Northern Insight - February 2017

NORTHERN

INSIGHT FEBRUARY 2017

THE COSMETIC DENTAL CLINIC CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY THE NORTH EASTS DIGITAL DENTISTS

business property media technology education motors arts leisure issue 20

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NORTHERN INSIGHT

FOREWORD Welcome to the February edition of Northern Insight

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I hope that all readers have had a terrific start to 2017 and that your New Year resolutions are still intact. We are proud to bring you another fantastic edition full of great features, social coverage and topical comment.

Our cover star is the Cosmetic Dental Clinic who are celebrating 10 years at the cutting edge of dentistry.

We also profile 50 years of Sport Newcastle ahead of their annual dinner in March.

Look out for some familiar faces, old and new, within this lovely double page feature.

For Business Lunch we visit the Earl of Pitt Street, another winner by local restaurant favourite Mark Lagun.

So much more to also enjoy. Look out for further significant development of Northern Insight in the months ahead.

Thank you for your continued support. Till next month...

Michael Grahamslaw, Publisher

CONTENTS FEBRUARY ‘17 Business News 8-9 Cover Story 10-11 The Cosmetic Dental Clinic

Recent Appointments 20 Entrepreneurs Interview 30-31 Jason Knights - Blue Kangaroo

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Business Lunch 38-39 The Earl of Pitt Street - Newcastle

Media News 75 Technology News 84 Travel 98-99 Arts News 102-103 Leisure News 106

CREDITS

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Managing Director - Michael Grahamslaw Design & Web - Louise O’Rourke, Ruairi McGuinness Lead Photography - Crest Photography Additional Photography - Gordon Taylor Editorial Contributors - Jack Grahamslaw, Graham Courtney, Gordon Taylor, Alex Nelson, Holly Grahamslaw, Clarke Kennedy www.northern-insight.co.uk

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All photos are copyright MJG Publishing Ltd and are taken solely for use in Northern Insight. If you wish to purchase a photograph please contact Michael Grahamslaw on mjgrahamslaw@outlook.com Photo charges £50 for a single image, £295 for full buy out of a photo shoot. Advertising charges: There is a £25 charge for every set of amendments, following the first initial set of amendments, which are free of charge, for adverts designed by Northern Insight (MJG Publishing Ltd). Cancellations: If an advert is cancelled by the booker within a 7 day period prior to our print deadline, the advert will be charged in full, plus VAT. Editorial Editorial contributions should include a stamped addressed envelope. No responsibility is accepted for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission, or while in the Managing Directors or Printers hands.

Editorial must be received by the 15th of the month or no responsibility is accepted for errors.

Advertisements Although every care is taken to ensure accuracy the Publishers regret that they cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by an error in the printing or damage to, a loss of artwork, tranparencies or photographs.

Complaints will only be considered for up to a week after publication. Advertising must be received by the 20th of the month. No responsibility is accepted for errors.

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BUSINESS NEWS

NORTH EAST ENTREPRENEUR LAUNCHES ONLINE BUSINESS SELLING PLATFORM A North East entrepreneur has successfully launched a digital platform for business owners to sell their companies online and for corporate finance professionals and business transfer agents acting on their clients’ behalf. “wesellanycompany.com” is the brainchild of Barry Gill, a qualified accountant with an impressive track-record of working both in-house and as a consultant in the corporate finance sector.

Unlike other business selling sites which rely on potential buyers visiting the online platform to view businesses for sale and therefore limiting the potential reach of listings placed on these sites, a third of the fee paid to wesellanycompany.com goes towards targeted social media adverts for each of the companies for sale.

Barry said: “We launched just before Christmas and already the service is proving to be a huge success. A number of companies have signed up to the platform and the feedback we’ve had has been that people are impressed by the fact that we support each listing on the site with targeted social media adverts across Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

“Users of the site fill in a simple online form and wait for potential buyers to get in touch. They aren’t bogged down with setting up and managing

the social media adverts – that’s what we do and it’s all part of our simple and straightforward service.”

to use the site for accelerated sales, listing the business on the platform for two weeks for a fee of £100 + VAT.

Users of wesellanycompany.com can sign up to use the service for 30, 60 or 90 days with packages costing £150, £250 and £350 + VAT respectively.

In addition, insolvency practitioners can register

Each registered user of the site will receive regular email updates with information about how their listing is performing online supported by social media advertising.

COLLEGE SHOWCASES OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL EDUCATION TO SKILLS MINISTER A leading FE college along with North East businesses have welcomed the latest announcement from government that puts technical education at the heart of a modern industrial strategy.

Apprenticeships and skills minister Robert Halfon visited Gateshead College on Monday January 23 to get a first-hand view of the technical and vocational skills being provided by the college to students and regional businesses.

Mr Halfon was visiting the college on the day Prime Minister Theresa May used her first regional Cabinet meeting to launch a Modern Industrial Strategy aimed at improving living standards, increasing the nation’s productivity and ensuring growth is shared across the whole UK. The Industrial Strategy will include plans for a radical overhaul of technical education to address its historical undervaluation in the UK and provide a credible alternative to the academic route for young people who choose not to go to university.

While visiting Gateshead College, Mr Halfon said: “The reason I wanted to launch the industrial strategy here is that this is an outstanding college, they are doing excellent work, over 90%

of their students have positive destinations. Their whole purpose is to inspire people regardless of their background or start in life – it is genuinely inspirational and remarkable what is going on here.”

Gateshead College is one of the few outstanding FE colleges in the country, based on its strong performance, close links with business and its track record of delivering technical, vocational education in core STEM subjects.

Judith Doyle, CEO and Principal of Gateshead College, had several hours showing the skills minster around different campuses, speaking to students and employers, seeing first hand some of the types of learning they’re undertaking and capturing their views on issues like access to careers advice and guidance.

edge in the jobs market and that is what we do.

“Mr Halfon saw the exciting, innovative work we’re doing in the construction and building services sector, how we’re creating a dynamic new career pathway developing the higher level technical skills employers are demanding.

“Building on and investing in the examples of exceptional technical education and training which we have shown the minister today, coupled with improving access to high quality careers advice and guidance, will ensure there is opportunity for all and that our regional economy can prosper.”

She commented: “Technical education is already at the heart of our curriculum and has been for some time. From full time study programmes through to higher level technical training and apprenticeships, our curriculum is seamlessly aligned to the region’s economic priorities for skills development. We are here to get people work ready and give them an

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BUSINESS NEWS

NORTH EAST LAW FIRM EXPANDS ITS EXPERTISE TO SUPPORT ELDERLY CARE South Shields-based PGS Law, in partnership with Dementia Assist, has launched Elderly Care, an integrated service to manage and coordinate long term care requirements for clients.

Elderly Care is designed to ensure that clients and their loved ones have the financial means to get the best possible long term care through services such as identifying suitable care options, carrying out inspections of care homes, planning care packages and home support services or ascertaining eligibility for funding.

The legal services offered ensure that clients have the appropriate legal powers to act and put in place a Lasting Power of Attorney, a Living Will and Court of Protection documents.

Bill Dryden, Partner at PGS Law, said: “The partnership allows us to ensure clients are getting the best deal on care costs. Through providing oneto-one, dedicated support, we aim to help people secure better long term care arrangements to ease the worries of later life.”

JDDK SECURE PLANNING APPROVAL FOR SHERWOOD FOREST VISITOR CENTRE Following a number of consultation exercises, Newcastle-based architects, JDDK Ltd, have secured planning permission for the prospective £5.3m Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre in Nottinghamshire on behalf of their clients. In essence, the design proposes an iconic building knitted into the existing community at Forest Corner so that a rough “village square” layout is formed.

The actual centre is a 558sq metre split level structure designed to lead visitors into Sherwood Forest. JDDK Principal Architect, Alison ThorntonSykes, explained, “One of the main features of the Centre is its curved, twisted form, created by staggered roof beams, which reflects the forest environment and the concept of Robin Hood. There are several different elements to this from creating an initial welcoming area and retail and recreation facilities to wilderness zones which give visitors a real sense of the ancient forest environment.

Indeed, one of the most popular attractions of the whole area is the magnificent Major Oak, the approximately 1,000 year old oak tree where the Merry Men outlaw band supposedly slept.”

LAUNCH OF EXPERT CONSTRUCTION AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCY Two prominent North East businessmen, who are founding directors of successful financial services companies Blackett Walker and BW Medical Accountants, have backed newly launched recruitment company Coleman James.

The Gosforth based business has been launched

by Andrew Mackay who has years of experience recruiting within the construction, built environment and technology sector. He has ambitious plans to grow the business starting with the appointment of two consultants to be made over the next couple of months.

With support from Richard Blackett and Kevin Walker who have both taken on directorships within the new business, Andrew has now launched his own company focused on a partnership approach in order to deliver results integral to clients’ commercial ambitions and his executive candidates career aspirations.

Andrew said: “I’ve known Richard and Kevin for a number of years and have a lot of respect for their acumen. They in turn are aware of my skill set so we already have a solid working relationship.”

BALDWINS ENHANCES NORTHERN PRESENCE Baldwins Accountants has formed a North East board out of three local firms in a bid to enhance its northern presence to better serve the region’s businesses.

The board, made up of Evolution Director Martin Barber, Rowlands Director Andrew Little and Director of Alnwick Accountants Dawn Walter, will oversee the running of the existing combined firms and expand expertise in order to build an exciting and dynamic accountancy practice fit for the future.

Combining 75 years of industry practice

it www.synergi.it

between them, the new board will benefit companies around the North East by combining talent, experience and expertise across the region.

A recent recruitment drive, which saw 11 new starters added to the Baldwins North East group, takes its current team of staff to over 200.

With over 10,000 clients and a turnover in excess of £10m in the North East alone, Baldwins is regarded as one of the fastest growing accountancy practices in the UK.

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COVER STORY

MEGA-BITE THE NORTH EASTS DIGITAL DENTISTS The Cosmetic Dental Clinic celebrates its 10th Anniversary

No.2 Old Eldon Square in Newcastle is home to The Cosmetic Dental Clinic, the beautifully renovated Georgian building is not only unique in its boutique style décor but houses one of the most technologically advanced dental practices in the UK.

Ten years ago, Dr Darren Cannell and Dr Andy Stafford decided to set up their own dental practice in the centre of Newcastle.

They were looking for somewhere that would allow expansion and also provide them with sufficient space to do something different.

They spotted the Grade II listed building in Old Eldon Square and, even though the upper floors wouldn’t be needed to start with, they moved in and set about creating a dental revolution.

Fast forward ten years and the entire building is now a hive of activity with all five floors of the building in full operation. The doors opened in 2007 with just five members of staff; now the practice has over 25 qualified team members ranging from patient coordinators to a triple disciplinary specialist and is a showcase for the latest digital technology, most of which cannot be found in the region.

“We wanted to move dentistry forward,” said Darren. “We didn’t want to open just ‘another’ dental clinic; we wanted to offer something different and, yes, we wanted to be the best.

We can now offer the very latest technology to patients…and we’re doing it in Newcastle.”

There’s no doubting that Andy and Darren are a couple of technology fanatics. They travel the world to bring the latest gadgetry to Newcastle. Due to their knowledge in the ever evolving world of digital dentistry they have become recognised dental trainers and are regularly invited to deliver courses to dentists in the Middle East. In the background and in addition to the obvious dedication to developing their Practice, they have both committed to further postgraduate education and have each achieved Distinctions at Masters level in restorative and aesthetic dentistry.

Being at the cutting edge of the digital revolution enables the Cosmetic Dental Clinic to offer its patients unique, efficient, precise and more comfortable dental solutions.

For example, The Cosmetic Dental Clinic is one of only a handful of practices in the UK where CEREC treatments are available. This very impressive computerised kit has enabled Andy, Darren and their team to provide single visit dentistry. Using on-site equipment crowns, veneers, broken teeth and teeth filled with unsightly metal fillings can be redesigned manufactured and restored with tooth coloured ceramics under very precise control.

There is no need for several visits. Everything is done in one appointment. This has been a huge hit for the busy business people of the North East, keen to preserve and enhance their teeth with accuracy and efficiency.

The Cosmetic Dental Clinic is also one of very few practices in the North East which has its own CBCT bone scanner which when incorporated with the clinics digital hard and soft wares enables the clinicians to precisely plan and place dental implants with optimised predictability and patient safety.

Are you happy with the shape and alignment of your teeth? If the answer is no, then The Cosmetic Dental Clinic has another piece of wizardry which will transform the way you look when you smile. For many people, the result is life-changing.

The equipment and technique is known as Invisalign. The Cosmetic Dental Clinic is the biggest provider of Invisalign treatment in the North East and was the first practice in the region to be given Platinum Elite status in 2011. It is also the only current practice in the region offering this treatment with a full digital work flow using CEREC Ortho and iTero www.thecosmeticdentalclinic.com 10

technology which scans patients’ mouths using advanced intra-oral cameras rather than putting patients through traditional impression moulds which so many find uncomfortable.

You may have seen the practice singled out by the National Press very recently, when the Sunday Times Style supplement told its readers that The Cosmetic Dental Clinic was the place to go in the country for Invisalign treatment.

When you arrive for your first appointment, there will be a discussion about what you would love to achieve. A 3D image is created of how your smile will appear. You will be given an estimate of how long it will take to complete the course of treatment and over the coming weeks, you will be provided with a series of aligners which slowly but surely move your teeth to a more desirable position.

Do not imagine that the braces are like the metal ones you may have had as a child. These are clear plastic and almost invisible.

The best idea is to go onto www. thecosmeticdentalclinic.com and see what Darren, Andy and their team of experts can do for you. If you want to check out the staggering results of their new technology, head for the ‘treatments’ section. The series of before/after photographs are truly amazing.

Alternatively, give them a call on 0191 260 3688 to arrange an appointment and discover how your world can change.

As the Cosmetic Dental Clinic moves into its second decade, you can guarantee these professionals won’t be resting on their laurels.

If you spot a news item about a brand new dental procedure, you’ll know where to go to find it.

No.2 Old Eldon Square.

COVER STORY

BUSINESS INSIGHT

DIGITAL BRANDING STUDIO PLANS FOR A HAPPY 2017

Layers Studio marked a significant birthday last month – one. Northern Insight caught up with the co-founders who have been celebrating their decision to go it alone in an attempt to create something extraordinary.

The company’s founders, James Hanson and Andrew Donaghy, have between them worked for a variety of well-established design and marketing organisations over a decade. In 2015, they felt the urge to attempt something leaner and more exciting together.

So after all of this it comes as no surprise that cofounder Andrew Donaghy is looking forward to the year ahead. He said: “As each month passes we can feel and see a progression that’s invigorating and motivating in the way we’d hoped it to be, and this is reflected in our work.”

Layers by name and layers by nature, the company has been carefully assembled so that all four members of the tight-knit team is a specialist and complements the other when it comes to delivering a brand completely, from the very beginning.

James talked about Layers’ biggest project to date, Ctrl Hub - a web application for the construction and utilities industry. He said: “Ctrl Hub is project we’re extremely proud of. As a studio we’ve created everything from the ground up.

Andrew said: “The creative talent that exists in the North East is something we love. I think it’s underrated, which is oddly a strength but also a hindrance when it comes quality skills bleeding off south to Leeds, Manchester and London. So this is something we’d like to help change.”

It was a key decision in the genesis of the company to blend the more traditional creative skills of copywriting, in Andrew’s case, and design, in James’, with the leading digital capabilities companies in all sectors now need more than ever.

“From name and visual identity to the UX and UI design and development. To see it working and to start to improve the safety and productivity of worksites is great and what it’s all about.”

Layers, who are also responsible for the logo design of Digital Union’s #ThisIsMine campaign, which launched at Wylam Brewery in November last year, are starting 2017 in high spirits.

When Layers isn’t designing and developing web applications and websites, they’re crafting the look and feel for Sunderland distillery, Poetic License and its sister brewery, Sonnet 43 with its host of Brew Pubs across the region.

They are clearly a young company full of endeavour and enthusiasm for their writing, design and web development, which is as James told us: “…exactly why we’re doing this. We want to keep the pressure on ourselves to always do better and create something special in the North East.”

The recruitment of Chris Jennings last spring was a big moment for Layers, as it meant they had secured the experience and expertise to challenge their thinking and realise their ideas through a digital medium. Since Ryan Kirby, a Front-end Developer who cut his teeth in Newcastle University’s Open Lab, joined in November, Layers has taken a firm grip on Node, Angular and React JS; three of today’s most in-demand development languages.

New clients also include an impressive geotech startup in London and a local company who are looking to disrupt the business networking market.

With their office in Campus North, a shared colayers.studio/ 12

working space that houses a number of upcoming tech-based businesses, the team seem to have the right platform to keep building, quietly and modestly as would reflect them, a big reputation in Newcastle’s renowned creative sector.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Lynn Gate (centre) says easy in/out workspace packages benefit SMEs

SPACIALLY AWARE SMES

Easy in/out workspace packages are one option that makes financial sense, says managed and serviced office accommodation provider Lynn Gate, who runs The Office Co. as research* indicates that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are set for a year of cost cutting.

The findings have revealed that more than half (58%) of business owners and leaders will prioritise reducing costs over expanding their business, investing in new technologies or developing the skills of their employees. Brexit, predicted to be one of the biggest upheavals of modern times, has sparked the urge for businesses to cut back, the research supports.

However, this doesn’t have to be a distraction for SMEs wanting to move ahead in the next 12 months, Lynn enthuses. Indeed, Homes or Houses, Nozomi Interiors and Elle Beauty, which are based at Metropolitan House, are expanding their business networks in Dubai this year, reflecting confidence and the entrepreneurs’ eternal capacity to spin on their heels and reach out to find new markets.

Those looking to make smart savings should look no further than places like Metropolitan House where flexible, operative and beneficial lease arrangements can be the catalysts for strong growth.

While avoiding the unwelcome and disruptive distraction of Brexit, it will be more important than ever for SMEs to focus on the issues that they can control – and that includes workspace requirements.

Lynn, who believes the current economic climate as good for business and sees the positivity and an appetite for go-getting in 2017, says: “SMEs will thrive under the Conservatives - they always do. So let’s not get hung up over distracting and energy-sapping Brexit debates. They only distract SMEs from those things that they can control as the engines of growth, including location and a creative environment.”

Indeed, it’s her capacity to adapt, move with the times and deliver flexible lease packages around an open-door policy that enables her to retain and cost effectively support the SME tenants at Metropolitan House. They are able to take advantage of the many inclusive services on offer, which include a superfast broadband and IT infrastructure, reception, and inbound call handling – all delivered by a supportive, responsive team that offers a rare caring and sharing approach to doing business.

Among these clients are independent financial advisers Global Expatriates, building services engineers Isles Consulting, UK property specialists Homes or Houses, IT network firm SL Data, shipping company Schulte & Bruns UK Ltd, and commercial property cleaners, Let’s Clean North East Ltd. This is unequivocal success for The Office Co. team More at www.theofficeco.co.uk 14

operating in a compelling and competitive sector.

The firm achieves occupancy levels that are among the highest in the North East (85% – 90%) in the face of post-Brexit business uncertainty and is driven by plans to attract even more SMEs, which will transform the size of the operation in the coming years.

After 10 years in business, Lynn and The Office Co. remain as passionate as ever about the role Metropolitan House plays in nurturing regional SME growth and an unwavering belief in people: “People are the most important thing to this business. As an SME myself, I know what they go through and if we can make a difference with a more personal touch, then that’s great.”

It’s that genuine commitment, passion and empathy that remains key, and Lynn and her right hand woman Shauna Logan-Summers, will continue to challenge the Brexit doubters long into the future, investing in the space and facilities that deliver the quality services and accommodation North East business needs to prosper.

The Office Co. offers a range of serviced and managed offices, virtual offices and meeting rooms for a wide range of businesses. *www.liberis.co.uk/blog/2017-Liberis-UK-SME-Survey

BUSINESS INSIGHT

ACCOUNTING FOR TECHNOLOGY

Calibre’s Karen Nelson (left) offers advice for IT budgeting

IT budgeting is one of the biggest challenges SMEs face as they plan technology investments to power growth.

But as the barriers for competing with the bigger players come down, Karen Nelson, Managing Director of Calibre Secured Networks Ltd, offers small business leaders some advice on getting IT right.

Growth is all about working more efficiently for SMEs, so effective IT budget planning will help to ensure resources are properly optimised, while the right hardware and software will help to reach more customers, break into new markets, and cut costs. Technology also has to work for your business, which is why more and more companies are heading to the cloud.

Rather than invest in costly on-site physical infrastructure, smaller companies can save time and money by investing in cloud technology for various applications, storage, and backups. It also means that they have the option of increasing or reducing requirements as and when their needs change - as well as updating - without incurring huge costs.

But for small businesses seeking to grow (and why wouldn’t they want to?), investing in new technologies can be expensive and timeconsuming. So good, sensible budget planning starts by creating a business road map well in advance. This will ensure that your IT infrastructure will be able to support both the existing and future business needs and that budgets are aligned with planned projections while building in some contingency for the unexpected.

The best position is to take a long-term view of your IT infrastructure planning and costing. This ensures the smooth running of applications as your business scales up and helps to avoid any unnecessary over-spending on components and support and maintenance services further down the line.

Also working with a trusted technology partner can be beneficial; one who is more interested in a longer term partnership than making huge margins on ever-increasing ‘consultancy’ fees - finding the right one is as crucial as securing budget.

If possible, map-out all cost components, and have an eye for the detail with sub-plans for each element for say, the next three years. Make sure you plan the budget shrewdly factoring in the amplified costs for each IT infrastructure component and manpower in the first year, second year, and third year. For instance, while making a budget plan for a new network, you may need to balance scalability on one hand and over utilisation on the other.

Another option is to explore the possibility of shared services, particularly if your business is located in managed and serviced office accommodation or one of the growing number of regional business incubator hubs. This approach www.calibre-secured.net 15

can be successful if funds are utilised effectively and comes as cloud-based systems and tools make shared-service options reliable, practical and attractive propositions.

In short, effective IT budgeting is reliant on building a business case for every investment you plan, and it’s clear that taking the long-term view is the best approach to success.

Ideally, any implementation should be done to meet business needs, and not merely to keep up with the latest technologies and trends because there is little commercial sense in implementing a technology simply because it’s fashionable at the moment. Manpower, platform, hardware, operations and quality management should all be considered first when planning your budgets.

Calibre provides IT solutions, working across the UK and Europe with clients building long-term strategic relationships to deliver added value solutions that provide lasting user benefits. The firm’s specialists are available to help with advice and expertise on budget planning. More at www. calibre-secured.net

BUSINESS INSIGHT

OAKWOOD SPECIALIST CARS MOTORS INTO NEW YEAR WITH PREMISES ACQUISITION

Paul Smith Barclays, Mike Miller Oakwood, Anthony Andreasen RMT, Matthew Heaton Barclays

A North Tyneside car dealership is revving up for New Year expansion after purchasing its premises and acquiring further space in which to grow.

Oakwood Specialist Cars is creating a 4000square foot indoor showroom, extending its existing workshop along with a dedicated valeting area next to its existing premises on the Foxhunters Trading Estate in Whitley Bay as it looks to increase its current turnover of around £5m.

Established in 2005, Oakwood is an RAC-approved dealership specialising in sports cars, performance diesels and 4X4s which are hand selected from across the UK. The 12 year-old business currently employs ten people, and is expecting to create a number of new jobs as it expands.

Funding for the project was provided by Barclays, while Gosforth-based RMT Accountants & Business Advisors advised Oakwood Specialist Cars through the execution and completion of the deal.

Michael Miller, owner of Oakwood Specialist Cars, says: “I have been steadily growing the business and attracting new customers over the years, but have always wanted to own the premises.

"It’s been fantastic to have the opportunity to both purchase the premises we previously rented alongside additional premises for growth. The purchase will allow us to extend the showroom and workshop facilities, and with the new Aldi being built on our doorstep, I’m sure the area is on the up.

"Barclays has been very supportive and has the capacity to understand fast growing businesses that need quick decisions and sound advice, while RMT's expert guidance enabled us to complete the process swiftly and efficiently.”

Paul Smith, Relationship Manager and Matthew Heaton, Business Development Manager of www.r-m-t.co.uk 16

Barclays worked with Anthony Andreasen of RMT Accountants and Business Advisors to put together the funding package for the deal.

Anthony Andreasen says: "Oakwood Specialist Cars has a strong position in a niche market, and the management team has shown real ambition in looking to maximise the potential that the business has for further growth."

Paul Smith adds: “It’s great to see a local business expanding for the future and Michael has certainly got the knowledge and the ambition to take the business to the next level. Oakwood Specialist Cars is a fast growing business and we look forward to supporting Michael as he innovates for the future and continues to grow his expanding customer base.”

BUSINESS INSIGHT

2017 - THE YEAR WHEN BANK SECRECY CAME TO AN END Just before Christmas, the OECD announced that the number of relationships in place for the automatic exchange of Bank account information between countries had passed 1300. Of these, 1133 are live – so ready to exchange information in 2017.

These exchange-of-information agreements largely stem from the Common Reporting Standard (CRS). The rather bland title perhaps belies its significance in terms of tax secrecy and the fight against tax evasion.

In broad terms, what the CRS does is require financial institutions to tell HMRC about accounts held by persons that are tax resident overseas and then HMRC passes this information to the country where that person is resident. The first submissions by the financial institutions are due to be made to HMRC by the end of May 2017. In return, tax authorities around the world will soon be sharing massive amounts of data with HMRC who will be using it to check the UK tax position is right.

There are still plenty of countries yet to sign up, the biggest absentee being the US. The US brought in its own Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) rules a few years ago. The concept is largely similar to CRS, with financial institutions overseas having to report account information to the US authorities. The main difference between FATCA and CRS is that FATCA was designed to be a one-way street: non-US institutions disclose accounts of US nationals but not necessarily the other way around.

Putting the US to one side, the message is that there is nowhere to hide and it is better to approach HMRC if you feel you have an issue before they approach you. And they will. There is no such thing as a secret Bank account anymore.

For more information on UK taxation, please contact Stuart McKinnon, Tax Partner, on 0191 255 7000 or stuart.mckinnon@rsmuk.com or your usual RSM contact.

THE LATEST FROM CS ACCOUNTING

And the same applies to your accounting software. No matter how simple it is it has the capability to help you to run your business by giving you the information you need. Whether it's in the cloud or on your desktop, commercial accounting software usually comes as a standard pre-set package. It gives you the basic equipment you need to record your transactions, allocate them to a particular heading and balance everything up. But is it telling you what you want to know?

The old adage of garbage in, garbage out applies of course so you need to think about what information is going in and where. When you make an entry your income and expenditure is allocated to various descriptions which should be something that is relevant to your business. There are also various alpha-numeric fields that can be used to give you more analysis. You don’t have to accept a standard ‘heading’, it is only an entry field which can be used for more targeted information. If you find out where the fields appear in reports they can be adapted accordingly to help you get the detail you want. Even if the reports within the software don’t give you exactly what you need you can usually export to.csv so if the information is in the system you can use Excel to refine the reporting. So don't just accept what is standard, think about what you want to know and tailor the software to suit your business.

With the introduction by HMRC of 'Making Tax Digital' starting from 2018 businesses will be required to file accounts information quarterly using their 'digital accounts software'. So if you have the technology you may as well use it.

If you want to give this concept a try, our clients get SageOne Start software free and we arrange a bespoke set up for your business. www.csaccounting.co.uk 18

Cyd Smith, Owner, CS Accounting

I drove to work this morning topless (the car that is, not me). You probably think I'm mad, most people do. It's the middle of January and the temperature just above freezing but it was a beautiful morning and I just love driving with the top down, especially at night. It's why I bought a convertible so I may as well use it.

Thinking about your business is a big part of ours.

PUT OUR TAILORED INSIGHTS TO WORK FOR YOU To make confident decisions about the future, an entrepreneurial growing business needs a different kind of adviser. One who starts by understanding where you want to go and then brings the ideas and insights of an experienced team to help get you there.

