News in brief: Synabor confirms it is to de-list and more

SYNARBOR, which provides support to the educational and social services sector, has confirmed it is to de-list from the Alternative Investment Market subject to shareholder approval on September 26.

Sheffield-based Synarbor has grown through a series of acquisitions and operates six companies but said delisting would allow it to develop its performance without the “onerous disclosure requirments” required as a stock market quoted company.

The board decided to cancel the company’s listing as its susceptibility to market conditions, especially the effect of poor liquidity and a stagnant or falling share price, has had a de-motivating effect on the business and its employees.

In addition, one of the key attractions of listing, the ability to raise further capital to fund acquisitions, is no longer available in the current climate.

The directors believe this is unlikely to change materially in the foreseeable future.

::

INDEPENDENT bar operators, Leelex is taking a piece of Leeds down to London with the opening of its fourth bar, the Portobello Star.

Following in the successful footsteps of the group’s first bar Oporto, and more recently Jake’s Bar and The Angel’s Share, the latest addition will aim to capture the same friendly and fun ethos as the existing trio.

Inspired by the market’s heritage the new look Portobello Star brings together old and new using handmade reclaimed wood furniture, antique mirrors, and modern lighting, and together with a friendly, experienced bar team formed in Leeds the bar captures the feel of an inviting neighbourhood, cocktail tavern.

Director Ged Feltham said: “The company will always be Leeds based and once we have taken Notting Hill by storm at the Portobello Star, we will be starting our next project in Leeds…the completion of our Call Lane Trilogy with the opening of “Caballo Loco” next to Oporto.”

::

A TRIAL weekend bistro service on selected National Express East Coast trains has been extended throughout October after a positive response from customers.

The trial, to gauge passenger demand for a more substantial hot and cold catering selection at the weekend, has now been extended to cover more services, including trains between London and Leeds for the first time.

Prepared by an on-board chef, gastro pub-style menus will be available on 32 trains over six further weekends until October 26.

Helen Thornton, National Express East Coast’s customer service director, said: “We’re excited about the feedback we’ve had from customers to the new selection of hot and cold food on our weekend train services, and look forward to extending the trial so more customers can experience the new menu. Our skilled chefs have been enjoying serving the new dishes which suit all tastes and we hope our customers will enjoy the improved choice on offer.”