In Italian there is a wonderful expression “sensa parole,” meaning “beyond words.” It’s the only way I can define Ascona in the Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland Often called the “The Pearl of Lake Maggiore” it truly is impossible to describe I can only repeat what I wrote in 2022: “this festival has an intimacy that words alone cannot convey… Ascona dedicates the whole historic town to The New Orleans Experience Turn a corner in the narrow streets and find a group of buskers Pass by a restaurant and the sounds of New Orleans wafts out.” With the official stages set up along lake side front just standing on one’s hotel balcony puts one at the heart of the activity All this against the background of the spectacular scenery of Lake Maggiore and stunning views to create a diverse musical experience sensa parole A notable difference this year is the same malaise affecting jazz festivals everywhere—lack of funding Ascona Jazz relies totally on sponsors and grants the organizers managed to once again create an outstanding musical experience celebrating its special legacy in the world of jazz and the New Orleans Beat Veteran attendees probably noticed the reduced New Orleans contingent that special New Orleans presence was felt throughout According to the JazzAscona 2024 promo there were more than 200 concerts and 350 invited artists offering a diverse musical experience The diversity was noticeable with more genres of music than in the past For the purist this might have been disturbing but in truth it is almost the same that will be heard in New Orleans today The “official” stage programs began each day at 6:30 pm with trumpeter Vernon Severin and the Treme Lafitte Brass Band parading through town with an enthusiastic second line the sounds of trad jazz wafted through the air all day long played every day in the streets and alleys As in the past Adonis Rose continues to play pivotal roles in the success of the festival both as co-artistic director of the festival and as leader of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra (NOJO) Rose’s ability to blend traditional New Orleans sounds with contemporary influences keeps the festival program fresh and exciting His own skill as a musician was demonstrated by an exhilarating rendition of “Blues for Lex”—an original composition by Rose that really showcases his drumming prowess and creativity Rose’s dedication to his hometown youth was on display by the performances of the NOJO Youth Orchestra dedicated to nurturing young musical talent in the vibrant jazz tradition of New Orleans the orchestra performed a mix of traditional New Orleans jazz and contemporary pieces One can only imagine how much this once in a lifetime opportunity meant for these youngsters I was particularly glad for the opportunity of experiencing Meschiya Lake in a live performance As noted by Dave Doyle in The Syncopated Times (Dec At Ascona she was partnered with The Jungle Band a German ensemble renowned for their hot jazz sound toe-tapping style their music satisfies both swing dancers and trad jazz enthusiasts Together they literally brought the house down on several numbers with a combination of Meschiya’s vocals and the band’s energy Together they were also the busiest group of all with 17 gigs scheduled in the ten days including an evening on the lake steamboat and closing out the festival with the final concert at midnight on the last day The Chicago Stompers were another group that I was happy to experience live for the first time after reading about them in two Syncopated Times CD reviews Numbers like “Black Bottom,” “Borneo,” and “Lady Be Good,” combined with their stage presence truly recreated the orchestrated hot dance music of the late 1920s and early ’30s and passion to create a very special jazz experience One of the traditions at Ascona Jazz is to welcome young bands This year there were several in addition to the NOJO Youth I was particularly impressed by the Chicago-based Loyola University Ensemble They are a very talented young jazz group with vibrant swing and blues interpretations of familiar playlists The quality of their work is not surprising when one learns that they are under the tutelage of Christopher Madsen a highly regarded figure in the Chicago jazz scene Though I had the opportunity for a short interview with him it was only later that I discovered the full extent of his career as a saxophonist I don’t recall reading anything about Madsen in The Syncopated Times Joray is a talented Swiss saxophonist who has created a blend of seasoned musicians with emerging talents to create a captivating sound I found enough influences of the swinging sounds of traditional jazz to keep me satisfied The Traveling Janes are five women living in five different countries who somehow find a way to rehearse to create their very satisfying blend of early jazz and swing their performance was a vibrant mix of historical authenticity and modern interpretation Frog and Henry originated from a street-performing group in New Orleans so it is only natural that they have been regulars at Ascona in recent years They continue to entertain audiences with their unique instrumentation that often includes two reeds and occasionally the “tuba-machine,” a foot-operated tuba that allows one of their members to play both tuba and banjo simultaneously Reviewed in TST several times they continue to offer wonderful music that spans a variety of genres Another young band that has been a regular at Ascona in recent years is Hot Chocolate and Dixieland music is always well received Seeing the enthusiastic reception that these two as well as other young bands playing our kind of music I continue to be puzzled by the demise of so many traditional jazz festivals in the UK and USA these festivals are focused only on one genre of Jazz No review of Ascona Jazz ’24 would be complete without mention of the incredible “Jazz Off The Wall” open-air street art installation created by visual artist Yuri Catania It really is difficult to describe because it was totally visual and it had to been seen to be really appreciated Featuring forty very colorful paste-ups created by Yuri it was displayed throughout Ascona’s town square and historic areas The artworks told the story of JazzAscona over the years highlighting the connection between New Orleans and Ascona the central theme of the festival for four decades The pieces were scattered across the town’s walls and pavements The artworks prominently feature portraits of legendary jazz musicians who have performed at JazzAscona over the years stylized with vibrant colors and dynamic brush strokes reflecting the energy and passion of jazz music They incorporated elements of New Orleans culture Adding to the experience was the use of augmented reality (AR) a technology that allows one to get information about the particular artwork through one’s mobile phone while admiring the artwork wherever one walked through the narrow streets of the historic town a reminder of the connection between Ascona and New Orleans was always there Another musical oddity was added this year Miles Davis’s iconic “Moon & Stars” trumpet A trumpeter’s competition was held with the winner earning the right to play one of Davis’s most iconic pieces Another feature that was new to me was the workshops They were literally under our balcony facing the waterfront So every day we watched dancing lessons in all genres from Swing/Lindy/Hip-Hop to Salsa and other Latin styles One even included Trixie Minx teaching the elements of burlesque I can only finish by saying that anyone who wants to enjoy a vacation in an idyllic setting while enjoying great music and excellent food should have Ascona on their list It’s like being on a 10-day cruise with all the intimacy of mingling with the musicians and other jazz lovers Frank Farbenbloom is a traditional jazz supporter based in Israel Spring is blooming in Ticino – and so is the world of fine dining Reto Brändli from the canton of Schwyz is the new star among Switzerland’s top chefs At his previous post at the Hotel Adlon in Berlin he's back in Switzerland as Executive Chef of the fine dining restaurant «Ecco» which enchants guests of the Hotel Giardino in Ascona in summer and the Giardino Mountain in St the gourmet chef has created a special offer – including a private aperitif with him and his team *** «Meet the new Chef»: Exclusive Special for Finews Readers *** Two nights in the Mediterranean oasis Giardino Ascona on Lake Maggiore – pure Dolce Vita enjoy a creative 3-course dinner at Hide & Seek by Sicilian chef Francesco Leone our new culinary star Reto Brändli – decorated with two Michelin stars at Berlin’s Adlon – will dazzle your senses with an exclusive 5-course tasting menu at the fine dining restaurant «Ecco» A personal aperitif with Reto Brändli and his team – offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of haute cuisine spiced up with anecdotes and perhaps even a secret or two Then reserve your seat at the gourmet table now you benefit from an exclusive special price starting at 1,630 francs This offer and the following article are part of a commercial partnership between the Giardino Group and finews.com and we had so much fun cooking that it became clear to me: this is what I want to do professionally Where does your special interest in haute cuisine come from I’m the kind of person who either does things properly or not at all During my apprenticeship at the Hotel Waldhaus in Sils Maria under Kurt Röösli we cooked at a very high level – and I knew I never wanted to go below that standard again That’s why I kept aiming higher and higher My most important mentor was definitely Rolf Fliegauf I didn’t just learn how to cook at the highest level – he also taught me what it means to be a good leader he showed me that joy and passion are the essence of cooking But I also learned a great deal from other amazing chefs like Andreas Caminada That’s the beauty of this profession: you take what you like from each stop along the way and develop it with your own personal touch and breathtaking cuisine.» (Image: Courtesy) How would you describe your unique culinary signature My cuisine is clearly rooted in classic French culinary arts – reinterpreted with a modern twist But the foundation is always classically French you're following in the footsteps of Rolf Fliegauf I’m not focused on deliberately changing anything I cook in a way that reflects my own style – with passion and precision And that’s exactly how things will continue at «Ecco» What culinary highlights can guests look forward to this spring at Giardino Ascona One dish I’m especially excited about – and which will be featured on the spring menu – is Breton turbot with beef tongue and freshness – a very exciting and delicious combination What fascinates you most about Giardino Ascona The four years I previously spent working here were probably among the best of my life The atmosphere in this hotel is incredibly warm and familiar and I still know many of the team members from my earlier time here Ticino is a fantastic place to live – the quality of life here is outstanding Pool area and garden as design-defining elements Which high-profile guests have you cooked for I don’t talk about my guests – discretion is essential in our profession since it’s no secret: cooking for the King of England What makes Giardino Ascona the perfect weekend getaway for two What’s your personal motto when leading your kitchen brigade It’s very important to me that we enjoy what we do as a team That’s the only way real passion can shine through on the plate What’s the best advice you ever received from your mother or father It’s not about what you