Northern Insight - March 2016 by Northern Insight

NORTHERN

INSIGHT MARCH 2016

Shine bright like a Diamond business property media technology motors leisure issue 9

The Coast al Account ant s

ReadMilburn & C O M PA N Y

Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors

71 Howard Street, North Shields, NE30 1AF t: 0191 257 0355 e: info@readmilburn.co.uk Annual Accounts • Self Assessment • PAYE Compliance • VAT Compliance • Management Accounts • Statutory Audits • Tax Planning • Revenue Investigations • Contribution Agency • Investigations • VAT Investigations • Company Formations • Business Start-Ups • Information technology • Forensic Accounting • Special Assignments

NORTHERN INSIGHT

foreword Welcome to the March edition of Northern Insight Magazine. With Spring almost upon us it is time to reflect on a rollercoaster start of the year which has saw the continued growth of the publication amidst great support from readers and advertisers alike. Issue 9 contains a healthy mix of business, property, media, technology, motors and leisure. There is also a good range of social photographs from recent events showcasing some fantastic companies. Our cover star is The Diamond Group who offer a hassle free approach to IT, Communication and all other tech related services. Thank you all for your continued support. Enjoy.

Michael Grahamslaw, Publisher

contents march ‘16 Business News - 6-7 Cover Story - 12-13 The Diamond Group

Recent Appointments - 19 Entrepreneurs Interview - 32-33 Amy Jackson

Fashion - 36-37 Business Lunch - 44-45 Hinnies, Whitley Bay

Media News - 67 Technology News - 78 Arts News - 88-89 Travel - 94-95 Leisure News - 96-97 Wine - 100

credits Managing Director - Michael Grahamslaw Design & Web - Louise O’Rourke, Ruairi McGuinness Lead Photography - Crest Photography Additional Photography - Gordon Taylor Editorial Contributors Ken Spearen, Jack Grahamslaw, Holly Grahamslaw, Alastair Stewart, Alex Nelson, Gordon Taylor

www.northern-insight.co.uk

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@ninsightmag

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.

BUSINESS NEWS

Further expansion planned for MACAW Engineering A North-East engineering consultancy company, which has grown every year since its inception, is marking its 20th anniversary by revealing further expansion plans. MACAW Engineering, established in Newcastle in 1996, works globally to provide specialist consultancy services to the oil and gas industry. Its client base includes some of the biggest players. The business, which was founded by four former senior British Gas engineers, now employs around 100 people and has been on a path of steady and measured growth for the past 20 years. It has moved or expanded its premises three times to help accommodate its growing

workforce and workload. MACAW is planning to further increase its employee numbers during 2016 and is also looking to take on additional workshop space to enable it to keep pace with demand for its testing facilities. The company, based in Quorum Business Park, works on a wide spectrum of projects from concept stage to decommissioning and is widely regarded as an international specialist in its field. Paul Casson, Principal Engineer at MACAW, said: “The business was established 20 years ago and we have seen year on year growth ever since, often exceeding even our own expectations. We

have always been committed to building a strong business which will grow and endure.” Newcastle law firm Sintons handles MACAW’s property work, dealing with their move to Quorum and facilitating its ongoing expansion. Tom Wills, Associate in Sintons’ Real Estate department, has worked with MACAW for a number of years. He said: “The success and consistent growth that MACAW has seen is a testament to the strong leadership and clear direction they have there. Sintons are very pleased to be able to work alongside such a dynamic business which is making its mark regionally, nationally and internationally.”

Gosforth based Phoenix Eye & Phoenix Security wins coveted UK Security Award Leading UK security leader, Phoenix Eye and Phoenix Security, have won the industry led ACS Champion Award at a glittering ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in London, which was hosted by Jimmy Carr. The award was established to recognise the highest possible standards in the security industry. It recognises good working practice that encourages a safer environment and seeks to champion only those that have taken exceptional steps to further the spirit of the scheme. Steve Howe, Managing Director of Phoenix Eye and Phoenix Security, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive the ACS Champion Award. We currently have employees whose top priority

is to create a safer environment for the British public. Phoenix Security is all about being vigilant, efficient and highly trained.” Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, said: “Congratulations to Phoenix Eye and Phoenix Security for their fantastic award win. It has been great to work with them on developing and implementing vulnerability training. I wish Phoenix every success in the future in continuing its award-winning work.” Phoenix Eye and Phoenix Security have become one of the largest door supervision and security companies in the United Kingdom and continue to report solid growth.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Paul Taylor brings development to a leading training company

Northumberland National Park wins National Park of the Year Award

Turnover and employment both on the increase at roofing business

A North East training company, which has reached a turnover of over £1m in just two years, is planning to grow further by increasing its management team. Paul Taylor has joined JB Skills Training Ltd as Business Development Manager. He is bringing with him a great deal of experience having developed a number of business portfolios for companies across the region. Working with colleges, schools and employers, Paul will engage with those that can benefit from learning packages. Managing Director, Dave Macmillan, explained: “JB Skills Training started less than 2 years ago with just 2 people. We now have over 22 employees and around 30 consultants and are determined to keep growing. Paul with his experience and ‘can-do’ personality just fitted with our ethics perfectly.”

Northumberland National Park has won the prestigious accolade of National Park of The Year in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards 2015/16. The win follows the park’s nomination by BBC presenter Ellie Harrison. Ellie’s nomination highlighted the National Park’s “meadows, moorland, peat bogs and ancient woodlands” and its “vivid history, solitude, dark skies and superb wildlife.” Tony Gates, Chief Executive of Northumberland National Park Authority, said: “The Award is great for Northumberland National Park as it highlights our county’s outstanding natural beauty.” Glen Sanderson, Chairman of Northumberland National Park Authority, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won. I am hugely grateful to the people who live and work in the Park and make it as special as it is.”

Turnover is going through the roof for the Birtley-based roofing business, Roofclad Systems, eighteen months after its acquisition by a new owner. Entrepreneur and businessman, David Tilley, who is widely experienced in the sector, has increased turnover from £3.3m when he took over in 2014 to almost £5m by the end of this financial year (March 31). Staff numbers have also grown to over 50. Roofclad has invested over £80k in fabrication machinery. This investment allows the company to manufacture its own roofing components, such as steel and aluminium flashings. David believes this investment will not only make the company more profitable but is already contributing to greater efficiency, allowing Rooflcad to respond more swiftly to customers’ requirements.

Tyne and Wear Metro is announced as presenting partner of Great North Snowdogs 2016 An iconic character from one of the nation’s most enchanting TV animations, The Snowman and the Snowdog, is being brought to life on the Tyne and Wear Metro system.

A North East recruitment agency is celebrating a successful first year in business.

50 Larger than life sculptures of the Snowdog are to be showcased as part of a new trail in aid of the St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice.

Fleet Recruitment, based in Newton Aycliffe, was set up by Neil O’Connor after he became disheartened with the industry. Much to his delight, in the first 12 months Fleet Recruitment has already expanded into a larger office and strengthened its team.

The Snowdogs will be on show for ten weeks from September 2016. Once the trail ends, the sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for the charity.

Fleet Recruitment specialises in recruiting candidates for jobs in sales and marketing, engineering and in the legal sector and currently employs five, highly experienced consultants.

it www.synergi.it

Weston joins the ranks A North East care home company has secured Falklands War veteran Simon Weston as its ambassador. Simon, who was named Britain’s most heroic figure, has become an ambassador for St Martins Care, after being impressed with its commitment to providing excellence in care. Family-owned St Martins Care, based in Chester le Street, County Durham, operates six care homes across the region and has been one of the leading care providers in the North East for over 20 years.

Digital transformation for modern business. Why not attend one of our free Office 365 educational events? Book now.

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

Big data, big opportunity SearchBI’s Richard Deas says big data offers big opportunity for skilled people

Big data is on the rise says Richard Deas, a director at Newcastle specialist IT recruiters SearchBI, who explains more and highlights the career opportunities available in one of the most vibrant IT sectors. 2016 and welcome to the world of big data analytics: the process of examining large amounts of data to uncover hidden patterns, unknown correlations and other useful information that can be used to make better and more informed strategic decisions. With big data analytics, skilled experts can analyse hundreds of millions of data combinations in multiple data stores and abundant formats that conventional analytics and business intelligence solutions cannot touch. Highperformance analytics is necessary to process that much data in order to work out what is and isn’t important. This year will see data analytics reach new heights - as advanced data technologies emerge, businesses will process and store more information than ever before. In turn, this will drive growth across many sectors as these organisations scaleup on the back of implementing ‘next-generation’ analytics’ platforms that help them to tap into the power of their data, whether in the cloud or on-premises. Big data’s migration to the mainstream can only continue to growth because analytics for many companies is now perceived as a critical competitive resource. According to a survey

by Deloitte*, 96% of the respondents felt that within the next three years data analytics will become imperative in their organisation. This was inferred from the fact that there is a vast amount of data that has not yet been used, and only a rudimentary analytic has been done. Forty-nine per cent of the respondents actively viewed data analytics as a critical factor that will inform strategic initiatives and decision-making. The significance of data analytics’ professionals is also being stressed by the fact that data is useless without competent skills in analysis and interpretation. Compared to previous years, we are currently seeing an increase in the job opportunities in data analytics and big data management. There’s no question that data analytic skills are in high demand, and that is boosting the wages for qualified professionals. It is a trend that is being witnessed globally with countries such as the UK and Australia being particularly affected. Indeed, a recent report published by the Institute of Analytic Professionals of Australia (IAPA) showed that the average salary for data analytics experts was twice the average Australian full-time salary. Elsewhere, in India, data analytics professionals earn 50% more than other IT professionals.

So what are the career opportunities working in the world of big data? Quite simply there are numerous types of data analytics and choices in job titles for those experienced and adept candidates, with the requisite technical and creative skills in NoSQL, machine learning and data mining, statistical and quantitative analysis, SQL, data visualization, general purpose programming languages and problem solving among others. There are many options regarding the nature of jobs, and people can choose data analytics from different data environments, which include prescriptive, predictive and descriptive analytics. And when it comes to specific job titles available these can range from data analytics for a business consultant to a data solution architect, commanding upwards of six figure salaries for the top performing candidates. SearchBI specialises in niche IT recruitment, supplying professionals such as developers, consultants, project managers, business analysts and sales and account management executives, to specialist markets throughout the UK. This includes recruiting for professionals skilled in QlikView data visualisation technologies as well as those experienced in advanced BI systems.

More at www.searchbi.co.uk www2.deloitte.com/global/en/pages/deloitte-analytics/articles/the-analytics-advantage.html

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Northumberland’s national treasure

Tony Gates As Northumberland National Park prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary next month, chief executive Tony Gates spoke to Northern Insight magazine about the demands and delights of being at the helm of our region’s own national treasure. Tony, what were your early career ambitions and aspirations? Although I’ve never had a career plan I’ve always been ambitious and as a youngster I wanted to change the world. Maturity brings realism but I still harbour the same ambition. In the early 1990s my wife Faye and I worked on a development programme in The Gambia, West Africa. Our team installed the first piped water supplies into some rural communities and oversaw a road building programme where previously there was little or no infrastructure. The circumstances are very different but the same purpose drives me today. I want Northumberland National Park to inspire a new generation to see their world and its possibilities a little differently. Can you briefly outline your career path for the readers? My first job was in the planning team at Cardiff City Council. Faye and I then spent time in The Gambia before eventually returning to Northern Ireland where I became chief executive at Mourne Heritage Trust, a charitable body tasked with caring for the Mourne Mountains, one of Northern Ireland’s key visitor assets. We were very settled at that point in our lives but the Northumberland National Park job was impossible to turn down. Describe a typical day. I’m not sure I can describe any day as ‘typical’ but my first meeting is regularly about progress with the construction of The Sill, the new National Landscape Discovery Centre. Then it might be a

catch-up with our leadership team to discuss a whole raft of issues that come with managing 405 square miles of England’s finest landscape. Next I might be involved in a video conference discussing government legislation with my fellow national park chief executives. I get out to the park whenever I can so I might visit Simonside to speak with local contractors working on footpath repairs. After returning to the office to bring myself back up to speed on the day’s events I try to be home at a reasonable hour.

challenges so she has taught me how to fight… in the right way!

Is there a mantra you aspire to when doing business?

In work, it’s the innovative small businesses in the park. For example Unison Colour in Tarset makes and exports more than a quarter of a million art pastel sticks every year. Shepherd Walks has a base in our office in Rothbury and is now the UK’s leading independent retailer of GPS units. Another is Bloodaxe Books, internationally recognised for quality in literature and excellence in book design, with a base right here in our rural enterprise hub in Hexham. I take inspiration from each of them. If they can all be leaders in their field, so can we.

Don’t expect problems to resolve themselves, get on and fix them as quickly as possible.

What are you currently working on?

What is your greatest business achievement to date? It comes from seeing what people can achieve when they’re able to play to their strengths. It’s important to provide leadership and support but if you trust good people to do what they do best you can achieve remarkable things together. The Sill is a great example. We’re embarking on this fantastic £14.8m project to build the National Landscape Discovery Centre right here in Northumberland. Who are your biggest influences in and out of business? Outside of business it was my Dad who taught me the value of honest, hard work and it’s Faye who is incredibly supportive and remains my goto source of advice. My oldest daughter, Maddie, has learning difficulties and faces many health

One of the biggest challenges all national parks face is how to deliver all that we have to against a backdrop of public spending pressure. We’re seeing a seismic change in the economics of national parks and we have to react to this new commercial reality. One of my priorities is to ensure we maximise value from the things we do. This means for example we have to deliver 30,000 activity days every year at The Sill but in doing so we will generate income and create jobs. Where do you hope to be in 5 years’ time? Let’s wait and see but I hope to still be healthy, happy and busy. Outside of the office what do you do to relax? I enjoy running, cycling, the local folk music scene and the cinema but above all else I cherish family time wherever it may be.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Keeping One Step Ahead in a Data-Centric Economy Jake Spence, Sales Operations Director at durhamlane

Market Intelligence is essential to the survival and growth of a business, explains Jake Spence, Sales Operations Director at business performance company durhamlane. Market Intelligence enables companies to gain insight into their business and explore the merit of expanding into other sectors. It can also provide warning signs and proof that a change in direction is more than a gut-feel. We like to think our market intelligence service blends market research with a sales edge, says Jake, highlighting where the best-fit opportunities can be found and identifying the best ways to approach potential customers with a solution that is both required and affordable. In our fast-paced economic climate, businesses can’t afford to waste time, money or effort speaking to people who have no need or interest in what they have to offer. When exploring and creating new growth opportunities it is critical to identify the right market, the right person at the right business and get in front of them at the right time. To do this fundamental strategic thinking is required along with accurate data.

Guidance for business decisions Market Intelligence is not just an accumulation of information and data, it's a combination of information, analysis and insight that enables

businesses to make accurate and confident decisions. It can assist with guaging market size, examining customers’ needs, analysing competitors and evaluating the need for and response to a type of product or service. The decisions which Market Intelligence can influence are undoubtedly as varied as the businesses which make them. Some examples are: Which markets should a company look to target next? Is it the right time to expand into other sectors? hat does the company’s ‘ideal customer’ look W like and are there any trends to how they buy? Are there seasonal trends to when certain products are in demand or decline? What products could be cross-marketed to existing customers? Are there any demographic segments a company could push new and existing products into? How are the company viewed in their existing market? I s there a dominating product/company in a chosen sector? Who are the main competitors in a chosen sector/geographical area? Once a company has an understanding of their chosen sector the next step is to contact potential customers, this is when data is extremely valuable.

Leveraging sales performance According to the TAS Group, on average 2 out of 3 sales teams miss their sales quota. Jake is convinced that the main reason is outdated data which sales teams often have to work with. Having accurate and rich data available means sales teams can qualify and prioritise leads more quickly. Accurate data provides important information like industry trends, company news, competitive landscape, and other more contextual intelligence, to have valuable business conversations. A database can either enable selling success, or cripple it. The majority of organisations struggle with maintaining accurate and relevant data. The main reason for this is that data cleansing is not being performed often enough to keep track of current or new contacts. As people change roles, leave or join companies on a regular basis the task of keeping data up to date is constant but imperative. durhamlane is a Newcastle-based business performance and development specialist, enabling businesses to become more commercial and achieve their growth targets. The long experienced intelligence team delivers insightful market research with a sales edge and builds and cleanses databases to fill up sales pipelines with real commercial opportunity.