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The UK group of companies and LLPs trading as RSM is a member of the RSM network. RSM is the trading name used by the members of the RSM network. Each member of the RSM network is an independent accounting and consulting firm each of which practises in its own right. The RSM network is not itself a separate legal entity of any description in any jurisdiction.

The RSM network is administered by RSM International Limited, a company registered in England and Wales (company number 4040598) whose registered office is at 11 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU. The brand and trademark RSM and other intellectual property rights used by members of the network are owned by RSM International Association, an association governed by article 60 et seq of the Civil Code of Switzerland whose seat is in Zug.

RECENT APPOINTMENTS

NEW GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR TO AID IAM SOLD GROWTH PLANS

NEWCASTLE MEDICAL ACCOUNTANCY FIRM MAKES BOARD LEVEL APPOINTMENT Specialist advisers to the healthcare sector BW Medical Accountants has announced that David Elliot has been promoted to board level taking the role of Tax Director.

David has over 30 years’ experience in the tax and accountancy profession. He joined the Gosforth based medical accountancy firm in 2013 as a Tax Adviser and has proved to be an invaluable member of the team.

He will now be overseeing tax compliance of the company’s client base including almost 100 GP practices and 1,000 medical professionals. He will also be responsible for the compilation of internal taxation registers, tracking and recording systems.

David embarked upon his career in taxation in 1986 at the Inland Revenue (now HM Revenue & Customs) and since then gained valuable experience managing a portfolio of healthcare clients on behalf of RMT accountants.

Kevin Walker, NHS Pension Expert and Director at BW Medical Accountants, said: “David has already shown that he has the in-depth knowledge needed to succeed in the highly specialised medical accountancy sector and that he is the right person to help lead our team forward into 2017.”

ISG, the parent company of IAM Sold, the largest provider of outsourced auction services in the UK, has appointed Eoghan Johnston as Group Finance Director.

Johnston, who won Accountant of the Year at the 2016 North East Accountancy Awards, has been brought in to help manage the company’s ambitious growth plans ensuring the best structure is put in place to maximise market potential.

With experience gained in private equity backed Tekmar Energy, Johnston is perfectly positioned to help guide the business in the years ahead.

Jamie Cooke, Managing Director at IAM Sold, commented: “We have experienced rapid business growth since inception, now employing over 100 staff and working with over 1,100 estate agency branches. We are delighted to welcome Eoghan and believe he will play an integral role in these plans.

Given his experience, he is perfectly positioned to help guide the business.”

Eoghan added: “I immediately saw something unique about the IAM Sold business and knew I could bring a lot to the table. I am excited by the opportunities and challenges of joining such a vibrant and rapidly growing SME.”

SEVEN PROMOTIONS AT SINTONS Seven lawyers at law firm Sintons have been promoted to the rank of Associate. From departments across the firm, the seven move up to Associate level after previously being solicitors with Newcastle-based Sintons.

Joanna Grieve and James Fisher are both specialists in Sintons’ nationally-recognised Insurance Litigation team which acts for some of the UK’s biggest names in the insurance sector.

David Naughten and Danielle Dale are property lawyers within the highly-esteemed Real Estate team at Sintons.

Paul Collingwood is a private client specialist who deals particularly with wills and probate work

whilst Suzanne Dixon is a lawyer within Sintons’ conveyancing team.

Louise Masters is a matrimonial specialist within Sintons’ highly-esteemed matrimonial team.

Phil Ridley, Practice Director at Sintons, said: “The cornerstone of Sintons is our commitment to offering legal excellence alongside a very personal service tailored to each client’s unique requirements. It is what sets us apart in the marketplace.

“We have promoted Joanna, James, David, Danielle, Paul, Suzanne and Louise to Associate in recognition of their commitment to Sintons and our ethos. We wish them continued success in their careers.”

CRAFT BUSINESS APPOINTS COMMERCIAL EXPERT County Durham-based Crafter’s Companion has followed up an impressive year with a high-profile hire that will help the company to continue its growth into 2017.

After making a multi-million-pound investment into its retail operations and doubling its headcount to 115 people in 2016, the craft supplies business has appointed experienced commercial expert John Nicholas to drive the company’s expansion plans from its headquarters in Newton Aycliffe.

John will be responsible for all of the company’s commercial teams including marketing, sales and retail. His main focus will be on driving sales across various channels, developing customer experience and shaping a clear growth strategy for the company’s operations in the region and beyond.

The businessman joins the company as Chief Commercial Officer for the UK and Europe after working with its board in a strategic advisory role for 18 months and subsequently as a non-executive for six months.

Having worked in senior roles with Pure Collection, Hotter, Travelex and Vodafone over the last 20 years, John brings a wealth of retail experience to the award-winning organisation. His notable career achievements include taking a business from a £30million turnover to £100 million in just four years.

20

BUSINESS INSIGHT

HMRC’S NEW POWERS As another January passes and more selfassessment tax returns are submitted than ever before, HMRC are looking to take advantage of new technologies and a recent legislative change to drive their tax investigations. Ryan Harrison of Leathers LLP looks at these developments and highlights the importance of getting it right.

On the 29 November 2016 the Queen gave Royal Assent to the Investigatory Powers Bill. Thanks to this new legislation, some 48 government agencies will now have permission to obtain the internet and communications history of everyone in the UK for the previous 12 months.

Included among those with access to this data are HMRC. A legal challenge to the bill has been proposed but, for now, HMRC have access to every taxpayer’s web browsing history.

In order to collate and review this information, HMRC have also launched a new supercomputer ‘Connect’. This system has been specifically designed to upload a taxpayer’s key income details from various government bodies and third party sources.

Connect will have access to a huge amount of data, to include some of the more familiar names which we use in our everyday lives: Land Registry DVLA eBay Airbnb Various social media platforms Visa/MasterCard transactions

Put simply, Connect is a state-of-the-art analytical and sorting computer system that can identify those who have paid too little tax.

At a cost of £100 million, the capabilities of this software are impressive; it is currently being used to create a profile of each taxpayer’s anticipated income and can trace electronic footprints based on data gathered.

Whilst we are now in 2017 this does feel like 1984!

With the developments in HMRC’s systems, comes a greater capability to identify perceived errors/ discrepancies and ultimately, launch investigations into self-assessment tax returns.

We have long since anticipated the increased sophistication in HMRC’s powers. The selfassessment process is unfortunately often overlooked by many taxpayers (and some accountants) as a simple compliance procedure with little attention to detail when reporting key information to HMRC. It is clear, that implementing thorough procedures and understanding the information to be reported to HMRC reduces the risk of tax investigations; we can testify to this from our own processes and experience.

unreported bank interest which has been omitted from tax returns and with the system now fully operational, it will be used to identify whether a taxpayer is liable to a tax evasion or avoidance enquiry challenge.

Similarly, it is hoped that Connect will help HMRC reduce the cost of investigations and narrow the tax gap to quickly repay the cost of the new system.

HMRC have committed to using the new software to pre-populate taxpayer’s online accounts, so that there is no requirement to provide duplicate details of information already reported by third party sources.

However, with the technology and laws now in HMRC’s favour, it has never been more important to ensure both accurate reporting and full disclosure.

By applying a systematic procedure to our client’s tax returns year on year, we believe this is the key to avoiding unwarranted HMRC investigations; these procedures have been specifically developed to manage the increasing risk of enquiries and associated penalties.

Connect has already been used to send automated letters warning taxpayers that HMRC are aware of

If you would like to discuss any concerns in relation to the self-assessment process, reporting to HMRC and the wider personal tax implications, please contact Ryan Harrison at Leathers LLP on r.harrison@leathersllp.co.uk or 0191 224 6760.

21

BUSINESS INSIGHT

HVR BEATS JOB CREATION TARGET AFTER SECURING £300,000 LET’S GROW GRANT

(L-R) Kevin McLaughlin, Amita Pandit and Stephen Elliott from HVR International with Richard Turnbull from UNW.

Funding supports major expansion at growing South Tyneside company.

Jarrow-based HVR International has created 35 new jobs, beating its original forecast of 29, after expanding the business with help from a £300,000 Let’s Grow grant.

the grant money is certainly helping us to achieve this. The results of our financial year end in May and our half year results in November show we are very much on track in meeting this target.

The company, which makes high voltage resistors for clients including Siemens, ABB, GE Energy and Vestas Wind Systems, was approved for the grant towards its £1.6 million expansion programme in September last year.

“As business demand grew quite dramatically with many new orders being received, it became evident we needed to expand, otherwise we were in danger of not being able to fulfil our orders on time and therefore possibly lose customers.”

The money is funding a project to extend its building on the Bede Industrial Estate and purchase extra kilns, ovens, a mixer and a substation to allow it to increase capacity to meet demand.

HVR applied to the Let’s Grow fund for support towards the project and drew down its first tranche of money in July. It plans to draw down the remainder of the grant before the end of the year to complete the expansion scheme.

HVR Finance Director, Amita Pandit, said: “So far we have exceeded the number of jobs we planned to create and we are still in the process of completing the project.

“Our plan is to increase the business by 20 per cent;

Let’s Grow, which is administered by BE Group in partnership with UNW and The Journal and Evening Gazette, was created to support SME growth and job creation in the North East.

Neville Bearpark, who leads the UNW grants team, said: “Let’s Grow funding was instrumental in HVR’s decision to press ahead with its expansion and the growth programme has already created more jobs than the company expected.

“HVR shows how successful schemes such as Let’s Grow are in creating new employment and income for the region’s economy.”

Andrew Frost, Business and Investment Adviser at BE Group said “We’re delighted to be supporting HVR with their business expansion project. Having visited the factory recently it was impressive to see the results of the investment the company has made both in the improvements to the facility and the new equipment that has been installed. It’s also really encouraging that the company has already exceeded its jobs’ forecast.”

UNW is a leading independent firm of chartered accountants that delivers a wide range of accountancy and business advisory services to its clients, for more information please visit www.unw.co.uk 22

CLIMB KILIMANJARO! CLIMB KILIMANJARO! Take on a trek to the roof of Africa in Take on a trek to the roof of Africa in Summer 2018 and raise vital funds for Summer 2018 and raise vital funds for

We will be holding an event giving full details of this amazing fundraising We will be holding an event giving full details of this amazing fundraising experience on February 9, 7pm. To book a place at this information event experience on February 9, 7pm. To book a place at this information event please contact Maria Hallett on m.hallett@percyhedley.org.uk or 0191 238 1302 please contact Maria Hallett on m.hallett@percyhedley.org.uk or 0191 238 1302

BUSINESS INSIGHT

KPMG IN NEWCASTLE ANNOUNCES DAVID ELLIOTT AS NEW OFFICE SENIOR PARTNER

David Elliott is to take KPMG’s leadership role in the region as Newcastle Office Senior Partner from 1 March 2017, ahead of Mick Thompson’s retirement from the firm in Spring 2018.

David, presently the professional services firm’s head of tax in Newcastle, is a home grown business adviser from Stocksfield in the Tyne Valley and has spent his 30 year career in Newcastle. He joined KPMG nine years ago as a partner to lead the firm’s tax practice in the region and has since been instrumental in its growth and success alongside that of our clients in the region.

In his current role David advises a wide variety of clients, reflecting the region’s diverse corporate community. The majority of his portfolio comprises privately owned businesses, including PE backed and family firms and David leads KPMG’s regional Enterprise offering, which tailors KPMG’s range of services across audit, tax and advisory, to the needs of private businesses.

In addition he works closely with listed companies and the UK interests of overseas owned businesses, with clients from a wide variety of sectors including mining, manufacturing, retail, financial services and property and construction.

David will continue to run KPMG’s tax team in the North East, while Mick Thompson will continue to work with audit senior partner Nick Plumb, serving the needs of the firm’s large and varied audit client base.

Speaking of his appointment to Office Senior Partner, David Elliott said: “Having played an active role in this vibrant, regional economy for many years, I am delighted to lead one of the area’s most prestigious firms. The excellent KPMG team based here on the Quayside and our superb client portfolio makes the North East an exciting and rewarding place to work.

“There’s a great deal going on within KPMG and we need to maintain the momentum of our Enterprise focus alongside our continued commitment to the public sector and listed company arenas, and ensure those leading the region’s organisations know of our appetite to work with them. In terms of projects, we are increasingly calling on an unrivalled combination of technology and colleagues to support clients addressing cyber security, IT transformation, customer experience issues, and of course the impact of the Brexit vote.”

Chris Hearld, KPMG’s North Region Chairman, added: “David is North East through and through, with a longstanding reputation in the regional market. The success he has delivered for our tax practice, developing deep specialisms, for example in capital allowances, innovation reliefs and incentives and M&A tax, plus his energy and appetite for client service makes him a superb fit www.kpmg.com 24

for this market critical role, driving our strategy for further profitable growth in the future.

“After a hugely successful, multi award winning tenure as our leader in the region I’m pleased we will continue to benefit from Mick’s tremendous work for a further year as he manages an orderly handover to David and continues to lead on some of our key audit clients, including Greggs and Renew, which will be invaluable at a time when the audit market is more dynamic than ever.”

KPMG’s Newcastle office is 150 strong, led by a partner and director group of 12 senior professionals. It contributed significantly to the firm’s recently announced 15% revenue growth across its Northern practice. The office has recently retained the Hargreaves Services Plc, Home Group and Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust audits, as well as audit and taxation services for Opsec Security Group in competitive tenders.

The M&A team advised on some of the region’s most significant transactions, including Kitwave Wholesale Group, North East Convenience Stores, ZyroFisher and Kids 1st, contributing to the win of the Corporate Finance team of the year award at the Dealmakers event.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Paul Hardingham, Director of Innovate Mortgages and Loans

NEW YEAR - NEW MORTGAGE? Many people entered 2017 with renewed enthusiasm and resolutions to lose weight, drink less, exercise more etc. All of these aims should be applauded, but financial health and wellbeing should also be at the top of the New Year agenda.

The newspaper headlines often focus on savings which can be made by reviewing areas such as utility bills and costs of shopping, areas which can produce a gradual saving each month over time. Many of these ideas are also targeted by the price comparison sites as they offer small savings in a quick and easy manner.

A mortgage review though can produce significant savings both month on month by lowering repayments and long term by securing a lower rate and possibly reducing the mortgage term. To many, it may seem a daunting prospect, however, by using a mortgage broker, much of this pain and time can be removed. After an initial no obligation conversation in the region of 45 minutes, a good quality broker will know whether they are able to assist and also broadly how much

you might be able to save or perhaps raise capital to clear credit commitments, fund a Buy to Let, help children etc.

In addition, they will deal with all of the paperwork and the lender so that you don’t have to be too concerned, and your time investment is kept to a minimum.

Interest rates are currently at all-time lows with many experts now suggesting that interest rates may be about to rise. So as we enter a potentially volatile period for the UK financially why not take this early opportunity of a no obligation mortgage review to establish your options and make this one of your New Year’s resolutions?

Local, face-to-face, independent mortgage advice can smooth the process - we are ready to take your call and offer assistance!

Paul Hardingham is Director of Innovate Mortgages and Loans paul@innovateml.co.uk www.innovateml.co.uk 0191 2233514 Your home or property is at risk of repossesion if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loan secured on it. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. Innovate Mortgages and Loans is a trading style of Innovation Financial Management Ltd.

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CHILDREN UNDER 10 YEARS EAT FREE

BUSINESS INSIGHT Stephen Sumner, managing director at Explore Wealth Management.

Could your better half help reduce your income tax bill?

Whenever I meet with a new client, one of the first things I check for them is that the correct level of income tax is being deducted from their monthly income. More often than not, I find that married couples are not claiming the marriage allowance.

The marriage allowance is a little-known tax allowance introduced in 2015, which allows anyone earning below the £11,000 threshold for basic rate income tax to transfer some of their tax-free personal income allowance to their spouse.

Despite a number of advertising campaigns to promote the incentive by HMRC, incredibly, of the 4.2 million couples in the UK who could benefit from this tax saving, only 1 million couples have actually applied.

Naturally, there are certain criteria you need to meet to qualify for the allowance, but so long as your partner earns a salary within the 20% basic rate income tax band (ie currently earning between £11,000 and £43,000), you could reduce your tax by £220 in 2017, and better still, you may be able to back-date a claim for the previous tax year meaning you could be entitled to a refund of up to £432.

So, what do you have to do to claim your refund?

If you’re married or in a civil partnership (cohabiting doesn’t count unfortunately!) visit www.gov.uk/marriage-allowance and simply follow the instructions to find out how you could benefit from the marriage allowance.

For further information, or for financial advice on a wide range of subjects from investments and savings to retirement planning, visit www.explorewealth.co.uk or call us on 0191 285 1555.

#KPSPOTLIGHT ON - JAMES ROBSON With a head for numbers and a degree in mathematics, it should come as no surprise to see James Robson three years into a career with KP Simpson.

Despite not having an accounting background, accounting clerk James is excelling in what he calls the ‘chill’ surroundings of KP Simpson’s Jarrow offices since starting back in 2013.

Preparing financial statements, and working on accounts, James will often be your first port of call when contacting the firm with an enquiry be it on the telephone or over email.

James, whose role with KP Simpson is his first since graduating university is part of the movement to change the image of an accountant as a dull grey man with a pipe who you only see once a year. He instead believes you should see an accountant as a friend or acquaintance, working with you and not against you.

Ambitious, hard-working and dedicated to his craft, James uses his interest in number manipulation to get maximum results for clients, be it a simple enquiry, or a more in depth question regarding their account, while maintaining the laid-back yet busy atmosphere that characterises KP Simpson.

Although this is James’ first job, he has already noticed changes in the way tax and accountancy is carried out and regulated – with HMRC getting stricter than ever with procedures and ensuring they are followed to the letter – for James and the KP Simpson team though, this just means delivering an even more thorough, quality level of service to each and every client on a personal level. It all means a oneto-one service, with the old fashioned one size fits all approach gone.

To find out more about KP Simpson and the services their offer, visit www.kpsimpson.co.uk, email them on info@kpsimpson.co.uk, or call them on 0191 420 0550. Who knows, you might even get to speak to James.

26

BUSINESS INSIGHT

COMMERCE HOUSE UNDERWAY Northern Insight readers looking for office space in the region, to either start up a new business or move from their existing premises for growth, need look no further!

Work has started on an iconic Teesside building that aims to provide businesses with the perfect ambience and business community, thanks to a £1.2million injection from a local investor.

Commerce House in Middlesbrough is having life breathed back into its Grade II Listed structure by Commerce Chambers Limited.

The building, which was originally built in 1872, is in the centre of the city’s soon to be thriving commercial district and is right next to the train station, a stone’s throw from the A66.

Available is a choice of business rooms, of all sizes, split over three floors.

Suitable for one-man operations and small start-ups, up to medium sized call centres and organisations, the offices come complete with high-class facilities and high-speed broadband included.

The luxury setting will boast a contemporary feel with traditional touches, all finished to the highest of standards. Fully furnished, the office space starts at exceptionally reasonable rates and will make a huge impact on any visiting client.

There is also a 43 square metre boardroom available for use by tenants or to hire out, which comes complete with high spec technology and total luxury, ideal for presentations, brainstorming or entertaining.

Work has now started on the ground floor, which will accommodate around 12 desks, split into a choice of rooms. It is expected this level will be completed in April 2017. Renovation will then begin from the top down, starting with the penthouse apartment and working its way through the rest of the building, which in total will accommodate well over 100 desks.

Christine Huntington, facilities manager at the building, which was purchased from the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is amazing to see the transformation starting to take place. The building is going to be incredibly popular once completed and we have already begun taking enquiries and reservations, with two tenants already in place.

“We recommend anyone thinking of moving to office space in the next year to get in touch and have a look around as soon as possible. We can accommodate immediately or reserve the space until completion of works.

“As well as the permanent office space, we will also be offering a business lounge and hot desk facilities alongside a virtual office service. There are also plans underway to open a coffee shop meaning Commerce House really will be a one stop business shop!”

Information and appointments can be made by calling Christine on 01642 917116. Images are available to view on Facebook @CommerceHouse1872 27

BUSINESS INSIGHT

TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER by the entrepreneurs’ forum

The importance of networking to business growth shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s a practice that is openly encouraged in some professions and disparaged in others, but to entrepreneurs it’s an essential part of the job; and of even greater importance in times of uncertainty.

The challenges on the horizon for North East business owners in 2017 include economic risks from political events like Brexit and the subsequent trade negotiations with the EU, along with fluctuations in domestic and international markets and the accelerating pace of technological change.

The North East’s business community is relatively small and close-knit, though business population statistics do show it is growing faster than in any other region. This closeness makes doing business with other companies, sharing information and peer-to-peer mentoring more readily accessible than elsewhere. It has also created a friendly and supportive business culture, which people from outside of the area often remark upon.

No one can do it all on their own and by embracing the ever-increasing interconnectedness of people, our region’s entrepreneurs can improve the resilience of their companies when it comes to upcoming challenges; and perhaps turn them into opportunities.

Our manufacturers and other exporters are already taking advantage of the weakening pound following the Brexit vote. An economic condition that at present makes North East goods and services more appealing to overseas markets.

The region’s burgeoning tech sector, which is gaining national acclaim and shows no sign of slowing down, is an example of how growth can come through innovation.

Whether a business is ‘Brexit-proofing’ its operations or looking at new opportunities, in the most basic sense, networking is unquestioningly one of the best ways to find new customers and routes to market, but it can add so much more.

The skills gap is one of the five key issues that the UK must overcome to create the ideal conditions for companies scaling up. While this can only be solved when national and local government comes together with the business community, meeting people can help you stay ahead of the curve. A significant proportion of vacancies, especially at management and professional levels, are filled by face-to-face contact, like networking.

Advice from people who have been there and done something themselves can be invaluable for even seasoned entrepreneurs, when starting a business or embarking on a project in an unfamiliar area. The best way to make the valuable contacts that can help in his situation, whether for informal advice, structured mentoring or professional services, is to get out of the office and meet other business people.

Innovation and efficiency are essential to maintaining the high-value, high-quality appeal of British products and services, and are now even more important given the potential risks to tariff-free trade with our European neighbours, and the renewed opportunity to forge commercial partnerships with the rest of the world.

The leaders of businesses looking to defend or expand their export offering could see huge benefits by reaching out into the market and meeting people from their wider supply chain.

While digital communication has undoubtedly improved the way we do business, we have evolved as social beings and can gain much more from meeting people in person. For the entrepreneur there is no substitute for networking, especially in 2017.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum brings together the business owners of the North East to help make their businesses stronger; and to help make the North East stronger. It’s a network where people share experience in the interests of the greater good. In times of uncertainty, it’s a place where entrepreneurs are helping each other; as together we really are stronger.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum support more than 300 aspirational North East business owners in all sectors, helping to expand their networks, improve leadership skills, share experience, create new opportunities and grow their business. For more information call 0191 500 7780 or visit www.entrepreneursforum.net 28

B U S I N E S S

Celebrate St Patricks Day at Newcastle Racecourse...

Blarney, Blackstuff and Betting!

A fun filled afternoon of Irish entertainment, piper on arrival, a very lively band in true Irish style “Twanging Jack and the Rascal Fiddlers” and our dancers closing the day, with all the Cheltenham Gold Cup Racing beamed in Live. MC for the day is Doddie Weir, there is a tipster to give you inside information “from the horses mouth“ and Tote to take all bet’s.

A St Patricks Day celebration not to be missed! Reserve your places now!

INTERVIEW

Jason Knights blue kangaroo North East Entrepreneur Jason Knights founded Blue Kangaroo, an independent UK based creative agency, in 2006 after a career in the military, then in printing and design. The agency now works with many of the biggest global brands in the toy, entertainment and licensing world.

Tell me a bit about your background.

How has business changed since you started?

I come from an Army family, so I grew up in a number of military towns throughout the UK then, when I left school in 1988 I joined the Royal Signals, where I served for four years. After I left the Army I started working for a printing company, and then a design company.

There are a lot more international clients than when we started; roughly 70% of our sales are exports now. We’re doing a lot more in the USA, where the weak pound is particularly good for us; our clients get a much better exchange rate. It’s a bit different if you’re going on holiday, but for us it’s coming the other way.

I saw the opportunity to go it alone in 2006, along with a business partner, and together we set up our own design firm. In the early days it was just the two of us, we had a wide variety of clients, including some local authorities and the probation service.

Our big opportunity came when we were given the chance to work for Disney; a contact I had when working for another company tracked us down and gave us the character development work for some Mickey Mouse-branded bread packaging. From there we started working for Disney’s EMEA operation, and we were able to win character licensing work from brands like Warner Bros., the BBC and Entertainment One. What was your first business premises?

Our first premises were at the Gateshead International Business Centre. It was a tiny office with space for two desks, two chairs and not much else. When we outgrew they space we moved to the Northern Design Centre, which is less than a mile away. It’s a really impressive, modern space.

How has the business grown?

For the first four years of the business we stayed relatively small, we only really started to expand when we started to export. We’ve always grown organically and don’t spend beyond our means, controlling costs like this was especially important in the early days, so we’ve only taken people on when the business needed it.

It wasn’t until six years into the business that growth moved from steady to steep, which we’ve seen over the past four years.

How did the recession affect you?

We weren’t really affected by the recession. My view is that if you wanted the recession to affect you it would, but if you went and looked for work it was out there to be had.

Technology has changed so much in the past ten years, in our industry the speed of the internet has changed how we work. It used to take hours to send large files around the world. Now it takes no time at all. We invest heavily in equipment for our illustrators, so we have the same types of tablets and technology as the big studios use.

The rise of Skype and other online communications have made it easy to communicate with clients around the world, in a way that just didn’t happen ten years ago. This makes managing customers relationship for exporting much smoother.

What are your USPs? In a word, service. The creative industries can be quite pretentious. The designers and all of our staff at Blue Kangaroo deliver a high quality product, but they all also go above and beyond in terms of the service they give the customers, which keeps them coming back.

When we’re working with clients in Los Angeles, the time difference means we’ve almost done a full day’s work when they’re just getting started. This often means our guys staying late for conference calls, but the benefit of it is that any changes or requests they have can often be delivered by the start of their next working day.

We don’t just shut the door at half past five and go home, we’re known for turning work around quickly and to a high standard. This means some clients see us as their go-to agency for high quality work.

How do you handle motivation within the business?

A lot of what motivates us is the work that we do. We’re working for some extremely well known brands, and all of our designers have their interests and specialisations. Everyone is into different kinds of films, so it’s a big thing for particular team members to do work for studios like Pixar, 30

Lucasfilm or Warner Bros. It’s really enjoyable work and it’s different every other week.

We work set hours, but we’re a very family oriented company. If one of the guys need to go to their kid’s school play or make it to a family event, we work around it. One of the people I worked for in the past wasn’t like this at all, he was a task master, but we’re much more flexible.

We also make the most of work travel. We’re sending two of our illustrators to Comic-Con this year; they’re going to visit a couple of clients while they’re over there too. They will get a lot out of it personally, and they will come back to the business with lots of great ideas.

How does your motivation now compare with that when you started the firm?

When we first started out my wife was a student midwife and I was working in the print industry, my motivation then was to make a bit more money to support our young family.

Now it’s a bit different, I’m very passionate about the North East, I want to bring good work to the region and make Blue Kangaroo into a global branding agency. I’m also motivated by having a good, solid team around me. It was very much a lifestyle business to start off with, we had no idea it would grow to what it is today.

How did your business structure come about?

There are thirteen of us. I’m the Managing Director, I lead the business and we have a commercial manager. We’ve just recruited a new director of creative strategy, from Mattel, which is a massive coup for us.

We have a project manager in the studio, and everyone working below her is a creative. We don’t have account managers or sales people.

Keeping things simple is a big thing in business at the moment, the fewer people involved in a process, the better it works.

Do you have a mentor?

Keith Whisson of Shiremoor press, who I used to work for, gave me lots of advice when we first set up the company. For the past ten years I’ve spoken to him every day, whenever I have an issue or if I need another opinion. This has worked very well and I would encourage anyone setting up to find a mentor.

