Cleaner Safer Group CEO steps down after almost two decades
Bruce Allen, longstanding CEO of Cleaner Safer Group (CSG) is retiring after almost 20 years. He will remain in his role until September 2025, overseeing the handover and induction of a new CEO to be announced this month. CSG is the parent company to independent not-for-profit organisations, HETAS and Woodsure. In 2006, Bruce was appointed CEO of HETAS, training and certification leaders for biomass and solid fuel appliances and associated technologies. In 2017, he was also made CEO of Woodsure, the UK’s only wood fuel quality scheme, before taking up the same role at CSG five years later. CSG oversees both HETAS and Woodsure, and provides guidance and solutions to its clients helping them to meet compliance and regulatory standards, and minimise their impact on the environment. Collectively, the group of organisations lead on industry standards, policy and strategy, working alongside a range of stakeholders, local authorities and government departments – including Defra, DESNZ and MHCLG. Under Bruce’s stewardship the three organisations have seen exponential growth in services and personnel. Starting as the sole employee of HETAS in 2006, across CSG there are now over 70 members of staff. He was also the driving force behind HETAS’ training and certification courses for retailers, sweeps and installers. Bruce oversaw the launch of HETAS’ Cleaner Choice Scheme, which helps consumers identify the cleanest-burning appliances, and its Competent Person Scheme, allowing installers to self-certify their work as compliant with building regulations. Later, he guided Woodsure in the administration of Defra’s Ready to Burn certification mark on wood fuels that are dry to burn and ready for immediate use, along with securing the contract to administer the Biomass Suppliers List. Kaye Welfare, Chair of CSG, said: “This leadership transition marks the close of a remarkable chapter. For 18 years Bruce has led HETAS and Woodsure with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the group’s overall aim of working together for a cleaner, safer, more sustainable environment. “Under Bruce’s leadership, HETAS, Woodsure and, now Cleaner Safer Group, have developed and expanded their services and offerings to become leaders in the wood and biomass fuel sectors, strengthening the focus on safety to ultimately work towards a more sustainable environment. “His passion, care and dedication have echoed through each organisation as they have continued to grow, resulting in a culture grounded in accountability and expertise. An incredibly strong foundation for the future. We wish Bruce the happiest of retirements and thank him for the wonderful legacy he is leaving us.” “We look forward to welcoming our new CEO this summer.” You can visit the Cleaner Safer Group website here.
The new Varde Samso wood burner from Eurostove
Think Scandi chic this autumn/winter with the new Varde Samso wood burner from Eurostove. Whether upgrading an existing heat source or choosing something new for a home renovation or new-build project, it’s often best to keep things simple. That’s the fuss-free beauty of the new Varde Samso wood burning stove from Eurostove. Blending sleek and elegant Scandinavian styling with state-of-the-art efficient heating performance, this streamlined stove will complement both modern and traditional interiors perfectly. Part of the new Varde offering from Eurostove, the Samso stove is made from high-quality steel with a durable and hardwearing cast iron door. It’s DEFRA-approved for use in smoke control areas and has a 3-7kW heat output, which makes it suitable for all rooms, from cosy dens and dining rooms to large, open-plan living areas with multipurpose use. The generously sized glass window gives an uninterrupted view of the flicking flames inside while the integrated airwash system ensures the glass stays clean, even after regular use. This is due to the airwash directing a stream of heated air down the inside of the glass, which prevents soot from sticking to it. Creating a warm and welcoming ambience for any home, the Varde Samso wood burner also features an integrated log store for comfort and convenience as well as an eye-catching rustic and authentically Scandinavian focal point for its surroundings. Added benefits of this clean-lined Scandi stove include easy-to-use controls, advanced combustion technology for reduced emissions and peace of mind that it provides warmth, sleek Scandi style and a sustainable heating solution for any home heating upgrade. Eurostove is proud to be the new official distributor for Scandinavian brand Varde Ovne in the UK and Republic of Ireland. A brand that prides itself on its craftsmanship, product development and sustainable credentials, Varde’s values are perfectly aligned with Eurostove. “For anyone looking to improve, update or upgrade their home’s heating this autumn/winter, Varde has a stunning range of Scandi-style stoves that complement all kinds of interiors,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Here at Eurostove, we’re thrilled to be able to offer heating solutions for all tastes and budgets, and this latest Samso stove is sure to be an instant hit with consumers.” The Varde Samso from Eurostove is priced £1,391.20
