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T: 01768 867118
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Amii Haughan RWA Studios

Carlisle is set to get a new tailor-made women’s only gym thanks to financial support from Business Finance Cumbria.

We recently provided a loan to RWA Studios, in Carlisle, to help the business buy, refurbish and equip premises on Church Street for a new gym, specially designed to meet the needs of women.

Amii Haughan set up RWA Studios four years ago to focus specifically on supporting women to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing. It has gradually outgrown its current home at the Atlas Works on Nelson Street and will move into the new site within months.

“We provide equipment and exercise which is specifically focused on women’s needs to allow them to train more efficiently and effectively,” says Amii.

“There’s also a big social element and we go beyond exercise to discuss things like hormones, financial health, social health and mental wellbeing. To have it all under one roof will just be the pinnacle for us.”

Amii turned to Business Finance Cumbria on the advice of Lindsay Farrer, from Saint and Co chartered accountants, in Carlisle, after high street banks were unable to provide the support she needed.

“The big name banks just weren’t able to lend the amount required to buy the premises and fit it out. They weren’t really interested because our business just isn’t big enough and we didn’t meet their lending criteria,” she says.

“When I spoke to Business Finance Cumbria it felt really personal. We were able to sit down and speak to them face to face. It felt like they really listened to us and made a decision based on our situation and there was a real element of trust there.

“As a small business you need someone to put their faith in you to help you make that leap. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.”

Please get in touch to find out how Business Finance Cumbria can help you. Telephone 01768 867118 or email [email protected]

James Todhunter, Investment Director for Business Finance Cumbria, said he wished Amii and RWA Studios all the best for the future.

“Amii and RWA Studios are just the kind of business which we exist to support; those which are full of potential but require capital to drive them forward when they fall through the cracks with other lenders,” says James.

“It is fantastic to be able to support Amii and entrepreneurs like her to be able to push on and achieve their full potential.”

Amii hopes that in the future RWA Studios can spread its reach beyond Cumbria to open branches across the UK.

“I think we’ve got something really special here and I would love to see it grow and support even more women across the country,” she says.

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, a much-loved Italian restaurant has built a loyal following thanks to its authentic dishes, warm atmosphere, and passion for hospitality. As demand grew, so did the need for investment — from upgrading kitchen equipment to enhancing the dining space and managing day-to-day cash flow more effectively.

That’s where we came in.

Working closely with the owners, we took the time to understand their goals and challenges, creating a finance solution tailored to their ambitions. Our support enabled them to invest in key areas of the business without disrupting operations too much, helping them scale confidently while maintaining the quality their customers love.

The result? A stronger, more resilient business that’s better equipped to handle seasonal demand and continue delivering an exceptional dining experience.

It’s always a pleasure to support independent hospitality businesses, especially ones that play such an important role in their local community. We’re proud to have been part of their journey and look forward to seeing them continue to grow and welcome diners from near and far.

Bringing our financial year to a close, we’ve had another busy month which you can read all about in our newsletter below.

We’re really looking forward to the year ahead and sense there is a strong demand for our service of simple, flexible, local finance provided by a team that lives in Cumbria and understands Cumbria, which is key when engaging with businesses across the county.

Please get in touch with us if you think we can assist you and your business.

We’re pleased to share that we were once again a sponsor at the 2026 Cumbria Food Awards, supporting the Casual Dining category — one of the most dynamic, creative and highly anticipated sections of the entire event. The awards, as in previous years, continue to shine a spotlight on the exceptional businesses, producers and hospitality teams who help make Cumbria such a remarkable place to live, work and visit.

Casual Dining Venue of the Year, sponsored by Business Finance Cumbria, is Bar eS. (l-r) Grahame Latus, Business Finance Cumbria; Phil Dawes and Mark Swider, Bar eS; Chris Bavin, awards host. PHOTOGRAPHY: JENNY WOOLGAR

Our sponsorship reflects something that matters deeply to us: celebrating and supporting the region’s independent food and drink community. Cumbria has built a national reputation for its outstanding artisan producers, imaginative chefs, and vibrant hospitality scene. Being able to champion the people behind that success is something we take real pride in.

The Casual Dining category showcased a fantastic range of businesses this year, each bringing their own character and commitment to quality – our congratulations to category winners Bar eS based in Keswick. From innovative menus to a focus on local sourcing and genuine community engagement, the finalists demonstrated exactly what makes Cumbria’s casual dining sector so strong.