INTERVIEW

Jason Knights is a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, a unique group of like-minded people who come together through peer-to-peer mentoring and a series of inspirational events to share best practice, create valuable connections and grow their business.

For more information, visit www.entrepreneursforum.net 31

Made to Measure...Made to Treasure

Palmer Menswear 22 Clayton Road Jesmond Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4RP 0191 281 7999 palmermenswear@btconnect.com www.palmermenswear.com

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Bryony Gibson

WHY PEOPLE TURN DOWN A JOB OFFER Bryony Gibson, Managing Director of Bryony Gibson Consulting, talks about the reasons people could be turning down your offer of a job, and what you can do about it.

Imagine the scenario: it’s been weeks since one of your team resigned and you’ve finally finished interviewing for their replacement.

You’re happy. You’ve searched high and low to find someone who will fit in from the start and hit the ground running. You call to offer them the job and say you’re delighted they’re going to join you, only they’re not.

In a couple of days they’ve gone from enthusiastic about the opportunity, to turning it down; so why the sudden change of heart?

Well, sometimes you will have done absolutely nothing wrong. When faced with the reality of stepping out of their comfort zone, some people will take the safest option - especially if they get counter-offered by their current employer - and there’s nothing you can do about it.

There are however some common areas you can prevent from becoming an issue: The Interviewer etting this right is critical as people switch G jobs more often than ever before and if they don’t buy in to what your company is trying to achieve they won’t be excited about working for you. The interviewer is the person who shares your vision. They’re the candidate’s first glimpse of your company culture; so make sure they’re passionate, positive and friendly.

The Offer I t’s rare someone will feel wanted if you offer them a lower salary or a job title that sounds more junior than the one they currently have.

If a candidate comes across as highly career focussed, then don’t let them leave the interview without a clear understanding of what the next steps on the career ladder will be. Think carefully about how your offer will be perceived, as often it’s the attention to detail on the little things that makes all the difference here.

Flexibility ne of the most common reasons people turn O down a job is a lack of flexibility in working hours and holidays. Show that you care and are flexible by making sure you mention any opportunities for home-working, flexi-time or other schemes that promote a positive work-life balance.

Travel ften people haven’t made the journey to your O office before, so they’ve no idea of the real travel time until they’re interviewed. If the commute is too long or there’s too much travel involved in the role, then this can put some people off.

Contact Bryony for help finding the right tax & accountancy role or recruits on (0191) 375 9983.

Alternatively, visit www.bryonygibson.com, connect on LinkedIn or follow @bryonygibson.

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Timing s odd as it sounds, some people get offered A a job too quickly. If they’ve just started looking and don’t think they’ve had time to explore the market or mentally prepare for a move, then it’s the interviewer’s job to spot and test them to see if they are ready to switch.

A Better Offer Talented people in industries with skills shortages can often have several interviews and be offered all of the positions. The trick here is to ask about other opportunities in the interview and then act fast; limiting their time to meet other companies.

Regardless of circumstance, whenever someone decides to say no to a job, they won’t have taken the decision lightly. By getting these areas right you will reduce the likelihood of people turning your job offers down, but you’ll never stop it completely.

The most important thing to do is to be prepared for the interviews, as this is when the candidates decide if the chemistry is right.

Each interview is a chance for both parties to evaluate one another, so it’s not unreasonable that someone will decide your job isn’t right for them; just like you decided a number of people interviewed weren’t right for you.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

RFID THEFT OR CONTACTLESS IDENTITY THEFT

It has been said that we have technologically advanced more in the last 15 years then we did the previous 200 years. I’m sure this can be debated but the point I’m trying to make however, is how fast technology enters our everyday life. These innovations drive business and economies but they also attract elicit opportunity. We couldn’t possibly discuss all so let’s focus one innovation which has emerged over the last few years, contactless payment on debit and credit cards and its vulnerability.

Not so long ago when out with friend’s I was presented the bill for some drinks and opted to pay contactless. The waitress handed me the machine and for reason unbeknown to me I decide to test a theory. I placed the machine against my friend’s pocket where I know his wallet was and ping, the payment was made!

This eureka moment prompted a frenzied game for the rest of the evening whereby we would try and scam a member of our group card and to varying degrees of success.

This event prompted some investigation into what I later discovered is termed RFID Theft. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is the use of radio waves to deliver and read information that is stored on the card and can be read by a card reader. Here is the critical element, it does not need to be in direct line of site and in some tests, I’ve conducted, it can be 8 inches away.

Now before everyone decides to cut up their cards and revert back to cash, it’s worth mentioning that

there are limits set by the bank to reduce impact and for those who feel strongly, you can request to have the contactless option removed. For me however, I like the freedom contactless gives me, not to mention I don’t have to keep potently compromising my pin number in public every time, which could mean bigger financial loses.

How to protect your cards.

The solution is not that difficult. Through simply understanding these vulnerabilities I dare say most of us would be able to reduce our exposure to financial loss through RFID scamming or other card financial theft. Nevertheless, here are some simple steps we can take to protect the integrity of our plastic money.

To protect your card from the contactless

scam mentioned above you can use blocking technology. This comes in many forms from wallets and purses lined with material that blocks the RFID signal to very inexpensive sleeves (like

www.athenarisk.com 35

the example in the photo) to protect the card itself.

When you pay using contactless don’t hand the card over to the cashier, get them to bring the reader to you. This will remove the possibility of a duplicate payment being made.

Always make sure your card is in sight when paying. If you need to hand over your card don’t let the cashier leave your table with it and never let anyone photo copy your card. This is the surest way to empty your account.

I f you need to use your pin for card transactions, ensure you shield from view when entering the number. The simplest way is to use your body bag or for hand held machines, hold close to your chest. And, never carry your number written down in your purse and wallet.

Through implementing these simple measures, you will almost remove the opportunity for RFID theft and cut in half your overall exposure to debit and credit card fraud.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

FOUR IMPORTANT FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN GROWING YOUR DIGITAL BUSINESS IN THE NORTH EAST

BY JAMES BLACKWELL, CEO, RONALD JAMES

There could not be a better time than now to develop your digital company. Business owners in the North East are currently benefitting from what is being called the 'Digital Revolution', and there are some important things to be aware of at this time of positive change.

Opportunities for facility expansion Though at the moment, there is a widespread shortage of Grade A office space in the North East, there is lots of potentials to turn existing office spaces into suitable floor space for the digital sector. Not only can money be saved by opting for alternative office spaces, but buildings can be decorated to suit the company's needs and the entire process can be turned over very quickly.

Grade A developments, on the other hand, can take anything from three to five years to be completed.

Access to candidates The general consensus from digital businesses in the North East, according to a survey by Auxin, is that there is not enough talent being produced from colleges and universities. To make up for this shortfall, some business owners have started offering in-house training. Firms will take pregraduates with little or no experience in the industry, and put them through intensive training until they are capable of entering the workforce as skilled graduates. The major benefit of in-house

academies is that businesses are not only able to recruit graduate level talent easily, but they are taking on staff that have been briefed on their particular company's operations too. It may be good, as a business owner, to know that this is an option which has already proved successful.

Meanwhile, apprenticeships have been seen as being too drawn out, in relation to the fast pace of the industry, and not focusing on the right content.

However, the IfA (Institute for Apprenticeships) is due to support a programme, from April 2017, that is far more suited to the modern industry.

Businesses will have more input into what is taught and this employer-led approach will drive the talent emerging from apprenticeships to reach the highest of levels.

Collaborating with the councils There seems to be a genuine desire in Newcastle and Gateshead for businesses and communities to work together for a common cause, and this is evident in the councils' positions. The councils in the North East are already doing as much as possible

to support industry growth in the region. They have recognised the importance and the potential of the digital tech sector and have made known to the public their wishes to prioritise its growth.

Recommendations were previously made on how the councils can contribute towards supporting organisations in the private sector and removing barriers to growth. Both of these are things that do ideally need to happen but thankfully shouldn't impact too greatly on the final outcome, so long as businesses run with a positive approach.

The need for a confident and positive approach Investing in a vision is by far the way to drive a business to success. It is clear that the Newcastle and Gateshead region has the ability to thrive as a digital tech city, however, in order to succeed as individual companies, owners must set a vision that goes beyond being a part of the race, and instead focuses on leading the pack. Without a significantly ambitious goal that will attract, inspire and motivate, companies will have nothing for their staff, their clients and even their competitors to work towards or look up to.

james@ronaldjamesgroup.com or call 0191 3006501

WE FIND THE TOP 15% OF TALENT

“It’s the way we deliver that separates us from the rest!”

0191 3006501

www.ronaldjamesgroup.com

info@ronaldjamesgroup.com

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Durham, United Kingdom

BUSINESS LUNCH

DIAL L FOR LUNCH Alfred Hitchcock meets Vivienne Westwood at The Earl of Pitt Street in Newcastle.

Was Michael Grahamslaw impressed?

the Tiger Prawn skewer. Laced in honey and sriracha sauce this looked a real treat and served up with a fresh mango salad, proved to be the perfect opener. I meanwhile tucked into the crab cakes which arrived expertly garnished with spring onion and tomato salsa.

The Earl of Pitt Street occupies an unusual plot of land.

Tucked away behind Sinton’s Solicitors and just off Barrack Road, it’s perhaps an unlikely spot for a gastropub currently carving out such a fine reputation for itself. In fact, “The Earl” is owned and managed by one of the City’s most acclaimed restaurateurs, Mark Lagun.

Quite the master of suspense, Mark even treated us to a sample of the “Char Siu” Belly Pork which, packing a wondrous flavour, proved arguably the pick of the lot! The customer service at this joint is to be applauded.

Formerly of Barn Again and Electric East renown, Mark has once again succeeded in creating a totally unique venue which has quickly ingratiated itself with many of the region’s discerning diners. We discovered more on a recent lunchtime appointment.

With our interests certainly piqued, we adventured on to the main courses. Some eye-catching examples included the Miso Glazed Cod with stir fried greens, the 8oz Rump Steak with skin on chips and the Butternut Squash Risotto.

Jack however fancied the Grilled Plaice Fillets with lemon and garlic prawns and buttered greens. Naturally, I went for the Thai Chicken Massaman Curry served with rice and loaded with some evil little red chillies. This was polished off with the usual gusto and I can announce that both dishes proved outstanding. No Hitchcockian plot twists here!

Externally, the pub has all the hallmarks of a proper watering hole whilst inside Mark has brought bold touches of personality. Once dubbed “Alfred Hitchcock meets Vivienne Westwood”, the interior is characterised by artful splashes of yellow, orange and brown and comes laden with numerous little quirks including birdcages, retro telephones, antlered coffee tables and some rather fetching Tippi Hedren-themed wallpaper. It’s a real amalgamation of all kinds of designs and influences and there’s even a great monochrome image of Hitch himself watching over proceedings! Plenty to soak up then so that’s exactly what we did over a quick pint (it would have been rude not to) before heading on upstairs to their dining area.

Owing largely to the characterful décor, there’s a real vibe about the place so we felt inclined to stay for a while over coffees. We even got chatting to the friendly waitress Lou who explained that there’s plenty in the pipeline, see forthcoming Cocktail/Tapas evenings and Ale & Cheeseboard concept events. You can put me down for that.

Now acquainted with a great urban vista of St James’ Park, we ordered from the “Earl-y Bird Menu”. Tailor-made for a business lunch, this is a condensed version of their evening offering and provides good value for money with a 2-courser available for £15 and 3 for £18. Reflective of Mark’s previous endeavours, the dishes are eclectic in scope with a parade of different textures and flavours available.

Many of which carry a strong Asian influence and often showcase Head Chef Kris Campbell’s real culinary flair.

Of course chain restaurants have their virtues but it really was refreshing to stumble across an independent venue that is so fun and original. I’m clearly not the only one who thinks so as Mark felt obliged to extend restaurant week due to popular demand! Good on him, both he and his team deserve to enjoy continued success. All in all, what a memorable pit stop in Pitt Street.

Somewhat spoilt for choice, my son Jack kicked off with

For more information visit www.earlofpittstreet.co.uk or to make a reservation call 0191 261 7744 38

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

INDIA THE NEW LAND OF HOPE AND GLORY Ammar Mirza pic: Peter Walton 2014

Happy New Year! I hope that 2017 brings you fun, happiness and prosperity. What an incredible start to the New Year. I was fortunate to travel to India as part of the Norther Powerhouse and Federation of Asian Business (FAB) trade delegation. Didn’t know what to expect, but must admit if I had any expectations they would have all been exceeded.

Travelling with Turkish Airlines, who were a key trade partner, the service was faultless. In an era where travel just appears to become more and more stressful, the journey could not have been any better, although I must have been a stone heavier being continuously fed and watered. If you are travelling out of Manchester then do consider this airline as a competitive alternative.

Having started the journey at 3am on Thursday morning we eventually arrived at our hotel in Bangalore at 2pm on the Friday. Even though we were all exhausted there was a real buzz about the place that was infectious. I genuinely did not expect Bangalore to be so welcoming, hospitable or as developed.

The main purpose of the trade visit was to attend the Pravasi Bhartia Divas Conference which is an opportunity for non-resident Indians to come together and celebrate with various dignitaries including the PM Modi. With thousands of people attending from over 75 countries this was a big event. The organisation of the three day conference was first-class.

On the Saturday we were taken on tour around various smart specialisation sectors across the region which happens to be the start-up, tech, bioscience, advance manufacturing capital of India

contributing to nigh on 38% of the GDP. Starting at Electronic City, which was established in 1997 as India’s Silicon Valley, it must be a strong contender to fair equally if not close behind the original.

There are over 300 multinational tech businesses located in this Development Corporation Area that independently maintains all aspects of the community from transport to infrastructure. There were an incredible number of inspirational females in leading roles across the public and private sector clearly demonstrating India’s progress to ensuring equality and diversity.

Within India’s Tech City the Bangalore Bio Centre (BBC) is located that offers life science businesses all of the support needed to start and scale up.

We were fortunate to hear various pitches from a number of innovative and interesting organisations that have developed a range of unique services and products both to national and international markets. After our visit they are now considering the North East as a potential base.

We were fortunate enough to visit a state school in a deprived and disadvantaged area. The school children could not even afford shoes, yet their passion for learning, respect, discipline and the way they cherished their school books was amazing.

We have agreed to roll-out the PIE Project to all 120 schools that are part of the network, which is Email info@abconnexions.org for more information.

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probably one of the highlights of my visit to offer these future entrepreneurs life choices and chances that they may not have had.

The following four days were spent meeting various ministers, officials, trade organisations and institutes both in Bangalore and Delhi that we managed to obtain agreements in principal from to form partnerships with the UK and in particular the North East. India offers an incredible opportunity for North East businesses and if you haven’t already done so you need to consider India as a potential market. With over 1.2billion people and a growing market for all goods and services India undoubtedly offers a chance that I don’t think any other country can. Without doubt India is the New Land of Hope and Glory.

Ammar Mirza CBE is the founder and chairman of Asian Business Connexions, Board member of North East LEP and holds various other positions across the public and private sectors.

PS - Couple of dates for the diary: ABC Professional Network Launch 16th February 530pm at Brewin Dolphin in association with SME Centre of Excellence and Square One Law. SME Centre of Excellence Power of 3 @ Newcastle College 9th March 430pm.

SME Power of 3 launch at Newcastle College 9th March 4.30pm Contact Grow@smecofe.com or call 0844 24 777 04 for more information or to register your place.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

NORTHUMBERLAND FARMER’S DAUGHTER NOW PLAYS A LEADING ROLE IN THE TECHNOLOGY SECTOR

A childhood on a Northumberland dairy farm may seem the unlikely spark to ignite a young girl’s fascination with cutting-edge technology.

But it was seeing first-hand the impact of technological innovation on everyday life – in her case milk production - that inspired Susan Bell to follow a career in IT.

of Business Technology Consulting, before being promoted to Operations Director and then Chief Executive.

Now, the former analyst and programmer, who became Executive Director at UBS Investment Bank in the City, has returned to her native North East and now heads up County Durham based IT consultancy Waterstons.

My dad was a dairy farmer and was always interested in technology and how he could apply it, using computers to monitor animal feeds and milk testing. I was fascinated by it and such innovative ways to use technology to solve everyday problems is something that has stayed with me.

What is it that you do?

Why did you leave London?

Understanding data and how it can be used to improve what organisations do from either a management, process, security or even safety perspective, no matter the sector, underpins our work.

When I lived in London and worked for UBS I always found coming back to the North-East was like a refresh. I always had the desire to live and work back up here. I don’t know whether that’s because I’m a farmer’s daughter and have been brought up in a family environment or if it’s something about the North East. There is a magnetic pull to come back here.

Whilst I may have started my career as a COBOL, CICS, DB2 programmer, it’s been a long time since I crafted a line of code! Now I classify my specialisms as business strategy alignment, transformation and programme management.

How was 2016 for you?

Last year we enjoyed a six-fold profit increase and employed 26 staff over the same period.

This growth has been sustained through our ability to achieve repeat business and glowing recommendations as a result of delivering excellent customer service through a partner-led approach to our customers.

Did you always want to work in the technology sector?

I joined Waterstons in January 2011 as the Head

What made you want to work for Waterstons?

Having left London and the corporate world of financial services and specifically investment banking, I did wonder whether I would find a company with the talent, creativity and vision for innovative solutions – luckily I walked into Waterstons.

We have partnered with all the region’s higher educational establishments and have worked across the architectural, engineering and construction sectors although our biggest sector in terms of turnover is manufacturing. This breadth of sectors puts the business in a very strong position without an over-reliance on one market. www.waterstons.com 42

How does Waterstons contribute to the region’s economy?

Waterstons’ roots are firmly planted in the North East. The firm is committed to attracting the region’s emerging talent to the company and raising the profile of tech careers. We are always looking out for excellent people and now that the business is enjoying growth at a rate of 13%, recruitment has become even more of a priority.

We want to attract and invest in the best people whether through our graduate and intern programmes or by hearing from more experienced professionals. However we are approached, we are always looking for those who can demonstrate an inquisitive nature toward technology, intellectual breadth and a keen commercial awareness.

What sets Waterstons apart?

We have a flexible approach and have a breadth and depth of expertise. The philosophy is not about the hours spent in the office, it’s more about the outcomes.

There is a culture of trust and empowerment that separates us from most other companies; as an organisation we like to challenge both our own people and our customers to get the very best result.

What does the future hold for you?

We are aiming to expand the business further; we already operate throughout the UK with consultants working remotely if necessary with customers located across the country.

One of our immediate priorities is to help fuel growth through recruitment.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION FOR KYLES

One of the key factors for a successful law firm is the ability to seamlessly expand and evolve. Kyles continue to embrace that principle with the opening of their new offices in Wallsend on the 1st February 2017.

family cases, especially cases involving Local Authority Children's Services. He puts the Family Departments continuing success and expansion down to the commitment and excellence of his colleagues, including Hayleigh Barry who deals in particular with cases involving domestic violence, where clients often require the immediate protection of the court.

The prestigious offices, situated at the refurbished Wallsend Town Hall, will house both the Conveyancing and Family Law teams and will enable the firm to provide a comprehensive service to both the residents of North Tyneside, as well as the rest of the north east through our other offices in North Shields, Newcastle, Gateshead and Teesside.

The Conveyancing Team is headed up by John Marshall, a solicitor with over 30 years experience of both residential and commercial conveyancing. He is supported by his colleagues Viki Logan and Maria Rice, both of whom are experienced conveyancers who have worked in Wallsend for many years. Their aim is to ensure that clients, both old and new, receive a friendly, efficient and cost effective service, where client care is paramount.

The Family Team is led by David Banks who is looking forward to moving back to his roots in Wallsend. David has an enviable reputation as an advocate in

For an initial chat, or to make an appointment to see us telephone 0191 2571051. For more information go to www.kyleslegalpractice.co.uk 44

BUSINESS INSIGHT

NEWCASTLE LAW FIRM MINCOFFS SUPPORTS 2017 GROWTH PLANS WITH NEW APPOINTMENTS

L-R: Sophie King, Bethany Ramsay and Rachel Smith.

Rachel Smith has been appointed as a solicitor in the Family team working alongside department head Lyn Rutherford and Associate Solicitor Emily Cannell. Rachel qualified as a solicitor in 2005 and has been practising family law since then. She joins Mincoffs from another prominent firm in the North East.

Rachel specialises in all aspects of family law from arrangements for children, injunctions, co-habitation and pre-nuptial agreements to multimillion pound cases involving business assets and high level investments.

degree in Marketing in 2015 from Northumbria University and has spent the last year working in London supporting the marketing team at a digital media firm.

Bethany Ramsay and Sophie King also join Jesmond based Mincoffs.

Conveyancing Executive Bethany studied law on a part-time basis at Northumbria University and since then has practised at a number of firms in the North East. Marketing Assistant Sophie graduated with a first class honours

Andy Woodhouse, Chief Executive at Mincoffs said “These new appointments will bring fresh skills and even more experience and expertise to our family, residential and marketing teams and we are delighted to welcome Rachel, Bethany and Sophie to the firm.�

For further information about Mincoffs Solicitors visit www.mincoffs.co.uk 46

Above and beyond!

For legal advice you can depend on, we go the extra mile.

Based in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, Mincoffs Solicitors is a full service law firm with a pragmatic, commercial and straight talking approach.

To find out more, visit: www.mincoffs.co.uk T: 0191 281 6151 E: info@mincoffs.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHT

HAS THE NEW YEAR GOT YOU THINKING ABOUT MOVING HOUSE?

James Godden is a solicitor at GBLF and heads up the Leasehold Property division. Here he gives some tips if you’re looking to relocate and are leasing a property or want to sell.

I HAVE A SHORT LEASE ON A PROPERTY WHICH I WANT TO EXTEND, WHAT SHOULD I DO? Leasehold flats and houses account for a significant proportion of the UK housing stock. Typically such leases are granted for a term of 99 or 125 years.

As the years pass by inevitably properties devalue and may become less attractive to purchasers, particularly where the purchaser requires mortgage finance. This is not the end of the world and it is important not to make a rushed decision.

In principle, buyers should not be deterred from purchasing leasehold property provided the price paid reflects the value of the lease at that time, and the costs of either extending the lease, or, in the case of leasehold houses, purchasing the freehold.

Whether you have a short lease on a flat or a house, legislation exists to offer a cost effective solution. In the case of a flat, the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993 serves to grant qualifying leaseholders an extension of 90 years in addition to the current unexpired term. So,

if you have a lease with say 50 years remaining, a claim under this statute will increase your total lease term to 140 years. In the case of a house, the Leasehold Reform Act 1967 serves to enable qualifying leaseholders to purchase their freehold.

make an informed choice when considering sums proposed by freeholders. A Surveyor may be able to negotiate the premium directly with the freeholder without having to utilise the enfranchisement procedure.

WHAT WILL IT COST ME AND HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

The process for extending a lease or acquiring the freehold are very similar. Typically these take between six to eight months to resolve.

The essential costs are professional fees and the professional fees of your freeholder together, with the premium payable. Both pieces of legislation require leaseholders to meet the reasonable costs of their freeholder.

When considering the premium payable, too often leaseholders contact freeholders and their managing agents without additionally taking professional advice. It is vitally important to obtain valuation advice from a Chartered Valuation Surveyor qualified to advise on matters of residential leases (i.e. enfranchisement) before committing to extending your lease or acquiring the freehold. It is impossible for leaseholders to

I NEED TO SELL MY PROPERTY QUICKLY, WHAT SHOULD I DO? In this instance leaseholders should immediately seek professional advice prior to telling their freeholder that they are looking to sell, as they may increase the premium they require. Legislation enables qualifying leaseholders to transfer their qualifying legal rights to a purchaser. You will begin the process of extending your lease or acquiring your freehold but can transfer your criteria to your purchaser by way of an assignment. Time should not be an issue.

Get in touch with our friendly team...We have offices in Newcastle and Chester le Street. T: 0191 388 1778 E: info@gblf.co.uk W: www.gblf.co.uk 48

BUSINESS INSIGHT

MAKING A FRESH START IN RELATIONSHIPS As 2017 gets into gear, many people may be looking for a new start in their relationships.

Jonathan Flower, Head of the Family team at law firm Ward Hadaway, look at the options available to those who are considering a change.

The start of a year often leads people to review their situations and many couples may be looking to do the same when it comes to their relationships.

In 2015, divorce rates fell to their lowest level for 40 years amid signs that there is a growing acceptance of couples living together before getting married.

If you are thinking of moving in with your partner, it may be worth considering the extent of your legal rights following cohabitation. Unfortunately, the law gives cohabiting couples fewer rights on separation or death than for civil partners and married couples.

Couples may therefore want to consider a cohabitation agreement. This records arrangements between two or more people who have agreed to live together, as a couple or otherwise. It can record each party's rights and responsibilities in relation to the property where they live, financial arrangements cohabitation and the arrangements to be made if they decide that they no longer want to live together.

Likewise, Christmas will have no doubt sparked new engagements.

If you are embarking on marriage for the first or second time and have either inherited or been gifted property from family members or simply have acquired your own property portfolio before meeting your spouse, it makes sense to consider what you wish to happen if you later divorced.

relationship forward, others are considering how to make a fresh start.

A pre-nuptial agreement is a contract entered into by a couple prior to marriage which sets out how they intend to regulate their financial positions in the event of a divorce.

The starting point for the division of matrimonial assets on divorce is equality; however, the court may be persuaded to depart from this approach should the parties' needs dictate it.

Whilst it may not seem like the most romantic gesture, a pre-nuptial agreement has a number of key advantages.

So, how does this work in practice?

It will give both partners in the marriage certainty and is a sensible form of wealth protection.

Although not automatically binding on the court, provided it is entered into fairly, that both parties have had the opportunity to consult a lawyer before signing and that there is no injustice if the pre-nuptial agreement is followed, the Supreme Court has ruled that pre-nuptial agreements should be upheld and only departed from in limited circumstances.

Just as some people are deciding how to take their

Despite divorce rates falling, almost 50% of all marriages still end in divorce. In such an event, working out what happens to finance and property is a key consideration.

A former Premier League footballer recently made the tabloids when the High Court ordered him to pay his ex-wife ÂŁ200,000 a year in maintenance.

The couple were married for 19 months before separating and, as they had spent income rather freely, there was very little capital. The Judge took into consideration each parties' needs, stating that although the wife would be expected to work in the future, she was unlikely to earn very much, whereas the husband could continue to earn ÂŁ900,000 per annum. In addition, the wife was entitled to the security of owning a home in the future given her substantial on-going contributions to the family's welfare.

For more information on the issues raised by this article, please contact jonathan.flower@wardhadaway.com or on 0191 204 4376.

49

MISTLETOE BALL More than £65,000 was raised at a glitzy Christmas ball for North East charity The Percy Hedley Foundation.

Over 300 guests enjoyed the Foundation’s annual Mistletoe Ball at Newcastle Marriott Gosforth Park, which was hosted by BBC Radio Newcastle’s Anna Foster.

Money raised on the night will help the charity continue its pioneering work to help more disabled children, young people and adults achieve their ambitions and lead full and active lives.

The theme of the ball was ‘Winter Spectacular’ and vital funds were raised through table sales, a raffle, live auction and silent auction.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

RECRUITMENT: FEAST OR FAMINE

It is an inevitability of business that staff will come and go but the New Year can prove to be a time of feast or famine for employers, on the recruitment front.

Employers hoping to recruit experienced, skilled workers may benefit from the “new year, new me” mentality of individuals looking for a new challenge but should be alert to its own employees developing the same mentality and looking to leave.

With Lent almost upon us, it seems an appropriate time to consider how employers can best survive the proverbial “famine” of staff leaving. The demise of the BBC’s Great British Bake Off (of which I am a particular fan) lends itself to this analogy and highlights the issues many employers come across in recruitment: ‘Mel and Sue’ will not be following the cult programme to competitor Channel 4 and have shown their loyalty to the BBC along with stalwart Mary Berry, but Paul Hollywood has confirmed he will follow the programme to its new home.