For more information on durhamlane’s Market Intelligence solutions visit www.durhamlane.co.uk or call for a free consultation on 0191 481 3800. You can also follow durhamlane on LinkedIn and on twitter @durhamlane.

Rowlands at the Stadium of Light Rowlands Accountants, was proud to host the latest gathering of the Sunderland City Professionals Network at the Stadium of Light. Paul Callaghan was guest speaker at the event, sponsored by Santander Bank, and updated those present on Sunderland's City of Culture Bid. These events are designed to help local entrepreneurs network, aid business growth and support the local economy. To find out more or to attend the next event, please contact john.white@rowlandsaccountants.co.uk.

COVER STORY

A Tech Make-Over with the North East’s Best Tech Gurus! Diamond group has effectively been proving that their IT, communication and all other tech related services are really ‘hassle-free’; these services that become a real asset when setting up business and ensuring that everything in the office space runs smoothly. The company’s photocopiers, financial, communication and IT services makes the tech needs of the office meet the ones of the people who work in that space. The Diamond Group Company, originally set up in East Boldon is on a fast track to success changing the business landscape of the North East. Their skilled employees, ones previously responsible to set up the ‘Business in a box’ offer are working to new ideas and looking at new tech to help all their clients get more comfortable at their work place. Their services also include asset finance that offers various funding options while purchasing basic items while setting up a new business, the finance advice that Diamond offers gives a better understanding of capital requirements and further their range of tablets, laptops, EPOS systems, cash registers and many other products that make the office tech savvy with every employee in it!

Their clients have been known to be pleased with the company’s work and services, and every testimony about different usage of systems software and hardware shows that the Diamond group are truly Newcastle’s IT experts. Whether it is a battle from a virus that is infecting your online systems or hardware damage or buying the latest computers and phones to set up a communication system with impressive quality. Owner John Burns told us: “We have over 15 years of telecom experience and our staff is dedicated and trained to network and handle communication needs and really cater to every individual business or client’s needs. It is understanding that we have to provide the best services, which is why we maintain close working relationships with our customers. They know that they can rely on us and that is what is important.” Diamond Business Systems employs experienced engineers and they aim to allocate an engineer to each client to ensure that every device and set up is running quickly and at the client’s convenience. ‘Minimum disruption’ is how they describe the effectiveness of their services. John Burns continues, “We pride ourselves on being responsive, and like I mentioned our clients

know that we are reliable. We have engineers on site within 2-3 hours latest if needed. We work with the biggest brands in telecommunication manufacturing like Samsung, Panasonic, NEC and our extensive range of products and services assure that the entire process is not only reliable but tailored according to the organisation’s needs.” Apart from It services like cloud computing that allows remote access from any location and reduces costs of purchasing expensive firewalls and broadband services with high speed transmissions, the Diamond group is also known for their business mobiles and the insurance offers that come along with it, that really benefits the customers, especially when it comes to reducing costs. “Technology changes rapidly and something as simple as choosing phones for your company can be hectic, there are specific requirements that are there that makes our customers business flexible and more importantly affordable. And handling these requirements is where we come in”, adds owner, John Burns. Diamond Group’s covers everything from print/copier systems, management, consultancy, IT, telecommunications, internet, mobile and many other services that are available from only £17 per week.

If you’re a new business or even a company that needs a tech makeover, call the Diamond Group on 0191 519 3700 and visit their website www.diamond-group.net for all the latest offers and news. They can also be contacted through Facebook and Twitter @DiamondGroupNE

All you’ll need to get your new business connected When starting a new business, once you have located premises, the next most important step is to get connected with a copier/ printer, computers and, of course, a good telephone system. At Diamond Group we provide a comprehensive strategy to print management, IT and telecoms, which helps customers to plan ahead and think about the bigger picture. This is why we provide a broad range of solutions from managed office printers, multi-functional photocopiers, full IT Solutions and static and mobile communications all under one roof. We call it “Business in a Box”. From as little as £17 per week* we will supply you with:

• • • •

Colour Multi-function Machine (Copier/Printer/Scanner) PC or Laptop Telephone, including FREE local and national calls. FREE in-bound fax number

At Diamond we also provide the know-how. All you have to do is choose the exact contents of the box - Simple! *Minimum three year contract required.

0191 519 3700 office@diamond-group.net www.diamond-group.net

ITPS Fab Feb Fiesta The fun factor was brimming for IT experts, ITPS last month. Gosforth Park Marriott played host to the belated Christmas bash where the Directors and staff embraced a fancy dress theme and some great team spirit. The evening got off to a swinging start as local singer Chris Keith warmed up the crowd ready for the fun and funky Foxx band to get the team on their feet and on the dance floor. The staff even raised a generous ÂŁ250 for local charity Percy Hedley Foundation.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Northern Powerhouse bridges the gap? David McFarlane

There’s been plenty of publicity about the Government’s Northern Powerhouse initiative but what exactly is it, and how will it benefit businesses in the North East? David McFarlane, Associate and Business Performance Specialist at Rowlands, the region’s largest independent accountancy firm, discusses the potential impact for the North East.

Can you explain the concept of the Northern Powerhouse? The Northern Powerhouse is the latest attempt to encourage the northern regions to work together, to bridge the gap between the Southern and Northern economies. The Government’s broad aim is to make the north into a self-sustaining economy, trading throughout the world. Primarily, it’s focused on transport, broadband connectivity and investment in innovation but the details are a little vague because the Government has not yet defined exactly what the Northern Powerhouse is or how much money will be allocated to it. Currently, it’s more of a concept. It appears to be more focused on long-term investment and infrastructure improvements than previous attempts to improve the Northern economy. It promises to deliver infrastructure changes we desperately need.

In your opinion, will this new concept benefit the North? I would dispute whether this is a new concept. This is an evolution of a number of ideas the Government has previously implemented – development companies, RDAs, city regions etc - and a more general drive to get the North West, Yorkshire and Humber and the North East working together. The Northern Powerhouse concept has grown

to include existing projects such as high speed rail, electrifying train lines, dualling the A1 and superfast broadband. I don’t see it as promising anything new per se, but it could be massively beneficial; infrastructure investments such as these have been needed for the last 20-25 years.

What are the opportunities for the North East? One criticism of the Northern Powerhouse is that it is M62-centric and there is a danger the North East will be left on the peripheries. Any opportunities will come from our ability to capitalise on this improved infrastructure, improving our ability to export our products and services nationally and globally. For example, can we use improved rail links to increase trade with the south? The North East’s particular strength has always been its ability to export. There are globally successful businesses in the region that don’t get the credit they deserve in areas such as aerospace, automotive, logistics and construction. We need to build on their success. Anybody looking to the Northern Powerhouse to provide short-term assistance, such as grant funding to individual companies, will be disappointed. In the short to medium term the destiny of regional companies is very much in their own

hands – companies must continue to grow where possible and focus on developing long term strategies so that they can be ready to benefit from any changes.

What should North East businesses be looking for from this attempt to balance the North-South economic imbalance? My view here is that we should use this political agenda to secure these long term infrastructure improvements which have been talked about for years with little action. If we’re lucky, we’ll see a gradual rebalancing of power from South to North. But we need help just to match the speed of growth in the South, never mind bridge the gap.

What other factors do we need to consider as the Northern Powerhouse pushes ahead? Despite some of the negatives, the issues talked about in the Northern Powerhouse rhetoric are ultimately what we need. Infrastructure investment rather than smaller projects will have a significant impact across the region. If the Northern Powerhouse comes off, it will be a massive boon for us providing we can avoid becoming disconnected. Currently everything is a little too Manchester and Yorkshire-focused and we need to ensure that we are proactive and help set the agenda early on.

For more information, please contact David McFarlane on 0191 411 2468 or via david.mcfarlane@rowlandsaccountants.co.uk.

Over 100 years of accounting experience at your side. At Rowlands, our years of experience mean we’re committed to accounting excellence. But our expertise doesn’t stop there. We’re also big on personal service, that’s why you can count on us to be at your side. With six offices in our region, you can rely on us to provide up-to-the-minute knowledge and advice. So if you’d like to see what we can do for your business, get in touch. Hexham 01434 602 230 | Ponteland 01661 871 919 Sunderland 0191 565 1870 | Yarm 01642 790 790 rowlandsaccountants.co.uk

Crook 01388 762 478 | Portobello 0191 411 2468

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INTERVIEW

In Conversation With...

Michelle Wilson Director of Tax, KPMG Newcastle

What were your career ambitions growing up?

How have changing markets affected the business?

They changed over time from a ballerina to a forensic scientist then from a doctor to a pathologist on the basis that the risk of me making a catastrophic error was lower with the latter! I then settled on nuclear physicist which was even more dangerous for society!

In my time in tax practice our business has changed quite significantly. Having spent 2008 to 2013 in a specialist, national M&A role I saw a real change in the nature of the work our team was involved with during the economic downturn - it moved from predominantly private equity acquisitions to refinancing and at times more stressed sales.

Can you briefly outline your career path for the readers? Having completed my Physics degree and decided that this was not actually the career for me I had an interview with KPMG. Within 10 minutes of meeting my interviewer I knew I wanted to work at KPMG and thankfully they decided to give me a shot! I started with the corporate tax team in 2001 where I worked for 6 years before joining our National M&A Tax practice. I spent 5 years there advising a wide range of international transactions for multinational groups, private equity houses and infrastructure investors. In summer 2013 I changed role to spend more time in the local market. I now advise North East businesses on a wide range of issues often with a focus on M&A activity.

Can you describe a typical day in the life of Michelle Wilson? Every day is different due to the varied client group we work with as a firm. I am usually in the office relatively early as I find myself at my most productive early in the day. I then spend most of my days in meetings with clients (both current and prospective) all over the North East and working with and supporting my team in delivery of advice.

On top of this the general attitude to tax risk has changed significantly over time and our clients have become increasingly concerned with public perception and how their tax strategies are viewed by their clients, customers and the media.

What is your greatest business achievement to date? I am not sure I can single one thing out as my greatest business achievement. One thing I was particularly proud to advise on was the acquisition of the Teesside Cast Products business by SSI back in 2011. Our team spent over a year working on this transaction and as part of that work I went to the site in Redcar to present to an audience of bankers from the Far East with a view to them investing in the business – I remember Steel House was eerily empty. I contrast that to the buzz that the site had once it was reopened – whilst as professionals we are all obviously pleased to complete a successful deal I was really proud to have been involved in something so important to our region and the recent closure of the UK business was a very sad day for the North East.

How about your toughest challenge? Not an easy one to answer. I feel one of the challenges we face as a business (and this is

clearly not limited to professional services firms) is continuing to adapt to the pace at which the world operates now. When I started with the firm you provided advice to a client in the form of a letter which I appreciate may make me sound quite old to some readers. This moved on to email over time and now with digital technology we all expect everything immediately. This provides a real challenge to us as ensuring that we provide the best possible service to our clients is paramount, but at the same time we need to respect the work life balance of our staff to enable us to retain key talent.

What are you currently working on? Quite a few things! Some examples of the things my team and I are doing at the moment are working with two clients on acquisitions, approaching legal counsel for another in relation to an interpretation of tax law, a group reorganisation and a number of corporate tax compliance engagements.

Do you have a favourite hotspot for a business meeting? Not particularly albeit the coffee shop at the Mal Maison is very convenient for our office – I caveat this with the fact that I normally buy my tea from the little yellow coffee van on the Quayside!

Outside of the office what do you do to relax? I have two dogs (who if you ask my husband I don’t walk enough!) who follow me round the house as soon as I get home and whilst not very relaxing I do enjoy spending time with them. I also enjoying cooking when I get spare time and have been known to be partial to the odd glass of Gavi!

KPMG LLP (UK) Quayside House, 110 Quayside Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DX Tel + 44 (0) 191 401 3843 Fax + 44 (0) 191 401 3752 Mobile + 44 (0) 7500 224638 michelle.wilson@kpmg.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHT

pointments.....Appointments.....Appointments.....Appointmen

Head Chef joins Acklam Hall

DIY Streets architect boosts team Award-winning architectural practice Xsite has added to their team by announcing the arrival of 2 new faces. Xsite, the practice responsible for transforming much of the region’s landscape with high profile regeneration schemes, has appointed both Jonny Flavin and Annie Hart. Qualified architect Jonny originally studied product design before qualifying as an architect in 2013. He has worked on some major projects including a student housing scheme. Annie, who is a Part 3 architectural assistant, has gained experience working mostly on residential schemes, ranging in size from 90 to 350 homes, as well as smaller renovation schemes. According to xsite’s founding partner Tim Bailey, both bring with them the right mix of experience, enthusiasm and passion for creating great buildings and spaces for people to live and work in.

Acklam Hall’s restaurant has announced the appointment of its Head Chef as they invite customers to make reservations through their new website, www.thebrierley.co.uk. The Brierley offers two dining experiences: The Salon, which is open all day for breakfasts, lunches and evening meals as well as Sunday lunches, and the more formal Dining Room, which offers a range of afternoon teas and a la carte fine dining. North East chef Adam Anderson has been appointed Head Chef at Acklam Hall and is responsible for overseeing The Brierley restaurant. Adam is a well-known face on the region’s culinary scene and has previously worked at a range of restaurants all over the North East including Wynyard Hall, Jesmond Dene House and Newcastle Football Club.

Promotions at leading North-East solicitors A leading County Durham firm of solicitors is celebrating the success of its Court of Protection work by promoting one of their associates to a Director. Jemma Morland, 30, has been made a Director of EMG Solicitors, where she specialises in Court of Protection and Trust matters. She manages the affairs of vulnerable people, including those who have been involved in catastrophic accidents. Jemma said: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed as a Director. I’m proud to be part of such a great team and I am looking forward to both the rewards and challenges that come with my new role.” The team has also recently appointed Jane Purvis as Practice Manager. Jane, 44, joined EMG Solicitors from BHP Law, bringing with her 25 years of experience.

Tait Walker adds a spring to its step with new recruits North East accountancy practice Tait Walker has announced seven new appointments, adding to its 150-strong team across offices in Newcastle, Teesside, Morpeth and Carlisle. The Business Services Department has added six new team members, two of which have joined as trainees. Jamie Hogg and Alexander Bruce are now training to be chartered accountants. Emma Stobbs and Liam Darby join the department from UHY Torgersons in Sunderland, where they both completed their training contracts. Rounding off the team are Michael Robertson and Peter Finch, who have joined Tait Walker from Deloitte and Ryecroft Glenton respectively. All four have been recruited as business service executives. The seventh recruit is Anuj Khindria, who has joined the Wealth Management Team as a protection specialist.

BUSINESS INSIGHT Stuart McKinnon

Ouch that hurt! Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me. The old nursery rhyme sprang to mind recently when I was reading the judgement in the case of HMRC vs Krishna Moorthy. This was latest in a long line of cases on the tax treatment of payments connected with the termination of employment. These cases invariably revolve around whether the tax free £30,000 exemption applies or whether the payment is taxable in full.

