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The Cumbria Combined Authority has recommended John Barradell OBE for appointment as Interim Chief Executive. A highly experienced public-sector leader, he brings national resilience and local government expertise and will help steer Cumbria through devolution, unlocking at least £333m in funding ahead of a directly elected Mayor in 2027.

Read the 11th February 2026 edition of the Enterprising Cumbria Newsletter.

Josh Newell, Director of The Good Solar People, accessed tailored support through the Cumbria Accelerator to move from uncertainty to clarity, developing a robust business plan and clear funding pathways with guidance from his advisors. The structured, practical support gave Josh Newell the confidence, focus, and actionable steps needed to drive solar sales and pursue growth opportunities with confidence.

Read the 28th January 2026 edition of the Enterprising Cumbria Newsletter.

With support from the Cumbria Accelerator Programme, Tracey grew Allure Beauty Clinic by turning her science-led expertise into a clear, sustainable growth plan. Guided by business advisor Donna Dacre, she strengthened visibility, managed rising costs, and built confidence to take the next step, positioning her advanced beauty clinic for long-term success in Barrow-in-Furness.

Read the 14th January 2026 edition of the Enterprising Cumbria Newsletter.

Joe Shevelan of Forgedathome Ltd worked with the Cumbria Accelerator programme to turn his passion for blacksmithing into a clearer business strategy, focusing on reaching the right audience and building stronger community connections. With tailored guidance, he gained confidence, refined his marketing approach, and established stronger foundations for sustainable growth while staying true to his craft.

Kamila Kozlowska, owner of Hideaway Nails and Beauty, worked with Cumbria Accelerator to gain clarity and confidence around sustainable growth, employment options, and effective online promotion. With tailored one-to-one guidance from Lateef Badat, she progressed from working at home to opening her own salon, building a team, and preparing to expand into larger premises with a clear plan and renewed confidence.

Simon Richardson, Partner at Keyishoes, worked with Cumbria Accelerator to turn expansion ideas into confident decisions, gaining a trusted sounding board and practical guidance to move the business forward. With one-to-one support from Gail Gravett, Keyishoes secured fixed premises, grew its team, and achieved consistent year-on-year turnover growth, giving Simon the confidence and capacity to focus on developing new commercial opportunities.

Lucy Teasdale, Director of La Muse, worked with Cumbria Accelerator to gain clarity on her target clients and markets, focusing her offerings to attract consistent, high-quality work. With one-to-one guidance from Ben Hickman, Lucy transformed La Muse into a fully booked, strategically aligned business with predictable revenue and the confidence to focus on projects that excite her.