Poujoulat Introduces SLIMFLEX‑ISO: A Game‑Changer in Chimney Relining
Poujoulat, a leading name in chimney and flue systems, has unveiled its latest innovation: SLIMFLEX‑ISO, a state-of-the-art insulated flexible liner that sets a new standard in chimney renovation. Unveiled at the BEPOSITIVE trade show earlier this year, SLIMFLEX‑ISO is a first-of-its-kind, ultra-slim solution featuring a high-quality stainless steel liner at its core, surrounded by a 13 mm layer of mineral insulation and an outer sheath of robust glass fibre material. This compact design enables seamless relining of conventional masonry flues, even in tight spaces—a major advancement over bulkier traditional options. At the heart of the system lies the innovative GRIPFLEX header end-piece, designed to bind the insulation and glass fibre sheath snugly to the liner’s core. Its robust, ergonomic profile aids installers in guiding the liner through difficult bends and offsets. The result? Faster, smoother installations and improved flue draft performance. Poujoulat UK offers SLIMFLEX‑ISO in multiple diameters – from 80 mm up to 150 mm – presented in convenient 25 m coils and pre-cut lengths – complete with GRIPFLEX headers. SLIMFLEX‑ISO complements Poujoulat’s broader range of flexible flue solutions – such as STARFLEX, the trusted double-skin stainless steel liner for multi-fuel applications – and is fully compatible with all STARFLEX components, ensuring seamless integration and installation flexibility. What This Means for Installers and Homeowners• Ultra‑thin profile: The 13 mm insulation makes SLIMFLEX‑ISO ideal for space-limited environments.• Installer-friendly: End-piece GRIPFLEX eases threading through tricky offsets. • Customisable and efficient: Coil format with easy cutting saves time and materials. • Enhanced performance: Insulation improves and increases draught, prevents low-temperature flue gas and dew point formation, thereby extending the operating life of the chimney liner and boosting appliance efficiency. • Certified quality: SLIMFLEX‑ISO is CE marked and fully compliant with BS EN 1856‑2, carrying the designation T450 N1 W V2 L50010 G—assuring high standards of safety, performance, and durability. “SLIMFLEX‑ISO gives installers a reliable, future-proof solution for lining existing stacks -especially in tight or awkward flue runs,” says Anthony Reed-Forrester, Managing Director at Poujoulat UK. “Renowned for its innovation, Poujoulat continues to lead the way with this major step forward in chimney renovation – making relining simpler, neater, and more energy-efficient than ever before.”For more information, visit poujoulat.co.uk/Slimflex
Sweep uncovers prophetic 60-year-old newspaper page
A West Yorkshire chimney sweep has made the best find of his career so far. Gary Walker had to laugh when he pulled a historic bit of newspaper from the flue of a 1940s semi in Huddersfield. The ‘crispy’ but still readable page from the October 29, 1965 issue of The Daily Express featured an article speculating whether England could win the football World Cup on home soil the following year. The team, captained by Bobby Moore, famously beat West Germany at Wembley with two goals in extra time sealing a 4-2 victory. Unfortunately England teams ever since have watched their own World Cup ambitions go up in flames. As for how this historic keepsake avoided being burned up, Gary said he believed it had been stuck on a ledge high up in the chimney in a fireplace that had been unused for decades. He explained: “The landlady was renovating the home in between tenants and they had opened up an old open fire in a bedroom that had been boarded up for years. “She got me in to do a power sweep and I pulled it out. “I just laughed when I saw it as the guy was speculating whether England would win the World Cup or not. “The lady was also quite excited as her husband is a big football fanatic, so she took it home to show him. “It was quite interesting, there were a few bits that had been stuck on a shelf quite high up. “It’s probably been lifted up on the flue gases and then trapped on a ledge for all these years.” The other page uncovered by Gary features an article about Lord Snowden – who was a celebrated fashion photographer in 1960s London and controversial husband of Princess Margaret. The page also has news of Britain’s Eurovision song contest hopes. By Nick Lavigueur – Editor, Fireplace Specialist Visit the Swept website here.