do – it’s about doing it with conviction and joy Reto Brändli is already making waves in the world of fine dining The 33-year-old from the canton of Schwyz found his calling early – inspired by his school days and shaped by his training at Hotel Waldhaus in Sils Maria His talent and ambition opened doors to Europe’s finest restaurants Moritz and «Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer» in Berlin brought not only stars and accolades but also invaluable experience alongside culinary greats like Rolf Fliegauf A refined blend of classical French craftsmanship and innovative techniques Brändli is ready to surprise his guests with exquisite flavors fun» – because only joy leads to true perfection finews.com publishes on its own Web-TV-Channel interviews with well-known figures of Swiss finance. + More on this topic + More on this topic + More on this topic you might wonder if your GPS has malfunctioned The Italian you hear isn't tourists chattering; it's the local lingua franca Espresso aromas waft from cafes that wouldn't look out of place in Milan Sun-baked piazzas host impromptu gatherings that stretch well past dusk you're decidedly in Switzerland—just not the Switzerland of Heidi and alpine horns While Lake Como courts celebrities and day-trippers en masse It's not that Ticino lacks visitors; rather it attracts a different breed—those who prefer to sidestep the well-worn tourist track the Italian Riviera's ethos seems to have crossed the border This cultural hybrid manifests in curious ways Lakeside promenades are impeccably maintained yet devoid of the commercial frenzy you'd find further south Beyond Michelin-starred restaurants and family-run grottos the local wine—primarily Merlot—reflects this duality: robust enough for Italian palates Though don’t dismiss Ticino as just a quieter version of its Italian neighbors It's a place where efficiency and dolce far niente—sweet idleness—complement each other in ways that challenge preconceptions about both Swiss and Italian cultures like nowhere else Ticino's 2,170 annual hours of sunshine—a statistical anomaly for Switzerland—foster a microclimate that skews decidedly Mediterranean This climatic quirk yields a landscape of contrasts: Palm trees and snow-capped peaks coexist while citrus groves neighbor glacial lakes It's a visual disconnect that defies expectations of Swiss topography serve as mirrors to the sky's caprices their shores more evocative of Liguria than Lucerne often dubbed the "Pearl of Lake Maggiore"—a moniker it wears without pretense showcases Belle Époque architecture in pastel hues adorned with the requisite flower boxes and sun-bleached awnings its picturesque centro storico telling tales of centuries past through a labyrinth of alleys and secluded squares the Madonna del Sasso sanctuary clings to a wooded crag a 15th-century pilgrimage site that commands attention both for its spiritual significance and its architectural audacity The funicular ascent features a one-two punch: a bird's-eye view of Lake Maggiore's expanse and a close-up of the Alps' rugged contours They're neither fully Swiss nor entirely Italian but rather a synthesis that defies easy categorization Ticino's landscape oscillates between lakeshores and vertiginous peaks proving that you’ll find adventure in all altitudes and attitudes a short drive from urban hubs creates a scene more reminiscent of a Renaissance painting than a Swiss postcard Corippo stands as an exceptional case—a village whose population barely breaks into double digits Its ancient stone dwellings and cobbled alleys provide a stark rebuke to the notion that all of Switzerland is manicured perfection Val Bavona is a valley that pushes this rustic charm to dramatic extremes a thunderous 350-foot waterfall dwarfs the stone houses below creating a visual oxymoron that encapsulates Ticino's essence: a place where the sublime and the quotidian share the same postcode For those seeking a more vertical perspective the Ponte Tibetano Carasc presents a literal high point hovering nearly 500 feet above the Valle di Sementina offers both a test of nerve and a panoramic payoff the Brissago Islands in Lake Maggiore present a different kind of venture Ticino's mild climate has created a botanical United Nations supporting some 2,000 plant species from global climates It's a horticultural anomaly that allows you to tour the world's flora without leaving Swiss waters where designer Francesca Alder has created spaces that feel more like a stylish friend's villa than a hotel The Ayurvedic spa offers treatments you'd expect to find in India not the Swiss Alps—a nod to Ticino's knack for cultural mash-ups fueled by 3,600 family-run vineyards that cling to vertiginous slopes it's the white Merlot that often steals the show—a crisp unexpected twist that seems to bottle Ticino's contrarian spirit As it winds its way from Locarno to Domodossola each turn reveals a new postcard-worthy vista of waterfalls In Ticino you'll find all the beauty and romance for which the Rivieras of Europe are cherished but with more breathing room (and fresh mountain air) Its proximity to both Swiss and northern Italian attractions allows for varied itineraries: an Alpine trek at dawn a lakeside lunch that stretches into the afternoon For those seeking to recalibrate their European travel wish list but not as you know it—and perhaps all the more intriguing for it Ready to explore Ticino? Get inspired and start planning your trip to Switzerland’s Mediterranean paradise on switzerland.com. up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page The CSI4 Grand Prix of Ascona was built at a height of 1.55m.* After a jump-off with six jumps Robert Whitaker claimed victory in the saddle of the 11-year-old Vermento (Argento) Whitaker was the only one to finish clear in under 40 seconds Robert Whitaker and the 11-year-old Argento offspring were just under two seconds faster than Fernando Martinez Sommer and the 13-year-old BWP mare Only these two combinations managed to complete the jump-off without faults In the saddle of the 11-year-old KWPN gelding Kendra Claricia Brinkop completed the top three Brinkop thus relegated Niklaus Schurtenberger with C-Steffra (Clarimo) to fourth place Austrian Dominik Juffinger completed the top five with Diachacco (Diarado) result The award to Neda Maritime’s MT ASCONA marks a significant milestone in digital transformation and vessel connectivity and aligns with LR’s Digital Maturity Index launched at the end of last year Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded its first VC-L+ Descriptive Note for vessel connectivity to Neda Maritime’s vessel This is the first LR vessel to complete the verification The ability to support high-quality livestreaming and real-time data exchange offers ship operators improved remote monitoring and inspection capabilities greater flexibility for compliance and operational decision-making LR announced the launch of its Digital Maturity Framework and Index at the end of last year a pioneering tool designed to help companies assess and benchmark their digital maturity with connectivity identified as a main enabler to digital transformation The VC-L+ Descriptive Note details requirements for reliable vessel connectivity solutions including specifications for hardware and software The project involved LR’s verification of MT ASCONA’s vessel-shore connectivity system The vessel successfully met all LR’s VC-L+ criteria demonstrating its advanced connectivity capabilities which enable enhanced opportunities for remote inspections The 'communication and capability test' was conducted in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean approximately 550 nautical miles southwest of the Azores Islands The tests included successful video and audio livestreaming from various onboard locations LR’s Lead Client Relationship Manager said: “As the first vessel to receive the VC-L+ notation MT ASCONA sets a precedent for other vessel operators to follow encouraging the adoption of LR’s connectivity standards and furthering the digitalisation of maritime operations “This accomplishment highlights LR’s pioneering role in digital transformation offering clients advanced solutions for improved digital classification and greater flexibility for compliance and decision-making.” Neda Maritime’s Technical Director (Tankers) said: “Our collaboration with LR demonstrates a shared vision for innovative future-ready shipping solutions and commitment towards digitalisation of the industry “The assignment of the first VC-L+ notation by LR to a vessel under our management is an acknowledgment of the efforts and resources invested for the development of Neda Maritime’s Virtual Presence Onboard (VPO) platform; a high-quality live video streaming and data exchange system The VPO was initially developed in-house to cope with the pandemic traveling restrictions and was subsequently fine-tuned to become an invaluable tool facilitating remote surveys a vessel must undergo a rigorous verification process that includes the selection and testing of appropriate hardware and software components such as access points and capturing devices The system is tested to meet specified standards for network coverage and data transmission quality Comprehensive documentation must also be provided detailing the system's specifications and demonstrating compliance with the required standards The process involves a desktop review of the submitted information and onboard verification tests These tests confirm that the connectivity arrangements are in place and functioning as required demonstrating satisfactory connectivity capability The VC-L+ note not only indicates compliance with basic livestreaming requirements (VC-L) but also includes additional onboard coverage criteria as requested by the Owner/Operator This ensures that the vessel's connectivity system meets higher standards for real-time data streaming and remote inspections Achieving the VC-L+ note involves both initial verification and ongoing maintenance Regular recertification ensures that the vessel continues to meet the high standards set by Lloyd's Register for advanced connectivity solutions LR’s Digital Maturity Index (DMI) web-based platform based on real maritime use cases allows shipping companies to self-assess their digital readiness compare themselves against industry competitors and identify potential areas for investment in technology and skills Over 15 companies have participated and examined digital maturity across all aspects of their operations from digital infrastructure to cultural integration Switzerland's Martin Fuchs – current world number eight – and the 11-year-old L&L Upgrade (Ultimo x Baloubet du Rouet) won Friday's CSI4* 1.50m Premio Hotel Eden Roc on home soil in Ascona.  Fuchs and L&L Upgrade bested a field of 46 horse-and-rider combinations in this competition counting for Longines Ranking Group D Italy's Francesco Turturiello and Palina Keeps ZL (Plot Blue x Chacco-Blue) and Great Britain's Jack Whitaker on Equine America Valmy de la Lande (Mylord Carthago x Starter) shared the runner-up spot when both pairs stopped the clock on 62.10 while Niklaus Rutschi (SUI) and Amar des Brimbelles Z (Amadeus Z x Russel) finished fourth in 62.23 followed by Koen Vereecke (BEL) aboard Kasanova de La Pomme (Bamako de Muze x Malito de Reves) in fifth in 63.09.  © 2025 World of Showjumping - All rights reserved Powered by Artionet - Generated with IceCube2.Net But Pröglhöf and his colleagues have famous “forerunners” Because Opel and rallying are closely linked Watching cars drift and master difficult conditions has thrilled motorsports fans for many years they can see the battery-electric Opel Corsa Rally Electric in action In the 1970s and 1980s legendary Opel rally cars and drivers thrilled the masses Two names are inextricably linked to the rally successes of the time: the Opel Ascona as a reliable competition vehicle and Walter Röhrl as a young aspiring rally driver who would ultimately become the best in his profession The exceptional driver won his first major title exactly 50 years ago: Together with his co-driver Jochen Berger he won the European Rally Championship on October 13 1974 – with a maximum possible tally of 120 points In record time: from young talent to rally ace Walter Röhrl focussed on sport from an early age: football the young Bavarian consciously chose “rally instead of circuit.” It proved to be the right decision which turned him from “nobody” (as he once said himself) into a surprise frontrunner in the rally circus Röhrl played a dominant role in the Poland Rally the then 26-year-old drove for Opel – with Jochen Berger at his side He gives Röhrl the route instructions and plays a significant role in the coming successes the co-driver was sure of Röhrl's driving qualities: “Driving through a special stage with Walter is safer than crossing the road in the city.” He turns out to be right: in the same year with just a few starts and almost the same number of overall victories the two of them finish as runners-up in the European Championships in an Opel Ascona this proved to be the perfect springboard for the coming season with the recently founded Opel Euro Dealer Team Convincing display: Röhrl/Berger win 1974 European Championship in Opel Ascona Walter Röhrl and Jochen Berger attacked the competition with great ambitions This has an engine that has been bored out to two litres with an overhead camshaft and crossflow cylinder head This means that the car produces between 141 kW (192 hp) and 156 kW (212 hp) Special springs and special shock absorbers as well as internally ventilated disc brakes at the front and ventilated drum brakes at the rear adapt the chassis of the rally car based on the production model to the tough competition conditions In his biography “Aufschrift” Röhrl remembers: “The engine was easy to drive Power came from around 2,000 rpm and continued to 7,600 rpm But I refrained from revving it up so high Röhrl/Berger have to be patient until their first big success of the season At the 8th International Firestone Rally – the 5th round of the European Rally Championship at the end of March 1974 – the time had finally come As the top team in the Opel Euro Dealer Team the two achieved a superior start/finish victory after 1,517 kilometres and 19 special stages in the northern Spanish mountains things happened in quick succession: just four weeks later Röhrl/Berger took the lead right from the start at the Tulip Rally in the Netherlands After 1,250 kilometres and 38 special tests they achieved their next impressive overall victory in their Ascona The local authorities cause a moment of shock: They suspect Röhrl of significantly exceeding the permitted speed limit The law enforcement officers did not catch the German duo with starting number 1 speeding - instead the Polish team with number 7 were caught on camera Further victories follow in the Hessen Rally the Moldau Rally and the Danube Rally in Romania The Opel drivers clearly lead the overall standings – and the 13th Rally Internazionale di Lugano is scheduled to take place from October 11 to 13 Röhrl/Berger can already secure the European title They once again took “pole position” among the 52 competitors right from the start The 28 tough special stages in the mountains between Lugano and Lake Maggiore take their toll: only 18 teams cross the finish line on October 13 – with the Opel Ascona with Walter Röhrl and Jochen Berger leading the way After 1,000 kilometres they are more than ten minutes ahead of the second-placed team With their sixth overall victory and 120 points – the highest number of points ever achieved to date – they won the European Rally Championship in 1974 with three races remaining 1974 European Championship: the start of Röhrl and Opel's further rally success Walter Röhrl has even greater ambitions He writes: “With the European title I had achieved what I wanted But one dream kept me going: winning the Monte Carlo Rally once in my life.” When thinking of Switzerland, snowcapped mountains and quaint villages with cobblestone streets might be the first things that come to mind—but what about a lakefront beach with palm trees? However unlikely that image may seem, it’s precisely what visitors will find in Switzerland’s southern Ticino region where a town called Ascona offers a unique blend of Swiss and Italian cultures that create the perfect summer destination or simply enjoying a nice view from a lounge chair Hotel Eden Roc, the only beachfront property in Ascona, has stunning views of the lake, and each of its guest rooms are equipped with a balcony to soak up the scenery. Architect and designer Carlo Rampazzi conceived the striking interiors for all four Swiss properties of the Tschuggen Collection’s five-star resorts. His two storefronts in town, both named Selvaggio are treasure troves of antiques and colorful tabletop accessories Rampazzi brings his eclectic style and character to the hotel with whimsical bespoke furnishings and unique wall-coverings our design ethos is embodied in the seamless blend of lake and sky views that inspire dreams,” he explains A life devoid of color is like an eternal gray spring or a monochrome bouquet—utterly lifeless Hotel rooms should embrace a touch of madness extraordinary element that guests would never venture to have at home.” Rampazzi also designed the four restaurants on the property, including the two Michelin–starred restaurant La Brezza known for its Mediterranean-inspired tasting menu Chef Marco Campanella’s imaginative dishes transform ingredients such as a simple radish into a memorable bite from a tender short rib from Ennetbürgen to a trio of desserts inspired by the strawberry are artfully prepared on Bernadaud tableware Sculptural pieces crafted by local artist Maddalena Mora also provide the perfect vessel for presenting delicate bites An artist with a wide breadth of regional knowledge Mora arranges special outings for hotel guests wanting to explore the flourishing art scene With the official title of “Art Butler,” Mora hosts workshops in a variety of mediums including etching and sculpture and will curate classes around a guest’s interests She also plans trips to local museums and artist studios to give visitors an insider look “We have a lot of art galleries in the old town that showcase different types of art It’s fun because you can discover a lot of new and emerging artists,” explains Mora Ascona is known to be a haven for creative thinkers including Hermann Hesse and Wassily Kandinsky, who flocked to the famed Monte Verità at the start of the 1900s. This rich history is imbued in the town filled with galleries and museums such as Casa Epper A hidden gem on the grounds of the Hotel Eden Roc the former home and studio of Expressionist artist Ignaz Epper houses a collection of Epper’s etchings and ceramic busts by his wife Mischa Epper Casa Epper is also home to rotating exhibitions with a collection of photographs of Riva Boats by Olaf Tamm currently on view The picturesque cottage is surrounded by a lush garden speckled with statues made by the late artist and comes complete with a bocce ball court For those craving adventure, the hotel recently launched Moving Mountains, a holistic program aimed to promote a healthy and active lifestyle. Sailing expeditions on Lake Maggiore and hiking excursions to the Castelliere ruins are among the activities that allow visitors to explore the breathtaking nature of the Ticino region Guests can request a tailor-made itinerary to fit their thrill-seeking level the views of this magical town are sure to be worth the journey © 2023 Hudson One Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy Job title: Founder and chief executive of Ascona Group It might surprise you to know that Ascona boss Darren Briggs known for his philanthropy and being cited as one of the fastest growing companies in Wales for the past three years but is fearless when it comes to flying a helicopter to site visits outside of Pembrokeshire Your career history: I have spent over 25 years in the downstream petroleum sector I acquired my first petrol station in 2011 and my second in 2012 and by 2022 Ascona Group had acquired 68 sites across the UK In less than five years it had grown from two sites to 68 and is now the seventh largest independent forecourt operator Range Rover SV for day to day and an Aston Martin DB12 for special occasions Not forgetting a Jet Ranger helicopter for site visits outside of Pembrokeshire I currently hold a private pilot licence for helicopters – a PPL (H) Perfect day: A helicopter flight over the Welsh coastline followed by lunch at Pale Hall in mid Wales Best holiday: I recently spent two weeks in Dubia with my two children That said we are off skiing in Andorra very soon Holiday wish-list: Alaska for whale watching Africa for lions and elephants and then onto Bora Bora which looks like paradise Favourite read: Promoting Prosperity – Business Strategy for Britain I think I’ll send a copy to Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer Three words to describe yourself: Ambitious Possessions you could not do without: Regrettably Favourite sports person: Must be Kenny Dalglish the former Scottish football player and manager Growing up he was my football hero from the late 70s Best news over the past 12 months: Planning permission being granted for my new home a 20,000sq ft property being built by Guy Phoenix Recent achievements: I cooked Christmas dinner for my family What’s your pet peeve: Being let down and people being late for an appointment Most important qualities in the workplace: Trust and honesty with drive and ambition Best thing about the job: Working as part of a highly motivated team with a common goal of success Best bit of business advice you have ever received: My Dad gave me three golden nuggets when I was growing up I hate public speaking and recently undertook two public ‘fire side’ business talks in Cardiff and Swansea Register now Site powered by Webvision Cloud An independent forecourt operator which is one of the fastest growing companies in Wales has secured a £92 million funding package from HSBC UK and Barclays a Pembrokeshire-based business with operations across England to continue to pursue its fast growth strategy Ascona was founded in 2011 by CEO Darren Briggs and embarked on its current growth strategy in 2017 the business has gone from two to 60 sites across the UK “We are pleased to support Ascona Group with this significant refinancing deal It provides a solid foundation to secure future investment and drive the company’s impressive growth plans Ascona Group’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to expanding its footprint across the UK aligns perfectly with our mission to foster business growth and economic development We eagerly anticipate the company’s continued success and its positive contributions to the communities it serves.” Rebecca Davies, Relationship Director at Barclays Corporate Banking, said: “We’re delighted to have worked with the Ascona Group on this pivotal refinance, enabling them to implement the next phase of their ambitious strategic plan. The group has a strong track record of high growth and supporting the communities they invest in across the UK. We look forward to using our industry expertise and regional footprint to further support this in the years ahead.” In October 