However, this case was a little different and involved a much larger claim for tax exemption. Mr Moorthy was made redundant and negotiated a payment of £200,000 in a full and final settlement under a compromise agreement. He argued that part of the dispute with his former employer related to an age discrimination claim and at least part of the settlement payment represented compensation for ‘injury to feelings’ caused through having to deal with the discrimination issue. The significance of this is that there is a complete exemption for termination payments made on account of injury to, or disability of, an employee no matter how big the settlement is and it is in addition to the £30,000 exemption. Therefore there was potentially a lot at stake. It was not disputed that part of the settlement was to do with age discrimination so the question to be considered by the Courts was does injury include injury to feelings? Some previous tribunal decisions had suggested that

it might extend that far but not in the eyes of HMRC. The judge in this case agreed with HMRC and the decision makes it clear that injury refers to medical conditions only. It would apply to mental as well as physical conditions, but not to hurt feelings. Had Mr Moorthy lost his job because, say, he’d had a stroke, the compensation would have been entirely tax free. Similarly, and perhaps oddly, had he received compensation for discrimination while remaining in employment, that compensation would probably have been tax free as well. It was the fact that his employment had been terminated which resulted in it being taxable. Such are the strange ways and nuances of the tax system. The sting in the tale for Mr Moorthy was that HMRC had offered both the usual £30,000 exemption and by concession a further £30,000 of exemption to cover the age discrimination point. He rejected this offer as he claimed the full £200,000 should be exempt. The judge said that he could not sanction the concessionary £30,000 additional exemption, therefore only £30,000 of

the payment was exempt rather than the £60,000 offered by HMRC. And it got worse. Mr Moorthy had previously received a redundancy payment of about £12,000 which would have utilised part of the statutory £30,000 exemption. HMRC had not taken this into account. However it was picked up by the judge and therefore only £18,000 of the £200,000 eventually escaped tax! This case once again demonstrates that termination payments remain a very difficult area of the tax system. HMRC has recently consulted on reform of the rules, but this is unlikely to address situations such as that of Mr Moorthy. There are different views as to what the ideal system should be but I don’t think anybody really thinks that the status quo is satisfactory. I can’t leave this case without sharing a quote with you. At paragraph 61, the judge said ‘If a person is killed or suffers injury in a road accident that might make him unfit for work….’ It isn’t often that tax case reports make me smile!

For more information on employment taxes or other taxation issues, please contact Stuart McKinnon on 0191 255 7000 or email stuart.mckinnon@rsmuk.com or your usual RSM contact.

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.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Angel of Corbridge flying as turnover hits £2.5M The owners of one of Northumberland’s best-known hotels are planning the next stage of its development after doubling its workforce and increasing its turnover by over £1m in just four years.

L-R: Paul Gainford and Kevin Laing

The Angel Inn at Corbridge, which offers 16 bedrooms and a self-contained apartment as well as a bar, lounge and barn restaurant, is now able to offer private dining facilities for up to 16 people within the 460 year-old pub, after work was completed on the refurbishment of a former martini bar.

which will give the catering team the room they need to further improve what's on offer. It also modernises the environment and makes it much more comfortable to work in.

Angelfish, the high-quality fish and chip shop which was opened in one of the historic pub's outbuildings in 2014 after a £120,000 conversion, has proved extremely successful, while the related Angelfish Hospitality Van, which was originally created for use in the Rugby World Cup Fanzone in Newcastle last year, is now booked out to be at a programme of festivals and events around the region right through 2016.

Kevin Laing, Managing Director at the Angel Inn, says: "The Angel occupies a great position in a very popular and attractive town, and our reputation for providing excellent food and highquality accommodation is attracting more and more customers in from the local area, the wider region and beyond and the recent unveiling of our own history story has also created new interest.

Overall turnover at The Angel, which also offers its own range of wines, has jumped from £1.5m to £2.5m since the business came under new management in 2011, while staff numbers have risen over the same period from 27 to 55. And plans are now being drawn up for further investment in extending the pub's kitchens,

Long-term advisor RMT Accountants and Business Advisors have worked with the Angel's directors on all the financial aspects of the hotel's continuing development.

"We're constantly reviewing what we offer to make sure that it reflects what our customers want from us and takes advantage of any opportunities we see to enhance what's available. "The investment we made in opening Angelfish has proved very successful, and we're very confident that the money we've put into creating our excellent new private dining facilities

will prove to be just as well spent. This room is perfect for breakfast meeting and a great venue for private dinners and family gatherings. "While the philosophy of providing good hearty food made using only the best local produce won't change, extending our kitchens will give our chefs the room they need to work smarter and further improve the range of meals we can provide. "The support and advice we've had from RMT has played a significant part in everything we've achieved over the last four years, and their expertise will be crucial as we work towards realising even more of the potential that we still see in The Angel." Paul Gainford, head of commercial services at RMT Accountants and Business Advisors, adds: "The Angel management team takes a very forward-thinking approach to how they shape, update and deliver the hotel's highly-regarded range of services, and it's very pleasing for us to be part of a continuing Northumberland success story."

For more information please contact Paul Gainford on 0191 256 9500 or email advice@r-m-t.co.uk

Charity gets a taste for economics Almost 80 guests attended a wine tasting event held in the historic Trinity House on Broad Chare where wines were supplied by Richard Granger Wines. Organised jointly by the Northumberland and Durham Lord’s and Lady Taverners guests also gained some sound economic advice from the investment expert and well known media personality, Justin Urquhart Stewart of Seven Investment Management (Seven IM). Justin said: “It gives me great pleasure to be back in the North East again and as a firm, we are delighted to support such a worthwhile cause. There is a great deal of movement in financial markets presently and the audience was very enthusiastic in its support.” Sophie Lacey, chair of the Lady Taverners, added: “We raised almost £2,000 pounds for the charity on the night and everyone seemed to have an enjoyable evening.” Please go to www.lordstaverners.org for more details.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Linking-in at the UNW Events Programme 2016

Newcastle accountancy and advisory firm UNW has launched its 2016 programme of events, workshops and seminars covering topical issues to help develop and grow clients’ businesses. With a number of expert presenters sharing great insights in a range of areas, one of the first events was about building a better network using social media – namely LinkedIn. LinkedIn has been described as a networking event that doesn’t end – where all those business cards and connections you’ve collected over the years keep themselves automatically filed, updated and available for whenever you may need them. But are you making the most out of LinkedIn? It’s the most obvious first calling point when finding out about someone and if you’re looking to make new connections, find a new job, win new business or keep abreast of the latest industry news and thinking, LinkedIn is a phenomenal tool that you should be taking full advantage of. Over 40 local businesses attended UNW’s LinkedIn masterclass – where Mark Williams, the UK’s leading independent LinkedIn trainer, aka ‘Mr LinkedIn’ delivered an expert’s guide on how online networking can make a real difference to your bottom line. Business owners from across the region attended, taking copious notes and providing great post-event feedback that proved there’s an ever-growing appetite for making better use of social media in the corporate world. Ahead of the session, we asked Mark to give

us his top ten tips for getting the best out of LinkedIn. The first impression you create often defines the relationships you can build – so make sure your profile is impressive and well produced. It’s really worth investing time in writing an impactful profile that explains exactly who you are and what you can offer. Profile Photo – you wouldn’t go to a networking event in a hoody and a mask, so make sure your profile photo gives a clear and professional impression of what you look like. Make sure it is close up, looks professional (no holiday snaps) and was taken recently! Professional Headline – you have 120 characters to outlines what you are and what you offer. It doesn’t need to be your most recent job title, but should explain what expertise or skillset you can bring to prospective employers or customers. Live contacts – keep your contacts up to date and available for when you need them - LinkedIn allows you to tag, make notes and set reminders to get in touch again in future. InMail – if you send an email via LinkedIn you have a 40% better opening rate than with regular email – as recipients can see who you are from your profile, giving your message greater substance.

Status updates – LinkedIn’s status updates are an ideal way to remind people that you exist – keep it relevant and interesting information or comments that will provoke positive conversations and engagement. Image updates are more likely to get noticed, so get creative. Company pages – creating a company page gives you more opportunities to make contact with new people, adds branding to your personal profile - and allows them to follow you for updates. Groups – a great way to stay abreast of the latest industry activities, thought leadership and news – and enables great conversations with peers and potential customers/employers. Start talking! Recommendations – we read and trust reviews by complete strangers when buying products online, but with LinkedIn you can see the credentials of the person making the recommendation by clicking through to their profile – gives much greater weight and power so becomes invaluable. Engage then connect – When looking to build your network, always engage with a person before asking to connect. Genuine contact via discussions on group pages or messaging first shows you are serious about building a relationship.

For more information on UNW’s events programme please contact 0191 243 6000 or email events@unw.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHT Ryan Harrison

HMRC’s Digital Revolution In a recent article Ryan Harrison discussed the increasing difficulties in dealing with HMRC and the first hand problems UK taxpayers encounter in managing their personal tax affairs. As HMRC recently published its first guidance in relation to their proposed digital transformation, Ryan takes a closer look at what this means for us.

It is becoming increasingly apparent that HMRC are wary of the growing numbers of individual taxpayers ‘stuck’ in self-assessment. According to HMRC figures, more than 4.45 million people submitted their 2014/15 tax return in January this year and more than 385,000 did so on the deadline day. It was another ‘record breaking’ year with over 11 million people due to submit tax returns. In the March 2015 budget the government indicated that a plan was underway to move HMRC into the digital age. The vision appears to be the end of self-assessment as we know it, replaced by online digital accounts with the collection of real time information by 2020. The dream (perhaps not for fee charging accountants...) is that taxpayers will be able to download an app and keep their tax record up to date throughout the tax year. A morning commute to work or a lazy Sunday morning, in HMRC’s eyes, should provide the perfect opportunity to update your tax account. Joking aside, the intention is clear: Remove HMRC’s administration burden by implementing a digital process and ultimately save costs. However, the likelihood of success can only be measured against the current failings of HMRC. Too many people struggle to obtain advice and guidance; HMRC’s call centres are notoriously difficult to contact. The lack of a personal service clearly leads to taxpayer errors, additional costs and confusion in relation to ensuring the correct

tax is paid on time. If the tax return process was simple, we would not see the usual deadline day rush to submit returns! The relationship between the taxpayer and HMRC is already strained and any trust in this new ‘digital’ system will not be helped by the datadriven approach which HMRC are already adopting when analysing taxpayers’ affairs. HMRC are increasingly utilising the computing power at their disposal to highlight supposed ‘red flags’ rather than considering individual circumstances: the automated issue of brown envelope tax calculations and the dreaded compliance checks, letter upon letter arriving on the doormat before the previous one has even been considered. It is very much the case of “Computer Says No!” This data driven approach is a consequence of where HMRC are choosing to invest as a precursor to the implementation of online digital accounts. What you may not know is HMRC have invested £80 million in a supercomputer system called ‘Connect’. Connect is used to accumulate and analyse data from all different sources such as employment/benefit information from their own systems but also banking information and even data relating to when you leave the country and your destination. The Connect computer system is an extremely powerful tool which will allow HMRC to upload key income details onto your HMRC account so you don’t have to provide this information. However, in its current guise it is being used against taxpayers

for tax assessments and in formal tax enquiries. The question is, if HMRC already have access to all this information, why are they not helping the taxpayer rather than punishing them for making mistakes? Unfortunately, at times it does seem that HMRC are more concerned with catching people out rather than helping people to get their tax affairs in order. Of course, we are all opposed to those who look to obtain an unfair tax advantage but perhaps HMRC do not currently do enough to help the ordinary taxpayer pay the correct amount of tax. We therefore hope, for everyone’s sake, that the new developments recently announced by HMRC will offer the assistance taxpayers are crying out for. In an ideal world, the new proposed online tax accounts might bridge that gap between the information HMRC have and the information they want us to gather; this could, in theory, make matters a lot easier for a lot of people. The proposal for localised tax offices may also provide that personal link between the taxpayer and HMRC but we expect the reorganisation (which is, after all, a cost cutting measure) may not improve the service level provided and could cause problems in the interim period. For now at least, the taxpayer unfortunately seems to be caught between the HMRC which is utilising vast amounts of data to pick apart their tax affairs and the HMRC which is not willing or able to help the taxpayer sort their tax affairs out in the first place.

For advice with dealing with any personal tax affairs, contact Ryan Harrison at Leathers LLP on r.harrison@leathersllp.co.uk or 0191 224 6760.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Common sense advice Peter Rutherford, Commercial Director, Three Counties Group

Four old friends are golfing together. All have done well in their various businesses over the years and each has taken advice on their pensions and investments but from different sources. As they are passed discussing sex, drugs and rock and roll, the conversation drifts towards finance. This is between sniggers and giggles as one of the “gladiators” scuttles another ball at worm height and in the wrong direction.

“I’m with Sir Jasper’s Place” announces Mr. Brash. “I love their glossy brochures and the fact I deal with a partner of the business.” “Yes, their brochures are high quality, but who do you think ultimately pays for that? As for ‘partner,’ that’s what Sir Jasper’s Place calls all its company representatives.” The voice was that of Mr. Common.

have not really asked but my adviser said to trust them” said Loud. Common added, “Is your adviser charging you for ongoing advice too?” “Err, yes” Loud mumbled. “Why? What value is he adding if he has outsourced the investment decisions?”

“Indeed. And they are expensive. I was reading that you can buy someone like Neil Woodford’s fund directly at a third of the annual cost of their equivalent fund managed by him and it has performed twice as well as theirs” said Mr. Sense.

“Err, well he talks to me every year and I have a coffee with him. He is very polite and friendly.”

Mr. Brash, looking rather red faced, takes a wild swing at his ball and misses.

Brash then brayed “Well what do you two smarty pants do with your money?”

More giggling and some muttered curses.

Common and Sense looked at each other. Sense asked Common, “Do you use Three Counties?”

“My adviser uses a Discretionary Fund Manager for my money. He seems to have done ok?” chirped Mr. Loud. “How do you know?” asked Sense. “Have you been able to compare the performance with other portfolios and do you know what they have in your portfolio? What is it benchmarked against?” “Err, I don’t know. They have never told me and I

The others sniggered as Loud took four attempts to hole his ball from little more than six feet. His mind seemed to be elsewhere.

“No. I use my accountant’s financial services department but they use Three Counties for their investment portfolios,” responded Common. “Hang on,” stammers Loud. ”What makes Three Counties so good?” Sense explains “They have a system which breaks down the markets into peer groups and their software then looks at the performance of all the

funds in the peer group over the last three years but weights the result towards the last year. It means that it can then see which are consistently the best performing funds in the group and it is not influenced by which fund manager bought lunch or laid on a golf day.” He goes on “They do this for all the major markets, UK, Europe, USA and have exposure to the Far East and Emerging Markets. They then add in assets like Gilts and Corporate Bonds to act as a balance to the stock market investments for those who want a little less excitement.” Mr. Common adds, “The portfolios are benchmarked against the appropriate Investment Association sectors and they have performed very well to date.” He rolls in a putt to win the hole then continues, “My accountants were so impressed that they use Three Counties Group portfolios through its subsidiary ‘Lakewood Portfolio Management’. The software also manages any changes to reduce human error.” Sense taps the ball into the hole for another win. The result of the match was Common and Sense beat Loud and Brash 7&6, which in golf parlance is known as “a dog licence.” Who remembers those?

Peter Rutherford is Commercial Director at Three Counties Group. Telephone 0191 230 3034. Email peter.rutherford@threecountiesgroup.co.uk Three Counties Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Networking at NETPark Net Science, engineering and technology companies across the North East gathered to hear how accessing different finance options can be achieved to support future growth as NETPark Net in partnership with Harlands Accountants held its first breakfast event for 2016.

Overcoming the Challenges of Financing a Tech Business took place at the NETPark Incubator, Sedgefield, in February. North East Finance (NEF) supported the event with the aim of raising awareness of the specialist funding available to regional tech companies. Organised by NETPark Net, the event featured a great line-up of speakers from companies including, BioSignatures, Ibex Innovations and Radfan with the panel discussion being led by Phil Murray of Harlands Accountants.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

£3,000 allowance to encourage employment.

Writes David Hodgson, Read Milburn & Co – “the Coastal Accountants”

With effect from April 2016, the new rate of employment allowance will be increased to £3,000 which is good news for eligible employers, but, - there will also be losers.

the Employers’ NI on the director’s wage. – Not anymore – If the only liability to Employer NI is in relation to a single director Company, with no other employees, then the allowance will not be given from April 2016 onwards.

The allowance was started in April 2014-15, at a then annual level of £1,000. The allowance was increased for 2015-16 to £2,000 and will be increased further to £3,000 for 2016-17.