Although the female presenters of GBBO have enjoyed great success during the programme’s seven series, they obviously see other opportunities at the BBC. Incentivising staff to stay is one way to protect your business but employers are increasingly concerned about minimising the adverse impact of unforeseen departures.

A key tool to consider on this front is posttermination restrictions. If tailored to an employer’s needs and the particular employee’s role, they can be an effective way of protecting a business when

employees leave. Some key issues to have in mind when considering the terms of such restrictions are: P roperly identifying the “legitimate interests” of the business you are aiming to protect. The legal enforceability of these types of clauses are dependent on the information or interests being protected being capable of such protection, and the steps taken to protect them being no more than reasonably necessary. Clauses that fall outside of this remit will be unlawful restraints of trade.

Three key elements to consider in this regard are: Duration – this will vary across different sectors and the nature of the employee’s work. Sectors with a transient client base may need to consider a shorter restrictive period of, say, 3 months post-termination compared with businesses with a consistent client base.

Scope – employees should not be unduly restricted from carrying out activities or engaging with contacts etc. that they were not involved in or aware of during their employment. Arguably this goes beyond what is necessary to protect the business interests if the employee had no influence during employment.

Area – whether a business has a local,

regional, national or international presence will be relevant to the geographical area an employee is prevented from working in. Noncompete clauses should ideally be limited to the sphere of the employer’s influence and take into account the employee’s location and/or area of responsibility.

E nsure the restrictions are appropriate at the time the contract incorporating them is entered into. Recent case law suggests it is possible for employers to make provision for expected future progression of employees where both parties understand an initial trial or training period are temporary, but onerous restrictions for junior employees are unlikely to be enforceable.

To counter this, as employees rise through

the ranks, review their restrictions. If they are promoted or gain access to more sensitive information, updated restrictions should be introduced together with consideration for acceptance. Continuation of employment will not usually be sufficient to act as consideration for the introduction of new or more onerous terms; generally a financial payment is offered along with the new terms of employment to secure the enforceability of these tighter controls.

Our team of employment law experts are available to deal with queries at any time. If you require assistance please contact me at charlotte.hornsey@collingwoodlegal.com or 0191 282 2883.

52

BUSINESS INSIGHT

SELF-EMPLOYED CONTRACTOR OR A WORKER? Murky waters of employment status by claire rolston, solicitor, director, clr law

If your business relies on self-employed contractors or you use the services of self-employed individuals on a regular basis, you may have felt a degree of apprehension following the recent Uber and CitySprint cases. Both cases concerned individuals engaged on a self-employed basis in the burgeoning “gig economy”. In each case, the “self-employed contractor” argued that they were, in fact, a worker and the employment tribunal agreed.

There are many other companies operating within the gig economy with business models based on self-employed individuals providing flexible services but which don’t incur employment costs (such as the national minimum or living wage and holiday pay). Of course, self-employment is nothing new and is not unique to the gig economy. In many disparate areas of industry, it is common to find individuals working for a business on a selfemployed basis. For many of those individuals, working self-employed has benefits for them in terms of flexibility and taxation. But, potentially, where there are individuals working within any business, on a self-employed basis, providing regular service, there is a risk that they could claim to be workers.

Why does it matter?

Self-employed individuals are not entitled to any of the employment rights which benefit those classed as workers. These include: 5.6 weeks of paid holiday each year; the national minimum and living wage; a rest break if their working day is over 6 hours long; daily and weekly rest; a maximum working week of 48 hours.

These rights are quite extensive and could increase your business costs significantly if someone you engaged on a self-employed basis later successfully argues they are a worker.

P ersonal service (a limited right to provide a substitute will not necessarily defeat a claim but an unfettered right to provide a substitute – provided that it is not a sham – will);

So, self-employed or worker?

ot carrying on a business undertaking (a N tribunal will consider, among other things, the degree of control between the parties, who is taking the risk and, the duration and exclusivity of the relationship);

Unfortunately, the issue of whether an individual will be regarded by an employment tribunal as a worker or as self-employed is not always straight forward; and the labels the parties give to themselves and their taxation status, is not determinative. Individuals who are genuinely in business on their own account, who take the risks of the business not being a success, who provide all their own equipment, have their own insurance, raise invoices and have a right to provide a substitute, are likely to be classed as self-employed.

But where these matters are not so clear cut, the issue becomes more uncertain. The Employment Rights Act, Working Time Regulations (and the national minimum wage, and part-time workers legislation) defines a worker as someone who works under a contract “whereby the individual undertakes to do or perform personally any work or services for the other party” (so long as that other party is not a client or customer of any business undertaken by the individual).

Over the years, the Employment Appeal Tribunal has clarified that various factors must be considered when considering worker status. These are:

Mutuality of obligation; hether the individual markets his services W generally.

What to do At the outset, consider what work or services you need an individual to perform or provide. Do you need to be in control of how and where the work is provided? Can they genuinely provide a substitute (and will this be an unfettered right)? Above all, remember that the labels the parties attach to themselves and even the contractual terms are not always determinative and a tribunal will seek to ascertain the realities of the relationship. If you cannot properly consider yourself to be the individual’s client or customer because of the nature of the relationship you need, be aware of the risk and consider engaging them as a worker or reviewing your business model.

CLR Law specialises in employment status and other employment law related matters. Please get in touch on 0191 6030061 or claire@clrlaw.co.uk if you would like to discuss any of the issues raised in the article.

53

BUSINESS INSIGHT

NORTHERN RETURN

Recent joiners to Trinity Chambers, barristers Kate Fenwick and Patrick Goodings, reflect on their move from the South Coast to the North East.

only problem is being too tempted to eat out all the time! We regularly take our dogs out and most recently saw a pod of dolphins just off Bamburgh beach which was unbelievable. Kate is slowly adjusting to the temperature dip and has had some pease pudding, so I think she is well on the way to settling in. In all seriousness however, everyone we have met has been so accommodating and friendly.

We are very much looking forward to our new lives here in the North East”.

Having both practised as barristers on the South Coast for several years, Kate and Patrick decided to move to the North East and recently joined Trinity Chambers.

Kate and Patrick have joined Trinity’s Family and Matrimonial Finance Team, dealing with all aspects of family law, including Public and Private Children, Injunctions, Matrimonial Finance following divorce and cases involving vulnerable adults and the Court of Protection. Kate is an established trial advocate with significant courtroom experience and continues to develop her specialism in complex domestic violence cases. Equally, Patrick brings with him vast experience of conducting complex multiday hearings, both in the public and private spheres.

Kate and Patrick have experience of Human Rights Act claims, specifically in relation to child care proceedings involving Local Authorities.

Commenting on joining Chambers: “We are extremely proud to be members of Trinity as we view it as the premier barristers set in the North East. We have been excited about the challenge of relocating our practices to the North East and would like to thank everyone at Trinity, as well as Instructing Solicitors, for their support and friendly welcome. We have both been kept busy with

complex multi-day final hearings and are grateful to the clerking team at Trinity Chambers and our new Instructing Solicitors for their confidence in us.

We look forward to developing these relationships as time progresses.”

Whilst Kate was born and brought up in Monmouthshire, Patrick is originally from the North East of England. They both completed pupillage at a leading family law set on the South Coast of England, following which they became qualified barristers. For Patrick, the decision to join Trinity Chambers was one that he describes as “returning home”. Speaking about their move to the North East, Patrick said: “Living and working in North East is a pleasure. In terms of Newcastle, the architecture and restaurants are amazing. The

Trinity Chambers, based in the historic Custom House on Newcastle’s Quayside and in Middlesbrough City Centre, is home to nearly 80 barristers. Recognised as a Tier 1 Set by a leading legal directory, the Legal 500 2016, Kate and Patrick have joined “a go-to set for family due to its strength of depth. The set is recommended for financial remedy and children cases with an international element." Supporting endorsements for Trinity include: “easy to deal with and always high quality”; “always go the extra mile” and “first class”. The barristers at Trinity are instructed in a wide range of cases including – Agriculture, Business, Costs, Property, Planning, Probate, Crime, Employment, Business Immigration, Court of Protection, Personal Injury, Clinical Negligence, Licensing, Regulatory and Professional Discipline.

For further information visit www.trinitychambers.co.uk, or contact Trinity Chambers’ Practice Director, Simon Stewart, telephone: 0191 232 1927.

54

REGIONAL NOT REMOTE Arthur J. Gallagher is recognised for its knowledge and experience in specialist sectors, market presence both nationally and internationally and our readiness to work closely with clients at all stages of the programme.

Unlike other national and international insurance brokers you will be working with a local team in a local office.

To take advantage of our experience negotiating your commercial and high value personal insurances, contact:-

Glynn Blackburn or Aaron Strange T: 0191 479 7600 E: newcastle_info@ajg.com 3rd Floor, Quayside House, 110 Quayside House, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 3DX

Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 7th Floor, 55, Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909 FP918-2016 exp.05.12.17

PROPERTY INSIGHT

HEATON EMBRACES THE YANKEE DOLLAR

Damiano Rea, Director, Heaton Property

The election of Donald Trump, uncertainty surrounding Brexit (sorry, that will be the last mention of the B word) and a cash strapped city Council have combined to provide an unlikely boost to our own ‘hip and trendy Heaton’ to quote a recent airing of Channel 4 show Location, Location, Location.

With the pound currently at a 30 year low, investment by US citizens in the UK private rental sector is an attractive proposition, especially outside London’s overheated bubble. Heaton is perfectly placed to take advantage of new cash which will help build upon an already vibrant resurgence of the area.

The student accommodation blocks springing up on almost every brown field site within walking distance of our universities mean that many multi occupancy properties, the traditional grotty student flat, are experiencing increasing difficulty in finding willing student tenants.

Frequently landlords who have failed to invest now cannot raise the cash to invest so their only opportunity is to cut their losses and sell. Step forward the oversea investor with deep pockets who will commit to the necessary outlay, turning run down student accommodation into highly viable lets for young professionals.

These young professionals are attracted to the refurbished properties for a number of reasons.

For some, student debt means they are far away from that first step onto the property ownership ladder. For others, in the early stages of their career they might be moved across the country at short notice so renting is an easier option than selling a property they own.

Our Council continues to be squeezed in the name of austerity and they simply do not have the money to build. Private sector developers frequently avoid the need to include social housing in large scale developments and even when they do include a proportion, their definition of ‘affordable housing’ can often be called into question.

These factors combine to make resurgent neighbourhoods like Heaton an attractive proposition to the foreign investor but should we be alarmed at this sudden influx of offshore cash? Personally I feel the opposite – we should welcome it. www.heatonproperty.com 56

Heaton is no stranger to landlords who live outside the north east. These are not ‘absentee landlords’, they are merely landlords who live elsewhere in the UK and employ a local managing agent to take care of business. In our shrinking and interconnected world how is this different to a landlord who happens to call the USA home? Investment in housing is the lifeblood of a community and so long as the legalities are observed we must welcome it.

Besides inward overseas investment benefiting Heaton and its resurgence, we might spare a thought for those US investors trying to identify us on an online map? The election of Mr Trump may well prove that US citizens are living in ‘interesting times’. If so, I would remind them of the words of my favourite Chinese philosopher Mencius who, in the 3rd century BC said “Secure property in hand leads to peace in mind”.

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

THE WEST WING, ANGERTON HALL, HARTBURN, MORPETH

PRICE GUIDE: ÂŁ695,000 The West Wing at Angerton Hall is a fabulous, stylishly presented, four bedroom country home occupying an impressive position with circa 0.75 acres and stunning, far reaching, imperial views. Angerton Hall was designed by the celebrated architect, John Dobson, and is a Tudor, gothic style, Grade II Listed building with a historic yet family feel to it that suits a more modern way of life. The West Wing has been renovated to an extremely high standard by the current owners and has high quality interior design and decoration, high ceilings, stunning plasterwork and working shutters. Externally, the property has lovely lawned gardens, a raised terrace and a private, landscaped courtyard with fabulous lighting, trees and borders; there is also a private drive, double plus garage and a range of timber outbuildings and dog kennels. A beautiful home in a very impressive country location.

Contact Sanderson Young’s Ponteland Office on 01661 823951 elaine.newbigin@sandersonyoung.co.uk www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

58

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PROPERTY INSIGHT

HAVE YOU GOT THE XTENSION FACTOR The urban base design team can help you design your way to a whole new home

While us estate agents try our very best to help you get moving we are seeing more and more clients extending and simply staying put. The moving bug can easily become the building bug, and the right extension can result in adding valuable equity to your current home.

Extra Space

to provide a solution to additional space that the planners may otherwise reject. The home-cinema, games room, or a luxury swimming pool all work extremely well when positioned below ground, offering a luxury hideaway.

Extensions, whether single storey or double storey can be a cost effective way of meeting the growing family needs, without the need to change schools or disrupt the family network. The extra living room, extended kitchen/dining room, or additional bedroom en-suite above may cost iro of £25k (subject to the design and specification) – but if done right, should potentially add another £30-40k to the value of your home.

Garden Escape Placing a garden-house, or posh garden shed, to the bottom of the garden offers both additional space for a home office, or gym or occasional sleep-over – and can enhance the garden to offer a contemporary piece of transitional architecture to the garden.

Beautiful Bi-folds Bi-folds and sliding glazed doors have become a must to all extensions, and create both maximum natural light and lifestyle garden rooms to what may have previously been a dark and enclosed area.

The Patio Bringing the outside in is ideal in the summer months allowing the bid-folds to be opened wide, and the living space to continue out to a summer seating or al-fresco dining area, with polished tiled flooring or simple cost-effective painted concrete flooring…and its easier than cutting the grass.

Basement Hide-away No space to extend…It may be time to dig down. This can potentially be an expensive build programme, and is generally only used where needs-must

For those wanting the best of both worlds, a new home, with more space, without moving…for further information contact the URBAN BASE DESIGN team, on 0845 6431186 for a free consultation.

62

PROPERTY INSIGHT

BRADLEY HALL SET TO GROW ON BACK OF STRONG PROPERTY VALUES Leading North East property agent Bradley Hall is preparing for continued growth in 2017 in anticipation of a buoyant regional property market.

Bradley Hall Managing Director Neil Hart and Operational Manager Peter Bartley.

The company is recruiting and looking to expand its commercial property team along with its regional network of estate agency offices.

Bradley Hall is building on strong foundations after enjoying a strong 2016 with a record breaking number of commercial and residential deals and growth in property management services.

In January, this year the company announced the strengthening of its residential management team and the creation of Bradley Hall Residential Ltd. Matt Hoy has been promoted from Northumberland area manager to an equity director of the new company. He will oversee all residential matters, operating between the branch network currently based in Alnwick, Morpeth, Gosforth and Durham.

He will report to the main BH Group board of directors led by managing director Neil Hart and including directors Peter Bartley, Richard Rafique and Geoff Davis.

At least two new posts will be created within the estate agency offices to handle the growing level of instructions and general demand.

Neil Hart, MD of BH Group, said: “The changes will have no immediate impact on customers but

do reflect a commitment to growing our estate agency business which will ultimately mean we’ll offer customers greater coverage across the region, with a larger team to handle enquiries.

“In recognition of his excellent work to date we have made Matt Hoy a director with immediate effect. He will lead on all matters residential.

“Elsewhere, we intend to create extra posts within the estate agency offices as part of our overall plan to build the workforce within BH Group to around 50 people in the next 18 months.”

Growth in British house prices picked up speed for the second month in a row in December, helped by a shortage of homes to buy, mortgage lender Halifax reported. House prices have risen more slowly since the shock decision by voters in a referendum last June to leave the European Union but surveys by Halifax and rival lender Nationwide have shown them holding up in late 2016. Price increases are likely to continue in 2017 but at a slightly reduced rate.

Bradley Hall is intending to grow its branch network within the next 12 months and is already considering further branch openings in Northumberland.

“We see 2017 as another big year for all at Bradley Hall; as we continue to secure greater market share and present a strong property services brand to the region,” said Mr Hart.

Bradley Hall currently manages over 600 residential and commercial properties for clients, along with a rising rent roll of over £5m per annum. An expert team, led by Neil and fellow director Peter Bartley, are highly trained to offer specialist services to clients including property and asset management, accounts and facilities management.

The past year included many milestones for Bradley Hall. These included the launch of a financial services subsidiary, BH Financial and BH Mortgage, which have both gone from strength to strength.

At the end of the year, Bradley Hall moved to new, larger premises on Hood Street to accommodate further growth.

Bradley Hall offers a full range of property services including valuation, commercial and residential agency, property management, business sales and disposals, acquisitions, rating appeals and town planning, as well as financial services.

For more information on Bradley Hall’s commercial and residential services, please visit www.bradleyhall.co.uk 64

, HILD AIDEN EDICT & BEN OPEN NOW EW TO VI

SAVE DS* SAN THOU OUR AT SIVE EXCLUERS BUY END WEEK 29th 28th & JAN

Start your new chapter Eden field, Woodham Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 4QZ Luxury showhomes now open Thurs - Mon 10am - 5pm Get in touch 0330 353 0056 www.chapterhomes.co.uk *Plots within Phase 1A & 1B only. Terms and conditions apply. Full details on request.

PROPERTY INSIGHT

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY WITH A MOVE TO STANNINGTON PARK

If you’re keen to escape to the country but don’t want the worry of taking on an old property then Bellway’s development at Stannington Park may be exactly what you’re looking for. Opened in 2008, Stannington Park is now a thriving new community enjoying all the scenic benefits of its Northumberland location.

Sales Manager, Tracy Jackson, said: “We have been very careful to protect the landscape, avenues of trees weave through the development and the homes look onto green open spaces. Traditional village amenities include a gastro pub and in the future we will be adding a cricket pitch and community centre.”

layout also includes space for a dishwasher, fridge freezer and washing machine. Access to the rear garden is via French doors from the dining area.

“The development has a very wide appeal and offers a selection of two and three bedroom semidetached homes and three and four bedroom detached homes which all provide a broad selection of floor plans and living options,” she said.

On the first floor, bedroom 1 benefits from an ensuite with shower enclosure, while the remaining bedrooms share the family bathroom.

Prices for new home at Stannington Park start from as little as £189,995 which will buy you a three bedroom semi-detached Cherry home offering 795 sq ft of living space. On the ground floor, fitted units in the open-plan kitchen come complete with a built-in oven, hob and extractor. The kitchen

The living room is located towards the front of the property with a generous kitchen diner at the rear which offers views over a turfed garden.

A downstairs cloakroom/WC completes this level.

For more mature families in a separate phase of development, Bellway also has a range of executive four and five bedroom homes that start in price from £384,995.

To gain an insight into the lifestyle that Bellway is offering at Stannington Park, visitors can view their Haydock showhome which illustrates the quality of build and finish that customers can expect.

To help buyers relocate to Stannington Park, Bellway is able to offer a package of flexible deals including, part exchange arrangements or their Express Mover deal, where Bellway will manage the sale of your old property free of charge.

Buyers can also take advantage of the Government’s Help to Buy scheme which only requires a 5 percent deposit and offers a 20 percent 5 year interest free Government loan which helps to reduce mortgage repayments during the first five years of ownership.

Stannington Park is situated three miles from the attractive village of Stannington on the A1 and is therefore only 13 miles from Newcastle city centre and 5 miles from the market town of Morpeth which provides a range of education facilities including the well regarded King Edward V1 senior school and Chantry and Newminster middle schools.

For more information, visit www.bellway.co.uk or call the sales centre tel: 01670 789572 Monday 11am - 7pm, Tuesday/Wednesday 11am - 5.30pm, Thursday 11am - 7pm, Friday/Saturday/Sunday 11am - 7pm 66

STANNINGTON PARK I NE61 6AT

Stunning.

Stannington Park is situated close to the market town of Morpeth, only three miles from the attractive village of Stannington and only 20 minutes from the centre of Newcastle.

THE LOCATION IS ONLY RIVALLED BY OUR HOMES. Amazing.

Acres of established woodland and open countryside provide a rural backdrop including views towards the Cheviot Hills and Northumberland National Park.

Stannington Park offers a traditional village setting coupled with new leisure amenities, such as a gastropub, cricket pitch and community centre.

4B ED R FR OOM OM H ON OM LY ES

£29 6,99 5

High specification homes that include: • Roca sanitaryware • Bi-fold doors on selected plots • Beautifully presented kitchens

3, 4 & 5 BEDROOM HOMES FROM TO

£189,995

£564,995

Soon to be released 2 & 3 bedroom homes and apartments.

Click: www.bellway.co.uk Call: 01670 789 572 Visit: Monday 11.00am - 7pm. Tuesday - Wednesday 11.00am - 5.30pm.

Thursday 11.00am - 7pm. Friday to Sunday 11.00am - 5.30pm.

Prices correct at time of going to press. Images are for illustrative purposes only and may include optional upgrades at additional cost. Specification on site may differ.

PROPERTY INSIGHT

BUILDING COMPANY’S YEAR-LONG PLEDGE TO REGIONAL CHARITIES...

Local builder Tyneside Home Improvements have pledged to help the local charities by donating £2500 to the coffers during 2017 in a bid to give something back to the region.

Celebrating becoming the SupaLite installer of the year for the fifth straight year, Tyneside Home Improvements is donating £500 to a different charity each month, for five months, with the first recipients being NEH.

warm drink, tents, sleeping bags and thermal socks.

All of this has to be funded from somewhere so we are always looking for people to get involved; we cannot thank Tyneside Home Improvements enough for their donation.

The company are inviting local charities to contact them if they wish to be considered for the monthly donation.

“We also help with emergency accommodation as well for those who really need it, so donations like this go a long way to helping.”

Tyneside-based homeless charity North East Homeless (NEH) was only founded in November, but has already attracted a lot of support from locals, and recently received a £500 donation from Tyneside Home Improvements during a visit from their staff.

“Meeting people and hearing their stories were so humbling” – says Wake, “There are some very interesting people who are so genuinely thankful for the supplies they are given. They’re not greedy, they never took anything they didn’t need, because that would help someone else and I think they know that.”

Tyneside Home Improvements’ Operations Manager Barry Wake joined them on a recent outreach and got to meet those the donation will benefit, first hand. Tom Young, from NEH explained what they do: “We come out on a Tuesday and a Friday and walk the streets of Newcastle. Our street friends know us and when we’ll be out, so it’s nice to see them and have a chat. We offer them food and a

Brian Burridge, NEH’s founder says the donation from Tyneside Home Improvements will make a huge difference as winter draws on.

“The donation will help so much, and every penny will be well spent on supplies as the cold weather continues. If any of that can ease their struggle then that is what we aim to do – and these supplies may just save someone’s life.” www.tynesidehomeimprovements.co.uk 68

It’s the first of five planned monthly donations set to be made to local charities by Tyneside Home Improvements, whose impressive run of awards stretches back to 2012.

Wake says the best way to celebrate is by involving the local community.

“It’s always great to get awards and be recognised, but being able to give back to the communities we serve feels just that much better.

“We couldn’t think of a more deserving cause to support for our first donation. As the frost and cold comes it’s important to remember about the homeless people less fortunate than ourselves, so we were more than happy to help.”

Each month Tyneside Home Improvements will put forward five worthy charities or organisations onto their Facebook page, where users are invited to vote for their favourite cause on the page, or email in their choice from the five. The winning charity will then be awarded the monthly donation of £500.

As a family owned and operated Estate Agents, we provide expert local knowledge coupled with first class presentation and customer service. When using us to sell or buy your home you can benefit from: Our guarantee of beating any fee The option of selling your home free of charge Our office is open 7 days a week Accompanied evening viewings Live video tours and professional photography Your properties listed on Rightmove and Zoopla Come in and see us at: 162 Newton Road, High Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne or visit www.jackharrisonestates.co.uk

PROPERTY INSIGHT

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT – WHAT’S IT REALLY ALL ABOUT? Ruth Shepherd

As hard as we’ve tried, we can’t think of a single business type or sector which shouldn’t be working to engage its stakeholders – it’s audiences – yet too often we hear “stakeholder engagement – what’s that?”. Every decision we make has the potential to affect someone else, and it’s through stakeholder engagement that we are able to manage that impact, and mitigate their intervention in our plans.

Over the years of managing and delivering stakeholder engagement, we’ve had the joy of working on some amazing projects. Highprofile competition bids, delivering community consultations for development projects with the most aspirational eco credentials, and working closely with residents involved in investment regeneration which has the potential to not only improve their homes but their health and wellbeing – and we’ve loved every minute.

Even the early starts, the late finishes and the inevitable frustration when someone chooses not be involved yet still wants to criticise and object to what they know relatively little about.

We’ve also been shouted at, sworn at, slandered, cursed and generally labelled the lowest of the low with no morals or ethics. We’ve had to pull project managers from the middle of a 15-person deep mob, had to rescue young architects from a retired designer intent to making sure his views were the only ones audible during a public consultation, and we’ve had to get the local police force involved when tensions between two rival developers threatened to erupt during the presentation of a proposal in a village hall.

Some would question the value of making the

effort to engage with people who react like this to a proposal of bringing forward land for development, or retrofitting thermal improvements to homes which really weren’t expected to still be standing so many years after they were built as a post-war solution.

But we do what we do because it’s good. It’s good business practice, it adds value and it allows for better decision-making.

But what exactly is engagement?

We’ve asked ourselves this many times and have concluded that there’s no simple answer.

It’s identifying. It’s including. It’s involving. It’s meeting. It’s talking. It’s listening. It’s knowing that your next encounter is likely to be with someone who disagrees with the reason for engaging with them in the first place. Engagement is really whatever the person you are engaging wants it to be, and it depends on context.

According to the Oxford Dictionary, it is: n. 1 the act or state of engaging or being engaged. 2 an appointment with another person. 3 a betrothal.

4 an encounter between hostile forces. 5 a moral commitment.

For Results Communications, engagement is

a combination of all the above – and more.

Traditionally ‘engagement’ has been a box-ticking exercise for many; the ability to say ‘we told them what we want to do’. But for us, it’s not about telling your stakeholders what you want to do; it’s about showing them what you hope to do and finding out their views. Listening to their fears about how it may impact on how they live, where they go and what they do. Finding out what they know about the area where you are planning to intervene – be it through a change in the way you work that may affect your employees or customers, or a development proposal you are bringing forward.

Working through your plans and their concerns to see if there’s another way to achieve what you want while still mitigating their concerns.

Successful engagement is not a single-direction conversation. Nor is it two-way. True, effective, engagement has to be multi-directional.

Results Communications delivers bespoke and strategic marketing, stakeholder engagement and bid writing solutions to public and private sector clients regionally and nationally. By doing this, we can help remove the conflict between contrasting views and smooth the path of projects.

If you want to discuss how we could help with your stakeholder needs, or just want to find out a bit more about what we do you can reach us on 01434 603205 and via hello@resultscommunications.co.uk 70

INTERVIEW

“

Never worry about the problem, worry about the solution.

”

INTERVIEW

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Philip Bowe Principal, BIV Bowes Michael Grahamslaw meets Northern Insight’s new commercial property correspondent.

have become friends, one of whom has moved from friend to being my lady partner! The majority have been clients for over 20 years.

I’m a great believer in telling things as I see them, telling people what they need to know rather than what they want to hear, and I think this has stood me in good stead over the last 3 decades.

What were your career ambitions growing up?

Initially I wanted to be a car designer but the 1974 petrol crisis made adults (I was only 13) think cars’ days were numbered, so that put me off that idea. I then looked at architecture but realised I wasn’t bright enough and it was then that a career in surveying beckoned and 4 days after leaving school in 1980 I started work with Bernard Thorpe and Partners, now Cushman and Wakefield.

What’s the best piece of business advice you have been given?

Never worry about the problem, worry about the solution.

Can you briefly outline your career path for the readers?

And always treat people as people and give them respect. It’s just good manners.