Eurostove to exhibit at Grand Designs Live 2025
Leading self-build, renovation and home show Grand Designs Live returns to the NEC Birmingham this October and Eurostove is proud to announce that it too will be returning for a second time. Taking place from 3-5 October, Grand Designs Live is the place to visit for inspiration, ideas and expert advice for every room, garden and renovation project. Visitors can speak with the Eurostove team and see a range of award-winning woodburning and multi fuel stoves from Mendip, state-of-the-art electric stoves from Iconic and iLektro as well as new supplier Varde Ovne’s woodburners, all on the Eurostove stand H60. Beautifully crafted with the British home – and weather – in mind, Mendip Stoves’ classically styled woodburners and multi fuel stoves combine the best combustion techniques, traditional aesthetics and exceptional build quality to create the heart of the home. For those who need their heat quick, clean and fuss-free, the Iconic and iLektro electric fire collections provide instant heat at the touch of a button with realistic flame effects, authentic crackling and sparks and real fire audio for all the hallmarks of a real log fire without the effort. There are also app-operated designs, programmable timers, digital thermostats, remote controls and varying volume levels to suit every home. Eurostove will also be showcasing its latest supplier Varde Ovne, and its Scandinavian woodburners. These sleek and sophisticated stoves combine simple styling with quality, functionality and sustainability for innovative eco-conscious design that’s easy to use. For further information on Grand Designs Live at the NEC, visit www.granddesignslive.com
New Director for Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps
The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps are pleased to announce that Tony Lavin has accepted the offer of appointment to the Guild Board of Directors. Tony has been involved with Guild training for several years. Many members will have met Tony whilst attending courses and recognise him as enthusiastic and approachable. Tony trained with the Guild in 2012 after a 30-year career in the police. He ran TL Chimney Sweep Services in Lincoln for over 12 years, ultimately selling the business on last year. Tony became a Guild Master Sweep and an on-site trainer. He has also assessed for the Level 2 NVQ in Chimney Sweeping. He has helped many new members with on-site training and invigilated during final assessments. Early this year the board asked Tony to take the lead with the new ‘Assessment Interview’ programme for existing sweeps seeking Guild membership. He has since interviewed a number of prospective members and made some valuable contributions to the fine tuning of this innovative programme. The board are looking forward to working alongside Tony and applying his considerable skills to the benefit of Guild members. His appointment will be ratified by members at the first opportunity, most likely the next AGM. Tony said: “I feel extremely honoured to have been asked by the Guild to join the Board of Directors. Since first completing the Guild training and becoming a chimney sweep, I have always been passionate about the sweeping industry and The Guild in particular. To put back something into the industry I decided to complete an assessor’s qualification and have assessed firstly for the Level 2 NVQ in Chimney Sweeping and latterly for The Guild. I also completed a formal teaching qualification after I started to teach on The Guild courses. I put my business up for sale in 2024 and it sold much quicker than I had anticipated. I was asked if I would continue to teach on The Guild courses and continue as a Guild assessor which I agreed to as I thoroughly enjoy doing both. Since my retirement from sweeping, I have become more involved with re-writing Guild assessment forms and exam papers. I am working in the agricultural industry now part-time but have got the capacity to become more involved in Guild work and projects and assist the other Directors who are still running their full-time chimney sweeping businesses. I look forwards to continuing to work with and for The Guild and its members and, by doing so, remain involved in the sweeping industry which has been my life for the past thirteen years. Albeit I know many Guild members, especially the newer ones that I have taught, I look forwards to meeting more existing members and am happy to try and provide assistance to anyone who requires it.” You can visit the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps website here.
