Fortitude Communications, based on ARC in Cowley, Oxford, has appointed senior account executive Jack Sale to support its portfolio of clients across various sectors.

Mr Sale brings experience from high-profile public sector and corporate roles, including time at Thames Valley Police and Heathrow Airport.

Greig Box Turnbull, founder of Fortitude Communications, said: “Jack is a great addition to our team, bringing experience, a passion for PR and he will add great value for our clients.

“Jack has experience of working on high-profile projects including Heathrow Airport’s third runway proposal and significant operations and campaigns at Thames Valley Police.

“We’re pleased to welcome Jack to the team.”

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In his new role, Mr Sale will deliver PR and creative marketing services for Fortitude’s clients, who span professional services, manufacturing, sport, hospitality and charity.

Clients include Oxford Bus Company, the Arena Racing Company, Welbeck Health Partners, and Weinig UK.

Mr Sale said: “Joining Fortitude is a fantastic opportunity, and I’m thrilled to be part of the team.

“The breadth of work underway, and the positive impact it’s already having across Oxfordshire and beyond is really exciting.

“I’m keen to contribute my experience and play my part in delivering strong results and real value for our clients.”

His appointment follows the addition of three new team members in October as part of the agency’s ongoing growth.

Fortitude Communications offers services including PR, creative marketing, social media management, video production and copywriting.

Cakes of Curiosity, based in Oxfordshire, took home the title for Cakes and Sweet Treats at the Guides for Brides Customer Service Awards 2026.

The annual awards, hosted by one of the UK’s leading wedding planning platforms, celebrate outstanding customer experience across the wedding industry.

Winners are chosen based on real reviews, service excellence, and consistent delivery of exceptional service.

Cakes of Curiosity was selected from hundreds of businesses nationwide for its high ratings and glowing feedback.

Nikita Thorne, head of strategy at Guides for Brides, said: “Couples are entering the wedding planning process more informed and more discerning than ever before, and they expect genuine care, clear communication and consistency at every touchpoint.

“This year’s awards have highlighted just how many businesses are rising to meet that expectation.

“From our winners and highly commended recipients to every finalist, we’ve seen a shared dedication to going above and beyond for couples, creating experiences that feel personal, seamless and memorable.”

Cakes of Curiosity stood out for their commitment to delivering a seamless and supportive experience for couples, reflected in consistently high review ratings and glowing feedback from real weddings.

One couple said: “We booked Cakes of Curiosity for our wedding cake after meeting Melanie at a Wedding Fair as we knew there would be no one better for our special day and Melanie proved us right in every possible way.

“Every single tier looked absolutely stunning and tasted even better than we could have imagined.

“Melanie even perfectly catered to our gluten-free guest by creating him his own mini cake, which tasted just as amazing as the main event!”

“She made the whole process feel so special and the time, care and attention to detail Melanie puts into her work is unmatched.

“Choosing Melanie as our cake maker was without a doubt one of the very best decisions we made for the entire wedding.”

Cakes of Curiosity said: “I can not fully explain what winning this award means to me. I work incredibly hard to combine exceptional craftsmanship with a consistently attentive and professional service.

“I understand that choosing a wedding cake is about more than just design and flavour – it’s about trust, reassurance, and feeling supported throughout the journey.

“Above all, I genuinely care. Each cake is created with passion, pride, and a commitment to excellence, treating every wedding as if it were my own.

“I’m absolutely thrilled that this has resonated with my wonderful couples.”

Connect Catering, based at Hithercroft Court in Wallingford, was shortlisted at the 2026 Contract Catering Awards, with team member Sally Allen named a finalist in the Business and Industry Award category.

The awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and outstanding achievement across the UK’s contract catering sector.

Victoria Murrell, chief executive officer of Connect Catering, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised at the 2026 Contract Catering Awards.

“To see Sally shortlisted is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work, passion and professionalism shown by our wider team every day.”

Connect Catering is an independent, family-run business established in 1989.

The company provides catering services to workplaces, independent schools, and care homes across the UK.

It has built a reputation for delivering fresh food and excellent service with a personal touch.

The Contract Catering Awards ceremony took place in London in March, bringing together leading businesses from across the country.

Sally Allen’s shortlisting highlights the commitment and expertise of the Connect Catering team.

The company prides itself on building strong client relationships and maintaining high standards in all aspects of its work.

Its team focuses on creating positive dining experiences for employees, pupils, residents, and visitors.

The recognition shows Wallingford is home to successful employers.