Initially I worked with Captain Bernard Thorpe himself who was a remarkable man; still going strong at the age of 85 when I joined him, having begun his career in 1918. The Captain possessed incredible industry knowledge and was a fantastic mentor. I met Anthony Milburn and Nicholas Kieft at Bernard Thorpe’s, and Nick and I remain friends to this day. Following this I spent some time in two suburban practices, and my final job in London was for the Freshwater Group and it was here where I feel I really started developing the detailed knowledge of commercial property which I love to this day.

What motivates you?

Satisfied clients. Giving them what they ask for and more.

Who are your heroes in and out of business?

Peter Vardy who has a great moral backbone which is good in business. Also Dr. Julius Fashanu, Pastor of Life Transformation Church in Newcastle, whose positivity is infectious. Julius got my name from Yellow Pages in 1995 and we have worked together and been friends ever since.

However I missed the North East and returned to the region where I spent a brief spell with Keith Pattinson, then some time with Hanover Druce plc (where I became a divisional deputy managing director) before establishing BIV Bowes in August 1991.

How do you like to relax?

I do some tango dancing as well as other ballroom; I’m also a frequent attendee of local pubs and restaurants, a number of which have become clients. I’m also a member of Ponteland Lions Club and Churchwarden at St.Hildas in Jesmond, both of which are a great antidote to the day job.

How has your business evolved over the past 25 years?

It has been an interesting journey to say the least. After starting at home I took on a tiny office in Grey Street as a Christmas present to myself. I then had 15 very happy years based in Milburn House - thank you again Anthony Milburn - before business took a severe downturn during the 2008 recession which I managed to survive but not without having to work for a period at home again.

Thankfully business has stabilised and improved and I am now based on Osborne Road, Jesmond.

What’s your favourite book and why?

Am I allowed two? To Kill a Mockingbird which I must have read 30 times since I studied it for O levels in 1976. Also Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill which illustrates being rich isn’t always about money.

What is your greatest business achievement?

How would you like to be remembered?

Difficult to single out one but my longevity in the industry is a huge source of pride. I retain a number of long standing clients, many

As someone trustworthy and approachable and who sees the best and brings out the best in people.

Look out for Philip’s first column in our March edition.

For further information visit BIV Bowes.com 73

PROPERTY INSIGHT

FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR NEW HOME AT LUXURY DURHAM DEVELOPMENT Five star housebuilder, David Wilson Homes North East, is encouraging homebuyers to act now in order to secure their new home at The Drive at Mount Oswald, an exclusive new development situated in the heart of Durham.

The development features a fantastic range of three and four bedroom properties.

One of the properties currently available to buy at The Drive is the Ashurst, a beautiful three-bedroom property, which is ideal for first-time buyers or downsizers. Priced from £244,995, the stylish Ashurst is a semi-detached home boasting great living spaces, including a large, open-plan kitchen dining area and a spacious lounge with French doors opening out to the rear garden. Upstairs, the first floor plays host to an elegant master bedroom and en suite, along with a further two bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Steven Ball, Sales Manager at The Drive at Mount Oswald, commented: “As we anticipated, the demand for a home at Mount Oswald continues to remain high. We really do have a great range of homes in a highly sought after location and for those looking to purchase a new home in the area, I would recommend acting now so they don’t miss out on securing their dream property.

Our Sales Centre opened at the end of January and our expert Sales Advisers will be on hand to discuss any requirements and all the buying options, including Help to Buy. We also have some fantastic showhomes, which will be available to view from February and will truly showcase the luxury of living at The Drive.”

Situated just minutes away from the picturesque city centre of Durham, The Drive at Mount Oswald is an exclusive development situated on South Road. Surrounded by stunning countryside and with a range of amenities on its doorstep, including excellent schools, this development is a truly desirable location.

To find out more about The Drive at Mount Oswald or to book an appointment, please visit: www.dwh.co.uk

SO HERE WE ARE ARE ONE MONTH IN TO THE NEW YEAR Have you done anything about making that career change happen? Have you decided what you will study at university?

If you want to know more about public relations and marketing there are sensible ways for you to dip your toe in the water. The Chartered Institute of Public Relations and the Chartered Institute of Marketing both have foundation awards that can help you make up your mind. And nesma teaches both awards in Newcastle. Our students tell us they wish they had embarked on our courses sooner, so we thought we would share them with you now.

When you are half way through Year 12 you are all too aware of the UCAS form you will need to complete next year. This is an ideal time to sign up for a foundation award. The CIPR award comprises three one day sessions followed by an online examination. This means it can still fit in with your holiday, job or travel plans for the summer.

The CIM foundation award is slightly different.

Here there are two modules. The first module involves eight taught sessions (usually half days) covering marketing principles followed by an online exam. The second module covers either customer communications or digital marketing both assessed by an assignment. You could complete this alongside the marketing principles module.

You may decide that neither route is the right one for you, in which case they have been worthwhile.

Far better to find out now than when you are in your first term at University! Whatever subject you eventually choose the foundation awards will give you specific writing, listening and investigating skills relevant to today’s business environment. And you will have some valuable evidence for your UCAS form.

Those students who are sure they are making the right decision, can opt to kick start their studies at university by taking one of the foundation courses at the end of Year 13.

Rachael Coombes took the CIPR Foundation Award - and concluded it changed her life! You can find out more about her journey from seasoned finance professional to PR practitioner on nesma’s website.

You can read about how she changed her career at nesma.co.uk/news. You can also find out how Julie Defoort switched from being a scientific information analyst to move into marketing at Communicator and then how Khalid Almashgari’s career took off after studying for CIM qualifications. He is now Account Director with AMV BBDO heading the BT Sport account - and talking about football all day.

If you decide PR and marketing is for you, you can continue to develop your career with nesma who deliver qualifications at every level for CIM and CIPR. And when you approach the highest level in your

career, you can work towards the CIM Marketing Leadership Professional Postgraduate Diploma - nesma is one of only seven UK study centres selected to deliver this new qualification.

For more information please visit the website www.nesma.co.uk or contact Veronica Swindale, Director, at veronica.swindale@nesma.co.uk 74

MEDIA NEWS

O CONTINUES TO GROW Newcastle communications agency O PR has started 2017 with several new faces as it continues to win new business across the UK. Lauren Regan-Ingram joins the agency as Digital Account Manager, specialising in blogger and influencer outreach and digital communications such as content marketing and social media. Bringing over eight years’ experience to the role, she will work across many of the client accounts including food and drink brands, travel and tourism and consumer finance sectors.

Finlay Magowan joins the team as Senior Account Executive specialising in health, finance and tech PR after spending two years working in a business to business role.

Laura Ivory has returned to her native North East from London to work on the agency’s consumer and lifestyle team that handles national and regional PR for brands including Dr. Martens and Parkdean Resorts.

Continuing its longstanding commitment to youth talent, Rebecca Connolly is the latest agency Graduate Opprentice, working in the digital team on creative content production.

UNWRITTEN CREATIVE AND NEWCASTLE RACECOURSE CHARGE AHEAD WITH NEW PARTNERSHIP Unwritten Creative, the growing North East branding and digital agency, has agreed a new relationship with Newcastle Racecourse to support the promotion of the sporting venue’s key summer racing events.

The Newcastle-based agency has been assigned to develop a strategic branding programme and associated marketing materials to attract more visitors to events including race meetings and concerts.

Newcastle Racecourse attracts thousands of visitors to its established Summer events including the Collingwood Insurance Beeswing Ladies Day in July and the Betfred Northumberland Plate Festival which welcomes approximately 50,000 visitors each year.

As a result of this agreement, Unwritten Creative has become the only external branding and digital agency to be retained by Newcastle Racecourse to market and promote these events with the objective to grow attendances both within public areas and hospitality.

The agency has enjoyed a strong period of growth in its first three years in business and has secured a number of high calibre clients through the application of its innovative approach to generating brand strategies.

RED MARINE TURNS TO MHW FOR REPOSITIONING Leading specialist engineering company Red Marine has appointed MHW PR to help revamp their brand, review their positioning and undertake a national PR campaign.

The growing Hexham-based offshore company is reviewing how it promotes and markets itself as it starts to develop new revenue streams.

Red Marine has successfully operated within the oil and gas sector for many years with blue chip clients around the world.

Wayne Halton, Director at MHW PR, explained: “Red Marine intends to remain within the oil and gas sector but is expanding to develop other markets where it can transfer and utilise its specialist expertise and knowledge.

“Working with Room 8 Design we will be reviewing Red Marine’s current brand identity as well as the language and positioning.

“The company has a skilled team of people and a large portfolio of impressive projects that can be promoted much more creatively. This is a company with a great story to tell.”

Newcastle-based MHW is the leading business-to-business consultancy in the North East with a wide range of trade and technical clients, many based in the region but most operating nationally and internationally.

INSIGHT MEETS INSPIRATION Media News brought to you in partnership with 75

creative communication

hedleymcewan.co.uk

MEDIA INSIGHT

NORTH EAST DESIGN AGENCY ABSOLUTE SHINE BRIGHT, AS THEY DOUBLE BOTH THEIR TEAM AND TURNOVER IN 12 MONTHS

L-R: Louise Elsdon, Abbie Hartshorn, Sarah McCrady, Michael Watts, Clare Hampton.

Founded by former colleagues Sarah McCrady and Abbie Hartshorn back in Jan 2015, Absolute Agency who provide branding and design solutions to a range of businesses across the North East and beyond, are shining bright as they expand their team to 5 and double their turnover to 6 figures in the last 12 months.

Based at the Northern Design Centre in Gateshead, where they have just moved into larger office space, the team which also includes Account Manager Clare Hampton, Digital Marketer Louise Elsdon and Creative Michael Watts have ambitious plans to grow, whilst retaining the intimacy and creativity of the small team environment. Offering a range of services across brand, design, web and digital, the team pride themselves on being able to deliver great solutions to businesses large or small with work including brand audits, strategy, websites and design.

and Baker Furniture and have completed projects for Northumbria Police, Procter and Gamble, Kanuka Tea, and Drayton Partners. With a passion and growing niche for the interiors sector, the team also have experience working within retail, recruitment and the public sector.

Holding senior positions at some of the North East’s highest profile marketing agencies, the team have worked for global super brands including L’Oréal, Mercedes-Benz, Nando’s and Tommee Tippee, and national brands, One North East, Bellway, NHS, Bet365, Berghaus, Barker & Stonehouse and Tyne & Wear Metro.

With the team’s collective experience working at a number of the region’s top design agencies we knew we had both the drive, approach and experience to make it happen. We were keen to work for a range of clients, expanding into different sectors including interiors which we share a real passion for. We also wanted to enjoy the flexibility and creative license that comes with owning your own business. With four of us being parents, having that flexibility and work life balance was certainly

Combining their expertise with a friendly and transparent approach, the team at Absolute have a growing client list including contracts with NCFE

Sarah McCrady, Founder and Design Director at Absolute Agency said; “It’s been an incredible couple of years at Absolute and it’s hard to believe how much we have achieved in a such a small space of time. I remember the day Absolute was born back in 2014...starting with a chat, a glass of wine and a huge leap of faith!

www.absolute-agency.co.uk 76

a key driving force.”

The team pride themselves on having a simple approach to business which is to ‘work hard and be nice to people’ and have used this ethos alongside their client’s reference to them being ‘absolute stars’ to create their own definitive brand and identify.

Sarah McCrady added; “For us, Absolute defines being the best at what we do and not compromising on delivering anything less. As a team we often talk about how lucky we are to have chosen design as a career and even after all these years we still love what we do. The most rewarding part is seeing our client’s grow, building brands that really encapsulate the essence of who they are and knowing that we have been part of that journey with them.”

To support their expansion, the team recently moved into larger office space within the Northern Design Centre as they continue to grow and build their client portfolio.

MEDIA INSIGHT

SO YOU THINK YOU NEED PR? Anne-Marie Lacey is PR & Communications Director at Filament PR. Here, she talks about why public relations is much more than media coverage and column inches, and how done properly, it can really benefit your business.

If you’re after a shiny piece of media coverage and your name in lights (while it’s always nice and may totally be the right thing for you to do) you might want to think again. You see, the business of public relations is about much more than simply seeing your story in a newspaper.

Liaising with journalists to secure media coverage is just one tactical element of the bigger picture. PR is about your brand’s reputation and the team you work with should be the eyes, ears and ultimately, the voice of your business.

Successful strategies are based on objectives that deliver a real business benefit, not just the column inches. It’s about listening to the wants and needs of your stakeholders, and developing a communications programme based on this insight that feeds back into the bigger picture, helping your brand to move closer towards achieving its business objectives.

Of course, media coverage may be one way of speaking to your stakeholders, but there are other options too, and if your PR team has done its homework, they might just have some alternative suggestions for you.

Imagine you could engage your stakeholders in conversation to gain their buy-in, influence their behaviour through discussion, and build mutually beneficial relationships that work for you, your business and your stakeholders too. The answer is you can and it’s called PR. It goes way beyond the tactics of delivering a communications programme and develops activity that is strategically aligned to what it is – as a business – you’re trying to achieve on a much higher level.

Think about all of the different communication channels available to you. Is your website up to scratch? Does it clearly convey your key messages while being optimised for SEO? Are you using social media to its fullest and are you sharing original content with your stakeholders that pulls them in to you, rather than pushing your sales pitch on to them?

If the answer is ‘no’, then quite possibly as well as your column inches and media coverage, you need much more from your PR too.

To find out more about how Filament PR can benefit your business, visit: www.filamentpr.co.uk or follow @filament_pr

Brand

Design

Web

Our mission is to make your business shine through strategic branding and design.

Together we get you to where you want to be by forming an absolute alignment of your brand and ambitions.

It would be an absolute pleasure to hear from you 0191 499 8458

www.absolute-agency.co.uk

MEDIA INSIGHT

ASK SILVER BULLET

“

Is the dross and nonsense of St. Valentine’s Day the ultimate in marketing hype?

I can hazard a guess you’re not of the romantic ilk here so starting from that premise, maybe we should stick to the facts, the first of which is that, contrary to the beliefs of many cynics, St Valentine’s Day was NOT created by the marketing department of a greetings card manufacturer but actually goes way back and most probably to Roman times – in truth, nobody’s quite sure.

What is known is that the Pope Gelasius first declared February 14th to be St Valentine’s Day in 498 AD whilst the first recorded card was sent by the Duke of Orleans in 1415 (even though it was from his cell in the Tower of London).

Secondly, with all due respect, is it really ‘dross and nonsense’? Hardly. With an estimated UK spend of a staggering £1.6bn on gifts and treats for St Valentine’s Day 2016, this is BIG business and an absolutely crucial trading period for certain industries, particularly florists (Tesco alone estimates 1m bouquets for that one day), card manufacturers (the Greeting Card Association estimates £40.2m on cards), restaurants (14% rise in sales), hotels and jewellers (a 30% uplift for both).

The national average spend on Valentine’s Day gifts last year was £45.10 (Newcastle was just under at

”

£44.99 with Preston leading at £53.36 and Walsall the lowest of the 50 cities analysed at just £26.74).

creating a dedicated microsite designed for the specific campaign.

As for marketing the day, it was, as you might imagine, the Americans who ramped this up with Esther Howard becoming the first printer of mass-produced Valentine’ Day cards in 1847 in Massachusetts. Florists, jewellers, restaurants were quick to follow and have now been joined by every retail sector from travel agents to car manufacturers.

It largely depends on available budget and can be anything from sending tongue-in-cheek cards to clients to the famous advert for the $80,000 Cisco ASR 9000 routers which created the absurd application that the router was the perfect gift for your loved one – the humour made the brand stand out from the competition and demonstrated the company’s confidence in their product.

So fine if you’re a florist, restaurant, hotel, jeweller or any other of the outlets that traditionally enjoy increased sales in early February through the tradition, but how useful is it to the rest of the economy, especially those businesses that are involved in the B2B sector where the old red heart may just not cut the mustard any more?

How you link your product or service to the anniversary is up to yourselves but the very fact that you are being proactive and hopefully bringing a smile to your customers’ or clients’ faces will remind them that here is a company that values their business and goes the extra mile to gain and retain it.

Engaging with any national or international anniversary or holiday gives organisations the opportunity to change their marketing message, albeit maybe only temporarily and engage with their existing and potential customers and clients in a new way that is hopefully both creative and amusing. Companies can now engage digitally, using social media, email marketing or even

So go ahead, ask clients whether your plastic-lined, magnetic drive and mechanically sealed pump is not the perfect match for moving their corrosive fluids, create a new Valentine-themed Facebook or Twitter page, send a card to existing clients telling them how much you love handling their commercial conveyancing – what have you got to lose, because you have everything to gain.

Do you need some assistance with your marketing? Do you need to review your strategy or do you have another marketing question we can help with? Talk to us. Email your questions anonymously to us today hello@silverbulletmarketing.co.uk or Tweet us (not so anonymously) @SilverBulletPR and use the hash tag #AskSB 78

MEDIA INSIGHT

INDIVIDUALLY TALENTED, COLLECTIVELY BRILLIANT Having been in the marketing industry for more than 25 years, Barry Pollock, Managing Partner at fullservice marketing, advertising and digital agency, The Works, has seen the value placed on collaborative working increase in recent times. But is collaboration a here-today, gone-tomorrow buzzword that some companies pay lip-service to, or is it something that can have a genuine impact on a business long-term?

Collaborative working is a phrase that has been thrown around in our industry for a number of years. Agencies and clients working together to achieve a common goal has always underpinned the work we’ve done in our industry – but as things have evolved, this collaboration in working has become increasingly important. A lot rests on an agency-client relationship.

We’ve all heard the saying two heads are better than one- and I truly believe that this is the case.

Every individual or company is a specialist in their area of work, and when two or more people or organisations come together for the benefit of a mutual project, that’s when, in my opinion, you see collaborative working truly come into its own.

A number of our clients at The Works have in-house comms functions. Whether that be marketing teams, studio departments or media buyersthey’re all people who are specialists in the areas they work in. When working with our clients who have in-house teams, we prefer to work as an extension of their team, rather than in silo. This

collaborative way of working can take many formswe often produce creative themes or identities, then pass them on to our clients for them to roll out, sometimes we work alongside a client’s studio team to create the various comms pieces- each client and project is different. We’ll often work alongside our clients’ partners on a project toowhy would you not work together for the benefit of your mutual client and project? That’s what it’s all about at the end of the day. We find this way of working to be much more effective, and our clients do too.

At the end of last year, we were awarded the CIM Northern Award 2016 for Best Public Sector campaign for our work with Gateshead College.

This project saw us create a brand identity for the college that was bold, stood it apart from its competitors and ultimately maintained the college’s application numbers in a reducing market.

Working with the college’s marketing team, we then rolled out the new identity in various ways as part of their summer recruitment campaign. Each

member of the team who worked on the project played their part towards a much bigger goalthe perfect example of how hard work and good collaboration can achieve great things.

In a recent interview, Mazda talked about how, as they work towards launching their biggest pan-European campaign to date, the work and relationship they have with their creative agency has been vital. Others in their field have recently ceased their agency relationships in a bid to save money, however Mazda has recognised that when you have an in-house team and agency that are creatively aligned, it’s a winning combination that keeps things fresh and produces results which would be unrealistic to try and achieve alone.

At The Works, collaborative working is now at the heart of everything we do- it works for us, our clients and ultimately, has had a positive impact on our business. Henry Ford once said that “if everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself” – never has a truer word been spoken.

To find out more about what The Works do and how they can help you, visit wearetheworks.com or follow @wearetheworks 79

MEDIA INSIGHT

CHAMPIONING DIGITAL IN 2017

2017 is the year to drive forward digital success for your business. Mediaworks’ Managing Director, Brett Jacobson, shares three essential digital marketing resolutions to help you start the year off right.

Improve your mobile offering The importance of mobile has been hammered home time and time again, yet some websites are still delivering a sub-par experience. Having a well optimised, mobile-friendly site in place is essential and, in an increasingly mobile-dominant world, users now expect more.

2017 is the year to better your mobile offering to provide a greater user experience. Recent data from Google revealed that October 2016 saw more people browsing the web using mobile devices as opposed to desktops. It’s now not enough to offer a basic level of mobile readiness.

Understand your audience and consider how they use your site from their smartphones and tablets: at what stage of the buying cycle are they? Make sure your business has a mobile presence at each step, from researching through to purchasing, in order to capture interest and sales. By doing so,

your website can deliver more than just mobile usability; it will deliver mobile experiences that could be the deciding factor between your business and its competitors.

Understand business objectives beyond digital marketing In recent years, digital marketing has been regarded as a separate entity within traditional business plans. However, this approach could limit the results you can achieve and ultimately, your brand’s success.

2017 is the year to integrate your business plan.

Whether you’re driving sales around a particular product or capturing sign-ups, decide on your overall business aim and make sure your digital marketing strategy is aligned. The two are no longer separate: your online and offline strategies should feed into each other and work in tandem to help you meet your business goals.

Tel: 0191 4040100

info@mediaworks.co.uk 80

Instead of focusing your attention on smaller digital campaigns that detract from your overall business goals, keep your aims at the forefront of your digital strategy for maximum impact.

Embrace new channels As our reliance on digital continues to grow, businesses are presented with more opportunities than ever to interact with their customers. As well as Facebook and Twitter, newer social media platforms like Snapchat offer additional possibilities for brand exposure. Likewise, mobile apps are making customer interactions easier, smoother and more immediate.

Shying away from these new channels can give your competitors an important advantage. By experimenting with new technologies, you can discover fresh ways to connect with your audience, grow brand exposure and ultimately help you meet your business goals.

MEDIA INSIGHT

HELP...WE’RE IN CRISIS

Jackie Marston

Over the years this has been said to us at JAM Marketing many times, and we have had to deal with an array of different reasons why company owners and in some cases individuals, think they are in crisis.

When a company or individual calls a marketing/ PR company when they are in crisis, it is usually something that could affect the way the business or them personally is perceived and can often have devastating effects on a company and a person.

That said, a competently managed crisis management situation can often turn a negative spout of press into positive and can actually build customer loyalty if handled correctly.

Over the years I’ve personally been in marketing, I have dealt with death of a staff member, oil leaks down the Tyne, nightmare neighbours on TV programmes, food poisoning on a large scale and a suspected rape to name a few of the more serious ones. None can really be prepared for, but a crisis management action plan can certainly help.

Although it is practically impossible to prepare for every crisis management situation, it does help immensely if there is a plan in place to counteract negative press if the worst does happen. That is why we advise our clients to have such a thing written up and easily accessible should they need it in an emergency. Although we only ever deal with the PR/marketing side of crisis management plans, it is important to have procedures in place that cover all aspects of what would happen if there was an emergency in the company that could affect trading, so this is just one aspect of what a business needs.

The marketing/PR business manual should contain

the following in order to ensure that any negative publicity is kept to a minimum: A list of the possible events that could possibly be cause for crisis management steps to be put in place.

A plan of how you will deal with a crisis and the names of the members of staff that would be the first point of call to handle the situation and take control.

A business continuity plan also needs to be written up should the crisis be such that there is a real possibility that the effects of the negative publicity could be prevented.

Completely up to date contact telephone numbers of all people involved in carrying out the plan. This should include external companies involved too and they must all be individually made aware that they are included in this manual.

More importantly, the manual, once written up should be kept securely where it can be easily found. It’s no use locking it up in a safe if there is only one person that has a key to it and they are sunning themselves in the south of France!

From a marketing/PR point of view, should a crisis arise, a good company will advise you, write up media statements, front the press if requested to do so, be prepared to hold meetings with key members of staff, speak to journalists either face to face or on the phone and in some cases act as a mediator with all concerned in order to resolve

the situation with as little negative publicity as possible for the individual or company. As with anything though, we can only advise as PR/ marketing experts, we can’t force a client to take the advice given. As the saying goes – you can take a horse to water, you can’t force it to drink, but for the most cases I have dealt with, our advice has been followed and the clients have always been satisfied with the outcomes.

So, what to do if you want to prepare for a crisis management situation within the PR/marketing sectors? Call the experts, of course. We’re fully trained and competent in dealing with any negative publicity that is thrown your way and will do everything in our power to keep your good name being turned bad.

Unfortunately it takes a life-time to build a good reputation and only seconds to destroy it. Even people in our industry can come un-stuck and are in need of crisis management themselves. Not naming names, but when this happens it never ceases to amaze me how unprofessional some people deal with what is happening to them, literally not taking their own advice. But I suppose we are all only human after all, so mistakes happen.

That said, I would hope that should my company ever have to deal with a crisis, for us as a business that it would be dealt with dignity and respect to all involved.

For help/advice on crisis management issues in the marketing/PR sectors, please call our office on 0845 900 2127.

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Bye for now - Jak

MEDIA INSIGHT

Sarah Hall

FIVE WAYS TO ENHANCE YOUR PUBLIC RELATIONS ACTIVITY Marketing and PR resource is precious and activity should deliver clear and measureable results. Here are five ways to get the best return from your investment.

OPEN ACCESS TO THE BOARD Public relations is a strategic management function that helps organisations achieve their objectives, whether that’s awareness raising, behaviour change or sales.

It can only do this however when practitioners have access to the relevant data enabling them to align the communications objectives with the corporate plan.

Your public relations team might not need to have a seat on the board, but they need access to the management team to understand the direction the business is going in and respond accordingly. They should be a trusted adviser so don’t be afraid to share confidential information.

INVEST IN SKILLS DEVELOPMENT Public relations professionals now have an opportunity to be at the top of their game wherever they are in their career because there is finally a clear path to follow.

The launch of the Global Alliance’s competency framework makes it easier than ever to identify skills gaps from entry level public relations right through to mid-senior level capabilities.

Critically, the framework moves practitioners away from a focus on tactical abilities and encourages development in management, consultancy and financial skills.

Set aside money for staff training and use the framework as a basis. When recruiting a public relations professional, look for membership of an industry body like the CIPR or PRCA. It means the person has committed to continuous professional development and is also bound by a Code of Conduct.

GO CHANNEL NEUTRAL Public relations is not just media relations and with the lines between disciplines blurring, the skillset is ever wider.

Any good public relations practitioner will already be employing the PESO model, that sees campaigns developed around Paid, Earned, Shared and Owned media.

Ask them. If they’re not, there’s a clear skills gap and you’re not getting the most from your public relations and marketing investment.

Your team should have a full understanding of the different comms channels out there, the kind of content and messaging required and advise on which are appropriate based on your target audiences and return on investment.

Most public relations campaigns now contain an element of paid promotion to amplify messaging so this is to be expected. You should also be focusing heavily on your own website and channels in order to engage directly with those who matter.

Not only will this build fruitful relationships, it’ll be more cost efficient in the long run.

MEASURE AND EVALUATE Public relations campaigns should be measured against business outcomes.

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Last year AMEC launched its latest framework, which is a step-by-step process to linking organizational objectives to communication objectives and measures across all PESO channels.

It’s free and interactive so there’s absolutely no excuse not to be using it. You’ll see better results immediately and the insight will change your team’s approach to comms planning.

READ, READ, READ Finding alternative perspectives and identifying trends early is important to public relations practice and that comes naturally when you read widely. Your team should be doing this but you should also be following suit in order to understand the latest opportunities, as well as the benefits you should be deriving from your spend.

The Holmes Report and Spin Sucks, while very different, offer international perspectives, and industry blogs such as wadds.co.uk, comms2point0. co.uk and futureproofingcomms.co.uk all host a wide range of industry content that will get you thinking.

If reading isn’t your thing or you can’t find the time, there are various industry podcasts providing similar info in a different format. There are a few out there and they’re perfect for commutes, dog walks or even while you do the weekly shop.

TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

‘ALWAYS ON’ DISASTER RECOVERY

By Garry Sheriff, Managing Director, ITPS

Garry Sheriff, Managing Director of ITPS, explains the benefits of buying disaster recovery as a service.

The IT industry loves acronyms, and the current top spot is occupied by the phrase ‘Everything as a Service’ or EaaS. This simply describes a cloudbased computing service which operates like any other business utility so you only pay for what you use, when you use it. Sounds simple doesn’t it, but you do need to consider how it can be used intelligently to suit the needs of your business.

One element of EaaS is Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS).