Supporting Families with Modern Stoves: A Sustainable Solution for Rising Energy Bills
At Prime Minister’s Questions, which took place on the 16th July 2025, concerns over rising energy bills took centre stage. Jacob Collier, MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, highlighted the anxiety felt by families in his constituency, noting that many are dreading the impact of their winter energy bills. He welcomed Labour’s proposed Warm Homes Discount, which would offer £150 off energy bills, aiming to alleviate the financial strain on households. Sir Keir Starmer echoed these concerns, emphasising that the Warm Homes Discount would be a lifeline for many struggling constituents, with promises of more support on the way. While such initiatives are critical in the short term, we must also consider long-term solutions that can help households save energy and money year-round. Modern stoves, for instance, provide a practical and efficient heating solution. With innovations in stove technology, these appliances are not only very low emission and highly efficient, but also cost-effective. Modern wood-burning stoves offer exceptional efficiency, allowing households to reduce reliance on gas and electric heating, ultimately lowering their energy bills. They also provide a comforting, sustainable source of warmth, which is particularly valuable during cold months. As we move forward in addressing the rising cost of energy, investing in energy-efficient heating options like modern stoves can complement government initiatives like the Warm Homes Discount, giving families a sustainable way to stay warm while managing their energy expenses. Whether it’s through government support or personal investment in energy-efficient home solutions, the combination of immediate financial relief and long-term energy savings is key to helping families through these challenging times. For more on the SIA’s work and how modern wood burning stoves are helping to build a sustainable, low emission and low carbon future, visit: https://stoveindustryassociation.org/
Where Function Meets Flawless Finish: DEKO WOOD & DW DESIGN by DINAK
With over 40 years of manufacturing experience, DINAK offers high-performance flue systems that combine durability, clean aesthetics, and ease of installation. Both the Deko Wood 1.2mm and DW Design products have been designed with the installer and homeowner in mind. Therefore, we have carefully developed a full range of quality components to cover all installation situations. DEKO WOOD 1.2 mm Single-wall chimney, matt black vitreous enamel, 1.2 mm thick. The Deko Wood 1.2 mm range is the ideal solution for wood-burning stoves with a visible flue pipe. • Smooth finish with no visible welding • Colour stability and resistance to high temperatures and condensation • Can be cut on site, as long as the male end of the piece is always preserved • Provides an aesthetic connection and integrates perfectly in visible installations • Individually boxed and shrink-wrapped for additional protection • Available in diameters from 125mm to 200mm • 10-year manufacturer’s warranty DW DESIGN Double-wall insulated stainless steel flue, multi-fuel with a smooth aesthetic finish. A solution combining performance and aesthetics for all types of applications. • Factory-fitted union collar for quick and easy installation • Laser-welded finish and integrated locking bands for a seamless appearance • 25 mm high-density rockwool insulation • Suitable for dry and condensing applications (use silicone seals if condensing) • Compatible with wood, pellets, gas, gas oil and condensing oil • Gas-tight up to P1 (200 Pa), temperature class up to T600 (600 °C) • Available in stainless steel and matt black finishes as standard • Available in diameters from 80mm to 200mm • 10-year manufacturer’s warranty Feel free to contact us now and arrange a full demonstration of both systems, and to find out more about DINAK and the services we offer. Plot A, Opus Aspect, Chester Road, Erdington. B24 0QY – Birmingham. Tel: 0121 272 4830 uk@dinak.com / dinak.com
Cleaner Safer Group appoints new CEO
Cleaner Safer Group (CSG) – parent company to independent not-for-profit organisations, HETAS and Woodsure – appoints Barry Cope as its new Chief Executive Officer. Barry takes the reins from Bruce Allen, who has been in the role at HETAS since 2006, and at Woodsure since 2017. Bruce will remain with the organisations until he retires in September, working with Barry for a smooth transition period. Driven by a shared mission to create a cleaner, safer and more sustainable environment, HETAS and Woodsure lead the way in training, education, certification and testing across the solid fuel, wood and biomass heating industries. Under the CSG banner they combine their expertise and resources to support clients both within and beyond the heating sector, helping them meet compliance and regulatory standards, and reduce their environmental impact. Through CSG, HETAS and Woodsure collaborate with key stakeholders, government departments and local authorities, to deliver major industry initiatives – including Defra’s Ready to Burn certification scheme, the Biomass Suppliers List on behalf of DESNZ, and the HETAS Cleaner Choice Scheme for appliances. Barry brings a wealth of experience in the building and construction