The New Smart Stove from Contura, The Connect 556
Europe’s leading wood burning stove manufacturer, Contura, launches a groundbreaking new product – its first smart stove, the Connect 556. Part of the popular 500 Style range, featuring an elegant, timeless aesthetic and compact size, the innovative Contura Connect 556 is the perfect smart and sustainable solution for modern, energy efficient homes. To view the Connect 556, click here. Balancing style with smart technology, the clean lines and wraparound glass panels of the Contura Connect 556 make it a stand-out choice for those who appreciate an attractive, contemporary stove that enhances and blends with design-led interiors and that also delivers instant comfort. With a discrete LED on the front of the stove, hinting at its high-tech interior, Contura’s new smart stove offers a number of sophisticated features, including: An easy-to-use Contura Connect 556 app allows stove owners to control the stove settings from the sofa or from another room. Simply set the temperature you want the stove to maintain to optimise the performance of the stove and the comfort of those enjoying it. The app also provides a host of useful notifications and reminders, including when it’s time to add more fuel, how much firewood is needed when loading or reloading, when it’s time to empty the ash pan, and a handy weather feature that notifies stove owners of any upcoming temperature drops in their region. The delivery of analytics showing how stove owners use their stove and how it heats the home allows users to take more control than ever before, optimising the stove’s performance and minimising waste of both fuel and heat energy. “The innovative Contura Connect 556 is the ideal stove for modern homes,” says Phil Wood, UK managing director at Contura. “It’s stylish aesthetic and compact size, paired with the innovative smart technology marks it out as a complete gamechanger in the industry. “The app provides stats and data to ensure optimal performance, whilst automatic regulation of air supply leads to optimal, cleaner, more efficient combustion and minimal emissions, making the Contura Connect 556 more environmentally friendly and cleaner burning than any other traditional stove on the market. “For homeowners wanting an elegant stove that can help keep them cosy whilst keeping both heating bills and emissions low, the Contura Connect 556 is the smartest choice.” Available in a black or white finish, the Connect 556 has a number of improved features compared to its non-smart 556 sibling, including updated top air vent design and new grate inside the fire chamber. A backup battery system means you can continue to control the cosy levels in your home even during power outages. Features, specifications, availability & pricing: Contura Connect 5556 Positioning Freestanding model Fire visibility Large front and side Log box No Materials Cast iron and steel Dimensions 1071 (h) 495 (w) 496 (d) Net Weight 106kg System efficiency class A+ Combustion efficiency 83% Maximum log length 33cm Heat capacity up to 150m2 Heat output 5kw Chimney connection Above, behind Price £3,950 All Contura stoves meet Ecodesign regulations and are Defra Clean Air Act exempt, which means they are approved for use in Smoke Control Areas. Contura stoves offer style combined with outstanding performance, maximum efficiency, practicality and ease of use. With 80% heating efficiency compared to only 20% of traditional open fireplaces, and thanks to a 3-9kW heat output, Contura stoves can heat spaces of up to 150m². Further benefits include powerful convection and clean burning systems, ensuring less wood is used, working to save the environment as well as customers’ money. For more information, please visit www.contura.eu.
SFL Flues & Chimneys Announces New Regional Sales Manager for the North
SFL Flues & Chimneys is pleased to announce the appointment of Damian Tyrrell as Regional Sales Manager – North of England. Damian brings with him over a decade of experience in the flue and chimney sector, having previously held senior sales roles at Schiedel UK and the Docherty Group. Based in Northumberland, he will support customers across both the commercial and residential sectors, offering expert advice and tailored flue system solutions. With over 50 years of British manufacturing heritage, SFL is one of the UK’s longest serving and most respected flue and chimney manufacturers. Known for delivering high-performance systems and comprehensive technical support, SFL remains a trusted partner across a wide range of applications. For flue and chimney enquiries in the North, Damian can be contacted at:📞 07776 657079✉️ damian.tyrrell@sflchimneys.com Visit the SFL Flues & Chimneys website here. You can also find them featured on the front cover and inside the latest issue of Fireplace Specialist Magazine.