Although some organisations are still wary of cloud-based services, statistics from a survey of a thousand organisations in 2016 show that, as evidenced by our own client base, 82% of cloud users have a hybrid cloud strategy. This is a combination of public and private cloud, mixed where required with elements of on-premise solutions. This figure contrasts with 74% in 2014, and growth shows no sign of slowing.

centre experts with 17 years of experience under our belts, we are finding an increasing number of clients turning to us for Disaster recovery as a Service (DRaaS). This is something that cloud can deliver very effectively, even if primary systems are not cloud-based.

DRaaS typically works by using two or more data centres, holding a snapshot of your systems and data at both physical locations to allow a quick and easy restore in the event of an interruption, business or system failure, and delivering stronger resilience and faster restore times. To achieve the same recovery time objective with an on-premise model you would need to invest in holding identical systems in two locations, which means paying out for extra hardware, software and applications. With DRaaS clients need only commit to what is needed to fulfil their needs.

If you are relatively new to cloud adoption and wary of having all your ICT delivered as a service where you are effectively renting computing power, storage and processors, you can test the water by breaking down your infrastructure into component parts. For instance you might opt for elements such as Software as a Service, or Disaster Recovery as a Service, and add to those as you start to realise the cost and efficiency benefits of cloud. We advise clients to use cloud for as much or as little of their infrastructure as they need.

We work with data-critical clients including the emergency services, financial institutions and baggage handling groups who entrust their ICT to cloud services which we deliver via our Ciscoapproved and powered data centres. These are high security operations configured to exacting standards, protected by auditable security and staffed by specialists. Our business holds ISO27001 and ISO9001 certification, essential credentials when you need the confidence that your ICT partner can keep your systems, applications and data safe, secure and accessible from any location.

As confidence in the cloud grows and thanks to a reputation as the North East’s leading ICT and data

Constantly investing in the latest tools allows our clients to benefit from cost-effective, automated,

enterprise-class DRaaS. If you will forgive a slight detour into tech-talk, one of those is our new vCloud solution, which represents many months of research and development work. This is the next generation in business continuity and data replication and disaster recovery solutions, specifically developed to support clients operating in virtualised environments and the cloud.

From your IT manager’s viewpoint, DRaaS helps you benefit from an extra layer of resilience, without having to pay for it. For example you might be running two virtualised servers in our data centres, but in the background we have another 20 servers running at your disposal if and when you need them. We use best of breed tools such as Zerto, which simplifies disaster recovery, reduces storage costs, orchestrates and automates the entire recovery process, and works with public, private and hybrid clouds.

The only way to make sure your disaster recovery plan really works is regular testing. Our tools give you self-service test, failover and assisted failback so you can test your plan whenever you want, as often as you want, while the built-in failover wizard alerts, reports on and guides the failover process.

Talk to our experts about how a cloud DRaaS solution, running in the background and always ready to be switched on if and when you need it, can benefit your business and help you get a better return on your IT budget.

For more information call 0191 442 8300, email contact@itps.co.uk or visit www.itps.co.uk 83

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

NORTH EAST SCHOOLS URGED TO ENSURE CHILDREN STAY SAFE

Hundreds of North East schools could be without access to adequate e-safety advice and security resources when a Government-backed support network closes this year.

NGfL works to keep thousands of young people in the region safe and secure from cyber bullying, radicalisation and other online threats through specialist workshops, advice, campaigns and events.

IT experts Advantex Network Solutions Ltd warns that the end of Northern Grid for Learning (NGfL) will have a massive impact on schools, colleges and other training providers unless they act and start to draw up alternative plans.

In the light of its closure, schools will need to seek alternative arrangements if they are to comply with changes to statutory guidance on keeping children safe.

The countdown has started to NGfL winding down at the end of July when broadband procurement, safety, safeguarding and digital literacy services will no longer be available to around 450 local schools and dozens of other sector providers.

The Department for Education (DfE) plans, Keeping Children Safe in Education: Statutory Guidance for Schools and Colleges, came into force in September.

These lay out actions for education leaders to consider in relation to staff understanding and knowledge of safeguarding in schools.

Stephen O’Connell, Managing Director of Gateshead-based Advantex, which provides broadband advice and e-safety services to dozens of local schools, said: “The loss of Northern Grid for Learning’s services will have a far-reaching impact for education leaders and managers who aren’t prepared. The DfE makes it clear that children have to be safeguarded from potentially harmful and inappropriate online material. The responsibility is on governing bodies and proprietors to ensure that not only is appropriate web filtering in place but also the correct monitoring.”

Advantex will be holding an education technology workshop on the 8th February at Hardwick Hall featuring expert speakers.

GATESHEAD SYNERGI IT TRANSFORMS BUSINESS AT CARE HOME OPERATOR Investment in new business transformation technology is set to improve efficiency and services at leading North East care home operator, Hadrian Healthcare.

Work has started by Gateshead-based Synergi IT on the third phase of an undisclosed five figure contract that will see Nintex workflow automation software installed as part of an investment by the care home operator in a digital transformation programme.

The move is the latest stage in a project being undertaken by Synergi to implement new technologies that will deliver a package of efficiency saving benefits through Microsoft business cloud platforms. These include improved document management control, digital mobile forms, workflow automation and

Ready to reduce costs and achieve more from your IT spend?

more effective business performance reporting.

Now, Nintex is being rolled out to all 450 Hadrian Healthcare employees who work at six care home sites across Yorkshire, Newcastle and Gateshead.

Using the new system, residents’ queries and data is better coordinated, captured and logged, improving service levels and boosting customer performance levels. Regulatory documentation and health and safety procedures are also better stored, accessed and communicated to staff.

This latest success for Synergi follows its ongoing investment in Nintex technology to enable customers to automate processes in minutes using drag-and-drop workflow tools.

IT Professional Services Ltd. Axwell House, Waterside Drive, Metrocentre East Business Park, Gateshead NE11 9HU. E: contact@itps.co.uk Follow us on

Call us now and find out how.

0191 442 8300 84

www.itps.co.uk

@ITPSltd

Business interruption ranks as the number one risk for organisations worldwide.

Not all disasters are catastrophic, but don’t let any disaster be the end of your world.

Contact us today to find out more:

Our range of flexible, bespoke disaster recovery services give you the ability to restore the data and applications that run your business, should any element of your infrastructure be damaged or destroyed.

contact@itps.co.uk

How quickly could you recover and restore systems and data?

Talk to our experts about building disaster recovery as a service into your business continuity strategy, and take the right steps to protect your organisation.

Protecting your data is our world.

call 0191 or email

442 8300

www.itps.co.uk

TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

COMMS SHOULDN’T COST THE EARTH...

When it comes to running a business, most would agree that one of the most vital aspects of day-to-day life is telecoms. Allowing communication between internal departments and perhaps more importantly, between companies and their clients is a top priority. If staff are the heartbeat of a company, then telecoms are the veins connecting them.

So you would be forgiven for thinking that businesses are getting the best possible value for money when it comes to their telecoms. Surprisingly though it seems to be far from the truth.

An online article published on the PR Newswire website, reveals that companies right across Europe, as well as in the UK are paying over the odds for their telecoms – including broadband, phone lines and even company mobile phones.

One potential reason for this overpaying is the fact that many companies and businesses will simply take the package that on the face of it offers the most, rather than looking at what they need, and taking a package which is best suited to them.

At the Diamond Group however, we aim to provide a bespoke service to meet your business’ communication needs. We will look at your case on an individual basis to ensure each and every part of the solution is exactly tailored to your needs.

We understand that no two companies are ever the same, which is why with Diamond Group’s telecoms solutions there is no blanket one-size-fits-all approach. It all means your company’s requirements are met with a unique package which gives you the best value for money around, without the unwanted – or un-needed extras.

as vehicle tracking. There’s sure to be a solution to your requirements from the Diamond Group, which won’t cost you the earth. It all adds up to a wellequipped user, which in business terms means more efficient staff and better results for your company.

Solutions on offer, which can be fully integrated with your IT include business lines, telephone systems, mobiles, broadband and cloud telephony as well

For more information on the solutions offered by us, whether it’s IT, comms, copiers or technology visit www.diamond-group.net or call us on 0191 519 3700, and see what we can do for your business.

BREXIT HR STRATEGY: PREPARING FOR THE UNKNOWN In the meantime we suggest that all organisations should know how many people in their workforce are from the EU. Review the right to work documents you have on file for all your employees and for any missing information, ask employees to provide evidence.

Amongst all the possible changes that will derive from starting to operate outside the EU, what we do know is that the potential reduction in migration will cause profound difficulties for certain sectors.

The sectors that will experience the most immediate effect on recruitment are those with a disproportionate reliance on EU nationals. Employers need to consider that the UK is likely to grant entry to skilled workers through the introduction of a flexible points based system for working permits. However, the burden of this may act as a deterrent to workers who could freely work in an EU member state.

Making better decisions about recruitment and retention Thinking about your recruitment strategy and understanding why your most talented employers work for you will help in choosing the right recruitment techniques for your organisation.

When it comes to retaining staff considering these three questions for learning and development are key to future decision making: 1. Do you have a succession plan in place?

A survey conducted by the CIPD in summer 2016 found that a mere six per cent of employees had a plan for securing their company’s non-UK workforce, with 69 per cent stating that their company did not have a postBrexit plan.

2.Are you taking advantage of government internship and apprenticeship schemes?

3. Do you need to re-evaluate your recruitment budget and consider more short term contracts to cover busier periods?

The rights and status of EU nationals in the UK and UK nationals in the EU as a result of the referendum have not changed. Until Article 50 negotiations have been concluded we can only speculate as to what to expect.

All these questions need to be considered now so that employers have a sound HR strategy as and when decisions on EU migration are enforced.

If you would welcome a discussion to explore possible future impacts or expanding your HR strategy to factor in Brexit changes please contact Judy Pearson, Senior HR Consultant, at judy.pearson@rsmuk.com or your usual RSM contact.

86

INTERVIEW

Your Eye on the Region

PAUL CURRY Managing Director, Aero Networks

Did you grow up in the North East or did you decide to relocate here in later life?

Where do you like to unwind in the North East?

I’ve been in the North East all of my life. I started working at 16 and haven’t had any inclination to leave the area, apart from vacations.

There is so much to choose from. Live music, great restaurants & bars. The region is also credited with some of the best driving roads in the UK.

What do you think it means to be a business person in the North East of England?

I think supporting the area is a big part of the equation. We have employed the next generation of team members that have progressed through the same schools I attended. For myself there is a familiarity working in the area I grew up in. Starting a business with the benefit of local knowledge has definitely been a great help over the years.

Ultimately I’m very proud to be from the North East and to be based here.

What is your favourite aspect of life in the North East?

It’s a combination of the people and the location.

Do you have a favourite hotspot for a business meeting?

If its city centre then Di Marco’s on Grey Street is perfect for a casual coffee, whereas the Vermont is ideal for a more formal location. Whilst I’m not a golfer, Close House makes a great out of town venue in superb surroundings.

Are the people really friendlier?

I think they are.

What do you think is the best view in the North East?

I particularly like travelling through Kielder on the A68 and the views from the Scottish Borders are very impressive as is the coastal route from Berwick down to Alnwick. My personal favourite has to be the Pontburn Viaduct in Hamsterley Mill, just off the Derwent walk.

Do you think living and working in the North East offers the same opportunities as elsewhere in the UK? That’s a difficult question. I would imagine that most major cities and areas have their own niche education and employment opportunities, but with the North East I feel there is an unconditional loyalty towards the area. The region is still evolving and I also believe that in the coming years we will see greater investment and business relocation from further afield.

Where do you like to eat out in the region?

Have you had experience of working elsewhere and how did it compare?

We enjoy the Landmark Oriental on Stowell Street, along with Orchid on the Quayside. The Raj Tandoori on Pudding Chare is an absolute old school gem. The Valley at Corbridge is fantastic, and our local the Wellington Hotel at Riding Mill is outstanding.

Whilst I personally haven’t worked outside the area, I’ve got some great friends from different parts of the UK. When you sit down and talk about life, I think we are all faced with a similar set of rewards & challenges - albeit on varying scales.

Aero Networks limited, 7& 8 Delta Bank Road, Metro Riverside Park, Gateshead, NE11 9DJ. Tel: 0191 484 1230 Email: info@aero.net www.aero.net 88

89

S

Live Your Mission!

ituated within ten acres of rolling Northumberland countryside near Netherwitton, Nunnykirk Centre

for Dyslexia is a very special place to learn.

The role of a mission statement in shaping business, and the guiding principles of that operation, has been adopted and followed within business and education for many years. Yet, how does a school which supports young people who have experienced a range of difficulties develop their mission statement? And how does this mission statement shape the outcomes for every student. At Nunnykirk we are finding a way!

Nunnykirk is a DfE approved, Non-Maintained Special School for students with a Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD) such as Dyslexia, and associated needs, but we also specialise in supporting Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) and Mild Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). We are committed to raising the self-esteem and selfconfidence of all students...

Support our community of learners in achieving Physical and Emotional Health and Well

Being and make substantial progress in learning and thinking" (Mission Statement, 2016-17)

But how does one measure achievement in emotional health and well being in the modern educational setting, when there are so many other outside pressures and influences upon both school and the student? This was the challenge that Head teacher Barry Frost faced when appointed in September 2015. Barry is a vastly experienced senior leader and educational practitioner:

Work in a range of settings, not least ten years as a Local Authority Adviser, helped reinforce that only when an individual is physically and emotionally prepared for learning can quality learning opportunities effectively take place" (Barry Frost, Head teacher) Many young people who attend Nunnykirk have had negative experiences in education and have low expectation both of themselves and of the practitioners who will work with them. Thus, the primary goal of all Nunnykirk staff is to ensure that the emotional needs of each student at met. This is done is many different ways. We have small classes designed to offer close personal support. In addition to an on-site counsellor who meets with students on a 1:1 basis; the school employs two house parents who offer the chance for all students to experience greater social interaction and inclusion through extra-curricular activities.

“We give the students a sense of belonging and community - that part of the learning which has always been missing ... choice” (Maggie Gray, Houseparent) “Nunnykirk is a family; we work together and support each other because so many of us have never known what it means to succeed until we get here” (Phillip Robson, Head Prefect) Our young people are stakeholders in their future and their voice significantly contributes to the daily life and direction of the school. This allows staff to gain greater knowledge and understanding of the individual and appreciate the difficulties they face, setting aspirational and achievable milestones for future success in their learning and thinking. We have a close relationship with parents and carers, who understand our mission and see their young person promoting these values in the home and the wider community.

“For the first time in her life, she talks really positively about school” (Parent) In short, everything that Nunnykirk stands for supports our mission, and this allows us to move closer to our vision that Nunnykirk will be a centre of excellence for Dyslexia.

If you would like any information about this inspiring and energetic educational community then please email or call Barry Frost, Head teacher E: barryfrost.nunnykirk@gmail.com T: 01670 772685

Durham School Independent Day & Boarding . Since 1414 Girls and Boys . Age 3-18

ConďŹ dence for Life

Every day is an open day To arrange a visit call 0191 386 4783 or email admissions@durhamschool.co.uk www.durhamschool.co.uk

E D U C AT I O N I N S I G H T

AREN’T LEAGUE TABLES FOR FOOTBALL TEAMS?

By Ken James, Headmaster, Red House School some well-known selective schools. But what is ‘excellent’? One pupil was accepted into Cambridge to read medicine and her 5 A*s certainly helped our results. But here’s my admission: I ‘cheated’!

That year we had four academic scholars who, quite rightly, achieved wonderful results; wonderful results given their academic ability. But I also had other pupils who were less academic, who achieved wonderful results relative to their ability. Are we saying these children did not work as hard? Are we saying their results are less impressive? I am certainly not and I would never wish to undermine the achievements of any children who had worked their hardest!

Today I received a letter asking me to review the academic performance data held by the Department of Education. Red House is listed and no doubt some will take a keen interest in whether we have moved up the table or whether we are sitting lower than in previous years. Personally, I take little interest in the tables and believe league tables should be the preserve of football teams.

Don’t get me wrong: academic excellence has to be at the forefront of any school and academic success for the pupils is of paramount importance.

We wish to see all pupils fulfil their potential and I do not know anyone who would wish to see pupils achieve anything but their very best. But should we be judging schools and teaching purely by looking at the results of the pupils?

There are two elements to this. Firstly, academic success is only one measure of success and only one part of an excellent education. I very much believe in an holistic education and we should be striving to provide an education which prepares children for life and not just for academic success.

latter most) and spent time in ‘the bush’ learning key life lessons. I do not think I have seen a greater transformation in teenagers during my twenty year teaching career than I saw whilst working there.

Confidence, self-belief and resilience were just a few of the traits which visibly developed during this period of time.

In a previous incarnation, I worked in the outdoor education centre at one of Sydney’s leading independent schools. The children came to us for sixth months at the age of 13. They left families and technology behind (they seemed to miss the

Secondly, academic success must be measured against the ability of the individual. I was previously headmaster of an academically non-selective school. In one year in particular we achieved ‘excellent’ results at A level, results in line with www.redhouseschool.co.uk

Education at its best is about working with individuals and we should not focus on the results of the cohort. I love the following quote, often attributed to Albert Einstein: “Everybody is a genius but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid”.

We all have ‘trees’ with which we struggle; we just need to find our ‘ponds’ so we can succeed. Let’s discover the strengths of each child and help them to flourish in a relentless drive for excellence.

So when choosing a school, why not ask what each school can do for your son or daughter, rather than where the school is in the league tables. After all, aren’t league tables for football teams?

MOTORS INSIGHT

HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS AND AN AWARD-WINNING CUSTOMER SERVICE IS RECIPE FOR SUSTAINED SUCCESS AT JENNINGS FORD BUSINESS CENTRES

The Ford Edge Vignale is available at Jennings Ford’s Business Centres.

When it comes to purchasing fleet vehicles, local and national businesses can take advantage of an award-winning range and customer service at Jennings Ford Business Centres across the region.

Jennings Ford, part of the multi-award winning Jennings Motor Group, currently operates two Business Centres at its Yarm Road dealership based in Stockton and the Eslington Park branch in Gateshead.

It was more than two decades ago when Ford Motor Company first introduced the Business Centre concept nationwide - with the overall aim to deliver the ultimate service for fleet managers of both car and commercial vehicles.

Over the years, the Ford car and commercial vehicle range has expanded significantly with the introduction of a variety of high quality, competitively-priced and affordable award-winning models, offering the latest in advanced technology.

Ron Homan, business centre manager at Jennings Ford in Stockton, said: “The Jennings Ford Business Centres are able to cater for the business needs of both local and national firms, whether they be contract hire, corporate fleets, SMEs, rental or the public sector.”

When a customer purchases a vehicle, or a fleet of vehicles through the Jennings Ford Business Centres, they are automatically assigned a dedicated Ford Fleet Business Manager, who specialises in the field, in addition to an Account Support Manager being on hand to provide a second to none customer service. These two representatives are dedicated points of contact throughout the purchasing or leasing process.

Ron added: “Over the years, both Business Centres have forged good working relationships with a wide variety of businesses, as a result of being able to offer high quality products, competitive deals, tailor-made finance packages and an awardwinning customer service.

“Our team of dedicated and professional sales staff can assist with the individual needs of businesses large or small, from multi-national blue chip companies to one-man operations.”

As a result of a wide range of competitive and affordable offers being available, businesses are also being given the opportunity to opt for Ford’s premium Vignale model range, including the allnew flagship Kuga, Edge and S-MAX models, in addition to the Ford Mondeo Vignale.

Businesses interested in the all-new stylish and practical flagship Ford Kuga Vignale can take advantage of a payment from only £289.00 plus VAT per month for the 2.0-litre TDCi derivative.

The offer is based on a 10,000 miles per annum, 6+35 non-maintained contract (6 rentals in advance, followed by 35 monthly rentals) with Ford Lease contract hire. All current offers are available to business users only, terms and conditions apply.

An expression of style and refinement, the allnew flagship Kuga Vignale is not your average SUV. Dynamic lines are elevated by elegant design touches, hand-crafted in premium materials. The

high-end look is also underlined by the signature Ford Vignale hexagonal upper grille, with dark matt finish and polished aluminium surround.

Ford also offers the contemporary and stylish Edge Vignale SUV to business users, offering exclusive Vignale alloy wheels and white platinum paintwork.

The interior hexagonal patterns are found along with high-end Windsor leather in light cashmere or dark ebony colours.

Ford’s S-MAX Sports Activity Vehicle combines premium hand-crafted Ford Vignale design with spacious and versatile seating.

The top-spec Mondeo Vignale is available in Hybrid, Saloon or Estate, with the added option of allwheel drive also being available.

Ron went on to say: “We are looking forward to ongoing success as the Business Centres continue to expand and develop with the Ford range.”

Other models available in the Ford car model range includes the Fiesta, Fiesta ST, Focus, Focus ST, RS Focus, ST Line, Mondeo, Mustang, C-MAX, Grand C-MAX, B-MAX, S-MAX, Galaxy, EcoSport and Edge.

Jennings Ford has been awarded Ford’s most prestigious Chairman’s Award for delivering outstanding customer service, on 20 separate occasions over the past 21 years.

For more information about the wide range of products and services available at Jennings Ford Business Centres, contact Yarm Road, Stockton on 01642 632200, Eslington Park, Gateshead on 0191 4607464, or visit www.jenningsmotorgroup.co.uk 94

Ford Vignale

a unique ownership experience.

It appreciates the value of your time with services and benefits that help you make the most of this valuable commodity.

The vehicles themselves shine with craftsmanship and attention to detail.

New Ford Kuga Vignale 2.0 TDCi 5dr (180 PS) AWD

• Ford Vignale metallic paint • Exclusive 18” alloy wheels • Bi-xenon high intensity headlights • Active Park Assist • Ford SYNC3® with voice control and 8” colour touchscreen • Premium leather trim • Keyless entry • Quickclear windscreen

only

£289+VAT per month with Ford Lease

Advance rental £1734+VAT followed by 35 monthly rentals of £289+VAT

New Ford S-MAX Vignale 2.0 TDCi 5dr (180 PS)

• Ford Vignale metallic paint • Exclusive 18” alloy wheels • Premium leather seats • Sony DAB navigation • Heated front seats • Ford SYNC3® with voice control and 8” colour touchscreen • Front and rear parking sensors • Rear view camera

only

£299+VAT per month with Ford Lease

Advance rental £1794+VAT followed by 35 monthly rentals of £299+VAT

New Ford Edge Vignale 2.0 TDCi 5dr (210 PS) Powershift

• Ford Vignale metallic paint • Exclusive 20” alloy wheels • Ford SYNC3® with voice control and 8” colour touchscreen • Automatic headlights • Sony DAB navigation • Front and rear parking sensors • Rain sensing wipers

only

£399+VAT per month with Ford Lease

Advance rental £2394+VAT followed by 35 monthly rentals of £399+VAT

Business users only

www.JenningsMotorGroup.co.uk

STOCKTON, Yarm Road.

Call: 01642 632 200.

GATESHEAD, Eslington Park, Dunston.

Call: 0191 460 7464.

OPEN HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) Ford Car range: Urban 48.7 - 23.54 (5.8-12.0), Extra Urban 64.2 - 34.87 (4.4-8.1), Combined 57.7 - 29.73 (4.9-9.5). Official CO₂ emissions 115-249g/km. Standard EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

Ford Lease Contract Hire is available to Business Users only, subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Rentals shown based on a 6-0-35 non-maintained agreement (6 initial rentals up front followed by 35 rentals +VAT) with a mileage of 10,000 per annum. Subject to availability. Rentals must be made monthly. Prices exclude VAT. When the vehicle is returned it must be in good condition and not have exceeded the agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Prices are correct at the time of going to print and are subject to change without further notice. Terms and conditions apply. Ford Business Contract Hire is provided by ALD Automotive Limited, Oakwood Drive, Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7LB. Cars not necessarily as illustrated. Certain categories of business users may be excluded. Offers end 31st March 2017. E&OE.

MOTORS INSIGHT

V+XC+S = VOLVO

Trying to keep up with the rate of change at Volvo is tricky. Their flow of new models is nothing short of staggering. The entire Volvo range will be completely renewed over the course of four years.

We’re currently at the halfway point.

And we’re not talking about models being given a nip and tuck or a bit of a facelift. We’re talking brand new, ground-up, redesigned models.

And they’re all available at Mill Volvo dealerships in Newcastle, Sunderland, Stockton and Knaresborough.

So, which Volvo suits your needs? Oh, and before we start, it’s worth pointing out that every Volvo comes with world-leading safety equipment that not only protects you and your passengers but also other road users and pedestrians.

If you fancy an estate, it all comes down to how much space you need. Most families will be chuffed to bits with the V40. It’s hugely popular and, with a price tag starting at £20,405, it’s no wonder it is Volvo’s top seller.

If you have a growing family or need to carry some extra kit, move up to the V60 which starts at £23,275, or if you really need do need to carry everything including the kitchen sink, you’ll love the

V90 (£34,955). The V60 also has a Cross Country version which features a slightly raised suspension and underbody protection. It’s aimed at folk who sometimes cross a field or use a rutted track.

All but the V40 have a saloon stablemate. The S60 and S90 are extremely handsome and have a certain style which oozes class and quality. They’re also slightly quieter than the estates.

If you need the capability to take your Volvo off road, then look at Volvo’s Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV models). The XC90 is one of the world’s top 4x4s. It has massive presence and serious off-road ability whilst also retaining magnificent on-road manners. With a starting price of £47,350 you know that it will be loaded with equipment and goodies as standard. You also get seven seats.

If you need to, for example, tow a caravan or trailer, or perhaps need to haul a horse box across a muddy field or reverse a boat into a lake, but don’t need such a large vehicle as the XC90, then you will immediately realise that the Volvo XC60 is a family

www.volvocars.com 96

friend. It will perform any of those tasks whilst also carrying you and four passengers and all of their baggage.

If you fancy some sporty styling, head for the R-Design models. They look great.

If you want staggering economy, take a close look at the XC90 and V60 plug-in hybrid models. The V60 model for example will travel for over 30 miles purely on electric power.

The best idea is to call into one of the Mill Volvo dealerships and have a chat with one of the sales guys. They’ll match your needs to the ideal Volvo.

They’ll also have the best Volvo deals available anywhere. Guaranteed.

Mill is the UKs biggest Volvo dealer group. They have massive clout when it comes to getting the best cars at the best prices. Put it this way, if you’re thinking about moving up into the premium car market, think Volvo.

And once you’ve thought Volvo...think Mill.

THE AWARD-WINNING VOLVO S90 AND V90 IN A CLASS OF THEIR OWN. Personal contract hire from £359 at Mill

S90 D4 R Design Initial Rental £359* 47 Monthly Rentals £359 Mileage per Annum 6,000 miles

V90 D4 R Design Initial Rental £379* 47 Monthly Rentals £379 Mileage per Annum 6,000 miles

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0800 612 4715 *All quotes based on 1 monthly rental as deposit followed by 47 monthly rentals commencing in month 2. All by Direct Debit. Based on personal contract hire, non-maintained. All rentals and excess mileage rates are inclusive of VAT and are subject to vehicle availability, credit approval, manufacturer’s price changes, volume related bonus and purchase through Volvo Car Leasing. Supplier Network, with a mileage of 6,000 miles per annum. Vehicle returned must be in good condition and within agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Excess Mileage 14.9p per mile. In the event of cancellation of an order, you will be liable for such costs to be confirmed to you in writing. All other terms and conditions are as per the Master Hire Agreement or Customer Agreement between yourselves and Volvo Car Leasing. Prices correct at the time of going to print, are subject to change without notice and do not take into account any variation to government taxes or charges arising after date of publication. Subject to availability at participating dealers for vehicles ordered on or before 31/03/2017 or while stocks last. Not available with other promotions. Volvo Car Leasing Contract Hire is Provided by Lex Autolease Ltd, trading as Volvo Car Leasing, incorporated and registered in England with company number 1090741 & registered office at 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Car shown for illustration purposes only.