2024, Ascona Group was recognised as one of the fastest growing businesses in the UK by the UK Fast Growth Index for the second year running. On top of this, two of its forecourts were named as winners at Forecourt Trader 2024 awards. and highly targeted distribution networks offers our clients a proven strategically connected one-stop-shop solution for all regions and business sectors in Wales and beyond the Municipal Museum of Modern Art in Ascona 1937) with the exhibition Homage to Niele Toroni and Harald Szeemann which explores the connection between the artist and Harald Szeemann (Bern one of the most influential curators of the 20th century curated by Bernard Marcadé coincides with the Swiss artist’s 88th birthday and is part of the larger retrospective Niele Toroni scheduled from March 16 to August 17 at the Museo Casa Rusca in Locarno is now internationally recognized for a radical and consistent artistic path which has led him to exhibit in leading institutions such as the MoMA in New York the Centre Pompidou and the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris the Kunsthaus in Zurich and the Venice and São Paulo Biennales including the Meret-Oppenheim and Rubenspreis.The exhibition in Ascona focuses on the relationship between the artist and Szeemann evidenced by the historic 1991 solo show held precisely at the Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna That was Toroni’s first exhibition in Ticino and sanctioned a profound dialogue between the painter and the Swiss curator whose unconventional approach marked the history of contemporary art the exhibition traces the collaboration between the two restoring a renewed reading of the mural works still visible inside the museum the itinerary highlights Toroni’s permanent intervention in Ascona based on a rigorous and methodical gesture: applying brush imprints number 50 is actually a statement of principle: Toroni does not abandon painting but reduces it to a series of essential gestures eliminating any narrative or expressive intent His refusal to conform to the expectations of the pictorial tradition results in an anonymous and mechanical process that overturns the very concept of artwork and authorship Toroni’s work also confronts the ideological and social role of the artist opposing the commodification of art imposed by the capitalist system The exhibition catalog will be published by Homage to Niele Toroni and Harald Szeemann and Edizioni Casagrande for the Essays series in his thirties,” wrote Harald Szeemann “applies for the first time in Paris Admission: full 10.- chf/eur; reduced 7.- chf/eur Gallen: stunning art and conservation come together All 5 Releases whose Ascona hotel was the first one to offer fine dining with a 17 Gault Millau rating in Switzerland has named Reto Brändli as the new head chef of its renowned Ecco restaurant in Ascona and St The announcement follows the departure of Rolf Fliegauf who has shaped the establishment’s culinary vision for 18 years who earned Ecco its second Michelin star in 2010 has been bidding farewell in his final months as head chef Giardino Ascona has been a pioneer in Swiss gastronomy having been the first five-star hotel in the country to offer its guests a restaurant with a 17 Gault Millau rating A month after announcing Fliegauf’s departure has introduced Reto Brändli as his successor Brändli brings a wealth of experience to Ecco He previously served as head chef at «Cà d’Oro» in the Grand Hotel Kempinski in St where he secured the restaurant's second Michelin star in just two years Brändli has been at the helm of the two-star «Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer» at the Hotel Adlon in Berlin According to a statement from the Giardino Group Brändli is «renowned for his inventive approach to modern cuisine.» His dishes include bold contemporary creations such as «Foie gras & lobster,» prepared using cutting-edge techniques like liquid nitrogen and a soldering iron «An Exceptional Chef and a Wonderful Personality» noting that he is well-acquainted with the regions of Ticino and Engadin having spent four years honing his skills at Ecco’s sister locations «Reto is not only an outstanding chef but also a wonderful personality,» said Frutiger Brändli's culinary career has taken him through prestigious kitchens under the tutelage of legends such as Andreas Caminada and the late Benoît Violier preparing him for the top role at Giardino Ascona’s flagship restaurant By 2025-04-25T10:17:00+01:00 Ridgeway Service Station has switched from Shell to Valero under Ascona’s ownership Top 50 Indie Ascona has purchased Ridgeway Service Station in Hastings and the furthest south for the Welsh-based operator the business on the busy B2093 into the seaside town He owned the site for over 20 years and is retiring from the industry to focus on other interests which has purchased the freehold for an undisclosed price has switched fuel supplies from Shell to Valero and intends to change the 2,100sq ft shop’s fascia from Spar to Nisa Currently the site sells in excess of 3.7 million litres of fuel per annum benefiting from tourist traffic as well as being located in a residential area describes the purchase as a “great addition to the Ascona network” as it continues to “look for these high quality sites” It follows the purchase of four petrol filling stations in March, when Ascona expanded with a trio of Welsh forecourts, and also a forecourt in Driffield, East Yorkshire The acquisitions bring Briggs closer to his ambition of becoming one of the top four independent forecourt operators, with plans to operate over 150 sites within the next three years. He secured a £92 million refinancing package to fuel the growth earlier this year which was managed by Christie & Co’s Mark Kaluza Kit Tandon says: “After 23 years at Ridgeway Service Station I made the decision that the time is right to retire I’ve witnessed significant changes in the industry and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together “I wish Ascona every success and have full confidence that with the exceptional staff they have taken on they will continue to serve the community with the same passion and commitment ”I would like to thank Mark Kaluza from Christie & Co for his unwavering support throughout what was a particularly complex sales process Mark’s dedication and professionalism were instrumental in bringing the deal to a successful close.” regional director – retail & leisure at Christie & Co adds: “We wish Kit well with his retirement I look forward to revisiting the site soon to meet the Ascona team I wish them every success with this latest acquisition.” Kaluza points out that it is a good time for operators thinking of putting their sites up for sale to take the plunge “The forecourt market remains very active across the UK Sites being offered for sale are receiving multiple offers which is driving competitive pricing and I would urge anyone considering selling their site to get in touch,”he says Great Britain's Robert Whitaker and the 11-year-old stallion Vermento (Argento x Skippy) won the CSI4* 1.55m Grand Prix of Ascona presented by BancaStato | Bellinzona | In Memoriam Manuela Bacchi Six of the 35 horse-and-rider combinations in the Grand Prix produced clear rounds to move on to the jump-off where only two managed to repeat a score of zero who stopped the clock on 38.41 seconds – leaving Mexico's Fernando Martinez Sommer and Lady van de Haarterhoeve (Casall x Clarimo) to second with their time of 40.02 seconds Germany’s Kendra Claricia Brinkop and In Time (Biscayo x Tangelo van de Zuuthoeve) took the third place ahead of Switzerland's Niklaus Schurtenberger and C-Steffra (Clarimo x Lavall I) in fourth who also had to see four faults added to their score in the jump-off Austria's Dominik Juffinger completed the top five aboard Diachacco (Diarado x Chacco-Blue) with twelve faults in the jump-off Sweden's Henrik von Eckermann and Switzerland's Steve Guerdat went neck to neck in Saturday's CSI4* 1.50m Premio Kataltherm Service AS | Bedano in Ascona the competition saw the twelve best pairs from the 41 at start move to the decisive second round where Guerdat and Lancelotta (Falkenhof's Lancer x Orland) clocked the fastest time, 42.12 seconds – fractions ahead of von Eckermann and Calizi (Cellestial x Stakkatol) who had to settle for the runner-up spot with their time of 42.13.  Robert Whitaker (GBR) and Vermento (Argneto x Skippy) placed third in 42.48 while Anthony Bourquard (SUI) and Everest d'Ellipse (Vagabond de la Pomme x Kannan) finished fourth in 44.62 and Sira Accola (SUI) aboard Koriano van Klapscheut (Lord Z x Darco) fifth in 48.02.  The second CSI4* class of the day – the 1.45m Premio Manz Isolazioni e Resinswiss | Mezzovico – counting for the Longines Ranking Group D – went to Pius Schwizer (SUI) and Grigia BR Z (George Z x Comme d'Api vd Hacienda) With a time of 34.31 in the jump-off between eight horse-and-rider combinations the Swiss veteran took the win ahead of Annina Züger-Hächler (SUI) and Batman d'Aiguilly (Diamant de Semilly x Caretino) in second in 36.00 and Paris Sellon (USA) and Calida Z (Cornet Obolensky x Carthago) in third in 36.01.  JCP Solicitors has advised Pembrokeshire-based forecourt operator, Ascona Group, on the successful acquisition of three key forecourt sites in Powys, furthering the company’s ambitious UK expansion plans. The transaction, completed with legal support from JCP’s Commercial Property and Corporate Commercial teams, saw Ascona acquire petrol station businesses formerly operated by Bradleys’ Garages in Caersws, Llanidloes, and Newtown. As part of the deal, JCP secured 20-year leases for Ascona at each location. Led by Mark Gilroy, Director and Head of Commercial Property, and Natalie Jones, Director in the Corporate Commercial team, JCP worked closely with Ascona to ensure a smooth and efficient transaction. The acquisition increases Ascona’s national portfolio to 62 sites, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing independent forecourt operators in the UK. Headquartered in Pembrokeshire, Ascona employs over 800 people, with 301 staff based in Wales. The company serves 45,000 customers each day and is targeting the operation of 150+ sites by 2028. Mark Gilroy, Director and Head of Commercial Property at JCP Solicitors, said: “We are delighted to have supported Ascona Group in securing these important new locations. This acquisition not only boosts Ascona’s presence in mid-Wales but also brings new investment and opportunity to the region.” Darren Briggs, Founder and CEO of Ascona Group, said: “It was a pleasure to work with JCP Solicitors on this deal, we are grateful to the team for their hard work getting everything over the line. We appreciate the effort from Mark, Natalie and their teams for managing the process so efficiently.” JCP Solicitors’ Corporate Commercial team is recognised for its specialist expertise in handling complex commercial transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and business sales across Wales and beyond. The firm’s Commercial Property team provides expert legal advice on commercial leases, property sales and transactions, investment and development properties. By 2025-03-25T14:27:00 Ascona Group’s ambition to operate over 150 sites within the next three years came one step closer this week after three forecourts in Wales were brought under the firm’s wing Already registered? Please log-in here REGISTER TODAY ShareSaveCommentLifestyleTravelInside Hotel Eden Roc: Switzerland’s Only Beach Resort On Lake MaggioreByErica Wertheim Zohar Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights Speaker & Strategist for Luxury Brands 10:43am