It should also be mentioned that there are certain businesses and organisations who are not eligible for this allowance – You can only claim Employment Allowance for one PAYE scheme, so if you own or control more than one business, you will need to decide which business will make the claim for the allowance. Similarly, if you are part of a group, only one company or charity in the group can claim the allowance.

The stated policy objective of the Employment Allowance is to cut employment costs in order to support businesses and help them grow. The allowance can only be used to offset Employer’s National Insurance, (Class 1 Contributions), and then only to the extent that there would otherwise have been a liability. The intention of the allowance is to encourage eligible businesses and charities to create employment. For 2016-17 for example, if an organisation was to employ 4 people earning the new National Living Wage, then the allowance would ensure, by offset, that the organisation had no Employer’s National Insurance liability on those wages.

Additionally, you cannot claim if: you employ someone for personal, household or domestic work (eg a nanny or gardener) unless they are a care or support worker, or, you are a public body or business doing more than half your work in the public sector (eg local councils and NHS services) - unless you are a charity.

The allowance is not restricted to organisations who actually do take on additional staff, as it can be used to offset any liability for Employer’s National Insurance, subject to one significant exception this coming year. In the previous 2 years the allowance could be used by the single director Limited Companies and used to offset

If you are eligible, you only need to claim the allowance once and you can claim at any time within the tax year. HMRC will continue to give the allowance under the Real Time Information, (RTI), PAYE system until such time as you indicate to them that you are no longer eligible.

For further guidance or information, info@readmilburn.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Buy to Let – Still worth it? Andrew Potts

As the government has announced their decision to cut tax relief of buy-to-let properties – this could mean that the nest-egg property you currently let out could become a business instead of a sideline. Taxation Specialist Andrew Potts from KP Simpson Certified Public Accountants explains the pro’s (if you can call them that) and the cons of the Government decision that has divided MP’s throughout the country. The Chancellor slashed the tax relief that landlords in the top tax brackets receive on their mortgage interest payments, cutting it from the higher income tax bands; 40% and 45% to 20% by April 2020. Claiming that his intention by bringing in this slashing of the tax relief; was that he was ‘levelling the playing field’ as it was ‘unfair’ for landlords to enjoy this tax perk, when owner/occupiers did not. So if a private landlord transfers one or more properties into a company structure, known as ‘incorporating a business’ the total tax rate is greatly reduced. This is because a company is paying tax on the actual profit and therefore the rate does not fluctuate wildly. If the profit reduces, so does the tax. If the rental property is run privately there is a scenario where because

you no longer get full tax relief for your expenses - and means you can pay tax even if there is no profit - that means potentially enormous effective rates of tax for landlords. So, that said, by 2020, when interest rates are likely to be higher, the levy on a property worth say £100,000 to a private landlord in a higher tax bracket - with an 85% loan-to-value mortgage and a mortgage interest rate of 5% - would be 106%. As a result they would expect to suffer an annual loss of £100. If the same property were run as a business, the landlord would pay a tax rate of just 49.2% and bank £888 profit and more worryingly, if mortgage rates go up further, the contrast becomes even harsher. For example; if interest rates hit 6%, a property owner operating under a business umbrella would again pay 49.2%, but the private landlord would pay 186.7% tax, and make an annual loss of £780, which will make many private landlords question their worth. Other taxes such as stamp duty and capital gains tax could affect profits from a rental business, especially for a landlord with only a handful of properties. Stamp duty at 3%, from April 2016, will be payable on all properties over £40,000 and every second property. If the owner is a sole trader, he would pay stamp duty again on the incorporation of the business’ based on cost of the property. But if the owner is in business

with a partner, they could at least enjoy some stamp duty relief. Alternatively, if a sole trader or business partners own more than six properties, it is classified as a commercial property business and they will only pay a flat 4% stamp duty on the sale. Transfers have to be made at Market Value which could crystallize and capital gain and it’s also worth remembering that mortgages seem to be harder to come by for companies rather than individuals. The big tax difference is capital gains tax when the company finally comes to sell and dividend the profit to the owner at 49% compared to 28% for a private landlord - but at least you would know what your effective rate of tax is, and if you are reliant on the income rather than the appreciation of price, it may be a hit worth taking. Although incorporating your business helps you guarantee your monthly tax bill, it isn’t, by any means, a magic solution. Tax is only one consideration when forming a company. For example, audited accounts might need to be filed. So now you’ve got the facts, at least it allows you to make an informed decision as to your future plans, however if you need more clarity on the subject, we’re always happy to talk you through the minefield that is rental taxation.

Andrew Potts Taxation Specialist KP Simpson Certified Public Accountants 0191 420 0550 www.kpsimpson.co.uk info@kpsimpson.co.uk.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Devolution - how are we doing? Vinay Bedi

After almost a century of deliberately framed regional strategies from the public sector and, in contrast, 30 years of the South East region’s outperformance, the UK remains one of the most centralised and unbalanced of economies. The vast majority of UK tax revenue is raised by the central government in London and no English city is even a quarter the size of the capital. The Government’s Regional Policy intends to provide a more balanced expansion of the UK economy. Indeed, the core objectives of a regional strategy could be seen as enhancing the growth potential of the whole country by putting emphasis on underutilised productive capacity outside the already relatively prosperous South East. What should evolve is a more balanced economy with less focus on London, and the financial services sector in particular. George Osborne, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, has previously suggested that a focus on industries in science and technology, greater investment in transport infrastructure, and devolving political power to the areas could be the best way to boost the fortunes of regions outside of the South East. The main focus of achieving these ambitions

is likely to be the devolution of spending and taxation powers to newly elected regional bodies, a national transport and infrastructure strategy, and an effort to reform the process of local government. So, how are we preparing for this in the North East? Well, so far the signs are promising. I was invited to attend an open meeting at Durham

CCC recently where business was asked to congregate and discuss in round table format how the North East Devolution Agreement might be framed. I sensed a willingness for the economic generators in the regions (i.e. business and industry) not only to contribute but to ensure that our “powerhouse” does not get bogged down in a maelstrom of political infighting and power plays. Time will tell if it works but let me tell you what came across loud and clear from the business organisations I spoke to – they want clarity, accountability, effectiveness and simplicity. Business in the North East will not put up with political fudge, a morass of organisations created to glorify the figureheads and achieve very little. The organisation that is taking the lead on the devolution debate north of the region is called NECA (North East Combined Authority) i.e. the seven councils – Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside and Sunderland. It is chaired by Simon Henig. We look forward to hearing his response to the wishes of our region’s businesses. Extract taken from ‘UK Regional Policy: And now for something completely different’, 25th January 2016 Chief Investment office (CIO), UBS WM.

Vinay Bedi, Executive Director, UBS Wealth Management. Tel: 0191-211-1015. Email: vinay.bedi@ubs.com www.ubs.com/northeast-uk

North East Training Company set to more than quadruple turnover in second year turnover was just over £210k and already since April 2015 the fledgling company has turned over in excess of £800k. In fact, with contracts won, the company looks to be inline to turn over £1.25million by the end of March 2016.

into sustainable employment. In total we have delivered over 1000 qualifications now in English and Maths and have a success pass rate of over 97%...this has all been achieved thanks to the quality of our service and dedication of our team.”

Starting out with just 2 team members, due to a combination of working hard, excellent employment links and organic growth JB Skills Training now employs 15 full time staff, 7 part time staff and has an associate base of over 30 tutors.

In just the last few months the team have won two very large contracts…one is a £300k apprenticeship contract with local company Learning Curve that will see over 220 new apprenticeships delivered. They have also won a £898k contract with national provider HIT training. This contract will support a large number of people with low levels of literacy and numeracy both in the local area and wider afield nationally.

Dave Macmillan, operations director, is delighted with the company’s progress and has even bigger plans. He explains the success to date:

A training company based in Sunderland is set to break the £1m barrier in just its second year of trading and has announced the launch of a new arm to the business already. JB Skills Training Ltd was incorporated in March 2014 and started trading in the North East in July 2014. It now has its HQ in Sunderland and is currently trading in the North East, across the North West, the Midlands and in Europe. In its first year, which ended March 2015, the

“Over the last year we have performed well enough to secure six ESF regional contracts across the country to help people find employment. In April 2015 we also gained an award for the Matrix Standard. We also received an award in the East Midlands for having the highest percentage of qualifications gained by unemployed people. “This enabled us to be better recognised which meant we could command a significant growth in contracts. This in turn allowed the employment of further staff. “In the last academic year we trained over 500 learners and helped over 250 of these learners

Dave concluded: “It has been an outstanding year for JB Skills Training, all of which is testament to the team here. Not wanting to rest on our laurels, we have appointed a new business manager and a marketing director, both of which will ensure our growth will continue. “In the next eight weeks we will be looking to create up to another seven jobs, and we are just launching a new training arm for the care industry. Skills 2 Care is a dedicated training academy we have set up to focus on working with anyone in health and social care, from private and public sectors. It is an exciting time for the company all round.”

More information on the company can be found at www.jb-skillstraining.co.uk

Chairmans Dinner Getting 2016 off to an inspirational start for the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, Chairman Nigel Mills brought together some of the region’s most prominent entrepreneurs - Sir Peter Vardy, Sir John Hall, Gill Southern and Paul Callaghan - to share their experience and beliefs about what makes a great leader and the future of leadership in the North East. Guided by Entrepreneurs’ Forum board member and chair of the North East IoD, Graham Robb, the evening gave Forum members a chance to join in with the panel’s conversation, share their thoughts and ask questions, as they debated leadership styles and how our region’s business leaders can help to shape the future of the region. The event was on Tuesday, 26th January at Jesmond Dene House and saw 100 of the region’s most aspirational business owners come together.

An entrepreneur interview with:

Amy Jackson

Co-founder & Director of Unwritten Creative

From a sales and marketing background, Amy spent her early career working in-house for blue-chip organisations such as TUI and Sage; and it was during her time at the software giant where she met co-founder of Unwritten, Lisa Eaton.

life and work in general. It made Amy focus hard on what she wanted from the next chapter. Having remained good friends with Lisa, who was now co-managing a creative agency whose MD was thinking about future retirement options, she joined the team and together they increased turnover, built a strong capable workforce and introduced a digital department.

In 2003, with a few years in-house experience under her belt, Amy took a marketing agency role, discovering that the fast pace, variety and challenge that came from managing multiple brands was something she loved. The next 10 years were spent gaining experience in some of the region’s best known agencies.

Within two years talks turned to a management takeover but when, after months of negotiations, discussions were put on hold, rather than feel disappointed, Amy and Lisa felt a mixture of relief and massive excitement. So much so, that within minutes of driving away it was agreed - they were setting up on their own.

The arrival of her first child in 2010, and some of the complications that immediately followed, gave her a fresh and more serious perspective on

So where were your first business premises? Our first office was in Hoult’s Yard. It was good to be around other creative businesses, some of whom we collaborated with and others became clients. We’d planned to be in this space for three years, but we grew a lot faster than expected and had to move just after one. We’re now at Citygate House in the centre on Newcastle. It’s a beautiful listed building, with lots of space, high ceilings and exposed beams. It has a colourful past, it has been both a lunatic asylum and a work house, I suppose as a busy creative agency we combine a bit of both! You’re growing faster than expected? Yes, our growth plans were very much slow and steady, but it didn’t happen like that. We’ve picked up a lot of great clients, they include Visit England through NGI, we created a high profile marketing campaign promoting the launch of the United Airlines flights from Newcastle to New York, and we’ve just completed a similar project advertising the region to Scandinavian tourists. This is the point where I normally ask about the recession and how it affected your business, but I don’t suppose that applies to you. It doesn’t directly no, but it’s important to understand how the recession affected our clients. Many of them still talk about it. When companies have to tighten their belts the marketing budget is often one of the first things to go. In my experience, the companies that succeeded despite the recession tell us they didn’t cut marketing spend. It’s companies like these, ones with dedicated marketing teams that understand the impact that a strong brand can have on their bottom line, that weathered the storm well and in honesty that's who we work best with. How is your market changing? A lot of experienced marketing managers are feeling the strain brought about by new technologies. With changes in the digital world some traditional marketing methods taught have been turned on their head. We work hard to keep abreast of change but always with a sceptical and analytic eye.

What would you say your unique selling point is?

Has mentoring helped your business in any way?

We are a brand and a digital consultancy, but fantastic design doesn’t set us apart from our competitors. Just as good legal advice doesn’t set one good law firm apart from another. It's the buyer persona research we carry out before embarking upon a brand or digital project that really helps ensure our work is not only beautifully executed but highly relevant and results driven.

Definitely, it’s been a huge part of our success. We met a couple of different mentors through the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, and have built a strong relationship with David Shiel of Explain Research. We met David at a pivotal point in the business, we’d taken on a huge project with the refurbishment of Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, in Newcastle, and we were extremely busy.

We help the teams we work with to adopt a more targeted approach to marketing, a one focused on achieving their organisational sales and marketing objectives. We talk to key stakeholders, customer facing staff and look closely at the top 20% of our clients' customer base to create a set of buyer personas. We're then able to develop key messages we know specific buyer types are likely to engage with. This avoids the over use of generic / one size fits all marketing. So how do you handle internal motivation and staff rewards? Our brand as an employer is as important to us as our brand as a service. We want to attract good clients, so we need the best people on board, experts in their fields. To achieve this we have a standard package of staff benefits and on top of that we look at the motivation of each individual. Flexible working suits some people, especially parents, the ability to come in late and make it up at a convenient time can be a bigger motivator than money for some. When we’re recruiting we ask people what it would take to get them to leave their current role, and what it would take to make them stay. What about your own motivation, how does this compare to when you started this business? It’s exactly the same as when I started, although given we have only been in business for two years this July I suppose that’s not too surprising. Ask me in ten years’ time! The pace of business at the moment is a strong motivating factor for me, landing a new client is always a boost, as is taking on a new employee who I feel is going to be great for the team and the business overall.

At that point Lisa and I were doing all of the account management which was more than a full time job, in addition to running the company on a day to day basis. We were so busy that we almost cancelled the mentoring meeting as it felt a little self-indulgent, I was sceptical on its benefits when there was so much 'real work' to do. I'm so glad we didn’t. David’s advice gave me the confidence to take on a new project manager and hire a financial director which freed up some of our time. In short, his advice was to be brave and to stop trying to do it all our self. This allowed us to follow some more of his advice, which was to make sure we spend time working on the business, not just in the business. If it wasn’t for the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and mentoring I’m not sure we’d be in the position we’re in today. You clearly have big plans for the future, care to tell me a bit more about them? In the next two years we want to double the size of the company. In the immediate term we’re about to start hiring again, we’re looking to take on a new web developer. To support this we’ve rethought our organisational structure, allowing us room to scale up. How we currently do things has served us well so far, but it can only work up to a point. Looking at our goals in a more qualitative way, we want to be the most credible and effective agency in the North East. Becoming this isn’t just about beautiful design, it’s about delivering a good ROI for our clients, and that can only come from an excellent team and a strong understanding of their buyers.

INTERVIEW

Amy Jackson is a member of the Entrepreneursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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

BUSINESS INSIGHT

North East entrepreneurs can bridge the talent gap

At our annual Chairman’s Dinner, Entrepreneurs’ Forum co-founder Sir Peter Vardy shared how he believes the North East’s business owners can provide half of the 80,000 jobs the region needs.