and air quality industries, specialising in testing and compliance. Over the last ten years he was Managing Director of the Building Compliance Testers Association (BCTA) Group, where he worked to strengthen the organisation’s domestic and global position. This involved the refinement, expansion and creation of new standards across certification, accreditation and training, which have since been adopted by 60 different bodies and building regulators worldwide – including in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the U.S. Prior to his position at the BCTA Group, Barry was Head of Energy Services at BM TRADA, a global testing, inspection and certification company. During this time, he designed, built and commissioned a test laboratory accredited by United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), and established BM TRADA’s environmental acoustics section, which provides surveys and consultancy services to its clients. Barry will now turn his attention to continuing to drive HETAS and Woodsure forward, expanding their services and offerings, supporting stakeholders, and growing CSG into new markets. “It’s an absolute privilege to step into the role of CEO,” said Barry. “The strong position we find ourselves in now is down to both Bruce’s leadership and the careful, hard work of the entire team over the last two decades. “Across the group, we are fortunate to have some of the most knowledgeable and committed people in the industry. Over the coming years it’s important that we continue to utilise this expertise, while working closely with all stakeholders, including manufacturers, tradespeople, and retailers as well as governments and local authorities, to ensure wood burning and biomass remains a trusted, sustainable heating option for future generations.” Kaye Welfare, Chair of CSG, said: “Over almost two decades as CEO of CSG, HETAS and Woodsure, Bruce has been passionately dedicated to strengthening each organisation’s focus on safety, developing a more sustainable environment and the expansion of our services. Bruce leaves behind an incredible legacy and a strong, group-wide culture of accountability, expertise and care, all of which will continue to shape our approach as we expand further. For that, we can’t thank him enough. “We’re delighted to welcome Barry as our new CEO. His experience across sectors and managing corporate groups make him the ideal person to continue moving Cleaner Safer Group forward, utilising the trusted, leading voices of HETAS and Woodsure as foundations to grow and set best practices.” Barry added: “Our mission is clear, through both HETAS and Woodsure, to continually improve the environmental performance of appliances and spearhead fuel quality across the UK, whilst educating consumers to make the right choices. This will only be possible if we continue to support all stakeholders with the best guidance, resources and practice. Our overall aim is to set the best standards internationally across both organisations, putting the UK at the forefront and creating a model that other countries want to follow. “By utilising our combined knowledge, expertise and insight, it will enable Cleaner Safer Group to lead both HETAS and Woodsure, and support other organisations across all sectors in reducing their impact on the environment.” “I look forward to meeting and working with all our partners, experts and the wider industry over the coming months, ensuring we continue to lead the way with integrity, transparency and purpose.” You can visit the Cleaner Safer Group website here.
Design without limits! Create the perfect media wall with DRU
Create the perfect media wall in any style and any fuel. Our new video provides the inspiration for you and your clients. Create a media wall in any type of fuel: gas, wood, electric or bioethanol. DRU has the fireplaces with the advanced technology and ease of use to make every installation a triumph of design and function. See full details and video The ultimate fireplace doesn’t have to be electric DRU balanced flue gas fires can be integrated into most interior schemes. Our technology includes PowerVent®, a fan assisted flue system that enables gas fires to be installed in any location, with the flues routed through wall cavities or crawl spaces. It also allows for multiple gas fires to be installed in the same building – ideal for larger properties, hotels and other commercial settings. See our complete gas fire range Dik Geurts wood stoves and fires include special features, such as the DG Smart Assist air slide control system for phones and tablets. It controls the flame height, room temperature and log usage – convenience at your fingertips. See our complete wood stove range Finally, our DRU Virtuo Evolve electric fires feature stunning, realistic 3D flame pictures, glowing fire beds and smart app controls with multiple different fire colours and effects available to download. See our Virtuo Evolve electric fire range Dealers required throughout Great Britain We are inviting you to apply to become a DRU dealer. We offer: Apply now! Email: info@drufire.co.uk UK distributors: Drugasar Ltd, Deans Road, Swinton, Manchester , M27 0JH T: 0161 793 8700 E: info@drufire.co.uk Visit the DRU website here: www.drufire.com
Introducing the world’s first wax-filled fire pit – the EcoFuego!