Government Spending Review Commitment to Local Authority Funding and Air Quality Improvements
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) welcomes the announcement in the UK Government Spending Review, which confirms £3.4 billion in core grant funding to local authorities by 2028-29. The real-terms annual increase of 3.1% and the inclusion of funding streams specifically allocated for air quality improvements is a positive step in supporting healthier, more sustainable communities. Commenting on the Review Andy Hill, Chair of the SIA, said: “As a key stakeholder in the drive to improve air quality, the SIA is encouraged by the Government’s recognition of the need for continued investment in this area. We hope to see this funding used positively and proactively at the local level, supporting a range of practical initiatives that deliver measurable environmental and public health benefits. “In particular, we urge local authorities to consider targeted appliance replacement schemes that enable households to upgrade to modern Ecodesign-compliant stoves, which produce up to 90% fewer emissions than open fires and older appliances. Additionally, we believe that a portion of the funding should be dedicated to the rational and fair enforcement of Smoke Control Area (SCA) legislation—an essential component of ensuring compliance while supporting consumer choice and responsible stove use. “We also advocate for the endorsement and promotion of mandatory chimney sweeping as a cost-effective and practical measure that can further reduce emissions and improve appliance efficiency.” The SIA remains committed to working collaboratively with local authorities, policymakers, and stakeholders to ensure that air quality funding delivers tangible outcomes while supporting consumers in making sustainable home heating choices. You can view the Government Spending Review here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spending-review-2025-document/spending-review-2025-html
Dik Geurts Orbe: The wood stove that redefines modern home heating
Dik Geurts Orbe is the latest wood stove from Europe’s premier fireplace company. Designed for contemporary or traditional homes, with a sleek cylindrical profile, the Orbe represents everything that a modern stove should be. Many more special features to follow soon. See full details and video (https://www.drufire.com/en-gb/assortiment/dik-geurts/orbe) Take control with the Dik Geurts Smart Assist app. This clever app for phones and tablets enables the user to control the air slide, flame height and heat output of the stove. It also includes a refill alert so you will always replace the logs when needed. Now available on the Orbe and other selected Dik Geurts stoves. See full details and video (https://www.drufire.com/en-gb/about-dru/innovations/dg-smart-assist) Download the new Dik Geurts brochure The new 72 page brochure of wood fires and stoves features the entire product range. It also includes full technical details and plenty of useful information about how to get the best results from your wood stove or fire. An essential guide for consumers, dealers and installers. Download the brochure (https://www.drufire.com/getmedia/7ab88fe2-80ae-4bd6-bef0-af174110c5bc/1Brochure-DG-EN-(993476).pdf) Dealers required throughout Great Britain We are inviting you to apply to become a Dik Geurts wood stove and fire dealer. We offer: Email: info@drufire.co.uk
Introducing the efficient and elegant Varde Shape 2 from Eurostove
Efficient and elegant with integrated log store, introducing the Varde Shape 2 from Eurostove. When in the midst of summer, it’s hard to consider home heating yet now is the perfect time to think ahead and get organised before the autumn/winter chill. Eurostove, UK experts in wood burning stoves, is thrilled to announce the addition of the new Varde Shape 2 wood burner to its portfolio, designed by Scandinavian wood burning brand Varde Ovne. Sleek and chic with its clean lines and cylindrical form, Shape 2 is the epitome of simple, pared-back, high quality Scandi design. Its modern styling is perfect for any contemporary living space with a tall fire chamber and large curved glass window for a panoramic view of the flicking flames within. The modern black stove complements all interiors, so it can easily be added to an existing décor as well as a complete room renovation or new-build project. The Shape 2 wood burner is effortlessly efficient with a nominal heat output of 5kW, making it compatible with medium-sized rooms and open-plan spaces. It’s manufactured from premium-grade steel and cast iron for durability, making it refined yet robust. The tall cylindrical stove also includes an integrated log store, handy when it’s too cold or wet to head outside to collect wood, producing a wood burner that’s perfectly practical for clean, modern living. Varde’s Shape 2 also features Cleanburn technology, a powerful airwash system and easy to use air controls for efficient combustion, reduced emissions and a consistently clear view of the flames inside. It’s also DEFRA approved so is suitable for homes in smoke control areas. Eurostove is proud to be the new official distributor for Scandinavian brand Varde Ovne in the UK and Republic of Ireland. A brand that prides itself on its craftsmanship, product development and sustainable credentials, Varde’s values are perfectly aligned with Eurostove. “We are incredibly excited and proud to welcome Varde Ovne to the Eurostove family,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “We love the brand’s functional and simple design ethos, which is backed up with ease of use, sustainable credentials and high heat output and we know our customers are going to fall in love with the Shape 2 wood burner, designed to make the house a home.” The Varde Shape 2 from Eurostove is priced £3,205