EDTShareSaveCommentThe pool at the Hotel Eden Roc on Lake Maggiore The stunning lakes region of Northern Italy is well known to American travelers consistently ranking among their top European summer vacation spots Celebrity (and tourist) infested Lake Como and glitzy Lake Lugano are certainly attractive destinations but right next door lies another lesser-known lake - larger than its siblings but just as beautiful and magical in its own unique way Lake Maggiore – which translates to “greater” lake – is actually only part Italian sitting on the border between Italy and Switzerland offering a peace and tranquility that is now difficult to find on its neighboring lakes The immaculate lawn on the shore of Lake Maggiore at the Hotel Eden Roc where guests can relax and .. recently named “Best Holiday Hotel” in Switzerland for the second consecutive year and 9th time overall by a prominent Swiss newspaper and renowned hotel expert Karl Wild In a country packed with incredible hotels is a popular tourist destination on Lago Maggiore in the Alps .. Switzerland is a municipality in the district of Locarno in the canton of Ticino in Switzerland much like the Lake Maggiore area as a whole offers old world sophistication and low-key luxury providing expansive views of Maggiore down towards Italy The Hotel Eden Roc bills itself as the only true beach resort in Switzerland (the beach might be small guests of the hotel arrive predominantly from Switzerland and the Benelux countries; don’t expect to run into too many Americans here Breakfast at The Eden Roc restaurant overlooking the stunning Lake Maggiore at the Hotel Eden Roc the 95-room hotel is actually composed of three structures which at one time were three separate properties The neighboring property was then added to encompass what are now the two main buildings of the hotel Conceived by Swiss interior designer Carlo Rampazzi the left wing features vibrantly furnished rooms that utilize unique color combinations The right wing employs a more restrained aesthetic the hotel added a third building – with yet a different style - to its property which connects to the main buildings via a walkway The breathtaking views from The Hotel Eden Roc on Lake Maggiore My suite in the right wing of the hotel was very large and massive bathroom – including one of the largest tubs I have ever had the pleasure of soaking in It felt more like an apartment than a hotel room All rooms at the Eden Roc offer a balcony or outdoor terrace and my lovely spacious terrace easily accommodated a pair of chaise lounges The modern bathroom and oversized bathtub in a suite at the Hotel Eden Roc Marco Campanella is the star chef behind La Brezza at the Hotel Eden Roc offering no less than four outstanding restaurant options Topping the list is the 2 Michelin-starred La Brezza (which has also garnered 18 Gault Millau points where Sicilian chef Marco Campanella serves light and fresh Mediterranean cuisine the tasting menu at La Brezza was nothing short of spectacular Dining at the Hotel Eden Roc on Lake Magiorre The 2 Michelin starred restaurant La Brezza at the Hotel Eden Roc which serves fresh pasta dishes and grilled freshwater and seafood specialties is perhaps most notable for its picturesque and historic lakeside setting The restaurant’s stone lake house was the site of a 1945 meeting between Allied and German military commanders that soon thereafter led to the surrender of the German armies in Italy Hotel Eden Roc on Lake Maggiore was the site of a 1945 .. More meeting between Allied and German military commanders that soon thereafter led to the surrender of the German armies in Italy The Marina Restaurant & Lounge (located in the Marina building) offers modern fish and meat specialties and international dishes in a more relaxed atmosphere The Marina restaurant on the shore of Lake Maggiore at the Hotel Eden Roc the Eden Roc Restaurant (15 Gault Millau points) is where daily breakfast is served along with glorious views of Lake Maggiore including a list of creative (and delicious) non-alcoholic cocktails and a club sandwich that was one of the best I have ever had I could have eaten at the bar – staring out over the lake – every day and been quite happy – but with all those other options The group’s hotels in many cases share employees who rotate between the hotels based on season and whose personalized and genuinely friendly service seems to be a product and reflection of the intimate scale of the Eden Roc’s parent company It is also no doubt due to the efforts of the Eden Roc’s Swiss-born The Tschuggen Collection’s emphasis on nature and sustainability is also very apparent at the Eden Roc which has been completely climate- neutral since 2019 This is perhaps best exemplified by the Collection’s “Moving Mountains” signature guest experience program reconnect with nature and celebrate joy.” The program is woven A Mediterranean lunch is an example of the plant-based options at the Hotel Eden Roc All of the hotel’s restaurants include Moving Mountains plant-based menus created in collaboration with nutritionist Rhaya Jordan There are yoga and fitness programs specifically focused on the outdoors and nature The hotel’s 22,000 square foot full-service spa incorporates natural healing as part of the its holistic Moving Mountains spa concept rooted in cutting edge science and medical research and utilizing organic and natural products created in conjunction with a leading sleep center in Lucerne The hydrapool at the spa at Hotel Eden Roc Many guests of the Hotel Eden Roc scarcely leave the hotel content to spend their time doing little more than sitting at the pool taking in the spectacular Lake Maggiore views But for those looking for more active experiences the choices are plentiful – and I did my best to experience as many as I could during my stay THe Hotel Eden Roc has two Riva boats available to its guests The Riva exhibition "Immagini del Momento" at the Hotel Eden Roc by Olaf Tamm is being held on .. More property at Casa Epper from 28 April - 31 July 2024 and wakeboarding – all very easy to do on the normally calm and uncluttered lake (good luck doing all that on Lake Como) The hotel even owns 2 Riva boats that guests can arrange to use And for fans of those beautiful Italian vessels this summer offers another treat – a special Riva photo exhibition by German photographer Olaf Tamm at the hotel’s own standalone museum Casa Epper (the former home of renowned Swiss artist Ignaz Epper located just on the edge of the hotel grounds) The Hotel Eden Roc owns kayaks and stand-up paddleboards which are available for guests to use free .. Those who enjoy the thrill of Lake Maggiore can choose from water skiing with the hotel's on-site partner Asconautica The Moving Mountains program offered at Hotel Eden Roc offers guests activities outside of the .. The activities offered by the Eden Roc extend well beyond the lake and even paragliding and bee hive experiences are all available (all of which can be customized for guests) These activities are overseen primarily by the hotel’s own “outdoor butler” – Cyrill – who hails from the region and brings a contagious energy and enthusiasm to his role Cyrill refers to himself as the luckiest employee at the hotel to be doing what he does – and he may be right A Cyrill-led hike up to the Castelliere Ruins is highly recommended for those looking for a challenging The Hotel Eden Roc offers guests an opportunity to hike the mountains in Ascona the hotel offers the Italian game bocce at Casa Epper including lessons for those – like myself – who are unfamiliar with the rules and it was a pleasure to play in such a lovely Bocce Ball at Casa Epper at the Hotel Eden Roc For those looking for something a little different on their next European adventure or who love the Italian lakes but have been to Lake Como one too many times the hidden gems of Lake Maggiore and the Hotel Eden Roc just might be the perfect fit The Hotel Eden Roc encompasses 3 buildings and two pools on its expansive property in Ascona Enjoy the ultimate form of escapism at a Swiss lakeside five-star surrounded by mountains nothing is quite like the extraordinary feeling of being in the Alps Ten years after my first visit, I returned to its southern reaches where Switzerland meets Italy on Lake Maggiore This part of the Alps is as much about the water as the slopes and there could be nowhere better to absorb everything the lake has to offer than the majestic Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona Like anywhere in the Alps, the most rewarding experiences are found outside. Hotel Eden Roc’s location conscientious ethos and five-star facilities accentuate those experiences without competing with them From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox Eden Roc isn’t just a luxurious retreat in a beautiful setting though but nature is an inseparable ingredient of the hotel and the experience it provides You could easily come here just to be in the mystical company of the lake and the mountains for a few days That would be a perfectly restorative vacation on its own That’s just one compelling reason to visit There’s action to be found on the water if you’re that way inclined and that’s where Eden Roc leads the way The hotel’s unique position on this iconic lake is unrivalled it offers a comprehensive range of water sports time on the lake is just as well spent as time at its side in the hotel and Eden Roc is expertly prepared to assist you without any pressure or expectation Even if the modernist 1970s building looks conventional from the outside it doesn’t take long to find the clues that reveal Eden Roc’s exclusivity: dream cars parked outside immaculate service and suites so enormous that it’s almost disorientating when you first enter Rates fluctuate with the season and room type which range from “junior” to “grand” All have balconies that either face the mountains And if you need some “me” time one evening have a soak in one of the suite’s preposterously large bathtubs There are five high-quality restaurants at the hotel all of which represent Mediterranean cuisine with the occasional twist Restaurant Eden Roc is a classy all-rounder where you’re likely to spend plenty of time during your stay including breakfast on its enchanting lakeside terrace This is where ambiance and food is the most traditional are prepared almost entirely in front of you by polished but La Casetta will awaken all the other senses From the cooling shade of a historic lake house breathe in the invigorating Alpine air over a long lunch of antipasti and simply grilled fresh fish With a chilled glass of locally produced Il Bianco Di Chiara from Paolo Basso La Marina is a more experimental restaurant with eye-catching aquatic motifs The menu is just as eccentric: I’m still trying to post-rationalise why dim sum and mezze belong alongside main dishes like risotto with verbena and scallops but it was easier to make sense of at the time with a bottle of the sublimely toasty Franciacorta simply referred to the hotel’s sustainability promises which are admirable for a hotel of this size (it’s been climate neutral since 2019) But I soon learned they represented something far more holistic but also a manifesto with five guiding pillars: move Each is closely tied to wellness and nature and are woven into almost everything you’ll touch in the hotel from its plant-focused gastronomy and mindful activities to its environmentally inspired “ETRA” art installation and its materials You could think of it as the hotel’s spiritual conscience and being a guest at Eden Roc is only enriched for it The hotel is currently running a three-night Moving Mountains holistic holiday experience from April to