While at first glance 40,000 more jobs may seem a daunting task, a closer examination of the statistics shows it is in fact within the bounds of possibility. Nationally sixty percent of jobs in the private sector are in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and, of 65,000 businesses in the North East, fewer than 500 are currently classified as large organisations, employing more than 250 people. If the region’s entrepreneurial businesses are to bridge this gap and create tens of thousands of new jobs, there are a number of obstacles they must overcome; which were very succinctly described by Canadian angel investor Sherry Coutu in her recent Scale-Up Report. In the report, Coutu identified five key areas changes are needed to make the UK economy scale-up friendly, along with highlighting the extent of what she calls the ‘scale-up gap’. The scale-up gap is where fewer than a quarter of the UK’s 2.4 million SMEs are meaningfully growing, while a minority of businesses that are successfully scaling up are responsible for the vast majority of new jobs created and hundreds of millions of pounds of economic growth. Of the five things holding back scale-ups, the

one that presents the largest challenge to North East entrepreneurs is accessing talent. Nationally there are hundreds of thousands of unfilled vacancies, and in the North East’s IT sector alone, there are thousands of opportunities currently available. While the lack of talent is a problem everywhere, it is exacerbated in the North East due to what is effectively a brain drain. More talented and enthusiastic young people are graduating from our universities than ever before, but we struggle to keep them in the region. On a positive note, more than two million apprenticeships have been created nationally over the last few years, and the Government has plans for millions more. While apprentices can’t fill the talent gap on their own, they are win-win for businesses; scaling up salaries as apprentices gain value-adding skills, and enabling employers to develop the potential of exceptional individuals who are not always suited to formal, full-time tertiary education. The North East’s leaders, in both business and local government, need to think creatively to find a solution to the brain drain. If businesses are to have access to the talent they need, graduates from North East universities need to be incentivised to stay and graduates from the

rest of the UK and further afield need to be encouraged to move here. At the Entrepreneurs’ Forum we’ve teamed up with Teesside University and Gateshead College to help them to support and develop the next generation of entrepreneurs, so we know the potential is there to fill the talent gap. Likewise, good work is being done in all sectors to provide the right skills and work experience to build a talented work force; it now falls on entrepreneurs, educators, and politicians to make the case for talented people to stay in the North East. Much of what we need to do this is already in place, it just needs to be publicised; we have good job opportunities for skilled people and professionals just waiting to be filled, home ownership here is a realistic possibility on even a modest salary, and Northumberland and Darlington have the fourth and seventh highest Quality of Life Index scores in the UK. It is becoming clear that the North East’s recovery is more the preserve of UK SME than UK PLC and, while conditions for business growth in the region are by no means perfect, it is possible for our entrepreneurial businesses to bridge the scale-up gap and create jobs.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum supports North East business owners, helping them to develop, create new opportunities and grow their business. For more information, call 0191 500 7780 or visit www.entrepreneursforum.net

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Is it (Generation) Me you’re looking for? Bryony Gibson

Bryony Gibson, Managing Director of Bryony Gibson Consulting, shares her thoughts on the importance of having a great company culture if you want to recruit the best people for your business in the future.

Research by CV-Library, the UK’s largest independent job website, suggests that people looking for new opportunities are becoming far more selective and applying to fewer roles. If you’re a job seeker at the top of your game this is great news. You’re now in even more demand and can potentially be pickier than ever when choosing your next move. From an employer’s point of view a reduction in online advertising response rates presents a significant problem. Many UK industries already suffer from skills shortages and find it difficult to attract talent. The challenge for organisations is to come up with a plan that flips the balance back in their favour, helping to attract the kind of people who will support ongoing growth aspirations. The simple answer is to work with a good recruitment partner, but even that won’t stop the best people having a myriad of options available when they decide to move. In truth, the answer lies in being able to make your company the destination of choice and that comes from having a strong corporate culture that matches the motivations of those you wish to recruit. Recently I saw an interview with Richard Reed, co-founder of Innocent Drinks. Throughout the conversation Innocent was praised for its amazing company culture; something the original founders

and current owners, Coca-Cola, believe is at the heart of their success. When asked about how they’d been able to create and maintain this in such a fast growing business, Richard said: “You don’t create a culture, it’s the people you recruit that make it ... my personal belief is the single most important business decision one ever makes is who you get to come join your business.” Of course I whole-heartedly agree, but as well as highlighting the need to take recruitment seriously, this shows how a global success story focussed from the beginning on exactly what they wanted from their employees and what their employees wanted from them. Today’s workplace is diverse and complicated. For the first time you could be employing three generations of people, all motivated by very different beliefs. It’s therefore up to business leaders to ensure they understand these distinct groups, the value each brings and how they influence the working environment. For the last two decades, Baby Boomers have been at the core of many successful organisations. Born within twenty years of World War II, they’ve been brought up valuing employment, meaning they’re often fiercely loyal and faithful to their employer. As this generation retires, the natural choice is to focus on Generation X. With a strong work

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.

ethic and willingness to change job for a better salary, it could be argued as the safer option, but if you have a long-term vision to innovate and grow your business, perhaps it’s the Millennials, or Generation Me, that provides you with the best opportunities. Born in the 80s and 90s, Millennials represent the next three decades of employment. Energetic and enthusiastic, they’ve grown up in an ever changing technological world, meaning they can communicate in different ways and have the tools at their fingertips to make things happen fast. With business leaders and entrepreneurs as role models, they bring a more risk-friendly outlook, which alongside a strong sense of community, empowers them to want to make a genuine difference. They care less about money than previous generations, instead seeing this as part of a range of important factors; including an inspirational place to work, personal growth and development, trust, flexible working, defined company mission and values and the opportunity to do good through their employment. Of course people are all individuals and need to be judged on their own merits, but if you want highly educated employees with the ability to generate new ideas in return for feeling part of a great company, then maybe Generation Me is what you’re looking for.

She wears the trousers When it comes to the new seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trends, there few people who know as much as Michaela Dale. As the stylist at intu Metrocentre she definitely has her finger on the fashion pulse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly when it comes to looking stylish at work.

Workwear is all about representing your professionalism and wearing something that makes you feel confident and capable, whatever your day involves. Sharpen up your look with tailored trousers - or go one step further with a trouser suit. The trouser suit is an incredibly valuable workwear staple and is effortlessly stylish and smart. If you are clever and remember your workwear wardrobe when you shop for one, you can use the jacket and trousers separately to compliment other pieces at home. Looking in the stores the longer cut, single breasted jackets are popular this season, which is a great look. If you are shorter try to find a petite range that helps with sleeve length and buttons at the correct waist position. Next and Debenhams have some great petite options and Hobbs and House of Fraser are also showcasing longer line tailoring. If you want to create a more masculine look then opting for a pin stripe fabric is great. Team with a soft silk top to soften the overall effect. There is so much choice for trousers and it’s always a good idea to try and spend some time trying lots of styles, lengths, waist fastenings, fabrics and widths. Most stores have an in-house model size that they tailor their collections to, so shop around and find the shops that cater to your shape best. A slim leg trouser or cigarette shape is great and very versatile. Even a chino this shape worn with a white or blue oxford shirt looks professional. Finish with a heeled brogue and leather briefcase to complete the look. A pleated front style can give a more comfortable and roomy feel but be careful the extra fabric doesn’t create a big waist. There is definitely a leaning to more pleated trousers especially teamed with button detailing and creative edging this season and it’s this attention to detail that makes a difference. A wide leg style looks incredible with a roll neck top and can be very flattering if worn with a court shoe or heel. A neat tailored waistband is good here and make sure any pockets are small and flat so as not to add width across the hips. This makes a great fluid shape that can be simple yet smart. The length of work trousers has changed and the capri, cropped styles offer an alternative look but can still look classic. With Spring just around the corner a shorter ankle grazer or cropped trouser will give you a fresh style as its probably time to finally take off the winter boots, swap with a shoe and look forward to a new season of workwear.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Easy as ABC…D Joanne Howe, Managing Director of Howe Consultancy explains how businesses should focus on employees who go Above and Beyond the Call of Duty. Joanne Howe, MD of Howe Consultancy

During your recruitment process it is obvious who you look for – the right experience, relevant qualifications, positive attitude and high levels of professionalism which reflects your company. But what else businesses should look for is how important ABCD can be. From an HR perspective, it saves the repeated headache of hiring that typical no can do employee who will do anything for an early finish. You should aim to hire an employee, who is not only an asset to your company but someone who goes over and above to ensure they are giving it their all. It’s not about an employee who constantly wants a pat on the back, for everyone in the office to know what they’ve done – it’s the behind the scene employee who’s exceptional attitude and dedication has caught the attention of all, and they go about it with minimal fuss. There was a story recently reported in the Independent about a man who worked for McDonalds. He served a customer who was thought to have quadriplegia who asked him

for help. He took his order after a few attempts and then walked away from the customer. Most people around him thought he wasn’t going to help, but he washed his hands and came out to help the elderly man. An onlooker said: "The cashier came out from the kitchen, sat down, and began cutting the man's meal and helped him eat. At that point, the tears started to gather in my eyes." It was reported that she was particularly moved as her uncle suffers from the same condition. This member of staff really did go above and beyond; he was not required to do this nor would he have been disciplined for not, but he took it upon himself to ensure this customer was happy and could enjoy his meal just like everyone else – an absolute credit to the company. ABCD is that little extra – the cherry on the top of the cake. A must for small businesses to strive for during the interview stage of your next employee.

Tips for choosing the above and beyond employee:

sk them Outright – what have they done, A to give that little extra, to go that extra mile? You need an honest and truthful reply. A real situation, which would hopefully impress the interview panel. eferences – get in touch with their previous R employers, because as we know, not everyone tells the truth on their CV. Check out whether the applicant has a reputation for going above and beyond. edicated; eager to impress, and strive to D create a happy life - See how they got here? What challenges have they overcome in life to make them the person they are today? Have they dedicated their time to anything in particular ie good cause, voluntary work, running a club. A few little tips from Howe Consultancy, to help you find the exceptional, loyal and most appropriate member of staff for your company.

To find out any more information call us on 07921 256981 or email us at info@howeconsultancy.co.uk.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Newcastle Property & Construction Agency C&P Recruitment talk skills shortages and the success of their new city centre office

Skills shortages in the construction and property market was the topic of conversation with niche recruiters and brand new columnists C&P Recruitment, when we met over coffee this month. Operations Manager and head of the C&P NE office David Hutton was keen to share what a great response they have received from the building industry in the region since opening their North East office “it’s great to see skilled civils and building workers in such demand. We are experiencing excellent placement levels for skilled, reliable workers – I wish we had lots more of them to work with.” So if you are reading this and own a construction firm or you have civils or building experience, PPE, a valid CSCS card and contactable references, call in and meet David and the team at C&P Recruitment whose new office is right in the centre of the city on Moseley Street, Newcastle.

Natasha Withers, Manager of the Newcastle office added “no day is the same in our business, especially with the incredible growth rate of the temporary recruitment market. However, with 11 years specialising in property and construction recruitment we have developed the knowledge, the database of candidates and the ability to find a variety of experienced staff from a labourer for a day’s clearing up to specialist trades with specific skills for complex projects. We are currently finding candidates and work from Berwick to Middlesbrough and over to Carlisle too.” The UK construction and property sector has encountered a sharp upturn, giving the

recruitment sector the most dramatic upturn for over six years. Recruitment guru and UK entrepreneur/angel investor Paul Atkinson who sits on the C&P Recruitment board of directors with Mike Wynn, Tina Mason and Donald Wynn is delighted the business is at a record high. He commented, “the team at C&P Recruitment bring an incredible amount of experience to the table and really listen to what their clients need and offer solutions that fit. They have kept a tight reign on their business and this is why I believe they have managed to trade through the property and construction recession. Put simply they have developed a reputation for being ethical, trustworthy and experienced. They constantly assess the market place, and operate accordingly.” This has paid dividends securing a high level of trust across the industry in Scotland and England. So waht are you waiting for? Give the guys a call...0191 594 7565.

Churchill House, 12 Moseley Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 1DE www.cprecruitment.co.uk e: newcastle@cprecruitment.co.uk tel: 0191 594 7565 @CP_Recruitment Facebook C&P Recruitment

BUSINESS INSIGHT

National trailblazer partnership powers ahead for a smarter energy future Ivan Jepson

The UK energy market is experiencing a technological transformation with the roll out of smart meters across the UK now in full swing. Gateshead College, with partners G4S Utilities and Energy & Utility Skills, is pioneering a new dual fuel smart meter apprenticeship to deliver the training needed to meet the high demand for an extra 6000 smart meter installers and training to upskill 3000 existing installers by 2019. Always at the forefront of working with business and developing flexible ways to address the needs of employers, Gateshead College is powering ahead, creating a specialist apprenticeship for 16-18 year olds with partners G4S Utilities and Energy & Utility Skills - an employer-led member organisation that is helping to futureproof the skills base in the gas, power, waste management and water industries. Known as a Trailblazer Apprenticeship - where employers work with training providers to produce new apprenticeship standards for jobs in their sector – the bespoke course replicates real-life smart meter installation techniques. This fully prepares the apprentice with an industryrecognised qualification plus a broader set of technical skills. And with the demands of the role requiring customer interaction to explain how the system works, communication and customer service training feature heavily in the course delivery.

Ivan Jepson, director of business development at Gateshead College, explains: “Our enviable track record of working with businesses in response to the challenges presented by new and evolving technologies means that we have been able to provide G4S with a highly customised course that is working for them and giving its employees the skills and knowledge they need to get the job done. “Our specialist and experienced business team is committed to providing innovative and bespoke training for employers and we’re proud to be the only college in the country proactively addressing the skills shortage in the energy sector through the 16-18 dual fuel apprenticeship, supporting G4S as they complete one of the biggest and most ambitious projects currently underway in the UK.” James Fatherley, head of resourcing at G4S Utility Services, added: “The introduction of smart metering has meant that we need a workforce that can adapt to the demands of advances in dual fuel technology while also having the softer skills to provide exemplary customer care when carrying out installations in homes and businesses across the UK. “Gateshead College has worked with us to develop a robust training course that gets our meter installers out in the field quickly and fully equipped to complete the job to a high standard.” The partnership represents a national shift in

training young people to meet the skills needs of the energy sector. A move welcomed by Energy & Utility Skills which spearheads the Energy & Efficiency Industrial Partnership (EEIP). Sophie Wells, client insight manager at Energy & Utility Skills, said: “The energy and utility sector has historically struggled to provide practical training and work experience for the 16-18 age group. Our main focus is to maintain momentum and hone in on this valuable apprenticeship pilot to ensure its future sustainability while creating a steady stream of young talent to meet the demands of the smart meter installer workforce requirement over the coming years. “Thanks to a successful partnership with Gateshead College, G4S and ourselves, the apprenticeship has the best chance of being an award winning programme, delivered through the passion of all partners involved.” Gateshead College’s status as an outstanding FE provider has been further cemented with the dual fuel smart meter installer (electricity and gas) apprenticeship achieving gold standard accreditation from the Energy & Efficiency Industrial Partnership - an organisation which is leading a radical new approach to recruitment and training to solve skills shortages across the energy sector. This, combined with employer endorsement, perfectly showcases how apprenticeship training can lead to a rewarding career in a skilled job.

For more information on apprenticeships and how they can help your business, call 0191 490 2258 or email employers@gateshead.ac.uk

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

Without having a goal it is difficult to score Ammar Mirza pic: Peter Walton 2014

Ask a young person what they want to do or become and the vast majority will shrug their shoulders and say something like “I want to become a footballer or be on X-Factor” or even worse “I want to be famous”. How many of our young generation go through school not knowing what they want to do with no real sense of ambition or aspiration. This lack of ambition and aspiration leads to our future generation leaving school lost and simply disengaging with society. The acronym for young people who do nothing is NEETs (Not in Education Employment or Training), yet there is nothing really neat about that label. Sadly the number of NEETs in our region is the highest in the England, with one in five young people doing nothing. If they are lucky they will get good GCSE grades, stay on at school, complete their A ‘Levels, go onto University get a degree at the end of which they will hopefully get a job they like, which usually has nothing to do with what they studied. (Actually lucky isn’t probably the right word to describe them.) Conversely, the biggest issue affecting business isn’t lack of finance, or support, but the lack of skilled staff. Just look at any recent survey or press and every business is complaining about skills.

