Just Local

Mortgage rates are finally starting to fall - but if you're buying a new build, there may be a way to reduce your costs even further that most buyers don't know about. In this episode of Just Local, Nicol & Co Managing Director Matt Nicol is joined by Martyn Davies of Mindful Financial Planning to discuss the current mortgage landscape and what it means for buyers in Worcestershire, in...

In the first Just Local episode of 2026, we’re joined by Neil Archie Evans (founder) and Ed Birch (chairman) from NAGS Charity Barbarians RFC, a charity rugby team raising funds for Cancer Research UK. What started in 2012 with a 30-mile narrowboat pull from Birmingham to Worcester has grown into a community of more than 1,300 members, combining grassroots rugby with epic fundraising challenges: 5...

A brand new sport has landed in Worcester and the buzz is real. In this episode we sit down with Manny Deol and Ras Deol, the founders of Padel and Play, Worcesters newest padel facility based in St Johns. They share the story behind bringing padel to the city, why the sport is growing so quickly, and how they are building a community that welcomes everyone from complete beginners to seasoned rack...

In this episode, Matt is joined on the towpath by Shaun Pope and Ian Lane from the Canal and River Trust to explore Droitwich’s brand-new Health Corridor - an ambitious project transforming access along the Droitwich Canal from Vines Park to Ladywood Lock in Salwarpe. They discuss how a once inaccessible stretch of towpath has been fully reconstructed to create a safe, welcoming and more inclusive...

We’re back — and kicking things off with two Worcester Warriors legends! Former captain Chris Pennell and powerhouse GJ van Velze join us to relive the unforgettable promotion battle against Bristol, reflect on their playing careers at Sixways, and share the highs and challenges of transitioning to life beyond professional rugby. We also dive into the incredible work of the Worcester Warriors Comm...

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Just Local , we’re joined by Councillor Rick Dellar , leader of Droitwich Town Council, to talk about something deeply personal - his family’s journey with dementia, and how it's inspiring meaningful community change. Rick shares the moving story of his father’s Alzheimer's diagnosis and the impact it's had on his family. But more importantly,...

The recent BBC Panorama programme uncovered some worrying practices in the estate agency world from favouring certain buyers to pushing in-house services for profit. At Nicol & Co, we believe in doing things differently. In this special edition, our Managing Director, Matt Nicol, responds openly to the concerns raised and shares how we prioritise trust, transparency with both our buyers and se...

In this episode of Just Local , we sit down with community champion and financial advisor Martyn Davies to explore the story behind Milo the Monkey: Making Money Matters Fun — a colourful, character-led children’s book teaching primary school kids the basics of money. Martyn shares how a gap in early financial education inspired him to create something fun, practical and accessible for families an...

In this powerful and personal episode of the Just Local Podcast , we sit down with Matt Everard, the newly appointed Head Coach of the Worcester Warriors. From his early days at Leicester Tigers to playing and coaching in London and Nottingham, Matt shares his unique journey through professional rugby — and what it means to him to take the reins at Worcester in one of the most anticipated rugby re...

In this special episode, we welcome Ria Simons from St Richard’s Hospice to talk about the incredible collaboration powering this year’s Big Worcestershire Garage Sale. Ria shares her personal story, the vital work St Richard’s does across the county, and how you can turn your unwanted items into a force for good. With an ambitious target of £25,000, we dive into the difference your donations can...

🎙️ Introducing Episode 13 of the 'Just Local' Podcast Getting ready for the Big Worcestershire Garage Sale or just having a clear out? This episode is your go-to guide! We’re joined by decluttering expert Kath Holmes, who shares her top tips for turning mess into money. In this practical and inspiring conversation, we cover: How to overcome the overwhelm and know where to start The emotional and f...

🎙️ Introducing Episode 12 of the 'Just Local' Podcast In this episode of the Just Local Podcast we interview Stuart Panrucker, Festival Director for the Rik Mayall Comedy Festival due to be held in Droitwich from May 31 to June 7th 2025. Stuart shares how this unique community-powered event came to life, its deep connection to comedy legend Rik Mayall, and the incredible mix of over 130 shows taki...