Fire up your outdoor living, the smart and sustainable way. Whether you’re short on space or patience, the EcoFuego Wax Fire Pit is about to revolutionise the way we gather and glow. Small garden? Nosy (and noisy) neighbours? Tired of smoke, mess, and endless firewood faff? Not anymore. EcoFuego is the world’s first wax-filled fire pit, designed and patented in the UK for the modern, eco-conscious lifestyle. Instead of endless logs, ash, and kindling, this sleek innovation runs on 100% natural, renewable vegetable wax refills. Just light, relax, and bask in consistent, clean-burning heat – every single night if you like. No smoke. No wood. No waste. No guilt. Why everyone’s talking about EcoFuego: Save money. Save space. Stay toasty. Let’s break it down – a single bag of firewood costs around £12 – and you’ll need about six for one decent night around the fire. That’s £72 down the chimney. One EcoFuego Wax Refill? Just £26. No storage. No stress. No deforestation. Not only does it make financial sense, it makes planet sense too. So… when was the last time you lit a fire pit? Answer: Every. Single. Night. (EcoFuego makes it that easy.) This isn’t just a fire pit. It’s the Air Fryer of outdoor entertainment – smart, fuss-free, sustainable, and totally addictive. Choose your flame: El Fuego Original (£179.99) – The statement piece for larger setups, group camping trips or glamping getaways. It’s sleek, atmospheric and guaranteed to be the centre of attention. El Campo Matt Black (£119.99) – Compact, lightweight and ready to roam. Ideal for those who travel light but still want the full campfire experience. Comes with a weather-proof handy carry bag too, so you can sling it over your shoulder and head wherever the wild takes you. Discover the full EcoFuego range at www.ecofuego.com or join the adventure on Instagram by following @ecofuego-firepits.
Global Stove Innovator Nedar Heat Unveils New Product Range
Nedar Heat – the creator of the world’s World’s first 16” Inset Pellet Stove – unveiled its latest range at a gala product launch event at The Sheraton Hotel in Athlone, Ireland on Friday, June 27. More than 100 people from partner retailers across the island of Ireland travelled to the midlands to be first to see the company’s latest Elcofire and Klover innovations. The Eclofire brand was launched in 2022 with just three models but thanks to the innovation of Managing Director, Darrah Crean the brand now showcases more than 30 products across pellet, electric and solid fuel ranges — all specifically designed with the Irish and UK markets in mind. The Tralee-based company is also famed with designing and manufacturing the world’s smallest freestanding pellet stove and the world’s smallest freestanding traditional boiler pellet stove, launched last year. Darragh Crean, MD, said: “Our expert team shares a passion for design and precision engineering. That collective industry knowledge, technical expertise and customer experience allows for constant innovation – pushing boundaries and delivering products unparalleled in design, power and efficiency.” He added: “Our commitment to quality and sustainability means we use only the best available components and state-of-the art manufacturing techniques to create beautiful products that will last a lifetime and beyond, providing homes with years of comfort and warmth. “Our customers are also confident that when they need us we will have their backs.” Products from the leading innovator and distributor of home heating appliances are available through an exclusive dealer network of retailers and Nedar Heat is also the exclusive distributor in the whole of Ireland for Elcofire, Klover & Nordic Fire products. Nedar Heat: Reinventing the Stove Industry This year’s launch follows from the success of 2024 which was a transformative year for Elcofire. It launched a groundbreaking range of pellet stove products that reshaped the stove industry across Ireland and the UK. Darragh said: “Traditionally, Irish homes have relied on bulky multi-fuel boiler stoves for heating and inset