From shortage of suitably qualified IT personnel, concerns around the number of engineers, even hotels and restaurants are struggling. In fact in one of my businesses I had 30 vacancies I couldn’t fill for months and this was in the leisure sector. On the one hand we have a generation leaving education lost and on the other hand we have so many jobs that we cannot fill, clearly there is a disconnect, but how do we address it. The number of initiatives, interventions and opportunities for young people is incredible. I don’t think there is too little career information advice and guidance, I think there is simply too much. The issue is how confusing it has all become, education establishments focusing on targets and league tables, parental influences, should a person chose a vocational route or a traditional academic, and so much more. When a person is 16 they have already formed their personality, so trying to influence them at that age becomes so much more challenging, yet that is when the vast majority of interventions come into effect. What is the solution? Well business needs to take the lead and we need to start as early as possible. That is why we launched the Primary Inspiration through Enterprise (PIE) Project three years ago. Providing real life work experiences starting with primary age pupils, as early as

possible, to offer each and every one of them a chance to experience enterprise. A holistic approach to deliver enterprise education that involves the teacher, the parent, and local business that is sustainable. Not a one size fits all that is funded by government, but a tailored approach to the school and young person, helping them develop their strengths and understand their weaknesses. The project has had a profound impact to the children in Walker who developed a whole host of life skills including resilience and learned how to work in a team, communicate effectively even completing CVs and application forms, helping them improve their life choices and choices. These 10 and 11 years completed an NCFE industry recognised qualification, a first in the whole of the UK. I was astounded at the quality of the work and how each of them had clearly articulated their plans to become a vet, doctor, engineer and one even had a plan to become a footballer. I cannot wait to see her score her first professional goal. We are now rolling out this initiative and everyone can get involved. Visit www.pieproject. org or email big@pieproject.org for more information.

Ammar Mirza CBE is the chairman and founder of Asian Business Connexions; the current David Goldman Visiting Professor for Innovation and Enterprise at Newcastle University and represents the Private Sector on various boards across the region. Email ammar@ammarm.com

Dear Pie’oneer, On Friday 18th March we will be launching the BIG PIE Friday Challenge. We will be inviting every single Primary School in North Tyneside, Newcastle and Northumberland to participate in a STEM Competition. (This is phase one of the challenge and we will be delivering phase two south of the Tyne later on in the year.) Targeting 10 and 11 year olds this unique, exciting and ambitious Challenge will aim to engage inspire and educate our future generations in enterprise and STEM based activities. The project helps young people realise their ambitions and aspiration, creating better life choices and improving life chances. The PIE Project aims to counteract the current negative misconception around education and the lack of employer engagement with the intention to platform the North East as a truly committed region investing in its future generation. We recognise there is good practice within the education sector and a whole host of employers and individuals that are already engaged. However, we want to galvanise this interest, helping bring the whole community together for a common purpose creating a movement all around enterprise education. Supported by a range of partners and stakeholders, the Challenge will engage with local businesses, parents of the pupils and the wider community. We have Global Radio and Trinity Group already confirmed as media partners, together with Newcastle University and Newcastle College as delivery partners, alongside a broad and wide range of businesses. Even our local MPs and Armed Forces are involved. The activities will clearly align to the North East LEPs Gatsby Career Information, Advice and Guidance Benchmarks and Enterprise Advisors initiative. Ultimately we will be carrying out the largest single STEM activity across Primary Schools ever undertaken. The second stage will deliver vocational industry recognised qualifications to 10-11 year olds accredited by NCFE. Finally an awards ceremony will be held to recognise the schools achievements. As an adroit campaigner of skills development and passionate about positively platforming the North East, I am spearheading the Campaign. I now need you to get behind this exciting initiative. Whether you are a school teacher, 10 or 11 year old, parent, business owner or indeed any member of the community, we want you to help. On the 18th March we will need to oversee the challenge into potentially 250 schools. Between 10am to 12 midday, two timed activities will be undertaken. As Pie’oneers you will need to record and report back the results. However, your engagement doesn’t stop there, you will have the opportunity to support stage 2 of the Challenge and attend the award ceremony – where we will be recognising teachers, pupils, parents and businesses - if your school is one of the finalists. Even if you cannot commit to attending the school on the 18th March, maybe you can consider supporting your local school in the future. Moving forward I hope that you will consider becoming part of and supporting the PIE Project to help us influence and deliver enterprise education, together with career advice and guidance, in a collaborative and consistent way. I look forward to you supporting a truly inclusive and ambitious Challenge that will significantly benefit our future generations showcasing the North East for being an amazing place. Kindly email big@pieproject.org to register your interest and show your support. With best wishes,

Bob Paton CBE

Watch out for next month’s Northern Insight – an 8 page Enterprise Education Special Showcasing the best employers and initiatives across the North East You can find out more about PIE via www.pieproject.org

Why Aye Man, Hinnies is the Place for Top Scran! by Michael Grahamslaw In our region, we are very fortunate to have so many fabulous places to dine in and I recently visited a new venue in Whitley Bay that is another crowdpleasing winner. Andy Hook, a successful north east restaurateur with the award-winning Blackfriars Restaurant in Newcastle has recently launched Hinnies in Whitley Bay with his business partner David Townsley. At the heart of the redevelopment of the seafront, Hinnies has already built up a huge reputation in the neighbourhood for serving the rustic and hearty comfort food all Geordies like to eat in a relaxed, warm and friendly atmosphere. It is sought out by many locals “in the know” but when the redevelopment of the coastline is complete, it is bound to become the Mecca for foodies from much farther afield. Hinnies highly experienced Head Chef is Jonny Wardale whilst his brother Chris, Head Chef at Blackfriars, will lend support to his brother along with other members of the Blackfriars team. The restaurant’s menu is an absolute delight being both nostalgic and cutting edge in equal measures, if that is possible. It’s strange how things do a full circle in culinary terms and forgotten dishes suddenly comes back into fashion once again. Whatever, Hinnies successfully satisfies all

expectations at both ends of the culinary spectrum by featuring a range of locally inspired dishes such as a modern take on its famous Saveloy Dip, consisting of smoked sausage, mustard and a gravy-dipped bap with peas pudding; North East coast creamy crab soup; North Sea mackerel pate with pickled cucumber and toasted sourdough bread; Black(friars) pudding with poached egg and crispy bacon; Slow-roasted belly pork with pease pudding, cabbage and onions; Newcastle Brown Ale slow-cooked beef with horseradish dumplings; and the much sought after Pan Haggerty with greens, poached egg and mustard cream and not forgetting an old Geordie favourite, Singin’ Hinnies with bramble jam and clotted cream. The latter inspired the name of this noteworthy neighbourhood eatery. I understand that Hinnies would also be showcasing some of Blackfriars best-selling dishes from the last ten years - but again, with more of a Geordie twist. A business colleague and I visited it a couple of weeks after its opening and it was so comfortable, you could have thought it had been there for years. Everything was perfectly balanced. The atmosphere was buoyant, a great sign on a midweek lunchtime, the food was spot on and the service was very attentive. Even the background music ticked every box.

We kicked off with North Sea fishcake with chunky tartare sauce and creamy crab soup followed by North Sea fish and chips with mushy peas and, of course, the excellent Pan Haggerty. Regrettably, no room for Singin’ Hinnies but it’s definitely on the cards for next time. With two courses costing just £12 and three courses for £15 if dining between 12 noon and 2pm or as an early bird weekday supper between 5pm and 7pm on a Tuesday to Friday basis, this represents amazing value for money. The interior of Hinnies was designed by Newcastle-based designer Neil Wilson, whose brief was to make the restaurant a warm, relaxed and inviting place to eat, so they thought it would be interesting to combine a coastal colour scheme with warm natural wood tones and features, but then add a range of vintage furniture, fittings and accessories to give Hinnies character and a sense of cosy nostalgia to go with the comfort food. Hinnies is open to all in the community and a special children’s menu has been devised by the chefs to give the ankle biters a taste of the region’s heritage. Hinnies is already a firm favourite of mine and it’s not only a great place to take out-of-town business contacts but also the family too. With the rest of the country seemingly turning its back on its both its culture heritage, Hinnies deserves our support for keeping ours alive.

For further information call 0191 447 0500, or visit www.hinnies.co.uk. Hinnies Restaurant, is situated on East Parade, Whitley Bay, Tyne & Wear, (SatNav: NE26 1AP).

BUSINESS LUNCH

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BUSINESS INSIGHT Sarah Crilly

Divorce and pensions - some important changes Sarah Crilly, Associate in the Family Law team at Ward Hadaway, highlights important changes affecting pensions in 2016 and warns of particular issues to look out for if you are going through a divorce.

From 6th April 2016, the current system of Basic State Pension, Additional State Pension and Graduated pension will be scrapped and there will simply be a Flat Rate State Pension. The maximum amount payable under the flat rate state scheme will initially be £155.65 per week. This is the end of contractingout for defined benefit schemes (i.e. public sector schemes). Everyone will pay the same National Insurance after 6 April 2016 whether employed or self-employed. For a divorcing couple, this means that after 6 April 2016 it will no longer be possible to share the Additional State Pension with your ex-spouse if you reach state pension age on or after 6 April 2016, unless the petition for divorce was issued before 6th April 2016. When the Additional State Pension currently can have a total fund value of as much as £120,000 at the time of retirement, this is quite a change. Those who reach state pension age on or after 6th April 2016 and where the petition for divorce was issued after the 6th April 2016 will not be able to share their old additional state pension

but if they have a Protected Payment under the new Flat Rate State Pension, this will be shareable. Also of particular note is that pension substitution will no longer be possible. Currently, couples who have been through long marriages where one spouse has remained at home and not in employment whilst the other has worked throughout can obtain the other working spouse’s full state pension credits upon divorce. The only category of couples who can still try and benefit from pension substitution, despite the fact they will not reach state retirement age until after April 2016, will be those who are going to be divorced and obtain a Decree Absolute before this deadline. Couples who will have passed State Pension age by 6 April 2016 will not be affected by the changes and will continue to receive state pensions in accordance with the current 3 tier scheme. They will also be able to substitute their basic state pension and share their additional state pension if they go through a divorce. This means more money may be available for distribution between the parties even where a

spouse is not at state retirement age by 6th April 2016. However, for those who aren’t at state retirement age and have not issued a divorce petition by this date, they will lose out and there will be potentially less money for sharing. The other change which happens this year relates to how much a person can hold within pensions. From 2016/17 the lifetime allowance will reduce from £1.25 million to £1 million which will hit high earners whose current allowances will reduce from £40,000 to £10,000 per annum. For people with pensions, if the value of benefits paid out exceeds a person’s lifetime allowance then any excess benefits taken as a lump sum are taxed at 55%, excess benefits taken as a pension are taxed at 25%. It may be in a person’s best interests if they are going through a divorce to reduce their pension position by sharing that pension with their spouse on divorce and thus reducing the tax liability. Pensions are a complex but important issue when it comes to the assets involved in any divorce. As a result, divorcing couples should take expert professional advice on the subject.

For more information on the issues raised by this article please contact sarah.crilly@wardhadaway.com or call 0191 204 4463.

Look after tomorrow, today! Laurus Associates, Mincoffs Solicitors and Sanlam Private Wealth recently hosted a ladies event entitled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Look after tomorrow, today!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; to get delegates thinking about planning for the future by getting their personal, financial and legal affairs in order for 2016. Held at the Marriott Hotel, Gosforth Park, the afternoon included presentations on the importance of wills and powers of attorney, auto enrolment for micro employers, nominations and death benefits and investment strategies. The event was followed by afternoon tea and a spring workwear fashion demonstration by Intu Metrocentre.

Thank goodness

not every north-east commercial law firm is going the same way. In an age where everyone seems to be getting bought up, swallowed up and ending up completely changed, we are more than happy to be different. We remain incredibly proud of our enduring independence. We are free to make decisions that are true to our values and, above all, that are of most benefit to our clients. You could call it a sign of our individuality.

Muckle LLP. We think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll like the difference.

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BUSINESS INSIGHT Paul McGowan

Zero hours contracts - changes in law Zero hours contacts have attracted a great deal of criticism over recent years. Indeed, it was an issue which seemed to drum up political rhetoric during last year’s election campaign. In addition many large employers, whether fast food outlets or discounted sportswear businesses, have attracted criticism over their use and the lack of equal bargaining position between employers and workers.

The first legal change affecting zero hours contracts was made last year where statutory changes effectively made “exclusively clauses” in zero hours contracts unlawful. So, what is an exclusivity clause? Broadly speaking, an exclusivity clause is a clause in an employment contract which restricts an individual’s ability to carry out work for anyone else bar that employer. This is seen as particularly unfair for zero hours contracts where the employee has no guarantee of receiving any work. However, despite this change in law, employers have continued to use exclusivity clauses without much fear of legal challenge as the legal change lacked any real bite or penalty. However, the introduction of Exclusivity Terms in Zero Hours Contracts Redress (Regulations) 2005 which came into force in January this year now introduce significant risk and penalties for employers who continue to flaunt the law. It brings about two very significant changes which should lead to a reduction in use of exclusivity clauses for zero hour contracts.

The changes introduced are as follows: I f an employee is dismissed in circumstances where the reason or principle reason for their dismissal was due to them breaching the terms of an exclusivity clause contained within their zero hours contract then they will succeed with an unfair dismissal claim. In addition, employees can exercise this right to bring an unfair dismissal claim without needing the two years of continuous service as required for standard unfair dismissal claims. In practice, this is significant because it means that if an employee is not able to attend work for one employer because they are working for someone else and an employer decides to dismiss them, they will be able to bring a claim for compensation against that employer. Workers (a broad group which includes employees and some of the self-employed) can also bring an additional complaint to an Employment Tribunal where they have been subjected to a detriment or less favourable treatment by an employer as a result of the worker’s failure to comply with exclusivity clause within the zero hours contract.

Advice for employers Given this significant change in the law, employers should review their contractual arrangements to see if they fall foul of these recent changes in legislation. We would encourage employers to: onsider whether zero hours contracts are C suitable for your business needs or whether other permanent or temporary contracts would be more appropriate. nly use zero hours contacts where necessary O and where the required flexibility benefits both the employer and the worker. eview your employment arrangements R periodically. In particular, the status of individuals who may be working on zero hours contracts for long periods of time. In this case, would it be better to change their contractual arrangement? E nsure managers are trained to deal with the use of zero hours contracts in practice and are aware of this change in the law.

If you require any further advice or assistance on how this change in law impacts your business, please contact me on 0191 282 2882 or at paul.mcgowan@collingwoodlegal.com.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Francis FitzGibbon Q.C. from Trinity Barristers Chambers gives his views on his time in Newcastle

I first came to Newcastle in the early 1980s, to visit my girlfriend who was taking a post-graduate degree. To begin with she lived in halls of residence in West Newcastle. There were many highlights – not least screenings of silent films with musical accompaniment at the Tyneside Cinema, pubs with jazz bands, and everywhere people out and about determined to have fun. We had fun but missed out on the regeneration of the city centre that brought the Gateshead Garden Festival in 1990, and then the Sage, the Baltic, and the profusion of restaurants, watering holes and other amenities that we have now.

The City Centre is as lively and cosmopolitan as ever. The beautiful streetscape of Grainger Town has miraculously escaped the developers, has kept its character and is one of the finest urban areas in Europe. Thirty years later, now a Q.C. practising criminal law based in London, I have become an associate tenant at Trinity, a leading set based in Newcastle and Middlesbrough. I regularly appear in cases at the Crown Court on the regenerated Quayside. With fifteen Courts, Newcastle is one of the largest Court Centres in the UK. The Crown Court has been an early adopter of the new Digital Case System, which does away with paper files completely. It is in its early days and should transform working practices for everyone in the criminal justice system and enable us all

to concentrate on providing a better service to the public. Whilst based predominantly in London, I count myself lucky to have the chance to work in Newcastle. The legal community is strong and supportive, and has welcomed me. The Bar works as it should: in friendly competition, cases conducted properly, and with a collegiate spirit. The most recent edition of one of the leading legal directories, the Legal 500, describes Tier One Trinity as “‘a fine set' with ‘a fantastic reputation in the North East'. It has strength in depth across a broad spectrum of areas…the ‘helpful' clerking team provides an ‘excellent' service; the clerks are ‘knowledgeable about counsel and provide reasonable brief fees'.” The last year has been very busy for the team

at Trinity. Three family barristers have qualified as Family Law Arbitrators and are now regularly undertaking Arbitrations. Another highlight for Chambers was the news that Head of Trinity’s Family Group and experienced Court of Protection barrister, Nicholas Stonor was appointed Silk. Trinity has also attracted new barristers who have joined in recent months including Nigel Gowling, Natasha Andrews and Nigel Kidwell. For the first time in many years and reflective of Chambers’ confidence despite challenging times, Trinity took on two trainee barristers, known as Pupils who have each recently qualified as practising barristers, Matthew Crowe and Rebecca Suttle. Finally, the construction next to The Custom House of the contemporary Live Works, a £10 million capital scheme by the Live Theatre, has completed the frontage of the iconic Quayside.