Flue & Ducting Ltd Announces Expansion, Award-Winning Products, and New Sales Leadership
Flue & Ducting Ltd, proud manufacturers of Dura Flue, Extra Flex, and exclusive distributors of the Woodford Collection, are delighted to announce a new partnership with independent sales agent Dian Poole. Dian will oversee the stove, fireplace, and flue business across the North West under a long-term agreement. Dian brings a wealth of industry expertise, having successfully run her own agency and worked with hundreds of retailers throughout the region. With over £5 million in sales generated since launching her agency, Dian is widely respected for her professionalism, deep market knowledge, and strong customer relationships. Over the coming spring and summer months, Dian will be reaching out to all of Flue & Ducting’s North West customers, inviting them to attend open days at our Stockport manufacturing depot—a fantastic opportunity to explore our latest innovations and connect with the team. Award-Winning Excellence: The Woodford Carrington 5 In a significant nod to quality and design, the Woodford Carrington 5 has been crowned “Best Fire” at the 2025 Ideal Home Living Room Awards. Praised for its versatility and timeless appeal, the stove impressed judges with its ability to complement both modern and traditional interiors. Editor-in-Chief Heather Young highlighted its adaptability as a key strength. Beyond aesthetics, the Carrington 5 is engineered for ease of installation and regulatory compliance. With flexible flue options, 12mm hearth approval, and external air compatibility, it’s ideal for both new builds and renovations. Its DEFRA approval and Ecodesign certification ensure it meets the highest standards for emissions and efficiency—making it a future-proof choice for installers and homeowners alike. This award not only enhances the Carrington 5’s market appeal but also reinforces its reputation as a reliable, stylish, and eco-conscious heating solution. Continued Growth and Innovation at Flue & Ducting Flue & Ducting has recently opened a state-of-the-art manufacturing depot in Bromsgrove, Birmingham, further strengthening our national presence. Alongside this expansion, we’ve launched an exciting range of new products, including: To support our continued growth, we are currently recruiting two additional sales managers for the South and South East, where we plan to open our fifth manufacturing depot in April 2026. This new facility will enhance our ability to serve customers across the southern regions with greater speed and efficiency. This spring and summer, Dian and the wider sales team will be showcasing these new products and unveiling even more exciting developments on the horizon. A Fond Farewell and Thank You Finally, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Paul Hancock for his 12 years of outstanding service. Paul is retiring from his role as Sales Director but will continue to support the team at our Wellington depot three days a week. “We truly couldn’t have achieved our success in the South West without Paul’s dedication and leadership, especially in establishing the Wellington site. Thank you, Paul, and enjoy your well-earned reduced hours,” said Ryan Hancock, Managing Director. Visit the Flue & Ducting Ltd website here.
Stove fitter threatens legal action after council’s ‘Cosy Killer’ campaign
Andy Genovese vows to fight on as Brighton and Hove City Council denies its anti-stove advertising (‘Cosy Killer’) campaign is inappropriate A council has denied it has been warned about its anti-stove advertising. Brighton and Hove City Council was issued an ‘Advice Notice’ by the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) after its recent campaign that claimed stoves were a ‘Cosy Killer’. The emotive advertising has led to a number of complaints, amid reports that owners of stoves in the city were being verbally abused due to the messaging that stoves were killing people. One of the key claims in the campaign by the council was that particulate pollution was behind the deaths of ‘one in 20 people over the age of 30’. The claim was overlaid on an image with the title ‘Cosy Killer’, a smoky stove and no distinction was made between all air pollution and Ecodesign stoves. Brighton stove installer Andy Genovese, owner of Hove Wood Burners, decided to fight back against the misleading scaremongering. He reported the council to the ASA and was pleased when it agreed to take action. But despite the intervention by the ASA, the council denied it had been ‘warned’ by the regulator and said it would continue its anti-burning advertising with the ‘Cosy Killer’ campaign. “We did not receive an official warning from the ASA. We received an advice notice simply saying we should include references to our primary sources of data,” Councillor Tim Rowkins, Cabinet member for Net Zero and Environmental Services at Brighton & Hove City Council, told Fireplace Specialist magazine. He added: “All the statements included in this campaign at the time of its launch were substantiated with the latest available DEFRA or Public Health England references, based on research which was already in the public domain, and which have now been added to our website. “You would expect local authorities to base their public health