Special Edition! When Droitwich Spa heard they were getting a Banking Hub it was closely followed by contact from Ian Lambert from CashAccessUK. They are responsible for finding the best location for a banking hub and also ensuring its success. Ian came to Droitwich on the 11th of April to speak with local residents and businesses about the benefits of having a Banking Hub and how it will work. In...

In this episode, we explore the latest property market trends impacting local landlords. From rent prices and demand fluctuations to property management tips and local news updates, we cover what you need to know to stay ahead in the market. In this episode: Local Market Trends – Discussion on current rental demand, pricing shifts, and housing availability in the area. Legislative Updates – Key up...

🎙️ Introducing Episode Nine of the ‘Just Local’ Podcast! We’re thrilled to bring you another inspiring episode from the heart of Worcestershire. This week, we’re joined by Mark Billage, founder of Smart Culture and published author of ‘I See You’. Mark shares his wealth of experience in leadership and personal development, offering powerful insights on how leaders can stay true to themselves while...

We’re excited to continue our series with episode eight, showcasing inspiring stories from the heart of Worcestershire. This week, we’re joined by Stef Bennett, entrepreneur and joint owner of the successful Bennetts Farms in Worcester. Stef shares her journey of running a thriving family farm business, offering valuable insights into navigating the challenges of rising taxes and exploring new bus...

🎙️ Introducing Episode Seven of the ‘Just Local’ Podcast! We’re excited to continue our series showcasing inspiring stories from the heart of Worcestershire. This week, we’re joined by Laura Napper, Commercial Director at Sixways Stadium. Laura shares her journey in the world of sports and business, offering unique insights into what it takes to lead commercial success at one of the region’s most...

🎙️ Introducing Episode Six of the ‘Just Local’ Podcast! Get ready for an inspiring episode as we sit down with our very own Matt Nicol, the founder of Nicol and Co, for an exclusive interview about the journey of the company and his vision for the future! We’re thrilled to bring you another exciting instalment in our series, showcasing the people and stories that make Worcestershire so special. Th...

🎙️ Introducing Episode Five of the ‘Just Local’ Podcast! The one you've all been waiting for – an exclusive interview with Simon Lancaster and Laura Napper about the exciting future of Worcester City FC! We’re thrilled to bring you another exciting episode in our series, showcasing inspiring stories from the heart of Worcestershire. This week, we’re joined by Laura Napper, Commercial Director and...

Introducing Episode Four of the ‘Just Local’ Podcast! This week, shining the spotlight on Councillor Richard Morris. Wearing many hats in the Worcestershire Community, Richard is well known for his dedication as a Town Councillor for Droitwich, South East (District) & West (County). In this episode, Richard shares insight into the latest projects, and future plans for Droitwich, he also discus...

🎙️Introducing Episode Three of the ‘Just Local’ Podcast! This week, we’re excited to welcome Simon Lancaster, entrepreneur, founder of SJL Insurance and The SJL Foundation, and Owner and majority shareholder of Worcester City FC. Simon shares his inspiring journey of building a thriving business while making a meaningful impact on the local community. From leading the growth of SJL Insurance to su...

Introducing Episode Two of the ‘Just Local’ podcast! We’re excited to continue our series, dedicated to showcasing inspiring stories from the heart of Worcestershire, with today’s guest- Huw Taylor! In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome a former Worcester Warriors rugby player who now brings his passion to the Seattle Seawolves in the USA’s Major League Rugby. Known for his dedication on the...

🎙️ Welcome to the First Episode of Just Local! 🎙️ In this inaugural episode, we're joined by James Gwynne Lettings Manager at Nicol & Co Estate Agents. James shares his expertise on the local property market, the challenges and opportunities for landlords, and his new book, 'Home'. Home is now available in both Hardback for £10.99 and Kindle version for just 99p*! Whether you’re a seasoned lan...