October If it wasn’t for the traces of German on signs and menus, it would be easy to forget Ascona is in Switzerland It’s a serene spot with a distinctly Mediterranean flavour to its architecture and unhurried pace It’s a place that “brims with the essence of Italianita” Eden Roc sits just east of Ascona’s promenade which is lined with smart bars and restaurants that are all equally appealing spots for an aperitivo Just behind are narrow streets with plenty of chic independent shops well worth a visit but there’s zero tackiness to be found here and plenty to like about its unspoiled character and discrete charm green mountains and a pristine lake feels like the ultimate form of escapism Eden Roc is synchronised with those elements all the while offering world-class comfort and service to its guests This is a place where you’ll flow effortlessly with nature and leave revitalised The staff think of the hotel as their own “little corner of paradise” Sign up for the Travel newsletter for destination inspiration and the latest news and trends A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com Built around You.Your expert business property advisers Mark KaluzaRegional Director - Retail & Leisure S&E “The Ridge” is located on the busy B2093 into the tourist hotspot of Hastings whilst also being positioned in a residential area The site comprises a Shell-branded forecourt with fuel sales in excess of 3.7m litres and a 2,100 square foot Spar convenience store who has successfully operated the site for over 20 years Having been in the forecourt industry for many years Kit sold the site to retire and concentrate on other interests who have rebranded it with the latest Valero signage and intend to trade a Nisa convenience store “After 23 years at Ridgeway Service Station “I would like to express a heartfelt thanks to all our loyal customers who have supported me and their local service station throughout the years Their continued patronage meant the world to us I also want to extend my gratitude to my dedicated team many of whom have been with me for over a decade especially my manager who was with me for the full 23 years It was a privilege to work with such loyal and dedicated individuals I would like to thank Mark Kaluza from Christie & Co for his unwavering support throughout what was a particularly complex sales process “Ascona Group are delighted to have successfully purchased Ridgeway Service Station in Hastings from the long-term owner Kit Tandon This fantastic site is a great addition to the Ascona network and we continue to look for these high-quality sites.” Regional Director – Retail & Leisure at Christie & Co who managed the sale said: “We were delighted to act for Kit with the sale of Ridgeway Service Station I wish them every success with this latest acquisition and I would urge anyone considering selling their site to get in touch.” The service station freehold was sold at an undisclosed price Visit our Business Search page to find out more about current listings. Keep up-to-date with our latest listings and more… © Christie & Co 2024 | A member of Christie Group Ruth draws inspiration from the wonderful natural elements she collects and selects with botanical care Following a complex process of preparation refined over the years the artist in fact pays attention to the evolutionary characteristics of the elements He goes so far as to distill pure and structurally essential forms that he immerses in color to compose them into lattices or incorporates them into handmade paper supports or Among the Greens there are geometric patterns that enter into a dialectical dynamic when the individual canvases or panels are juxtaposed to form diptychs and triptychs as happens in the cycle of Points and Counterpoints In Signs of Hydrangea Ruth uses the technique of frottage by bringing out the imprints of plant structures that remain visible and declined in different color variations within a range of grays explores the colors of the sky and the warm colors of the sun devoting himself entirely to abstract painting He prefers light blue but also works with black white and purple expanding them in all their shades With a scientific approach and a focus on the mechanisms of Moro perception he experiments with the potentialities and interferences of color he demonstrates his ability to subdivide pictorial space both geometrically and chromatically using vertical and horizontal lines and often resorting to the geometric form of the square By 2025-04-15T11:13:00 Top 50 Indie Ascona Group has helped raise £67,814 in just over six months for the Wales Air Ambulance charity By 2025-03-04T14:06:00 Darren Wilks has exited the forecourt industry with the sale of the last of his two sites: Kirkburn Service Station By 2024-08-22T10:45:00  Top 50 Indie Ascona has applied to Monmouthshire County Council for permission to knockdown and rebuild its Brecon Road Service Station in Abergavenny it’s late ’90s Japanese tuner cars that look like they are ready to take flight with more pointy carbon fiber bits and pieces than my imagination allows For Håkan Olofsson from Sweden, it’s his 1975 Opel Ascona A. I caught up with the pair in the 2023 Gatebil Mantorp paddock Håkan first laid eyes on the Opel race car in 2012 while test driving his son’s BMW E36 at Kinnekulle Ring (located 152km from Gothenburg) so Håkan did what any rational person would do and bought it straight away There were two previous motorsport competitor owners before Håkan and from what he could tell they had both used it in the same basic track specification It was missing its drivetrain and injectors but that was of no real concern to Håkan as he had his own plans for the car From a naturally aspirated BMW M52B28 motor to a turbocharged BMW M50B25 engine Håkan’s current setup is now built around a fully forged BMW M54B30 from an E46 M3 spitting out 754hp through a GearMotive BMW ZF S5D H-pattern dog box transmission You might have noticed that the engine sits quite far back in the bay Not only did positioning the engine more rearward open up room for an oil cooler but the front of the inline-six now sits directly above the center line of the front wheels resulting in 50/50 weight distribution over each axle most of the work was done by Håkan and his son Tobias who are both well-versed in engine building One of the few things they needed help with was machining the block which now contains DP forged pistons in custom T-Parts sleeves but there’s a Precision 6266 hiding in the bay that goes nuts at 3,400rpm with 1.8bar (26.5psi) of boost The big-boosting M3 engine is a thirsty thing and it’s suitably fuelled from the rear via a 50-litre Sellholm Tuning fuel cell with an integrated surge tank and two Bosch Motorsport 044 pumps The fuel and spark is all controlled by a MaxxECU engine management system I first saw Håkan’s Opel running laps at Mantorp Park back in 2020 its wild custom exterior the first thing that caught my eye The bubble-arched fenders were inspired by those seen in classic rallying while the rear wing is comprised of half plastic/half aluminium stays and a Porsche 911 GT3 blade with the wheel and tire combos tucking under the fenders because Håkan has three setups to choose from – 16-inch BBS RS and 16-inch Compomotive wheels both shod in Kumho racing tires which marries 17-inch BMW M5 Style 21 wheels with Yokohama Advan slicks Porsche Boxter 4-piston callipers are used at all four corners with 330mm front and 265mm rear discs The car only weighs 1,120kg (2,469lb) fully wet The entire interior was fully stripped and only racing essentials were put back in harnesses and steering wheel are by GP-Race digital tablets and dedicated dash displays are commonplace in both contemporary and vintage race cars but Håkan has kept it old school in his Ascona with analog gauges it’s not about being the quickest in the TimeAttackNu.se series “There are a lot of fast cars and faster drivers Despite not always finishing first in his class there are always people wondering why his smile is bigger than everyone else’s in a ’70s coupe that was never intended to be used as a race car is sure to put a grin on anyone’s face Speedhunters is an international collective of photographers writers and drivers with a shared passion for uncovering the world's most exciting car culture stories The Hans Ringier Foundation's "European Prize for Political Culture" will be awarded in 2024 to the married couple Anne Applebaum and Radosław Sikorski Their commitment as a journalist and as foreign minister combine to form an impressive life's work for an open society Anne Applebaum and Radosław Sikorski received the Hans Ringier Foundation's "European Prize for Political Culture" in Ascona on Saturday They are honoring "personalities who stand for the free democratic West with heart and soul according to a statement from the Hans Ringier Foundation "The life's work of this extraordinary couple encompasses Western thought from the USA to Israel to Poland - the space of freedom from West to East Anne Applebaum and Radosław Sikorski embody democracy and an open society as well as the will to defend and promote these values The two personalities deserve the thanks of all freedom-loving citizens for their journalistic and political work," commented Frank A on the choice of this year's award winners paid tribute to the two prizewinners in his laudatory speech: "Anne Applebaum and Radosław Sikorski are shaping the debates of our time and therefore also the political culture in Europe Authoritarian forces are currently seeking to undermine the liberal order with lies and even open violence Applebaum and Sikorski derive ways of asserting freedom from their deep understanding of Soviet oppression at home and imperialism abroad They are standard-bearers of the free world they deserve the European Prize for Political Culture 2024 The award ceremony took place at the traditional "Dîner Républicain" which is held every year at the invitation of Frank A Meyer at the "Castello del Sole" hotel in Ascona Endowed with 50,000 euros "European Prize for Political Culture" from the Hans Ringier Foundation is being awarded for the 18th time and has previously gone to Jean-Claude Juncker Welcome to motorship.com. This site uses cookies. Read our policy webinars and articles on innovations and current trends in the shipping industry Alternatively REGISTER for website access and sign up for email alerts Lloyd’s Register has awarded its first VC-L+ Descriptive Note for vessel connectivity to Neda Maritime’s very large car carrier marking the first LR vessel to complete this verification The certification highlights the MT Ascona’s advanced connectivity system which reportedly enables high-quality livestreaming and real-time data exchange LR evaluated MT Ascona’s vessel-shore connectivity onboard wireless network and livestreaming abilities Already subscribed? SIGN IN now Want to read more before deciding on a subscription It only takes a minute to sign up for a free account and you’ll get to enjoy: Get more free content sign up today Ready to subscribe? Choose from one of our subscription packages for unlimited access head chef of the "La Brezza" restaurant at the Eden Roc Hotel in Ascona The "Gault Millau" restaurant guide awarded the 32-year-old 19 out of a possible 20 points Campanella fascinates with his incredible sauces his versatility and his talent for inspiring a young team for his mission wrote the jury of the "Gault Millau" restaurant guide in a statement on Monday The fact that he also makes vegans happy "as a matter of course" also sets him apart he cooks at the "La Brezza" restaurant in the Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona in summer and at the "Tschuggen" in Arosa in winter The lesser-visited Italian-speaking (and eating) region of Switzerland is as rich in natural beauty as it is in gastronomic innovation Get your weekly dose of armchair travelling Rüsselsheim.  