stoves for living rooms. While effective, these systems require constant cleaning and frequent refuelling which is an increasingly costly and time-consuming process, especially with rising wood and coal prices. “Seeing a clear gap in the market, we set out to create something smarter: pellet stoves that not only fit Irish fireplaces and alcoves but are also efficient, stylish and easy to use. With our deep expertise in pellet heating and a focus on customer experience, we developed a solution that combines modern convenience with timeless stove aesthetics.” Each of the company’s pellet stoves is designed to run on affordable, widely available 15kg bags of pellets, costing as little as €6–9 / £5 – £8 which generally keeps a room heater pellet stove operating for 15-20 hours. All products can be controlled via thermostatic remote or the Elcofire app at the touch of a button. New 2025 range unveiled Building on the success of the company’s 2024 models, 2025 brings an exciting expansion to the Elcofire line-up – bigger, bolder, and more versatile options for a broader range of homes. New Elcofire products launched on the night: 1. Elcofire Strata 20–24kW Pellet Boiler Stove A high-performance upgrade of the original Strata 17kW, this model delivers greater output for larger homes needing central heating power. 2. Elcofire Strata 20–25kW Multi-Fuel Stove A beautifully engineered multi-fuel version of the Strata – made in Italy – combining premium quality with versatility and style. 3. Elcofire Cooper 8kW Inset Pellet Stove The larger sibling of the Cooper 6kW, designed for rooms that need a bit more heat without compromising on design or ease of use. 4. Elcofire Eden 6kW Air Stove A brand-new, ultra-compact model with a unique square design, featuring both top and rear flue options as standard. Smart, sleek, and efficient. 5. Elcofire Kora Logstore An elegant bolt-on accessory for the original Kora, the logstore adds a traditional aesthetic and extra functionality to an already popular model. 6. Elcofire Raven 5kw and 8kw Inset Multi Fuel Fire These Raven Inset Stoves latest models have been designed with ultimate fire control and to create a stunning focal point in any room. Incorporating the new and latest fire control technology ensures they burn fuel with superior efficiency and flame control. 7. Elcofire Raven 400 & 550 Electric Fire The Raven Inset Electric Fires are the company’s latest models designed in electric that look identical to a inset wood burning firewith the tallest flames complimented with illuminated pulsating logs and fuel bed for a hyper-realistic electric fire that rivals real fire. 8. Terra Electric Stove The Terra Inset Electric Fire latest models look identical to a Free-Standing wood burning stove withthe tallest flames and illuminated pulsating logs and fuel bed for a hyper-realistic electric fire that rivals real fire. Revolutionary 2024 Models Elcofire re-invented the pellet stove and is considered the first company in the world to create compact pellet stoves that resemble traditional multi-fuel stoves. 1. Elcofire Cooper 6kW Inset Pellet Stove World’s first 16” Inset Pellet Stove A true innovation, the Cooper 6kW is the first pellet stove designed to retrofit into a standard 16-inch fireplace. Compact, stylish and efficient, it features a robust build with a slide-out pellet drawer for easy refuelling. 2. Elcofire Kora 6kW Freestanding Pellet Stove World’s smallest freestanding pellet stove Designed to sit elegantly in front of an existing fireplace or within an alcove, the Kora delivers powerful heat from a compact frame thanks to its advanced thermal exchanger and cast-iron door. 3. Elcofire Strata 17kW Freestanding Pellet Boiler Stove World’s smallest freestanding traditional boiler pellet stove The Strata combines compact design with full central heating capabilities. It features fan-assisted room heat, advanced thermal exchange, and low fuel consumption — all with a classic look and feel. For more information, visit the Nedar Heat website here. Images courtesy of Nedar Heat.