Our clients Peace & Loaf Sourdough Pizza, winners of their category (l-r) Craig Butterworth, Plain Creative; Caroline Davis, and Lucas Hogg, Peace & Loaf Sourdough Pizza; Chris Bavin, awards host. PHOTOGRAPHY: JENNY WOOLGAR

A standout moment for us was seeing some of our clients — both past and present — recognised and winning awards on the night. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication and resilience, and it’s a privilege to have supported them at different stages of their journeys. Watching them celebrated among the best in the county is something we’re incredibly proud of.

Congratulations to all the finalists and winners. The evening was a reminder of the passion and talent that runs through Cumbria’s food scene, and we’re excited to continue supporting the region’s brilliant artisan producers, independent restaurants and hospitality teams throughout the year ahead.

We are proud to announce the rebrand of Enterprise Answers to Business Finance Cumbria — a name that reflects our renewed purpose, stronger focus, and unwavering commitment to Cumbria’s business community.

This change marks more than a new identity; it represents our vision to make access to finance clearer, faster, and more inclusive for businesses across the county. As Business Finance Cumbria, we are strengthening our core mission: to provide responsible, relationship‑driven funding that enables local enterprises to invest, grow, and thrive.

With a single, streamlined loan product, we offer a straightforward and flexible route to finance giving businesses and entrepreneurs an easier, clearer way to secure the support they need without complexity or confusion.

By focusing solely on Cumbria’s economy, we aim to amplify our positive regional impact supporting job creation, encouraging innovation, and helping communities prosper.

“Our new name signals our deep dedication to Cumbria’s economy,” said Grahame Latus, Chief Executive. “We exist to make finance more accessible for the businesses that drive our region forward, ensuring ambition is never held back by a lack of support.”

With an experienced team of James, Louise, Grahame and a sharper local focus, Business Finance Cumbria will continue championing growth, innovation, and long‑term prosperity across the county through the provision of access to simple, flexible finance.

Business Finance Cumbria is here to ensure that ambition in Cumbria is never limited by access to finance.

We are delighted to announce our sponsorship of the Casual Dining category at the 2026 Cumbria Food Awards, celebrating the vibrant hospitality scene and the talented teams who help make Cumbria one of the UK’s most exciting food destinations.

This year’s shortlist showcases three outstanding venues that have each earned a loyal following for their relaxed atmosphere, creative menus, and commitment to local produce. The finalists are Billy’s Bar & Restaurant, La Casita, and Bar eS Tapas. Each brings something unique to the region’s casual dining landscape, from bold flavours inspired by world cuisine to modern interpretations of much‑loved classics.

The Casual Dining category highlights venues where great food meets great company—places that feel welcoming, unfussy, and effortlessly enjoyable. As sponsors, we are proud to support an award that recognises the passion, innovation, and hard work that go into delivering memorable dining experiences day after day.

The Cumbria Food Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the county’s culinary excellence, and this year promises to be one of the most exciting yet. We look forward to celebrating with all those who contribute to Cumbria’s ever‑growing food culture and wish the very best of luck to the three impressive finalists.

Congratulations to Billy’s Bar & Restaurant, La Casita, and Bar eS Tapas—and thank you for helping to make Cumbria such a special place to dine.

As we step into 2026, all of us at Enterprise Answers would like to extend our warmest wishes to our clients, customers, and the entire business community across Cumbria.

We hope the year ahead brings you positivity, growth, and prosperity. Cumbria’s business landscape is built on resilience, creativity, and ambition, and we are proud to continue supporting every organisation that contributes to this vibrant economy.

Whatever your goals for 2026 — whether it’s expanding, investing, or strengthening your business — Enterprise Answers remains ready to help you on your journey. We are committed to providing access to simple, flexible finance designed to support your growth aspirations and help turn plans into progress.

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.

Here’s to a successful and inspiring year ahead.

Happy New Year from all at Enterprise Answers

LEADING independent lender, Enterprise Answers, has appointed a prominent business figure to its senior team. 

James Todhunter joins the organisation as Investment Director, and will be responsible for driving strategy and growth across key geographies. 

With three decades of experience in finance and business development, James – who is also Commercial Director of his family business – brings a deep level of cross-sector understanding to the organisation. 

He said: “I’ve spent many years in finance – including more than eight as a relationship manager and director with Lloyds Bank – and throughout that time my priority was always to secure the best outcomes for my clients. 

Team: James Todhunter, Louise Lawson and Grahame Latus

“That was achieved by genuinely getting to know the people and organisations I was supporting. Over time, as high street banking moved increasingly towards digital channels, that personal connection became harder to maintain. 

“One of the main reasons Enterprise Answers appealed to me was its values. The organisation places real emphasis on understanding and supporting its customers, and that approach aligns closely with my own.” 