Opel and rallying are connected by a long history The all-electric Corsa-e Rally drifting around corners in the ADAC Opel e-Rally Cup is descended from the legendary Opel rally cars and drivers of the 1970s and ‘80s After successes with the Kadett GT/E and Ascona A Walter Röhrl won the World Rally Championship for drivers with the rear-wheel drive Opel Ascona 400 in the face of strong four-wheel drive competition Despite the outstanding engineering achievements at the time it took this very special driver to make the title dream come true exactly 40 years after his successes in the Opel Ascona 400 the brilliant driver and Bavarian character can celebrate another great anniversary Walter Röhrl – described in the “Opel Rally Story” as the “tactician adored by his fans and feared by his opponents” – will turn 75 The 1970s: Opel and Röhrl celebrate early successes Walter Röhrl loved sport from an early age: football “Rallying rather than racing” was a conscious decision for the young Bavarian the then 26-year-old drove for Opel and with Jochen Berger as his co-driver and the team won the European Rally Championship just one year later The winning car was a factory Opel Ascona A Röhrl won the first world championship rally for himself and Opel The talented young driver and the tradition-rich brand parted company in 1977; but at that point no one suspected that the greatest joint sporting triumph was yet to come “Mission Monte Carlo”: Victory in WRC opening round Walter Röhrl then returned to Opel in 1982 While Jochen Berger was now team manager of the Opel motorsport department his new co-driver Christian Geistdörfer also made a decisive contribution to the success of “Mission Monte Carlo” the crew under chief engineer Karl-Heinz Goldstein designed a rally car that was considered at the time as one of the most reliable machines The rear-wheel drive car with up to 191 kW/260 hp (more information on the car at the end of the text) was perfectly tuned for the drifter Röhrl to prove his skills against the all-wheel drive Audi Quattro on the 50th edition of the Monte Carlo Rally In Röhrl's biography “Aufschrieb” Goldstein describes how the combination of a proven car and a determined driver clicked he had a lead of only 31 seconds over Hannu (Mikkola/Audi) Then Walter chose the Col de Madonne as the point where he wanted to decide the rally That night he put all his eggs in one basket and drove the Madonne at the absolute limit That broke Hannu's fighting spirit.” Röhrl went on to win the legendary Monte for the second time and for the first time with Opel Ivory Coast Rally: A tense duel until the end The 1982 World Rally Championship turned into a real thriller in the following rounds The duel was between Röhrl in the Opel Ascona 400 and Michèle Mouton in an Audi Quattro While the four-wheel drive rally cars had the advantage on snow waited for the right moments to score points with his Opel the 5,000-kilometre-long Ivory Coast Rally (definitely not one of Walter’s favourite events) While the Opel Ascona 400 ran like clockwork and soaked up the punishment the competitors were less characterised by reliability Or as Klaus Buhlmann comments in “The Opel Rally Story”: “The result of this world championship But while Mikkola and Mouton often failed spectacularly Röhrl scored with the reliability of a computer His record of finishing in excellent positions alone is unique in the history of the sport and deserves the highest recognition Certainly the success of an unusual driver but certainly also the merits of a good team and the Opel Ascona 400 probably the most reliable rally car of its era!” With this unique combination Opel and Röhrl/Geistdörfer successfully prevailed against the all-wheel drive Quattro and secured the drivers' World Championship title with an unassailable 109 points successful: The character behind the driver Walter Röhrl Röhrl is famous for his perfectionism as well as not mincing his words He simply wanted to prove that he was the best rally driver in the world – in any car While other drivers hung around chatting or smoking at a service area he would remain in his rally car studying the pace notes for the next stage Walter Röhrl is idolized by motorsport fans the world over he enjoys the highest respect of his peers Perhaps he is best summed up by one of his contemporaries; writing in the British magazine “Motor Sport” in 2002 the former rally co-driver and director of motorsport at British Leyland John Davenport portrayed Röhrl as a potent mix: “A very special blend of sublime talent unswerving focus and brutal honesty.” Congratulations on 75 years 1982 World Rally Championship Opel Ascona 400 Group 4 15” Opel light-alloy wheels; Michelin tyres with 5-10” width subject to conditions the Opel Ascona isn’t exactly special per se but there’s more to it than you might think The third and final generation of the model helped the German brand with the transition to the 1990s when cars generally became more sophisticated The Ascona C was Opel's first effort for a relatively affordable yet large and practical car driven by its front wheels While it was never sold in the United States it had the same bones – GM’s J platform – as the Chevrolet Cavalier CL and Cadillac Cimarron sold at this side of the big pond our weekly look back at cars from the European market that defined a motoring generation The Opel Ascona has earned its reputation as a beloved classic for several reasons and excellent handling are among the primary factors that endear it to enthusiasts and solid build quality made it an ideal choice for both daily commuting and long road trips and build inexpensive mid-sized cars with FWD - something it kept doing during the next decades on a global scale have become legendary among rally racing fans thanks to their impressive performance on the tracks This version was part of the second-gen Ascona lineup with which Walter Röhrl won the 1982 World Rally Championship drivers' title The third generation of the Opel Ascona made its debut in 1981 replacing the second-generation Ascona that had been in production since 1975 This new iteration brought several modern updates to the table It was the only Ascona from all three generations to be powered by its front wheels The Ascona occupied an essential position in the company’s lineup as a mid-sized family car. Sitting between the smaller Kadett and the larger Rekord and Senator models the Ascona catered to consumers seeking a balance of size This strategic placement allowed the Ascona to address the needs of a wide range of customers from families to individuals looking for a stylish and comfortable daily driver the Ascona was narrowly beaten to the European Car of the Year accolade by the Renault 9 the model set the standards for performance in its segment with a top speed of 105 miles per hour when equipped with a 1.6-liter engine That was well beyond the 101 mph top speed of the 2.0-liter Ford Cortina a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated compression ignition mill with 55 horsepower The range-topping mill had 130 horsepower from a 2.0-liter engine the third-generation Ascona was one of Opel’s best-sellers at the time the automaker discontinued the model and replaced it with the Vectra the Ascona sold more than 3.9 million units A version of the car remained in production in Brazil until 1996 with a major facelift in 1990 for both the two- and four-door models the Ascona was known as the Vauxhall Cavalier and was quite popular becoming the best-selling car in 1984 and 1985 it registered more than 700,000 deliveries in the UK The Cavalier was also sold as a station wagon Discover Europe's Gems From The Previous Decades: Opel and Citroen Are Also Selling Cars Without a Center Screen 2026 Jeep Compass Unveiled: Hybrid or EV With Up to 375 HP Opel Tigra A (1994-2001) driving report: Small but powerful Lotus Emira With Yellow Exhaust Tips Pays Tribute to an F1 GOAT Opel Kadett E driving report: 40 years after launch The Cadillac Celestiq Will Be as Rare as a Bugatti Your first camper van for £17,000 - total price Registration for the Vertical MRO Conference in Kelowna B.C. is now open! Click here to learn more. one of the UK’s fastest-growing forecourt operators is delighted to announce the Wales Air Ambulance as its charity partner for the 2023/24 financial year Ascona has made an initial donation of £10,000 25p donations will be available to be paid via card machines across all of their sites in Wales and Ascona has committed to match each donation up to total value of £50,000 the Wales Air Ambulance will share in the proceeds of Nisa Retail’s ‘Making a Difference Locally’ fund which is expected to amount to a further £10,000 in contributions from purchases made at Ascona sites in Wales Ascona anticipates raising over £100,000 for the Wales Air Ambulance by the end of the 2023/24 financial year through all of the proposed fundraising activities The partnership will help to support the Wales Air Ambulance in their mission to deliver lifesaving medical care to people across Wales The service relies entirely on charitable donations to raise the necessary £8 million in funds to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the roads across Wales Chief Executive of Ascona Group commented: “Since we started Ascona back in 2011 supporting our local communities has been central to our culture so we are proud to support the Wales Air Ambulance Charity in their vital work as they continue to deliver lifesaving medical care to people across Wales we have raised and donated over £200,000 for many different charities that help Welsh communities and their people and with the Wales Air Ambulance as our charity partner for the next 12 months we are truly excited to make a difference to such an iconic charity.” Corporate Fundraiser at the Wales Air Ambulance commented: “We are delighted that Ascona has selected us as their charity of the year Despite the vital work our people carry out on a daily basis so we truly rely on the support from the people of Wales to make sure we can continue to serve them I’d like to thank Darren and everyone at Ascona for their most generous donation and continued support.” This press release was prepared and distributed by Ascona and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Bell 525 Walkaround: The First Commercial Fly-by-Wire Helicopter Bell 505 Contact seller for price Year: 2022 Click on the button below to send an email to our team and we will get to it as soon as possible Have a story idea you would like to suggest Ascona has been described as “ridiculously picturesque” and it is. On the shores of Lake Maggiore in Southern Switzerland, with the mountains sweeping down to the water it is hard to imagine a more congenial atmosphere for listening to great music while enjoying good food and fellowship. The Festival’s four stages are literally on the waterfront—a misstep backward and the musicians could be taking a swim The stages are strategically positioned to keep the sound from spilling over along the length of the pedestrian-only quay (about 2000 feet) Opposite are hotels and open-air restaurants Step out of your hotel and you are instantly in the crowds strolling along the quay Enjoy the ambiance with a drink or a full gourmet meal while the musicians are syncopating opposite you to their own beat JazzAscona is justifiably known internationally as one of the most important New Orleans music festivals are the large number of younger