For further details regarding Trinity Barristers Chambers please contact Practice Director, Simon Stewart on 0191 232 1927, email simon.stewart@trinitychambers.co.uk or visit www.trinitychambers.co.uk.

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Call Jonathan on 0191 204 4376 for a free and confidential conversation. www.wardhadaway.com Newcastle | Leeds | Manchester

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Business advisory partnership Andrew Cawkwell

Whether your business is a start-up or is more established, the decision over who to turn to for advice is an important one. The first port of call for businesses is usually to seek business advice from their accountant, as companies often perceive law firms to be there simply to ensure they comply with the law in their business dealings. At Muckle LLP, we’re here to deliver more than just legal advice and can get involved early on by looking at the risks, challenges and opportunities your business faces. Speak to us about day-to-day decisions and we will consider the strategic implication when offering practical and proactive advice to help drive your business forward. For example, if you’re buying or selling a business, need to collect debts quicker or improve terms and conditions, we can help limit your risks as much as possible. Your business is important to us and we will take time to understand your objectives so that we can provide appropriately tailored advice. By working closely with you, we can become

a natural extension of your team that you can turn to at any time. Whatever the size of your team or needs of your business, we understand the necessity to provide increased value while delivering the best commercial advice. We have the expertise, industry knowledge and experience to advise a diverse range of businesses and professionals and can help you identify what it is you want to achieve in your business plan. This will help you to navigate the law in new and different situations and we have a proven track record of doing this.

From public companies to ownermanaged businesses, building valuable long-term relationships with our clients is really important to the team here at Muckles. Why not come and talk to us? Andrew Cawkwell Partner and Certified Turnaround Professional Banking and Restructuring Team Muckle LLP e: Andrew.Cawkwell@muckle-llp.com @CompanyRescue

Reforms to European Trade Mark Law By Dominic Elsworth (Patent Attorney), Hargreaves Elsworth On 23rd March 2016 a number of changes come into force. We have a name changes that Sir Humphrey would have been proud of: The Community Trade Mark (CTM) will become the European Union Trade Mark (EUTM). The Community Trade Marks Office, previously known as the Office for Harmonisation in the Internal Market (OHIM), will become known as The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). The EUIPO will, however, continue to deal only with Trade Marks and Designs with the European Patent Office, which is not a European Union institution dealing with European patents. One may think that a vote to leave the EU would mean that UK businesses would be able to avoid all this jargon. However, one does not have to reside in the EU to be able to own an EU trade mark registration or an EU design registration, so whatever the result of the referendum, UK businesses will still need to understand what goes on in Brussels (and Alicante, home of the EUIPO). Trade Mark owners need to review specifications Trade Marks are applied for in relation to various classes of goods and/or services. It is the Nice agreement which splits up all goods and services into 45 classes. Each class is designated by a

‘class heading’ which indicates the nature of the goods or services in that class, as well as a fairly exhaustive list of examples of goods and services within each class. However, not all goods and services may fall within the scope of the class heading when the words are given their literal meaning. For example, the class heading for class 41 is “Education; providing of training; entertainment; sporting and cultural activities”. Translation services are listed within this class but would not be covered when you consider the literal meaning of the class

heading. Up until June 2012 OHIM’s practice was to consider that specifications of goods and services which listed only the class headings of any given class were considered to cover all of the goods or services in that class. However following a court decision in June 2012, Community Trade Mark registrations only cover the literal meaning of the terms used in the specification. The new regulations coming into force on 23rd March 2016 will set a deadline of 23rd September 2016 for amending any registrations filed before 22nd June 2012 in which the specification covers only the Nice classification class headings in order to clarify the scope of protection of these marks. Trade Mark owners should carry out an audit of their portfolio to identify any Community Trade Mark applications filed before June 2012 which specify the goods and services as Nice class headings. Whilst Hargreaves Elsworth’s practice has always been to draft Trade Mark specifications to goods and services specific to our client’s particular business interests, it has been more common practice for unrepresented applicants and overseas applicants to rely on the class headings. We can help identify registrations you may have that should be amended.

Hargreaves Elsworth Cooper's Studios 14-18 Westgate Road Newcastle-upon-Tyne United Kingdom NE1 3NN T: +44 (0) 191 269 5477 F: +44 (0) 191 247 7102 or +44 (0) 191 269 5478 E: delsworth@heip.co.uk W: www.heip.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Airport Car Park Expansion Takes Off Newcastle International Airport has today announced a development to extend its car parking facilities.

A multi-million pound contract has been awarded to The Owen Pugh Group to extend the existing long-term car park to provide 1,600 additional spaces at the airport. Preliminary work on the scheme is already underway and the project is expected to take 21 weeks to complete. The new extension is bordered by Ponteland Road and Prestwick Road with the airport requiring the space for additional cars to support its growth in demand for long-term parking capacity. The construction will be carefully managed to minimise the impact on the local community. In order to ensure the openness and country feel is maintained, the airport will undertake landscaping on the boundaries of the car parks in order to screen the development from outside of the site. The new extension comes just two months after Robert Goodwill MP, Minister of State for Transport, officially opened the airport’s new £14m departure lounge redevelopment. David Laws, Chief Executive at Newcastle International Airport, said: “This is another significant development as the airport continues to grow. Our passengers’ journey begins as soon as they arrive at the airport and it is vital we continue to meet their needs and offer the best experience possible. Lee Buchanan, Operations Manager at Owen Pugh Construction, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this prestigious contract to extend parking facilities at Newcastle Airport as it continues on its growth trajectory. “With a team of highly skilled operatives on board, we’re well placed to undertake this project on time and within budget.”

Marriage – ensure you’re legally prepared February often brings a flurry of marriage proposals, with men popping the question to their beloved on Valentine’s Day - and this year, a leap year, may have seen even more, with women able to exercise their traditional right by proposing on February 29th. Getting married is a huge commitment and one that takes a lot of preparation, not just in terms of planning that special big day, but also in ensuring your legal affairs are in order. While admittedly that may not appear as exciting as planning your wedding, doing so is essential for planning and providing for your family and your future. One important step is making a Will – while it is often delayed until old age or ill health, or put off until ‘another time’, it is hugely important you specify your wishes for after your death and make clear how you want your Estate to be distributed. You can detail how you would like to provide for your children and for your new spouse or Civil Partner. You can make your Will in contemplation of your marriage - ordinarily, marriage cancels any current Will that you may have, unless it is specifically made with your future marriage in mind. If you have already married and made a Will

in the past which was not made in expectation of your marriage, you will need to make a new Will to ensure those who you wish to benefit are still provided for, otherwise your Estate may not be distributed as you intend. This can lead to complications and disagreement between loved ones and family members after your death. Your living arrangements are another important point. It is important you consider,

and take advice if necessary, over how you own your property so that the method of ownership reflects your intentions. Alternatively, you may be moving into your partner’s property once you marry. It is essential that intentions are documented and your respective interests are protected. For instance, if you are intending to contribute towards mortgage repayments, you may wish to protect your interest by way of a Declaration of Trust to avoid any ambiguity arising in the future. Finally, ensure you consider what you are already bringing to your marriage or civil partnership. You may have inherited property or valuable goods from a loved one and wish to preserve this for your chosen beneficiaries, or else may have built up your finances and assets through hard work. It is becoming more popular for couples to consider whether a pre-nuptial agreement is appropriate. For an informal chat on how best to provide for the future of you and your future spouse, speak to the Personal and Family team at Sintons. We pride ourselves on our very personal approach, coupled with the highest standard of legal advice, and would be delighted to advise you as you enter the next stage of your lives together.

Paul Collingwood is a leading specialist private client solicitor, and recently joined the Personal and Family team at Sintons. Contact him on paul.collingwood@sintons.co.uk or 0191 226 3713.

PROPERTY INSIGHT

Springtime is urbanDesign time Jan Dale, Director, urban base

The urbanDesign team advise our clients how to make the most of their homes – the crucial first impressions really do matter. We always strongly recommend making your home welcoming and unique to a potential buyer, and our interior team have seen a real growth in demand for special effect lighting schemes through indirect lighting and ceiling features. “Open plan and even small spaces can be made to feel more individual and unique by adding ceiling features to the main zones within the space.” says Chris Senior at urbanDesign. “This can be achieved by adding Soffit lighting to ceiling areas as well as more conventional spotlights and chandeliers. The contrast created by this lighting can define and enhance the space as seen below, and can help with a potential sale, and even add value.” The smaller hallway can be greatly enhanced by the layering of 4 individual bespoke lighting types. The Soffit lighting provides a gentle and indirect wash of light, helping to provide a warm, welcoming and spacious feel. Whilst contrasting spotlights provide direct lighting to illuminate

the walkway and enhance the appearance of the floor. The addition of the wall lighting attracts the eye, and creates a lower focus point helping to frame the furnishings. By using angled lower level lighting the eye continues to be drawn down through the space or room. The compilation of the lighting sources provides the eye with a design that enhances the entire space. Simple additions of indirect lighting as shown in the bedroom help to elevate the appearance of the ceiling height making even smaller spaces feel spacious and inviting. Enhanced further with a table lamp and wall lighting this can help to draw the eye down to the lower levels of the room.

perception and connection with your home. As we move in to spring, and we approach the lighter nights, and longer days this in turn moves sellers and buyers focus to design their patios, landscape gardens and whether to extend with bi-folds, move in to the loft or even build a sun house at the bottom of the garden. The urbanDesign team can visit your home for an initial 2 hour design consultation, and before you know it our vision can transform and help you create your dream home. …so how does your dream property look? To arrange your interior consultation contact the urbanDesign team at info@urban-base.com.

Whilst the addition of drop lighting within open plan spaces helps to define key features and provide concentrated lighting to specific areas, without detracting from the overall stylish mood of the room. Our clients are increasingly becoming aware that well designed lighting is an under-utilised and greatly overlooked part of home interiors but when correctly executed can change your

NEWCASTLE BRANCH: 65 Quayside, Newcastle City, NE1 3DE DURHAM BRANCH: 61 Saddler Street, Durham City, DH1 3NU PRIVATE OFFICE: Rivergreen, Durham City, DH1 5TS M: 07881426277 T: 0845 643 1186 E: jan@urban-base.com W: www.urban-base.com

PROPERTY of the MONTH

Suncourt, Elmfield Park, Gosforth

Offers Over ÂŁ3 Million Suncourt, set back from Elmfield Park, provides a magnificent setting for a truly fabulous, detached house of luxurious quality and superb style. Representing a very rare opportunity to the housing market, this six bedroom property, built in the 1930s, was purchased by the current owners in 2011 and has been extensively refurbished including a stunning kitchen and family room by Herrington Gate, a tremendous entertaining room, an outstanding master bedroom suite and the addition of a second floor. The grounds are extensive and very well landscaped with great screening, superb lawned areas, and fabulous terraces and patios; there is also a two car garage and a courtyard providing ample parking.

Contact rare! From Sanderson Young on 0191 2233500 ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Celtic Manor

Gubeon Wood, Tranwell Woods, Morpeth Celtic Manor represents one of the finest new build detached houses available within Northumberland. A great deal of care and attention has gone into its design with high quality fittings, bespoke walnut furniture, intelligent wiring and impressive lighting. This magnificent five bedroom home has a leisure suite, a large self contained apartment and grounds of 6.5 acres. EPC: C

Price Guide: £2.95 Million

Lauder Grange

Prospect Hill, Corbridge A fabulous opportunity to acquire a highly impressive, stone built detached Victorian house. Built in the 1870’s, the property has been extensively renovated and enjoys stunning grounds including formal gardens, a stable block and three double garages. Situated just to the south of Corbridge, this beautiful, seven bedroomed home enjoys outstanding views over the Tyne Valley. EPC: F

Price Guide: £1,999,999

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Middle Leazes

Leazes Lane, Hexham Middle Leazes, set back from Leazes Lane, enjoys an elevated position with delightful grounds that extend to circa half an acre. The five bedroom house, which has an additional one bedroom guest annexe, is understood to date back to the early 1600s and has been extensively remodelled and extended to provide an impressive detached country home with a great deal of character. EPC: E

Price Guide: £895,000

Deep Wood

Off Bemersyde Drive, Jesmond Deep Wood represents one of two exclusive detached family homes, set into their own private grounds with access from Bemersyde Drive. Located in one of the most desirable areas of Jesmond, this beautiful, four to five bedroomed home has been extensively refurbished and has superb interior design, lovely landscaped gardens and CCTV linking into a monitoring service. EPC: D

Price Guide: £795,000

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

PROPERTY INSIGHT

Affordable luxury at Durham With prices for the remaining seven luxury homes at Dere Street Homes’ Hill Top Farm development starting at £425,000, the same superb luxury standards of some of the larger designs are available for more modest budgets.

The four bedroom semi-detached Forge home at Dere Street Home’s unique Hill Top Farm development.

Sales and Marketing Manager, Marie McQuaid, commented, “Whilst five bedroom detached homes at Hill Top Farm such as the Dower House are available at £875,000, designs such as The Forge on Plot 12 offer the same superb standards of design and finishing at lower prices.”

The four bedroom Forge is a highly desirable semi-detached home with an innovative integral double garage with openings to the front and rear providing access to a dedicated parking area. The double height hallway leads into the modern open plan living, dining and kitchen area while a set of elegant French doors opens onto The five bedroom detached Farmhouse showhome at Hill Top farm.

the garden which engulfs the living area with natural light through the large floor to ceiling windows. A separate home office/study can also be reached from the hall, whilst access through a separate utility room links the double length garage. A turned staircase leads up to a galleried landing with the impressive master bedroom, complete with en-suite facilities, whilst a further three bedrooms share the generous sized family bathroom. Marie McQuaid continued, “The development has attracted incredible interest since we first opened the showhome last October. Many of our visitors have commented on the clever design of the homes and the standard of finishing, whether this is in one of the larger five bedroom detached homes or the four bedroom semi-detached designs – they all also share the same superb location with stunning views over the adjacent golf courses.” Located within touching distance of Ramside Hall Hotel just outside Durham City, Hill Top Farm consists of 13 farmstead style, detached and semi-detached luxury homes which come complete with one year’s complimentary membership to both the Golf Club and Ramside Hall Hotel’s new Spa and Leisure Club.

Prices for homes currently for sale start from £425,000 with full details available from Jan Gill, the on-site Development Sales Manager 07983 080952 or www.derestreethomes.co.uk

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PROPERTY INSIGHT

The latest innovation in dementia care

A dementia diagnosis can be a worrying time for all concerned but now a new £6.2 million specialist facility is opening in Wallsend to provide the highest quality care. Eothen Homes, www.eothenhomes.org.uk, is a Christian charity with a proven track record in providing excellent residential care for the elderly. Its new ground breaking development aims to provide a ‘family home’ environment offering all sorts of engaging activities including a sensory garden and aviary, as well as independent living apartments.

A different model of care Eothen’s new Wallsend development offers a ground-breaking model of care, in which each person’s quality of life is the over-riding priority, taking precedence over structured processes and schedules. The focus is on independence and wellbeing through a relationship-centred style of support involving the person with dementia, their family and friends. At Wallsend, daily life is not made up of routine and tasks but is just like home, where residents can get up when they want, eat where and when they want and make drinks and snacks at leisure, with staff interacting and on hand as necessary.

Developed with specialist training organisation Dementia Care Matters, this type of care is known as the ‘butterfly approach’ because it constantly adapts to what the individual needs, just as a butterfly adapts to changing circumstances throughout its life.