In addition to Lloyds Bank, James has worked for the Cumberland Building Society and Napthens. 

He left the law firm in 2018 to head up the family business, Yaris Equestrian – a leading manufacturer and retailer of premium horse wear, rider wear and stable apparel based in Kendal. 

This has given James a unique perspective, as he is able to view business finance applications through the lens of both an owner and an industry expert. 

Enterprise Answers is celebrating its 20th anniversary year and recently published an impact report covering two decades of lending. 

It revealed that since its launch in March 2005, the organisation has completed 544 client deals, channelled £20.3 million into ambitious businesses, safeguarded or created 2,033 jobs, and contributed an estimated £81.2 million to the regional economy. 

Clients are concentrated in Cumbria, but Enterprise Answers also operates across Lancashire and Yorkshire. 

Delighted: Grahame Latus, Chief Executive of Enterprise Answers

Chief Executive Grahame Latus has been at the forefront of the organisation since it was launched. 

He said: “I’m delighted to welcome James to the team at Enterprise Answers. He brings a great deal of experience to the table and will play a key part in our strategic growth in the coming years. 

“Enterprise Answers will continue to support businesses well beyond my working career, so it is also important that I start to think about succession and what the future might look like when I move towards retirement. James will be a huge part of those plans.” 

Enterprise Answers offers finance for businesses that have been trading for at least two years, with loans of up to £150,000 available. 

Call 01768 867118 or email [email protected] for an initial chat. 

Over the past year, Cumbria’s farming community has continued to navigate a complex and evolving landscape. Since I last wrote in August 2025, the sector has faced intensified financial pressures, regulatory shifts, and climate-related challenges — yet has also demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation.

One of the most pressing issues remains the accelerated phase-out of delinked payments, which replaced the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS). In 2025, payments exceeding £30,000 were eliminated, and those below that threshold were slashed by 76%, capping support at just £7,200. This dramatic reduction has forced farmers to reassess their cash flow strategies and explore alternative income sources, such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI). However, delays and uncertainty around the rollout of environmental schemes have left many farmers in limbo.

Compounding these financial strains are impending changes to Inheritance Tax reliefs, set to take effect in April 2026. These reforms could significantly impact succession planning, with many family-run farms facing increased tax liabilities. A recent survey revealed that while 55% of Cumbrian farms intend to pass their business to the next generation, a concerning number have yet to formalize their plans.

Climate change has also made its mark. The unusually dry summer of 2025 led to poor harvests and reduced crop yields, particularly affecting arable farmers. With limited irrigation infrastructure, Cumbria’s farmers are increasingly vulnerable to weather extremes, underscoring the need for adaptive strategies and diversified income streams.

Yet amid these challenges, there are reasons for optimism. Cumbria has emerged as a national leader in rural digital transformation, with 99% of premises now enjoying superfast broadband and gigabit access thanks to strategic investment and public-private partnerships. This connectivity is enabling farmers to adopt precision agriculture technologies, streamline operations, and access new markets.

The region is also positioning itself as a hub for AgriTech innovation, with Cumbria’s Economic Strategy 2025–2045 highlighting opportunities in plant sciences, robotics, and clean energy. These developments promise to create new jobs, attract investment, and enhance the sustainability of the farming sector.

In this dynamic environment, Enterprise Answers continues to play a pivotal role in supporting Cumbria’s farmers. As a local, not-for-profit lender based in Penrith, Enterprise Answers offers flexible finance solutions tailored to the unique needs of rural businesses. Their face-to-face approach and understanding of the sector have made them a trusted partner, especially for tenant farmers who often struggle to access traditional funding due to limited security.

Recent case studies highlight their impact: one tenant farmer secured funding to relocate from South Yorkshire to Eden, while another used a loan to purchase in-going stock for a new tenancy in Northumberland. Enterprise Answers is also an accredited lender under the British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme, allowing them to support marginal propositions and unlock opportunities for farmers lacking conventional collateral.

Their commitment to Cumbria’s agricultural community was further demonstrated through their sponsorship of the 2025 Cumbria Farmer Awards, where they joined other key stakeholders in celebrating farming excellence. The event showcased the sector’s resilience, innovation, and community spirit — from young farmers and trailblazing women in agriculture to sustainable enterprises and local food producers.

As Cumbria’s farmers look ahead to 2026, the road remains uncertain. But with strategic support, local investment, and a growing recognition of the sector’s importance to food security and environmental stewardship, there is hope. Enterprise Answers stands ready to help farmers not only weather the storm but build a future rooted in resilience, innovation, and pride.