TRAVEL INSIGHT

IN SEARCH OF POLAR BEARS By photographer and filmmaker Trai Anfield

I’ll be honest - I’ve always thought a cruise would be completely at odds with my idea of a great holiday, which involves wildlife, photography, exploration and kindred spirits in equal measure. But in recent months my eyes have been opened to expedition cruising as a platform for photography, and I only wish I’d caught on a lot sooner!

and looking forward to wildlife, which doesn’t take long to appear. Seabirds return here each summer to breed in unfathomable numbers, and soon we are treated to bespectacled guillemots, little auks, skuas, puffins, fulmars and razorbills in dizzying swarms focussed around small barren islets. There’s plenty of action for our lenses as we float below the airborne cacophony.

That evening the crew predict we'll see whales and, as the ship creeps through an upwelling of krill, we are thrilled to see humpbacks, fins and minkes gliding serenely through a rosy sunset that never becomes night. Their bulk barely raises a ripple in the Arctic calm, but the excitement generated aboard could register on the Richter scale. © Trai Anfield/Enlightened Media

Normally in June I’d be yearning for sunshine and heat, but last summer saw me packing my thermals to lead a small group of adventurous photographers to the Arctic. We boarded Silversea’s expedition cruise ship Silver Explorer in Tromso, bound for the enigmatic Svalbard archipelago.

I soon realised that cruising would take us to stunning northern landscapes and species that we just couldn’t have reached any other way, and as a bonus my fears of blinged-up passengers and enforced entertainment were unfounded – our

group revelled in the company of like-minded fellow travellers, were inspired by presentations from expert crew and appreciated the understated luxury on which Silversea built its reputation … no bling in sight! My explorer level cabin was comfortable and welcoming, with personal butler service a welcome first for me. But it was the quality of cuisine on board that really amazed me; the sustained freshness, quality and choice seemed miraculous after 10 days in the frigid ocean with nowhere to replenish stocks.

As any misgivings evaporate, I find myself relaxing 98

​​ Another bonus for me on this cruise is the chance to go on hikes, learning about the unexpected flora dotting the tundra with purples, yellows, white and a thousand shades of green. We are absorbed in photographing these when my eye is caught by a furtive trot, instantly recognisable as a fox.

This is an Arctic fox, one of the key species we're hoping to photograph, so we’re thrilled to see one so soon. He is completely un-phased by us and we settle to watch him hunt, hunger sculpting his body into lithe contours clad in a brunette summer coat.

I couldn't have hoped for this quality and length of encounter with an Arctic fox: it is the moment that seals my transition from cruise doubter to cruise devotee.

TRAVEL INSIGHT © Trai Anfield/Enlightened Media

Back on Silver Explorer, we start to glimpse icebergs, freshly calved from the glaciers which smother so much of Svalbard’s landmass. Conversation inevitably turns to jokes about the Titanic, lending the frozen intricacies and blue tinged beauty a sinister air. We explore them in detail from our Zodiac, and as we draw closer to face of the glacier itself we begin to appreciate the vastness of the ice here. The ship is thrillingly insignificant, and our Zodiac expedition craft miniscule, in the context of this monster.

As fog rolls in the benefits of having no fixed itinerary are revealed. The experienced crew change course to find us walrus, complete with baby, and two polar bears – the ultimate prize for the Arctic photographer.

© Trai Anfield/Enlightened Media

Watching two ice bears squabbling over territory and food is fascinating, and we are treated to the victor ripping apart the rancid remains of a seal before presenting us with a bloodied face.

The voyage has exceeded all expectations for my group, who return home with shots of a lifetime and stories to match. It seems we are all converts to expedition cruising, and will be looking for new places to explore onboard in future.

© Trai Anfield/Enlightened Media

This voyage was a bespoke photography expedition cruise exclusive to Enlightened Photographic Safaris in partnership with Travel Bureau.

For more details visit www.enlightenedmedia.net/photosafaris. For more information about expedition cruising with Silversea call Travel Bureau on 0191 285 9321, email cruise@travelb.co.uk or visit www.travelb.co.uk 99

TRAVEL INSIGHT

OUT & ABOUT - SOUTH SHIELDS

Stationmaster Alex Nelson has been suggesting places to go by train each month and for February, he takes a look around South Shields.

winter, but go at half-term time and Arbeia Roman Fort, as it is known, will be open on two weekends – 18/19 and 25/26 February.

February is never a great time for long trips out by train. It’s still dark in the late afternoon and we often get the worst weather. So if we do get one of those bright, crisp, February days, why not try a visit to South Shields?

The town is noted for its many fish and chip shops and ethnic restaurants, particularly along the Ocean Road down to the beach. The Ocean Beach funfair reopens in February, but it’s obviously weather dependent. The charming little steam train, known as the Lakeshore Railroad, which goes round the lake near the beach, might also be operating, as subject to weather and mechanical failure they offer rides from 1130 to dusk at weekends, and during half term week.

Depending on where you live, this might involve a rail journey into Newcastle from north or south, or up the coast into Sunderland and then a trip on the Tyne and Wear Metro via the north Tyne loop or via Pelaw on the route to South Shields. The cut out and keep Metro map might help you, and with an all zones rail fare add-on you can travel in zones A, B and C, and also use the Nexus short ferry crossing between North Shields and South Shields which runs every half hour throughout the day. It leaves on the hour and half hour from the North Shields side, and quarter to and quarter past from the South Shields side.

Don’t think of crossing under the river through the fascinating pedestrian tunnel. It’s closed for refurbishment and asbestos removal, and the replacement bus service between Jarrow and Howdon, whilst free to use, is not very exciting.

Closest to the ferry terminal is the new attraction called the National Centre for the Written Word.

The Word, for short, opened in October 2016 and is a library with interesting exhibition spaces, at the moment profiling the famous film director Ridley Scott of Alien and Blade Runner fame. There’s also an area to record north eastern dialects, and a screen reviewing all the ships in the Tyne and out on open water. You can find additional information

on the vessels, their origins and destinations. Ok, I am sure there is an app which will enable you to do the same thing at home, but it’s more impressive when you can see the real ships in front of you.

Back in the 1970s, the Word would have been called the South Tyneside Central Library, but this is a brave reinvention of the traditional library for the internet age.

On your way back from South Shields, you might like to drop in to the Barbour factory shop which is adjacent to Bede Metro station. With this ticket you can break your journey as often as you want.

If you have never ridden the Tyne and Wear Metro you could ride every route in one day, but I think in February I would prefer to wander the art gallery and museum and then find a good book to dip into at The Word.

Several places in the north east have Roman remains. In South Shields, however, buildings have been reconstructed to look like they were in Roman times. The stunning buildings are replicas of the West Gate, the Commanding Officer’s house and a barrack block. It’s normally closed through the

Alex Nelson, Chester-le-Track trades at Chester-le-Street station (0191 387 1387) and Eaglescliffe (01642 200140). To contact Alex, phone/text 07860 953981 any reasonable time. www.nationalrail.com. For National Rail Enquiries call 24hr 08457 484950 100

Discover Dubai or choose from over 80 other destinations at newcastleairport.com/discover

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17/01/2017 13:44

ARTS NEWS

LOVE IS IN THE AIR AT NEWCASTLE THEATRE ROYAL As the Bennet sisters haplessly search for love, it is Mr. Darcy who unwittingly finds his match when the acclaimed production of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice returns to the Theatre Royal 14 – 18 Feb 2017.

The cast will feature Matthew Kelly as Mr. Bennet, Felicity Montagu as Mrs. Bennet, Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet, Benjamin Dilloway as Mr. Darcy and Doña Croll as Lady Catherine De Bourgh.

Matthew Kelly has appeared several times in the West End as the original Stanley in Funny Peculiar and as Lennie in the Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s production of Of Mice and Men at the Savoy Theatre where his performance won him the Olivier Award for Best Actor.

Felicity Montagu is to play Mrs. Bennet who, alongside her husband, sees the perfect opportunity to improve her family’s social standing when the wealthy Mr. Bingley and his eligible friend Mr. Darcy move to the neighbourhood.

Most recently seen playing Mrs. Mainwaring in the 2016 film remake of Dad’s Army, Felicity’s other notable roles include Perpetua in Bridget Jones’s Diary and Caroline Bosman in ITV’s Doc Martin.

Celebrating the legacy of Jane Austen in the bicentennial year of her death, Regent’s Park Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of Pride and Prejudice marks the return of Regent’s Park Theatre to Newcastle Theatre Royal following their smash hit productions of To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies.

First published in 1813, Pride and Prejudice has remained one of the most popular novels in English literature, selling over 20 million copies and spawning numerous adaptations.

Tickets from £14.50 can be purchased from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 or online at www.theatreroyal.co.uk

MADNESS TO PLAY AT LEADING NORTH EAST HOTEL One of the top, legendary bands of the 70s and 80s is to play a special one-off gig at a leading North East hotel this summer.

Madness will be taking to the stage at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, on 18 August. Their appearance will set the stage for the return of music festival Hardwick Live the following day.

The group will be heading to the region as part of a world tour which will see them appear as far afield as Australia and Singapore, performing some of their major hits including Baggy Trousers, Our House and My Girl.

John Adamson of Ramside Estates said: “It’s a massive coup for us to have Madness performing at Hardwick Hall for what we know will be an incredible performance.”

Ramside Estates has joined forces with Newcastle-based promoters, SSD Concerts, to stage the two musical events.

Steve Davis of SSD Concerts said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be able to be working on this project alongside Ramside Estates. We’re looking forward to bringing one of the North East’s most popular festivals back with a bang.”

For further details and tickets visit www.hardwicklive. co.uk/madness/.

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ARTS NEWS

WHAT’S ON THIS FEBRUARY? Dr Frankenstein February 3 – March 11 Northern Stage T: (0191) 230 5151 www.northernstage.co.uk Jack Whitehall February 6 Metroradio Arena T: (0844) 493 6666 www.metroradioarena.co.uk The Commitments February 6-11 Newcastle Theatre Royal T: (0844) 8112 121 www.theatreroyal.co.uk The Buddy Holly Story February 9 -11 Sunderland Empire T: (0191) 566 1040 www.atgtickets.com

LITTLE MIX TO PERFORM AT DURHAM COUNTY CRICKET CLUB LHG Live by arrangement with MODEST! and Solo are proud to announce that Emirates Riverside, home of Durham County Cricket Club, will welcome Little Mix on Saturday 15 July as part of their huge Summer Shout Out. The world’s biggest girl band are playing a range of UK summer shows from May to July. Kicking off at Wirral Live on Sunday 21 May, the run of 13 live shows ends in Durham.

Little Mix said: “We are so excited to be up here in the North East and cannot wait to get on that stage in Durham! Outdoor shows are so much fun and we love seeing the fans joining in with the songs. It’ll be a great night and we will be singing our hearts out to our biggest tunes. Come and join us!”

2016 was an incredible year for the band with their album Glory Days shooting straight to No.1 on the Official Albums Chart, the quickest selling album in the UK charts by a girl group since Destiny’s Child’s Survivor in 2001. The girls will perform signature hits including Shout Out to My Ex, Black Magic, Hair and Wings.

RECORD OF THE MONTH LA LA LAND SOUNDTRACK There’s always a sparsity of new pop music releases at this time of the year which means our pick of the month happens to be the soundtrack to acclaimed motion picture, La La Land. With a record-equalling 14 nods, the film is poised to clean up at this month’s Oscars and chronicles the relationship between aspiring actress Mia (Emma Stone) and dedicated jazz musician Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) each drawn together by their mutual desire of doing what they love.

Totally Tina February 10 Newcastle City Hall T: (0844) 8112 121 www.newcastlecityhall.org The Pitmen Poets February 10 Whitley Bay Playhouse T: (0844) 248 1588 www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk Pride and Prejudice February 14-18 Newcastle Theatre Royal T: (0844) 8112 121 www.theatreroyal.co.uk Mike & The Mechanics February 15 Sage Gateshead T: (0191) 443 4661 www.sagegateshead.com Five Dead Nobodies February 15-18 The Custom’s House T: (0191) 454 1234 www.customshouse.co.uk Sophie Ellis-Bextor February 18 Sage Gateshead T: (0191) 443 4661 www.sagegateshead.com Al Murray February 19 Newcastle Theatre Royal T: (0844) 8112 121 www.theatreroyal.co.uk The Wedding Singer February 21-25 Sunderland Empire T: (0191) 566 1040 www.atgtickets.com

A sophomore outing for Whiplash Director Damien Chazelle, La La Land follows the characters as they chase their dreams around modern day LA. A city known for crushing hopes and breaking hearts. Of course one of these nominations is for Best Original Score which has been orchestrated masterfully here by Justin Hurwitz.

Lord of the Flies February 23-25 The People’s Theatre T: (0191) 265 5020 www.peoplestheatre.co.uk Kings of Leon February 24 Metroradio Arena T: (0844) 493 6666 www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Entirely original in composition, Hurwitz has created a series of all-singing, all-dancing numbers which fit perfectly with the mood of the film, but also stand up greatly in their own right. Dazzling from start to finish, this one’s for those who dream.

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ARTS INSIGHT

COMMISSION AN ARTIST LAUNCH LOVE IS...

COMPETITION FOR VALENTINES DAY!

Commission an Artist has kick started the year with a competition for artists to tell us what love means to them in art form. The competition is free to enter for all artists from anywhere in the world. The artist will win a great marketing package with full support from the team at Commission an Artist.

They are then going to ask the public to vote on their favourite piece of artwork and the artist with the most votes will win! The public will also be entered into a draw to win a canvas print of their favourite piece, so you are urged to follow their facebook page for further announcements: www.facebook.com/commissionanartist CEO, Helen Johnson, comments: 2016 was a great year for Commission an Artist and we were able to move forwards very quickly towards the end of the year. We are very excited about 2017 with a growing number of followers and customers who would like to commission some artwork. We have recruited more members to our team to help with the commissions and social media. We are also starting to expand into America with the help of a couple of experienced Americans on board.

The whole reason behind the competition is to reach artists and customers who we can help to have their personal artwork created in a very safe environment.

Why is it safe to Commission an Artist with us?

Because firstly we use an escrow account where

the customers money stays until the artwork has been completed to their satisfaction.

The artist knows that the customer has paid so is comfortable. e follow a strict process to make sure the artist W stays on track throughout the commission.

And finally...We look after you from start to

finish!

We have recruited lots more artists on our books and we now have over 1,000 artists with many different skills, genres, and price ranges, so we are opening the range of options for our clients. Our mission is to find an artist for everyone and we are expanding massively to allow that to happen.

We have also launched a support site for our artists, which has a forum for artists to chat and help each other. We think this is very useful especially for the less experienced artists, where they can learn from the more experienced ones. It’s a great way to provide this support for artists and is completely online. We are also working very hard in the background to make sure the site works for artists and there are plans to offer an artist’s shop

where they can sell their existing artwork online and the client can purchase it. So we have lots of exciting things to do and we will be busy!

Commission an Artist provides unique artwork, within budget, for all types of artwork. So if you are looking for an oil painting of a member of your family, a pet portrait of your beautiful horse or dog, maybe a portrait of your daughter and her horse together? They also provide fantasy type images – maybe characters from a Sci-fi movies with you and a loved one in it. They also create a lot of scenes from weddings, as well as sculptures of anything – they have recently completed a sculpture of an anime character! To get in touch simply drop them a line at info@commissionanartist.co.uk or telephone them on 01325 495639.

Commission an Artist are professional and experienced project managers, so to get them involved visit www.commissionanartist.co.uk www.twitter.com/uk_artists www.facebook.com/commissionanartist For more information please contact us by - Tel: 01325 495639 Email: info@commissionanartist.co.uk 104

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07/01/2017 14:34

LEISURE NEWS

ONLINE TONICS VENTURE FOR EL TORERO ENTREPRENEURS The entrepreneurs behind a string of successful Spanish venues in the North East have now launched an online tonic retail business to help tap into the booming gin market.

Claire Elwell and Toni Almiron, alongside business partner Joan Targas from Spanish Fine Foods, have launched Importonics, an e-commerce company which stocks a wide range of premium tonics sourced from around the world. Flavours are as diverse as cucumber, liquorice and tangerine.

The couple stock hundreds of gins, supplying to many bars and restaurants across the city as well as across the wider North East and UK. As with their other ventures, which also include El Torero in Newcastle and El Coto restaurants in Newcastle and Durham, Importonics takes influence from Spain and the popularity there of drinking gin with flavoured mixers.

Since its launch three months ago, Importonics, which sells mixers, gin glasses and botanical sprays through importonics.co.uk, has already seen strong interest from across the UK. Dacantus, Grey Street, has a collection of over 300 gins but their latest venue, The Continental restaurant and bar on Collingwood Street, stocks over 500 different varieties. Both venues share a gin expert General Manager, Shaun Stewart.

Claire said: “The G&T revolution happened about 15 years ago in Spain. It’s nothing new to have gin

LEADING CATERING FIRM CHECKS IN WITH COUNTRY HOTEL PROJECT

with a flavoured tonic there but here in the UK it is still very different. There are a few very established brands in producing tonics but not a huge amount of variety.”

Sarah Smith, Head of Licensing at Sintons, is the long-standing legal advisor to Claire and Toni. She said: “Unsurprisingly, Importonics has been well received by the trade, who are keen to capitalise on the ever-increasing popularity of gin by offering something new and different to their clientele.”

A North East catering company is growing its client base within the hospitality design industry after completing a major project at a renowned country hotel.

Crosbys Catering Equipment, based in Brough Park Way, Newcastle, was appointed by Best Western Derwent Manor Hotel to design and install a new kitchen, bar, dishwash area and front of house pizza area for the hotel’s modern restaurant Prego and to equip it with light equipment, cutlery, crockery and chemical and janitorial supplies.

The team worked to a tight schedule to complete the £70,000 project at the Allensford-based hotel.

The full kitchen, pizza and wash up area was installed in just two days.

Crosbys also designed and supplied a large picture frame hot food pass which was installed into the wall, providing the front of house guests with an impressive view into the new high-end kitchen.

PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS DEVELOPS RAPIDLY A Tyneside professional photographer who has found nationwide success specialising in commercial and PR work has added to her depth of field.

Angela Carrington founded The Bigger Picture almost a decade ago after lecturing in photography at Northumberland College. Since then, she has single-handily built up a large clientele of businesses including Reebok, Three and Virgin Money Foundation.

Although Angela’s clientele is based predominantly in the North East, the growth of her business has led to more shoots all across the UK and internationally including Majorca and Nepal.

When Interserve Construction commissioned the Bigger Picture to document the conversion of one of Newcastle’s most iconic buildings over a two-year period, Angela’s reputation in the construction sector was sealed.

The recent appointment of Jeanette Doherty as Director has also opened up new avenues for the company, as has the embracing of new technology in the form of 360º Virtual Reality.

NORTH EAST AGENCY TO GET NATIONAL ACCREDITATION A Seahouses based holiday company has been announced as the only self-catering holiday cottage rental agency in the North East to be awarded the coveted Quality Assured Agency marque from Visit England.

The award means the agency, which owns www.staynorthumbria.co.uk and www. northumberlandcottages.com, is only one of twenty seven agencies in the UK to currently hold the award. The award goes beyond the accommodation starring system and guarantees complete peace of

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mind in the whole customer care and quality of accommodation process.

Jackie and Neil Forsyth, who have 23 years’ experience in holiday property letting, own Stay Northumbria. Launched in 2006, the company now employs a further 10 people and is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Stay Northumbria look after property for owners in two ways. Some properties they manage entirely for owners from booking to cleaning and more, others they simply advertise and take bookings for.

Where work meets play Ideal for an offsite meeting, a team get-together or a spot of your next corporate training.

FREE, comfortable and well equipped meeting rooms plus break-out areas Challenging and exciting, our unique live game is a great team-building exercise Couldn’t be more convenient – just 5 minutes from the A1 in Team Valley.

Packages from just £15 including breakfast or lunch.

0191 482 2222 www.battlezonelaser.co.uk

LEISURE INSIGHT

NO ORDINARY EVENT VENUE

ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH AFFORDABLE LUXURY The Spectacle Standing proud for more than 600 years, the magnificent Lumley Castle Hotel dominates the County Durham landscape. Surrounded by beautiful parklands overlooking the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground, Lumley Castle is a magnificent monument to a bygone age of chivalry and honour.

No Ordinary Hotel Lumley Castle Hotel can accommodate a variety of events from a small board meeting of four up to a

full conference of 150. We’ve a full business service to help you; free WiFi, flexible delegate packages, team building fun, private dining and, when the day’s work is done, the opportunity to enjoy our famous Elizabethan Banquet or Murder Mystery Dinner. We ensure that your guests will leave with a great lasting impression.

Phenomenal Feasts A memorable event needs a memorable meal.

Lumley Castle’s award winning Head Chef and his team have created an array of exquisite menus

to tantalise the taste buds. Complimented by a selection of world sourced wines or contemporary cocktails, all delivered with first class service.

Royal Retreat Imagine a Hotel where every room is different.

Where each room is filled with historical artefacts and special touches, where you may find a fourposted bed, or perhaps a bathroom hidden behind a wardrobe or a bookcase. Lumley Castle Hotel has 73 bedrooms each as unique as the next, the best way to end a momentous day.

Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, DH3 4NX 0191 389 1111 Conferences@lumleycastle.com www.lumleycastle.com 108

AS COMMITTED A S YO U A R E

With a prime city centre location overlooking the River Wear, Radisson Blu Hotel Durham is perfect for corporate gatherings and lavish events; with remarkable meetings and events facilities.

11 flexible meeting rooms covering a total meeting space of 1100m2 Capacity for up to 500 delegates Complimentary Wi-Fi Car parking Meetings by the hour, daily delegate, residential and bespoke packages available 100% satisfaction guarantee

VENUE FACILITIES

MAX. CAPACITIES

FACILITIES

LEISURE FACILITIES

Total bedrooms 207 Parking spaces 120 Meeting rooms 11 Nearest station: Durham Miles from station 0.5

Theatre 400 Reception 500 Cabaret style 180 Boardroom 36 Dinner/banquet 280 Largest space (m2) 270.10

In-house AV Wi-Fi Individual climate control LCD projector and screen

Swimming pool Jacuzzi Sauna Steam room Spa Gymnasium

Frankland Lane, Durham, DH1 5TA, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)191 372 7200 Email: events.durham@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/en/hotel-durham

LEISURE INSIGHT

MEMORABLE EVENTS AT SLALEY HALL

A grand entrance leads to an even bigger welcome at Slaley Hall, a magnificent Edwardian mansion just 24 miles from Newcastle city centre, the sprawling 1,000 acre Slaley Hall estate is a refreshing and highly motivating environment for any delegate.

Why choose Slaley Hall?

More than £1m has been ploughed into Slaley Hall and there is still more to come, renovating rooms and public areas.

Explore our space, experience our finer touches and feel safe in the knowledge that we're here to help your meeting, conference or event be the best it can be.

Either a large gala dinner, a crucial conference or a brainstorming session, we offer you the space to think, the character to be individual and the attentive service to allow you to concentrate.

Whether you require privacy and discretion for a sensitive meeting or are looking to take the company away for a conference and team building event, the hotel is the perfect setting.

We also offer the latest technology including free Wi-Fi for all delegates We can organise team building in our stunning grounds including quad biking and Segways, private dining in our beautiful rooms and accommodation in our comfortable bedrooms. Alongside all of this is the support of our dedicated and flexible team.

With 11 conference and meeting rooms for up to 350 people, even at capacity there is still almost three acres of space per person!

Professionalism, dedication and attention to detail are key attributes. Our experienced events team will be on hand to ensure your conference or event runs without a hitch.

Flexible meeting rooms Maximum capacity - 350 delegates 141 spacious bedrooms 7 miles from Hexham station 400+ complimentary parking spaces Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel Up to 900 Mbps dedicated bandwidth Just 24 miles from Newcastle city centre Onsite Outdoor Activities centre So, escape the hustle and bustle of city life and see how taking your colleagues just a short journey into the countryside can improve your team morale, productivity and general well-being.

350 delegates? You need the Kielder Suite.

Board meeting for 10? We suggest the Priestman Suite.

Each corporate event is unique. Tell us your aims for the meeting and we will do our utmost to help you achieve them.

Call us today on 01434 676 503 or Email slaleyevents@qhotels.co.uk for more information. Wedding Fair Sunday 5th March 2017 from 11am.

Register at slaleyweddings@qhotels.co.uk

OFFER What’s your New Year’s resolution? Getting fit? – Great news, we are currently running a fantastic offer where if you book an event by 31st March 2017 you will be rewarded with a brand new smart fitness device.

Receive a Fitbit Zip/Flex/Charge 2/Surge/Blaze/Alta or an Apple Watch depending on Event spend. Remember your Fitbit or Apple Watch is ordered upon contracting of your event, so the sooner you book the sooner you can start boosting your fitness.

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M AC DO N A L D L I N D E N H A L L GO L F & CO U N TRY C LU B

INSPIRING MEETINGS AND MEMOR ABLE EVENTS A BE AUTIFUL 18TH CENTURY MANOR HOUSE SET WITHIN A 450 -ACRE ESTATE, OUR HOTEL IN NORTHUMBERL AND IS THE PERFEC T VENUE FOR DISTR AC TION FREE MEETINGS, TE AM BUILDING AC TIVITIES, CORPOR ATE GOLF DAYS OR AS A SPEC TACUL AR SET TING FOR CORPOR ATE EVENTS. • Located just off the A1 with free parking • Meeting capacity for up to 300 delegates • Six flexible meeting rooms • Elegant ballroom for up to 240 guests • Free and unlimited WiFi • Private grounds for team building activities

NEW FOR 2017!

THE CRYSTAL MAZE

A fantastic new team building activity where you can test your physical and mental skills before taking on the final challenge in the Crystal Dome.

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07/12/2016 15:26

LEISURE INSIGHT

WEDDING HEAVEN AT CRATHORNE HALL

Many brides and grooms dream of being Lord and Lady of the Manor for the day, and at Crathorne Hall Hotel, that’s exactly what we offer.

Set in 15 acres of beautiful grounds, this Edwardian country house is perfect for anyone wanting a traditional, fairytale wedding.

As one of only a cluster of Hand Picked Hotels in the UK, Crathorne Hall is an exclusive, four red-star property with a two AA rosette restaurant, ensuring the highest possible standards for your special day.

We only ever host one wedding a day, so the bride and groom feel truly special, and there is also the option of hiring the hotel for exclusive use – so you really can treat it as your own.

Our beautiful Edwardian Room is ideal for larger groups while the President’s Lounge provides a more intimate setting perfect for our “Just the two of us weddings”.

The team at Crathorne Hall know that planning your wedding is a huge undertaking, so you will be assigned a personal wedding coordinator who will be there to help with every detail to make sure every precious moment is perfect.

Set in a picturesque village next to the historic market town of Yarm and with easy access from the A19, Crathorne Hall Hotel really does have it all with a range of packages to suit every need:

make sure every precious moment is perfect. The Exclusive Use package is available all year and start from £7,900.

EDWARDIAN ELEGANCE Couples can make this country home their dream wedding venue with the Edwardian Elegance package. This special offer allows exclusive use of the Drawing Room and Edwardian Room for the wedding breakfast and evening reception, including the use of the private bar. Couples can also enjoy a three-course breakfast and a seasonal evening buffet prepared by award-winning chefs.

The Edwardian Elegance package is available on selected Fridays and Sundays throughout 2017 and prices start from £3,995.

SMALL AND INTIMATE The Edwardian Room or Presidents Lounge makes for the perfect setting for an intimate wedding.

With a three-course breakfast and a variety of tipples, the couple and their guests simply eat, drink and celebrate in style. The Small and Intimate package is available on selected dates and the prices start from £2,750.