messaging on the latest reliable and verifiable sources, and that is exactly what has happened in this instance. When newer data was published, our campaign was adjusted to reflect it. “Wood burning stoves and open fires are a risk to public health, particularly in cities, and we make no apologies for highlighting this very real health risk to residents. “We have a duty as a local authority to make people aware of this and will continue to do so.” Department for Health statistics for 2023 show 5% of deaths of people over 30 in the Brighton and Hove region are attributable to particulate air pollution – down from 8% in 2018. The statistic, cited by the council, is for all air pollution, not specifically stove emissions. There has been a 72% reduction in particulate emissions in the past 35 years. Domestic combustion is responsible for about 20% of PM2.5 particulate pollution. Indoor wood burning is estimated to contribute 11% of the total. Mr Genovese said it was disappointing and frustrating that the council seemed determined to ignore the evidence and advice and had suggested it would carry on with anti-stove campaigning regardless. He said he would continue to highlight misleading facts in their anti-stove advertising and said he hadn’t ruled out legal action if authorities such as the ASA or the Local Government Ombudsman did not take stronger action of their own. “I’m not going to stop pushing against this,” he confirmed to Fireplace Specialist. “This is my livelihood. “It’s absurd that the council will use a very blunt stick to harm our industry when all they needed to do was engage in a sensible conversation with us. “I would have thought they would engage in a harm reduction programme first of all, for instance a grant for people to convert open fires into Ecodesign stoves.” Mr Genovese said he was further shocked to find the £4,155 budget for the campaign came from an £11,710 DEFRA smoke control grant when the government itself had recently backed the continued installation of Ecodesign stoves in new homes. He added: “The ASA said the council campaign fell foul of their denigration rules as it was doing harm to a whole industry. “They said the complaint raised a valid point but they had decided to resolve it by providing them guidance to ensure their advertising complied with the code. “But it sounds to me that they’re going to carry on regardless.” The SIA said it was pleased to see its members being supported by intervention from the ASA. A spokesperson said: “The action taken by the ASA in issuing an advice notice to the Council underscores the importance of evidence-based public messaging. “Recent evidence from the NAEI shows that there has been a 17% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 emissions from domestic combustion in the last 3 reporting years (2021 to 2023). There is growing recognition, both by government and in the media, that this is down to the adoption of modern stoves to replace open fires and older stove models, and increased consumer awareness on how to use and maintain their stoves and chimneys correctly. “The SIA is keen to work with local authorities to support positive public awareness campaigns that seek to further enhance consumer best practice knowledge in this area and we are confident that this will lead to a further reduction in emissions, while ensuring that consumers can continue to choose how best to heat their home.”
Mendip’s new Woodland Large Oven wood burner heats and cooks
Mendip’s new Woodland Large Oven wood burner heats and cooks at the same time. There are many benefits to having multipurpose pieces within the home. Not only do they save money, as they offer two or more functions in one, but they can also save time and space, too. All of which are just some of the advantages of the brand-new Woodland Large Oven wood burning stove from Mendip Stoves. Perfect for country kitchens, farmhouse cottages and the cottagecore trend, the new Woodland Large Oven is an innovative and eco-friendly stove that blends the warmth and charm of a traditional wood burner with the practicality and convenience of a built-in oven and cooking plate that can be used to bake, roast or simmer at the same time as heating the home. With a cast iron door and grate, milled stainless steel handles or optional black handle, this 7-9kW high-quality stove is engineered for efficiency. Its clean lines will complement both classic and modern spaces while the large glass viewing windows allow for a captivating view of the flames as well as the cookware in the oven above. Large enough for a family-sized casserole, the 42cm W, 28cm H, 35cm D oven heats to 200˚C and can be used for everything from baking cakes on the included rack to slow-cooking a casserole on the base plate. It’s also perfect for baked potatoes and puddings, making the Woodland Large Oven a truly versatile addition to any home. There is a steel plate between the stove and oven, which retains heat for an even temperature in the oven. “The new Woodland Large Oven is more than just a wood burner,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Mendip Stoves. “It’s the hub of the home, adding a cosy centrepiece to kitchens or open-plan spaces. Complementing traditional contemporary interiors, it’s sleek, stylish and versatile – perfect for cooking supper and heating the home at the same. It really comes into its own during the colder months, and I can’t wait to use it for jacket potatoes and chestnuts over Christmas.” The Woodland Large Oven is priced from £2,737, or £2,865.76 for the logstore version.