people enjoying the music The music programs are liberally sprinkled with gigs that reflect contemporary New Orleans music with enough sets to satisfy the traditionalist Five days are free admission allowing many to sample the music Paid days are reasonably priced at $20 with students The variety of free music encouraged us to try music we might otherwise have ignored Each day the official music starts with a street parade at 6:30 pm and ends about 1:30 am with a jam session During the day many local restaurants and bars also host the musicians with extra gigs all tourists receive a pass for unlimited free public transportation in the area in less than an hour one can be walking high in alpine meadows exploring Lugano or enjoying steamer trips to Isola Bella a small island with an exceptional botanical garden Our third year at Ascona again found the line-up very impressive and another thirty-five or so ensembles were listed in the program Monty Alexander was the Festival headliner His concert was a homage to Nat King Cole emphasizing Cole’s contribution to Jazz in his Trio years He discussed how Cole was one of the major influences of his life from childhood A rousing “Straighten Up and Fly Right” earned enthusiastic applause offered a moving original arrangement of “Nature Boy” sung as a spiritual that was unsurpassed for its pathos Monty also acknowledged his Jamaican roots with some jazz-style calypso as well as Sinatra’s contribution to his career with “Come Fly With Me.” made its first overseas tour after the hiatus of the original band Berklee College of Music graduate and alumnus of Harry Connick they played several sets as the smaller NOJO 7 plus three full orchestra concerts NOJO were new to me. My New Orleans jazz is rooted in George Lewis, Jim Robinson, Kid Howard, and peers. This is a new generation of New Orleans born musicians more modern but it is authentic New Orleans flowing from the same roots as their grandfathers played with a passion and enjoyment that conveys itself to the audience it’s not the trad jazz I grew up with but it’s great jazz “Congo Square – The History of New Orleans Music” was a review from Jelly Roll Morton to rock ’n’ roll, through Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Harold Battiste, and many more while the Festival closed with “The Music of Allen Toussaint,” honoring the memory of this icon of Soul and R& B composition Various members of the band covered some of Toussaint’s greatest hits The rendition of “Southern Nights” was superb with vocal by Michael Watson and Ricardo Pascal soloing on sax Ashlin Parker offered a beautiful “Java” with Leon “Kid Chocolate,” Jerome Ansari From the performances and talking with several of the NOJO musicians it is clear that Adonis Jones is providing excellent leadership What comes across in their sets is a strong feeling that the musicians enjoy working together and constantly challenging each other this year’s recipient of the Ascona Jazz Award for outstanding achievement is described as the “keeper of the flame” as he bridges traditional to modern: “Royal Garden Blues,” “Hindustan,” “Panama,” – listening to his beautiful lyrical interpretations of these standards one understands how he has been influenced by the modern greats while holding true to the traditional sounds that surrounded him growing up in New Orleans He was ably supported by the Uli Wunner’s Jazz Creole Band with one of my personal favorite pianists Each year I am constantly amazed at the number of exceptional European jazz & swing bands present Heading that European list was the Dutch Swing College The band’s make-up has changed since its founding 75 years ago but the music and arrangements remain true to their style They attracted some of the largest crowds for their concerts and no one was disappointed They’re so young it is hard to believe they are celebrating their 20th year with a playlist mixing lesser known trad jazz tunes with the standards they reminded me of the sounds heard more in the Frenchman Street neighborhood than on Bourbon Street I particularly enjoyed “Buddy Bolden Blues” interpreted by Lauryan Feijen He offered a swinging tribute to Nat King Cole with excellent support from Dave Blenkhorn including a moving rendition of “Stardust” were very familiar to those growing up in the forties and fifties One of the most exciting experiences was the “Trumpet Mafia.” The brainchild of talented N.O the project’s goal is a collective of trumpeters practicing and growing together as musicians with participation open to anyone top level musicians joined youngsters and adults The only requirement was having a trumpet of some kind to blow Ashlin’s passion for the concept of collective learning comes across as he patiently leads all through basic techniques Just listening increased our own appreciation We missed the first four days due to being at the Tel Aviv Festival there were so many other talented musicians and sets for the last six days that it was impossible to cover all performances If it relates to New Orleans it has a place here I was not drawn to “Jt & The Kanection Band” but lovers of Soul and R&B voted them the “Aet Audience Award” for last year ensuring their invitation to this year There were some special individual musicians that must be mentioned The recipient of the 2019 Swiss Jazz Award was vocalist This unbelievable 93-year-old (not a typo!) was honored for her extraordinary artistic career and contribution to Switzerland’s music scene She performed two sets with an intensity and drive totally unexpected for her age she has shared the stage with Duke Ellington She has lived in Switzerland since the 1960s George Washingmachine (“I was agitated as a kid”) talented violinist and vocalist from Australia he added his unique sound to many of the bands Stride pianist Brenno Bocardo joined with Adriano Bassani in a joyful and enthusiastically received tribute to Fats Waller In summary, it was a very satisfying six days both for the music and environment. The organizers are to be commended on their ability to keep the New Orleans experience fresh and exciting each year. 2020 dates are June 25 – July 4. Info at www.jazzascona.ch/en Ascona Group - which has forecourts across Pembrokeshire, has helped raise an incredible £67,814 in just over six months for the Wales Air Ambulance Charity - enough money to cover the cost of twenty-five lifesaving missions! The company has teamed up with the award-winning UK fintech charity Pennies, which enables micro-donation opportunities at checkout, helping create huge impact for charities in need. Customers are given the opportunity to donate to charity when paying by card or digital wallet which Ascona will be match funding. Darren Briggs, founder and chief executive of Ascona Group said: “Wales Air Ambulance, is such a phenomenal service and our customers recognise that. “They have been so generous at our tills, whenever they make a purchase, they are given the option of donating 30p to the charity, which Ascona will match-fund. “As you can see from the amount raised so far, they think a lot of the service.” The Wales Air Ambulance is consultant-led, taking hospital-standard treatments to the patient and if required, transferring them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury. It is delivered via a unique Third Sector and Public Sector partnership. The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £11.2 million required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road. The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the Charity’s vehicles. This advanced critical care includes the ability to administer anaesthesia, deliver blood transfusions and conduct minor operations, all at the scene of an incident. As a pan-Wales service, its dedicated crews, regardless of where they are based, will travel the length and breadth of the country to deliver emergency lifesaving care. Darren said: “It means a lot on a personal level to be able to help support a Charity that helps save so many lives each year. “One of my longest serving employees, needed the help of the Wales Air Ambulance, and is thankfully still with us.” He added: “As a helicopter pilot, I also understand the flying element to the service too, it’s unbelievable what they do under such pressure. “There are so many things that must be considered even before take-off. “There’s the logistics, navigating the terrain - some patients can be in hard to access areas, and most importantly providing critical care at the scene.” Ascona Group has 62 forecourts across the UK and serves 300,000 customers a week. It dispenses 5.0 million litres of motor fuel per week - That's an equivalent of 19 tankers per day. Valero is a global fuels manufacturer and owns and operates Pembroke Refinery in West Wales. It has taken around 18 months for both companies to rollout the Pennies initiative. Alison Cousins, Area Sales Manager for Valero Energy Ltd, said: “Valero is proud of our charitable partnership with the Wales Air Ambulance, and is pleased to have been able to support the rollout of Pennies charitable giving across Ascona sites. “Wales Air Ambulance carry out inspirational, lifesaving work for those who need it most, and we are delighted today to help celebrate the public and Ascona’s generous donation efforts across the communities we are so fortunate to be a part of.” Customers making a purchase at Ascona’s Valero branded forecourts will see messaging around the campaign on fuel pumps and at the counter. Geoffrey Harding, Head of Fuel Strategy at Ascona Group, said: “If you pay using the card reader, you will have the option to donate 30p, which Ascona will match up to £100,000. “For every donation we have seen so far, we have matched, when paid by card. “We also have donation boxes at the checkout, for anyone paying with cash, who might wish to donate. “It is totally the customer’s choice, the staff are fully trained to answer any questions the customer has and it’s just a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ option on the card reader, if they wish to add a donation on to their transaction, they can with the added bonus that Ascona will match fund the donation.” Pennies CEO, Alison Hutchinson CBE, added: “Pennies is proud to partner with Ascona, and congratulations to the team and customers for their amazing fundraising efforts. “The generosity of Ascona customers and Ascona with their match funding has created tremendous impact for The Wales Air Ambulance. “Thank you to the Ascona team and to all those customers who press ‘yes’ – your small acts of generosity make such a difference.” Ascona and Valero’s Pennies’ campaign is raising around £1,200 per week on average. Since its launch in 2010, Pennies has facilitated over 255 million micro-donations, raising £62 million for more than 1,060 charities. Phae Jones, Director of Income at Wales Air Ambulance said: “We’d like to extend a huge thank you to every customer who has donated over the past six months at Ascona sites. “We are hugely grateful to Ascona for kindly match-funding all money raised to the value of £100,000. That is an incredibly generous amount, which will help save many lives and will be the company’s second £100,000 donation in the last two years. “The Valero team are also hugely supportive of the work we do and have been fantastic during the rollout of the Pennies initiative. “As a Charity, we must raise £11.2 million pounds each year, to keep our helicopters in the sky and rapid response vehicles on the road. “Partnerships like this are key to enabling us to keep doing what we do.” Comments Tel: 01834 843262[email protected]Follow us Further Links Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025