EXCLUSIVE USE

JUST THE TWO OF US

Crathorne Hall offers couples an Exclusive Use package that allows them to enjoy the splendour of the venue, with the freedom to have their day, their way. This grade II listed house is one of the only venues in North Yorkshire to offer couples exclusive use, plus 20 bedrooms and the bridal suite. Each couple is assigned a personal wedding coordinator who is on hand to help with every detail to

At Crathorne Hall couples can create a truly personal and unique wedding day. The Just The Two Of Us package is perfect for the bride and groom who want to enjoy an intimate day celebrating their love in a fabulous location with wonderful service and amazing food. The Just The Two Of Us package is available from Monday to Thursday and prices start from £550.

www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/crathornehotel 112

Unique Venues

for weddings & conferences in Newcastle Whether you are looking for an exclusive setting for your special day or prestigious location near the heart of the city for a conference or business meeting, we have two distinguished venues to offer you.

Contact Us

Hospitality Services, Civic Centre, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8QH Telephone: 0191 277 7222 | Email: enquiries@theciviccentre.co.uk www.newcastle.gov.uk/weddings | www.newcastle.gov.uk/conferences

LEISURE INSIGHT

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING… by andrew fox

With a month of New Year’s trading under our belts, it’s so tempting to react to exceptional changes in the market or surprises that weren’t anticipated when strategies were formulated. So here are a few, rather obvious maxims to bear in mind for the next 2 months at least!

The Importance of Being an ‘Early Bird’ Allow yourself time to think at the beginning of each day. Whether pre-work or a sneaky 10 minutes in the office before everyone else arrives.

The day’s activities need to be checked and make sure the ‘big’ things are planned for.

The Importance of Being Positive

The Importance of Being Realistic

As a leader, people will look to you for reassurance and that ‘don’t worry, everything will be OK’ demeanour. Body language, tone and the words you choose are all crucial. Be convincing, even if you have doubts in your own mind. Your team will perform better if they feel confident about the future.

Belbin’s ‘Plants’ will want to reach the moon tomorrow. Google ‘Belbin team types’ if you’re unfamiliar. Be wary of distinguishing between a realistic target and an aspirational target. Have both. Report out and measure your progress on the realistic one. Plans need to be big enough to excite the team; and a bit scary.

The Importance of Being Strategic

The Importance of Being Fun

Have a plan. Don’t be reactive, your competitors will have already traded, taken share and moved on. Involve the functional experts in your plan; they need to own it and therefore be measured by its success. Your plan may be wrong but at least have something to guide your business with. Soon it will be obvious whether it is working or not.

You probably spend more daytime hours at work than at home, even counting weekends.

Metaphorically you have work spouses. You have to enjoy their company and the work. Have that mental release from those KPIs! The Importance of Being Balanced

The Importance of Being Bold Set your stall out and give it time. If you have taken advice and got team buy in, then you have to give it enough time to compensate for any blips or exceptional events in the market. Sometimes everyone will look to you for the decision. Everyone in your team is of course correct but eventually a

yes or no decision will have to be made. Make it and as Jon Bon Jovi said ‘Keep the Faith’ The Importance of Being Contingent If plan A doesn’t work have a plan B. If no plan B then revert back to Plan A. See above!

Yes discipline and SOPs are vital in an organisation, especially with a high degree of low contract labour but show a little ‘give’ sometimes. Understand the outside pressures on your team and show that empathetic approach now and then. It will be remembered.

So, come to think of it, anything but being Earnest!

LEISURE INSIGHT

MEET THE GM

Thierry Boos general manager, eslington villa

Whilst growing up did you always envision yourself working in the industry?

Can you summarize one of your greatest achievement to date?

Maintaining high standards during my career, which in turn enabled me to have the privilege to look after the French President, the German Chancellor and the Dalai Lama.

Family friends owned a very successful Hotel and restaurant in France and I started helping out at the age of sixteen; I have never looked back since.

Can you briefly outline for the readers your career path to date?

Which ideas are you currently working on?

Being classically trained from the Ecole Hoteliere de Strasbourg and further Hotel management schools in Switzerland, I have worked in multiple Michelin starred establishments on the continent. I came to the UK in 96 and worked and managed the successful Barn Again franchise. I joined Eslington Villa in 2009.

We are constantly trying to improve our customer experience, we recently went through a refurbishment phase and continue to develop the culinary journey.

Our special events are very popular especially our wine tasting evenings so this will be available for corporate events and we are developing our delegate experience for meetings and conferences.

Is there a mantra you always aspire to do business by?

Customer satisfaction is always paramount, putting yourself in to their shoes and questioning whether you would be satisfied is a great ethos to live by.

With various hotels in the region can you outline how you adopt to the changing trends in the hotel industry?

Is it really true that each day offers something different?

Customer expectations are always increasing, and Eslington Villa having been here for 30 years has had to adapt over that time. We are constantly updating the facilities in the hotel and improving the standards.

Absolutely, no two days are the same. We deal with such a varied public who all bring their unique sets of challenges, this makes this industry exciting and devoid of repetition or routine.

What do you feel is the Eslington Villa’s greatest asset?

How do you relax after hours?

Our staff, the people who work for us, who always go that extra step to offer a great experience to our customer and that country house feel in the heart of Low fell.

The industry is well renowned for its anti social hours, being a family man at heart I like to spend as much time as I can with my wife and young son. That said I like to keep fit and relax with fencing and surfing when time allows.

www.eslingtonvilla.co.uk 116

LEISURE INSIGHT

CITY SLICKERS Michael Grahamslaw checks into Hotel Indigo Newcastle

I am reminded every day that our region is a wonderful place in which to work and live.

London cannot compare to the vibrant city of Newcastle and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Why would I as I have the greatest job in the world getting to sample and review all the area’s hotspots and hidden gems for the enquiring readership of Northern Insight.

Its menu reflects their intentions with a range of tastes, textures and flavours available not to mention an incredible wine list which features a range of full bodied wines, champagnes, ports and ales all for the diners’ delectation.

This month was no exception as we booked into Hotel Indigo to experience everything they have to offer.

Positioned in the Grainger Town area, the hotel boasts an enviable City Centre location. It is conveniently located just a couple of minutes away from Newcastle’s Central Station and a 10 minute walk from the hallowed turf of St. James’ Park as well as the many shops, bars and attractions that make up downtown Newcastle. We checked in with high expectations and these were well placed following a very cheery welcome before being shown to our capacious double room. Looking out, we just couldn’t believe that we were in the heart of the city. Great stuff.

The design of the hotel has been heavily influenced by the location itself. Features within the hotel include bold geometric forms and repetitive patterns to mimic the rows of columns that can be seen within the local neighbourhood. Home to some fine architecture, the historic Grainger Town area is the ideal setting for what is a cuttingedge hotel. It possesses a highly impressive façade externally and upscale features internally include contemporary guest rooms with free wifi, flat screen TVs and work desks as well as mini-fridges and tea & coffee making facilities. They also include access to a plush cocktail lounge, an exercise room (for those who must) and a business centre (for those that have to) as well as the much vaunted

After drinking in the atmosphere with a quick livener we decided on starters of Crispy Whitebait and a Brandade of Smoked Mackerel. Unsure what a brandade is? It’s a sort of fish, oil and mayonnaise emulsion which needless to say tastes terribly good. Much like everything else in this joint!

Marco Pierre White, 100-seater Steakhouse Bar & Grill.

Following their unfortunate demise in the 70’s, there’s been a notable resurgence in steakhouses in recent times and Hotel Indigo obviously have their finger on the nation’s culinary pulse by including such a prestigious one in-house. This sleek and sexy celebrity steakhouse takes gastronomy to a new level. Offering what Marco himself describes as “affordable glamour” this Bar & Grill offers diners world class food in an environment which is fun and informal.

Marco Pierre White restaurants aim to be all about the experience; the buzz, the atmosphere and engaging the company of friends and family in sumptuous, comfortable surroundings. Well, they certainly proved the point very well indeed as we were shown to a highly prized corner booth. www.hinnewcastle.co.uk 118

Having promised myself I’d steer away from the usual peppered steak, I daringly went for the Grilled 8oz Swordfish with new potatoes whilst my wife Lisa opted for the Roast Rump of Lamb á la Dijonnaise. Sometimes it just pays to branch out a little.

This had been a great meal and whilst replete, we did feel compelled to look at the dessert menu anyway. It would have been rude not to. So that’s exactly what we did do – look. I’m afraid even our favourite puddings of New York baked Cheesecake or Chicago Chocolate Brownie couldn’t quite tempt us this time so we instead retired to our quarters with our new years resolutions still (semi) intact.

A freshly cooked breakfast the following morning rounded off what had been a memorable stay and everything you would expect from a four star hotel of this calibre. Hotel Indigo ticked all the right boxes for all the right reasons.

LEISURE INSIGHT

GRAZING ON A SUNDAY AFTERNOON Michael & Jack Grahamslaw visit the Holiday Inn Washington

After an unusual period of abstinence following on from an especially lardy Christmas, our first BIG meal of the New Year happened to be Sunday Lunch at the Holiday Inn Washington. The hotel boasts a bright and airy in-house eatery named “Traders” and whilst this isn’t perhaps your immediate choice for a Sunday luncheon, it did seem popular with those locals “in the know.”

Having received the warmest of Washington welcomes, we sunk into our cosy corner spot and cast an eye over their Sunday lunch offering.

What struck us immediately was that all dishes were of the plated not carvery variety which ensures for a higher quality, more personalised experience.

The range of dishes is extensive too. Although often subject to change, we sized up starters of Soup of The Day (Broccoli and Stilton), duck spring rolls with a sweet chilli dipping sauce and the chicken liver pate with toasted bread. Although somewhat unadventurously, we disembarked with a couple of old favourites, the Prawn Cocktail for me and a Melon Duo for Jack. Albeit simple to produce, both dishes were fresh, sprightly starters which bursted with flavour and were lapped up by the both of us.

Palettes now awoken, we ventured on to the mains.

As part of Sunday Lunch, Traders offer up roasts

of Chicken, Pork and Beef alongside other Main Courses like Chicken & Leek Pie, Baked Salmon and a Tomato Ragu for veggies. I tucked into a nonvegetarian Chicken Breast whilst Jack opted for the traditional topside of beef. The portions at this establishment are also to be applauded with our plates arriving piled high with meat, mash, roast potato and Yorkshire pudding. Vegetables were also in abundance as we feasted on broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, swede and my new personal favourite, sautéed cabbage. It soon grew apparent that this was well beyond your typical Sunday Lunch fodder with the meat sumptuously succulent and the veg a crunchy al-dente.

Diners with a little more self-restraint may have body-swerved the Strawberry Cheesecake yet I have none of that and was glad of it when a great slab arrived drizzled in raspberry coulis. Jack meanwhile rounded off proceedings with a lemon www.hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk 119

meringue pie served with fresh cream which sadly wasn’t around long enough for me to steal a spoonful.

All in all we enjoyed a splendid Sunday afternoon repast which we both agreed offers great value with 2 Courses available for £12.00 and the obligatory 3 for £15.00. Before departing, we did get the chance to chat to General Manager, Paul Mandeir or at least his weekend incarnation! Never off duty, Paul works tirelessly to ensure the best possible customer experiences and is keen to keep this well-established North East hotel on the map.

With great access to the A1, The Holiday Inn lends itself nicely to business meetings, overnight stays and lunchtime pit-stops – not to mention Sunday Lunch. Totally replete we headed for home with our new years resolutions in tatters, but why should this year be any different ?!

LEISURE INSIGHT

GIRL POWER KEY TO TIGER TIGER TEAM This January seen high street giant John Lewis’ new Managing Director Paula Nickolds begin her job as head of the chain behind Newcastle’s own Fenwick store. The thing that makes this appointment so special is that Nickolds is the first female MD in the company’s 100 year long history.

Women in business are flourishing and for someone coming from a hospitality background, it should come as no surprise that results are being seen just a year since starting her job.

With a management team including Jen and GM Tania Woodhouse, the Tiger Tiger team are roaring back against the perception unfortunately still held by some, of women in business.

That’s exactly the situation in which Tiger Tiger’s Sales Manager Jennifer Shepherd finds herself as she enters her second year with the Newcastle based venue.

Jen said: “Competing in a male dominated field such as business, I think women still feel the pressures of having to legitimise their position. Although as a culture we have moved on from the sexist ways of the past, there’s still that feeling of women being undermined in certain industries.

Since starting in January 2016, Jen has succeeded in managing and focusing the sales team to not only hit, but smash their targets. More than that, for Jen, it is more about making sure those who visit Tiger Tiger leave having had a good experience.

Alongside her wealth of knowledge and invaluable experience in customer service, hospitality and sales, Jen has worked as a trainer, bookings manager and property manager. But apart from her and the team’s eclectic skills and experience, there’s one thing Jen feels helps set Tiger Tiger apart from the competition – girl power.

“At Tiger Tiger we have a strong female presence within our management team.”

With pre-bookings on the up thanks to various inbound and outbound tasks, Tiger Tiger are a team to be reckoned with.

Jen’s journey to Tiger Tiger may have taken her through the property world, but it’s in the industry she finds herself now – the bar and club landscape – which has always been a favourite of Jen’s, a busy www.tigertiger.co.uk/newcastle 120

world in which she flourishes.

She explained, “I have worked with Operations Manager Kevin Walker for years in other similar roles and he approached me when the job became available.

“He knew I would be the best for the job as I really work well in a quick paced working environment like this one.”

It’s an appointment that has paid off in spades, with a noticeable upturn in pre-booking revenues – but as Jen says, it’s not down to one person in particular, and the whole team plays its part in making Tiger Tiger a “roarsome” place to be.

“The team here is unlike any other I’ve worked with.

I’ve never been part of such a supportive group. We are like one big family with the same goal in mind – make a huge success of the venue.”

Girl power may have been big in the 90s, but thanks to Tiger Tiger it’s making a comeback.

COFFEE, LUNCH, DINNER, DRINKS…

EAT, DRINK, SOCIALISE & ENJOY

0191 2845533

95 HIGH STREET, GOSFORTH, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE3 4AA Facebook: Cafe No. 95 | Twitter: CafeNo95 | www.cafe-95.co.uk

LEISURE INSIGHT

KING OF THE CASTLE

Michael Grahamslaw books in for some medieval merriment

The North East plays home to some truly unique venues although perhaps none are as historic as Lumley Castle Hotel.

Wrapped in acres of leafy parkland, this 14th Century Castle has been beautifully preserved and cuts an imposing figure amongst the rolling hillsides that make up County Durham. Onsite, it’s all fortified turrets, manicured lawns and clandestine courtyards – an atmosphere fit for a princess you might say. With this in mind, I rounded up my Wife Lisa (ever the damsel in distress) for a fairytale weekend away!

Impressively renovated, Lumley Castle boasts 73 guest rooms which are divided over 3 different locations namely; castle, courtyard and the castle mews. We were lucky enough to bag a much coveted bedroom in the heart of the castle although admittedly the other two areas aren’t too shabby either. Decked out in a grand, baronial style, the bedrooms are in keeping with the rich history of the place and ours came complete with a tasselled 4-poster bed, regency wallpaper and other elaborate furnishings alongside a range of amenities including flat screen TVs, digital radios and complimentary internet access. A neat fusion then of the modern and the medieval.

In fact, the whole set up pays homage to the heritage of the castle. There’s nooks, crannies, suits of armour and we were even checked in by a receptionist in full medieval dress! Lisa pounced on the opportunity and quipped about finding even more outdated numbers in my current wardrobe.

Someone’s staying in the dungeon next time!

With County Durham on the doorstep, Lumley offers a great base camp from which to explore all it has to offer. Riverside walks, Beamish Museum and Durham City Centre are to name but a few of the nearby attractions and that’s not to mention Chester Le-Street Golf Club which directly neighbours the hotel. Though, being a bitingly cold Winter’s day, we instead elected to remain within the confines of the battlements and took afternoon tea in the cosy library bar. This was followed by a quick snooze and a shower before our evening meal.

Renowned for its longstanding association with good food, the Hotel’s “Black Knight Restaurant” is popular with both guests and non-guests alike www.lumleycastle.com 122

and it’s easy to see why. Their á la carte menu is traditionally British in essence yet is also characterised by a few exotic twists. We dillied and dallied for some time before deciding on starters of Confit of Belly Pork and Smoked Trout Mousseline.

These most agreeable openers were then followed up by the Roast Pheasant Breast with wild mushroom meat loaf and the “Lumley Beef Fillet” – a signature dish consisting of fillet steak wrapped in parma ham and stuffed with blue cheese. Naturally all of this was washed down with a goblet or two of the Cabernet Sauvignon.

Despite Lumley’s widely held reputation as a “Haunted House”, there was to be no apparitions this time and we both enjoyed an undisturbed nights sleep. A cooked breakfast the following morning set us up for the journey home although it was with some reluctance that we peeled ourselves away. I would thoroughly recommend to anyone unacquainted with the charms of Lumley Castle; fabulous food, unique bedrooms and not a poltergeist in sight!

H E A LT H I N S I G H T

NORTH EAST HOSPITAL LAUNCHES PRIVATE GP SERVICE Doctor Zak Uddin, the new GP at Spire Washington Hospital

A North East hospital has launched a new private GP service.

During appointments Dr Uddin will help patients understand their medical problems including everything from high blood pressure to cold and flu, to mental health problems. He will offer consultations in various forms including face-to-face as well as via telephone and email, in accordance with patients’ needs.

Spire Washington Hospital is now offering appointments with Doctor Zak Uddin.

Patients can see Dr Uddin for a broad range of private services including one to one consultation, diagnosis, treatment and advice, and onward referral to specialists if required.

Shelagh Alderson, Hospital Director at Spire Washington said: “With everyday life it can be hard to get an appointment in a timely manner at your own GP practice.

The new service we’re offering at Spire Washington Hospital will enable faster access to appointments which means patients can be diagnosed and treated quicker.”

Dr Uddin said: “I’m very much looking forward to providing high quality, primary healthcare with longer appointment times and excellent facilities in a patient friendly environment.”

Dr Uddin will be running a clinic on Friday afternoons. To find out more about the service or to book an appointment call 0191 448 9645 or email info@spirewashington.com 124

After

5PM

in Newcastle Council’s 7 multi-storey car parks

Park free from 5pm Mon-Sat in 7 Council multi-storey car parks.

Delivered by

Shop late in Newcastle ’til 8pm Mon-Fri and 7pm Sat.

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H E A LT H I N S I G H T

1ST ANNIVERSARY FOR PINNACLE HEALTH & FITNESS

11th January 2016 saw the opening of a new fitness facility, Pinnacle Health and Fitness on Brunswick Industrial Estate in Wideopen. The first year of any business is an indicator of how successful an enterprise will be. In the case of Pinnacle, the future looks rosy indeed.

Greg Williamson

Fitness companies constantly boast of attention to customer’s needs. At this facility, they make a conscious effort to achieve that and to ensure everyone is made to feel welcome. As a result, members enjoy quality training and create friendships with fellow trainers effortlessly.

The Fitness Centre Director, Greg Williamson, who works together with fellow Directors Tracy Mason and Annette Watts, said “I have a particular keenness to ensure our members enjoy their work outs when they come here, so great store is placed on enjoyment of clients who are both new and existing members of Pinnacle, he says, “Walking through the door for the first time in any fitness club can be a difficult experience, so I and the other staff here, take great pains to welcome them and introduce them to our facility.”

Assessment plays an important factor in the determining of an individual’s training programme.

A great deal of attention is paid to the best programme a new client needs. Once that is determined, the fitness agenda is created, to offer the member suitable workouts to achieve their goals.

There is a multitude of membership options the client can take from general gym membership to personal training options,which are one to one

is designed to achieve a managed reduction in weight loss, alongside building a client’s fitness levels, something we all need after the rigours of Christmas eating. It’s not designed to achieve rapid results but to get the individual used to a healthy eating regime alongside a basic exercise regime.

The focus is on a nutrition and work out regime which is simple and effective.

Following these early good results, the client can then progress to more stringent and robust exercise under quality supervision, to achieve regular success.

“The most gratifying thing about this work is when I look at someone two or three weeks into their work and see someone who is nothing like the person who walked through the door on their first day. That is the most satisfying experience I can have in this industry,” says Greg.

sessions with various staff, qualified in aspects such as strength and conditioning to mass weight loss specialist’s to body building experts and even nutritional professionals. The key as you will realise is comprehensive fitness programmes, tailored to the individual’s needs.

What you have with Pinnacle is a company in its field who cares about its clientele. A fitness facility which goes the extra mile in helping those clients achieve their goals and is committed to retaining individuals with a view to making them the best they can be.

The signature programme at the facility is the body transformation syllabus, the programme

Their first year may have just ended but the second is destined to be even better.

Pinnacle Health and Fitness, Unit 1, Brunswick Industrial Estate, Newcastle upon Tyne. Tel 0191 4324674 www.pinnaclefitness.org 126

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Relax and enjoy the perfect 3 hour package together this Valentine’s Includes time together in our Private Spa Suite with Sauna, Steam Room & Relaxation Area.

Fresh fruit platter & fruit juices, complimentary glass of pink champagne & Belgian chocolates.

Followed by a blissful Full Body Massage

Package includes a FREE ELEMIS Exotic Gift Collection for the ladies (worth £30)

£89.00 per person

Available throughout FEBRUARY or on a GIFT VOUCHER (valid for six months)

Couples Massage

Enjoy a blissful Back, Neck, Face, Shoulder and Scalp Massage together, followed by a complimentary glass of pink bubbles & Belgian chocolates.

£99.00 per couple

Available throughout FEBRUARY or on a GIFT VOUCHER (valid for six months)

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LEISURE INSIGHT

LANDMARK FOR SPORT NEWCASTLE Sport Newcastle was created from the former Newcastle upon Tyne Sports Council and offers funding and support to men, women and children seeking to realise their sporting dream.

It has been offering that help for fifty years.

It doesn’t matter whether you are an Olympic champion like Victoria Pendleton, a Rugby Union World Cup winner like Jonny Wilkinson or an individual who is just starting to find their way in the world of sport; if you are in need of some assistance, it is worth contacting Sport Newcastle.

The same applies whether you belong to a large, established community association or a recently formed small club, Sport Newcastle will try to help.

To mark the 50th landmark, Sport Newcastle is aiming to raise £50,000 which will go to four key projects in 2017.

One of the driving forces behind Sport Newcastle is its President and Secretary, Malcolm Dix. He also reaches a landmark this year, celebrating 40 years with Sport Newcastle.

Malcolm is synonymous with sport in the North East. He’s probably best known as one of the leaders of the Magpie Group which led to the arrival of Kevin Keegan at Newcastle Utd. He’s now Honorary Vice President for life at the club.

“Sport Newcastle and its predecessor, the Newcastle Sports Council, has helped hundreds of clubs, organisations, communities and individuals over its fifty years, so we want to do something really special to mark this occasion,” said Malcolm.

“Our four chosen projects will each receive £5000 but of course we still want to hear from anyone else who feels that we may be able to provide assistance.”

What are the four main projects?

Newcastle Utd FC Foundation wants to recruit, support and train 5 assistant female coaches. These young women will be equipped to work as football coaches and to act as excellent role models for young female footballers.

The Falcons Community Association wants to expand their Deaf Rugby Programme by working in schools to raise awareness of how to offer an inclusive sporting environment for deaf children and those children with hearing impairments.

The Newcastle Eagles Community Foundation want to develop their ‘Ahead of the Game’ programme by mentoring and developing 25 coaches, and helping 10 volunteers to achieve level 2 coaching qualifications. There will be a direct impact on over 500 players aged 6-18.

Hat-Trick intend to set up a Sports Coaching programme for 10 Y12/13 (6th form) students who currently volunteer for the organisation. Students will be provided with work experience placements, tutoring and training which will help them qualify for jobs in the sport and leisure industry.

So, what do you need to do if you feel Sport Newcastle can help?

Individuals may receive a grant up to £250. Clubs and organisation may be awarded up to £500. The grant may be used for such things as travelling expenses, kit, coaching or for help in organising an event.

Clubs, organisations etc. must be located in Tyne and Wear. Individuals need to be either a member of a recognised sports club in Tyne and Wear, or live in the county. Sport Newcastle will need a run-down of what the grant would be used for and what sort of benefits are expected.

Sport Newcastle also has a Sport Scholar programme. Scholars are usually chosen from the Rising Stars programme which identifies 15 young people each year who are already making a name for themselves in their chosen sport. They each receive a scholarship grant of £5,000, spread over 3 years.

If you are interested in receiving a grant, the best idea is to go onto the Sport Newcastle website and head for the Grants section. You can download an application form.

If you or your organisation/company would like to sponsor a Sport Scholar, please get in touch with Sport Newcastle.

And of course you can support Sport Newcastle by attending one of their events.

The highlight of the year is their annual dinner at the Newcastle Civic Centre on March 6th. It is always a star-studded evening.

Or why not take part in their brilliant Charity Golf Day at Matfen Hall Golf Club on June 30th.

You can sponsor an event or simply make a donation, or why not run your own event with any funds raised being split 50-50.

For more details, log onto www.sportnewcastle.org or get in touch with Malcolm Dix on either 0771 844 8057or contacts@sportnewcastle.org.uk You can also contact him via the website.

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LEISURE INSIGHT

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LEISURE INSIGHT

WRAITH & COX BRING MAYWEATHER JNR TO NEWCASTLE In their biggest coup to date Tyneside promoters Steve Wraith (Newcastle Legends) and Daniel Cox (Relentless Promotions) have announced that they are to bring Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather to the North East for a special Sunday dinner date in March 2017.

Having initially confirmed the event on their respective social media accounts that the global superstar and pound for pound greatest boxer of the modern generation would be headed to the region, fight fans have been clamouring for the tickets, of which there are standard, VIP and VVIP packages available.

The event, taking place on the afternoon of Sunday March 5th at Dunston’s Lancastrian Suite, sees fight fans afforded the opportunity to meet and listen to the life story of the icon that is the undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr. For the two promoters it’s the start of what the pair is expecting to be a massive year. The duo are looking at bringing two of the biggest 'fighters' on the planet to Tyneside, starting with the imminent arrival of Mayweather and it’s thanks to Spencer (Brown) for having the faith in them that an event of this magnitude is happening.

The sport of boxing means a lot to people in the region and the duo have brought some big names to the area in the past. Timing was the key though with this one and they’ve certainly not been let down by a very expectant public. The full team at Newcastle Legends and Relentless Promotions are excited at the prospect of pulling this off.

The demand for Mayweather has been greater than when they brought Mike Tyson here and it is expected that Mayweather could sell out twice over.

The American superstar is often regarded as being one of the greatest fighters of all time and boasts a quite incredible career of 49 wins from 49 fights, with 26 of those being via stoppage, a record that is matched only by the legendary Rocky Marciano.

Mayweather has held world titles in five different weight categories whilst enjoying victories against names such as Gatti, De La Hoya, Pacquiao, Hatton, Alvarez, Cotto, Mosley, it’s an endless list.

Rumours have been rife in the media recently of a potential return to the ring with either superfights against the current, number one ranked fighter, Gennady Golovkin, or with UFC superstar Conor McGregor, who coincidentally is rumoured to have been granted a boxing license in the state of Nevada.

Not since the visit of the Greatest of All Time, Muhammad Ali, to Tyneside in 1977, has such an event been so hugely anticipated with the early demand for tickets already looking as though it will exceed what is actually available.

Limited tickets are still available though (at time of writing) for which the VVIP includes a meet and greet and professional photo with Floyd Mayweather Jr, one signed glove and a Sunday lunch (only 50 packages available). Whilst VIP packages include a professional photo with Mayweather Jr and a Sunday lunch. Entry Only tickets are priced at £99.

www.proboxingnewcastlegateshead.com @proboxnclegates 0191 2299632 130

CONTACT US

THE COQUETVALE STATION ROAD ROTHBURY NORTHUMBERLAND NE65 7QH 01669 622900 www.coquetvale.co.uk stay@coquetvale.co.uk

Perfectly located on the edge of the Northumberland National Park in the scenic and tranquil village of Rothbury, this 19th century town house is an ideal setting for an intimate wedding celebration.

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