and shared vision across our network. The energy, innovation and collaboration on display were truly inspiring."
As Ayrshire continues to drive business growth and opportunity locally, the Chamber remains proud to contribute to the national and international dialogue shaping the future of enterprise.
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The Herald Scotland
11 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
Now will the small minds of the SNP twig what voters care about?
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Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Glasgow Times
Brian Maule embraces new challenges after restaurant closure
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The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- The Herald Scotland
Brian Maule embraces new challenges after restaurant closure
After tickets sold out in 'record time', the chefs were inspired to join forces once more, with two further dinners set to take place on Wednesday, August 6 and Thursday, August 7. Pictured: Chef Brian Maule returns to Glaschu for two exclusive dinner events this week (Image: Supplied) "I am absolutely delighted to be back at one of my favourite restaurants in the city to showcase some of Scotland's finest summer produce," Maule said of the upcoming events. "The last two were very successful, and it was so nice to see so many familiar faces of people who have followed me over the last 20 or so years. "There's a great atmosphere at these nights and we keep it professional, but relaxed. "I come out to talk about the menu, then we have the guy from the wine company we partner with do the same with the drinks. "It works really well, and there's a wee bit of an educational element to it without going too in depth." Read more: When Maule last spoke with the Herald, he had taken on a new role with Ayrshire-based hospitality group, Buzzworks, as he sought to pass on his skills to a new generation of culinary talent in Scotland. Though this contract has recently come to an end, consultancy work and collaborations with restaurants such as Glaschu mean that the chef is still rarely far away from professional kitchens. 'I've been really busy this past year, and working with various companies has meant that no two days have been the same. 'I get to go around different kitchens and meet new people, from chefs to owners, which is great. 'I'm still learning how best to deal with the individual needs of each business, but I'm enjoying that challenge and always looking out for the next opportunity.' Pictured: Maule has said he is 'absolutely delighted' to join forces with the team at Glaschu for a second time (Image: Supplied) Asked how his current work differs from more than two decades at the helm of his own restaurant, Le Chardon d'Or, before its shock closure in 2023, Maule said: 'Obviously, my own place will always be at the back of my mind, even though it's not there anymore. 'I miss it, but with the difficulties our industry has been facing at the moment, the past year has been far less stressful than the few prior. "I'm enjoying doing something different." Those attending this week's wine dinners at Glaschu will enjoy a menu that draws inspiration from some of Maule's favourite creations at Le Chardon d'Or, with dishes such as confit chicken bon bon, marinated cured salmon fillet, ragu of king prawns and Venison Wellington. Pictured: Glaschu's head chef, Graeme Brown (Image: Supplied) 'I have always admired Brian, and we've had a lot of fun with the menu development for the May events,' Glaschu's head chef Graeme Brown said of their joint effort to create the five-course tasting experience. 'We can't wait to share an unforgettable experience with our guests, filled with exceptional flavours, creativity, and great company.' Marshall Bass, territory manager from Enotria & Coe, Glaschu's wine partner, added: 'I am delighted and tremendously honoured to be a part of this event with Brian and Glaschu for a third and fourth time. 'The menu looks fantastic, as expected, and I am relishing the opportunity to don my sommelier cap again. 'The combination of Brian's culinary jewels with some of Enotria's top wine offerings, set in Glaschu's idyllic dining room, should make for an unforgettable night." Glaschu is located at 32 Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow. For further updates on upcoming events, visit