Designed to make living pleasurable The planning behind Eothen’s new home shows why it is the first of its kind here in the North East and beyond. A key component of this is freedom, security and space. Designed using the latest research into the needs of elderly residents and people living with dementia, this innovative home is inspired by the pioneering Hogewey Village concept in The Netherlands, which has been hugely successful and attracts global recognition for the care provided. In Wallsend, four households provide accommodation for 13 people and each one has its own kitchen, dining and lounge area to encourage everyone to live a life as close as possible to the one they did before. Bedrooms are large and open plan. Reminiscence areas include an external space featuring an old-style touring caravan to evoke

memories of holidays and fun times. A sensory garden will soon feature birds, animals and plants for residents to enjoy. All of Eothen’s homes have strong relationships with churches in the community allowing them to cater for all denominations. Wallsend has its own chapel on site for residents and their families to use whenever they wish.

Independent living This new development from Eothen Homes also offers one bedroom flats which are available to rent for people over 65 who wish to live independently. These apartments are open to all but particularly ideal for spouses who have family members living in the home.

Eothen is different Eothen was established in 1950 to provide Christian care for the elderly and as a charity it is governed by a board of Trustees who ensure each home creates a nurturing environment in which residents come first. The majority of Eothen’s business comes from personal recommendation thanks to the quality and consistency of care and its focus on ensuring that all residents are settled, healthy and happy.

Eothen’s new Wallsend home opens in April 2016. If you’d like to find out more or book a visit, please call 0191 281 9100 or email enquiries@eothenhomes.org.uk.

PROPERTY INSIGHT

New finance service from regional property specialist James Hill

Leading North East commercial and residential property agent Bradley Hall recently expanded its offer to clients by launching BH Financial Services. We spoke to experienced Finance Specialist and Company Director James Hill about his background and this new finance advice service.

What were you doing before joining Bradley Hall? I have been a financial specialist for around 20 years. I started my career with Lombard who provided finance for a wide range of business assets. From there I worked within various firms providing both automotive and business finance. More latterly I worked as an independent.

Why have you and Bradley Hall joined forces? I have known the directors of Bradley Hall, Peter Bartley and Neil Hart, the MD, for around 10 years. They have recommended clients to me for years and this has been increasing. With the growth of Bradley Hall and more recently the expansion of the estate agency network there was an opportunity to formalise things and establish a finance offering. The drive has really come from commercial and residential customers who want a one-stop-shop service. And customers can rest assured, BH Financial Services is approved and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

How do you see BH Financial Services developing? We had an initial plan but we’re already

having to alter this to meet demand; ultimately, customer response will drive the business. I’d love to have mortgage brokers in all of the Bradley Hall branch offices one day, but we’re starting steadily and have appointed Lewis Chambers acting as both mortgage broker and branch manager at our Gosforth office.

What do you offer that others don’t? Our level of service and the results we deliver will be our test. We’re aiming to be better than the rest, providing keener deals. Many Bradley Hall customers want a comprehensive service and we can provide that. We can access an unrivalled panel of funders providing highly competitive rates on commercial and residential mortgages, business finance for property, plant or equipment along with vehicle finance. We offer an initial free financial health-check.

Outline a typical day? I can’t remember one recently. Every day is so varied. This is a new business that currently requires a lot of business planning as well as me travelling all over to different places to do deals for clients. At the moment I’m busy raising finance on a £2m commercial property, securing

£565,000 business loan, and ordering various premium vehicles and commercials vans and providing finance for them.

What motivates you – gets you out of bed each day? My seven year old daughter, Betty, jumping on top of me every morning tends to get me up and out. It’s then down to the thrill of getting the deal, ensuring a win-win for the business and the client. I know I can get a better finance deal for most clients who approach me for advice. Driving and building a new business like BH Financial Services has also given a whole new momentum to things.

Outside of the office what do you do to relax? I’m a keen golfer and member of ‘The Park’. Otherwise it’s spending time with my wife Nicky and daughter. We make the most of holidays and love our trips to Portugal. After a rest from skiing for a few years we will be in France for New Year and look forward to that. I suspect the end of the year will come all too quickly!

For more finance advice and more information about BH Financial Services call 0191 260 200.

PROPERTY INSIGHT

Nunthorpe development proves a hit with house buyers looking for luxury House hunters looking to buy in Nunthorpe, Middlesborough, are urged to visit David Wilson Homes’ luxurious Grey Towers Village development after the stunning range of three to five bedroom homes has proved a success. The development, located in the popular area of Nunthorpe, offers village life with the conveniences of modern living and the popularity of the development reflects the demand for quality homes in the area. Houses on the development have proved particularly popular with buyers using David Wilson Homes’ innovative Part Exchange scheme. Allowing people to take the stress out of moving, the leading local developer purchases a buyer’s current home so they can make the move to a carefully designed David Wilson Home with ease. Steven Ball, Sales Manager at David Wilson Homes, commented: “Grey Towers Village is a beautiful development, with a range of unique properties that are fantastic for families looking for a luxurious home. We’re delighted that the development has been such a resounding success, proving the demand

for quality homes in the area is high. I’d advise hopeful homebuyers to come sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment.” Grey Towers Village is a stunning collection of homes in a sought after location, offering a choice

of local shops, schools and leisure amenities, and has the market towns of Guisborough, Stokesley and Yarm nearby. Selected homes at the development are available to purchase using Help to Buy or David Wilson Homes Part Exchange scheme, and are available from £254,995.

To find out more about David Wilson Homes please visit: www.dwh.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

Strengthened by adversity, Permatt plans for expansion Permatt Fork Lift Trucks is one of the North’s unassuming business success stories. The North Tyneside family business is celebrating its 35th anniversary year and record turnover. Managing director Mark Percy speaks about the highs and lows of running a business and his ambitions for the future.

How did it all start for you? I started in the business as a teenager. The company had been started by my father Ted Percy and his partner Eddie Matthews; the company name comes from the two surnames. In the early years, Permatt was a fork lift truck service and repair business based in a small unit in Nelson Village. We sold the odd second hand fork lift truck. I served my engineering apprenticeship here from 1984 and left a few years later after completing the course. I worked elsewhere to gain a broader experience, moving more into a sales environment. When you returned to Permatt, how did you influence its direction? When I came back into the business in around 1993, I was determined to add a bigger sales dimension and particularly with a known brand of new fork lift trucks that we could offer the local market. I quickly established an agency deal to supply TCM trucks in the North East and within the first week I had three fork lifts out on contract hire. In a very short time Permatt became the largest TCM dealer in the UK. The move into fleet hire and sales really accelerated growth. The next big development was about 12 years ago when we bought some land on Camperdown Industrial

Estate where we built our own facility. Things just grew every year, allowing my father to retire in the late ‘90s when I became MD.

accounts. The business is far stronger after that experience.

What have been the highs, the key milestones during your career? Becoming a dealer of TCM machines was probably our first big development. Moving into purpose built premises in Killingworth pushed us on again. More recently, becoming the Toyota dealer in the North East and Cumbria in 2013 took the business to a different level. During the same time we also expanded into Cumbria opening a facility in Penrith.

Apart from disciplines introduced and maintained from the painful recession, we’ve always kept a focus on quality. We put an emphasis on delivering a quality service, offering a high quality product, like Toyota. This approach and making sure customers are satisfied helps build and maintain a long-term, profitable business. Credit has to be given to the team we employ who continue to meet the standards I expect.

Any low moments running the business?

What are your ambitions for the business?

The recession hit us hard in 2009. It was so sudden, as if somebody had switched the lights off. Sales fell off the cliff to less than £1.5m, a fall of £1m within a year. Things got pretty anxious and you found out who your friends were. Bibby Leasing were a good support during this difficult time and as a result we now place all of our new business for contract hire with them. There were other positives that came out of that tough period; we introduced management procedures and a mentality that we hold to today. We cut all the fat off, scrutinised everybody’s role and contribution, and started monthly management

I intend to strengthen the great partnership with Toyota; continuing to grow our fleet of vehicles to break through the 400 barrier. In addition, I’m looking to expand into North Yorkshire, ideally through an acquisition of a smaller operator down there.

Any business lessons learnt?

How do you relax? Shooting is my great hobby, something I’ve enjoyed with a good group of friends for around 27 years. I also play golf (playing off a modest 15). Time with my wife Michelle and our two children is most important.

For more details about Permatt visit www.Permatt.com or call sales on 0191 216 5320.

MEDIA NEWS

‘Away Win’ in Manchester for Hedley McEwan Following a competitive pitch, Hedley McEwan have been awarded the coveted creative services account for the iconic intu Trafford Centre in Manchester. Speaking of the win, Joint Managing Director, Tom Hedley said: “This is a major win for us and we were up against some really strong Manchester opposition, so we’re especially proud to now have

intu Trafford Centre on our client list.” He adds: “We’re no strangers to the Manchester retail scene, having worked on the Manchester Arndale account for 10 years. But intu Trafford Centre is unique in the UK and probably throughout Europe and is like no other centre, either architecturally or in terms of its profile, with its premium range of high-end brands and retail

flagships. We are looking forward to creating some really exciting work for them across all platforms.” This latest win comes shortly after Hedley McEwan have expanded into new offices at St Peter’s Marina in Newcastle and look to further strengthen their team with appointments in both Design and Project Management.

MHW given international stamp of approval Leading North East PR consultancy MHW has been appointed to provide PR support to a new trade association that gives a collective voice to the international tax stamps sector. The International Tax Stamp Association, ITSA, has been founded by a number of leading industry companies and stakeholders to ensure better understanding of the benefits of tax stamp technology and to promote the highest professional standards within the sector. Tax stamps, also known as excise stamps, are affixed to relatively high value products, such as tobacco and spirits and indicate that the required excise duty has been paid by the manufacturer. In addition, tax stamps have also taken on product

authentication and anti-tampering applications. They are used by over 250 revenue agencies around the world. With governments making every effort to maximise their duty income from excisable goods and manufacturers wanting to verify the authenticity of their products to deter counterfeiters, tax stamps have taken on even greater importance. Against this background, Newcastle-based MHW will work with ITSA to promote the benefits of tax stamps, promote new and emerging technologies and help ensure that potential users fully understand the advantages and capabilities of tax stamps.

Ramarketing wins crafty digital account Having successfully worked with the craft retailer since 2013, ramarketing will now also create, implement and manage the digital campaign including its search engine optimisation, pay-per-click advertising and affiliate marketing. Head of retail at Crafter’s Companion, James Brown, said: “Having worked closely with our senior management and marketing department for several years, ramarketing knows our brand inside out and understands our wider remit to increase our online visibility, reach more customers and drive more sales.” Crafter’s Companion specialises in the global manufacturing and distribution of crafting tools and products from its County Durham headquarters and its US operation in California. Founder of remarketing, Raman Seghal, said: “The Crafter’s Companion brand has a huge, international following and since working with them we have seen it grow monumentally, so we are delighted to embark on the latest expansion plans with them throughout this next phase.” Founded in 2009, ramarketing provides a range of services including PR, website development, marketing, SEO, PPC advertising, social media and design.

International retailer Crafter’s Companion has appointed award-winning Newcastle PR agency ramarketing to deliver a new global digital strategy to expand its online reach and help drive more sales.

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MEDIA INSIGHT Christian Cerisola

Is it time for the North East to get behind Brand Newcastle? If ever there was an incendiary headline with which to kick off! But Sunderland, Gateshead, Durham and beyond, please hear me out. The range of devolution events I’ve attended recently has brought its economic future into sharp focus for me. Representative groups from North East commerce joined forces a few weeks ago to gather businesses of all sizes and industries to have their voice heard on the topic.

They’re not pushing the North West. Dissenting voices from those in Chester, Salford, Stockport, Bolton or any other outlying area of commerce is non-existent. They identify with the fact that Manchester has UK and global recognition and those on the outskirts will bask in the reflected glow from attracting skills, talent, education and investment to ‘brand Manchester’.

The NE LEP, the Entrepreneurs Forum, the Federation of Small Business, NECC, CBI and others all came together, with some 100-plus business individuals – in Durham, I might add – to talk about how to move things forward with devolved powers for the region.

It’s the one big reason I believe we’re behind and why I think we need rally round ‘Brand Newcastle’. Because I genuinely believe it will bring even greater success for Sunderland’s rapidly rising digital sector. I think it will attract even more tourist dollar, yen and Euro to Durham and Northumberland.

At the same time, both Gateshead and Newcastle councils are inviting opinion and advice on how they can best shape a strong digital strategy that put the two on the global digital map. It’s something I’m professionally involved with and personally keenly interested in. There’s a commonality, both in the wider business debate and in the digital sector, a word that keep cropping up. That word is Manchester. It’s ahead, both in the race to ‘claim’ the North and for it to be identified as the UK’s second digital hub behind London. I have to begrudgingly admire its ballsy play to position itself as the capital of the North. It’s working. And here’s the main reason I think it’s succeeding. It’s just one word. Manchester.

This is for the benefit of the wider region. Newcastle is the most recognised ‘brand’ we have available to trade on. I don’t think we’re using it nearly well enough. People far more qualified than me have had a look at exactly what’s going on in Manchester’s digital scene, for example. Their response? ‘The achievements of this region s****s all over Manchester’s. They’re just better at telling people about theirs.’ It’s a depressing summary. I don’t know why we don’t articulate our collective achievements better than we do. There’s been very well publicised, badly misinformed media hatchet jobs done on the

North East that definitely haven’t helped. That, against the ‘aint Manchester great’ narrative, cannot make an easy job for those tasked with promoting the region. I cannot help but feel we’d all reap the benefits of aligning our collective achievements as a region around an identifiable brand and everything it stands for. Like Newcastle. Ask someone from the South of England to put a pin in the North East. They’re as likely to hit Sheffield or Hull as they are Sunderland. Ask them, however, to put it in Newcastle, and, even if they get it wrong, the likelihood of them placing it in Gateshead or Durham is far greater. I know, I know. Asking for this to happen is as likely as asking Sunderland to play in black and white. This isn’t about shifting political or economic power in the region. This is not about accepting that one area is great and the rest is rubbish. It’s patently not. There’s incredible things happening all over the region. This is a branding exercise. If the region is serious about competing with Manchester and claiming what I believe to be its rightful spot as a major player in the North of England, I think there has to be a laying down of old weapons. There’s no way we can go over the trenches and win the war if we’re still pointing our guns at each other in them.

Christian Cerisola is Director at GluePR. www.gluepr.co.uk

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ÂŁ10,000,000 WORTH OF COVERAGE AND COUNTING - THAT'S WHAT SORTED PR ACHIEVED LAST YEAR. That's local, regional, national and international press - print, broadcast and online. We don't just talk a good game - we deliver the goods. We work in leisure and hospitality, in education, with charities, with premier league football clubs, with festivals and events, in green energy and in retail to name just a few. If you want to a company who can show you their success then get in touch - we're there when it counts. Telephone: 0191 265 6111 | Email: bernice@sortedpr.com

MEDIA INSIGHT Sarah Hall

How to immediately improve your value as a PR Practitioner The question of whether we need to redefine PR so people better understand it is one that’s chewed over constantly.

The answer is very simple. PR doesn’t need a new definition. It needs reframing in terms of how we approach it both personally and with potential employers. A simple change in mindset offers the opportunity for us all to become better PR practitioners. It also allows us to unlock the full potential of public relations as a management discipline and demonstrate the role it plays in achieving organisational success.

Are you approaching PR right? Depending on the route you take into the profession and the attitude to PR of the people you’re working for, it can be very easy to get drawn into the public relations as media relations trap. It’s a mindset that ought to be banished and we all have a responsibility to dispel the myth. When used correctly, PR is about reputation, influence and behavioural change. A huge step change will come when management courses finally stop teaching executives just to expect media coverage from their chosen consultants. These future leaders need to learn that public relations professionals can help management teams find organisational purpose, agree and test company principles and keep the publics that the business is there to serve front of mind. This is important when you consider the

Tel: 07702 162704

definition of PR from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations: “Public Relations is the discipline which looks after reputation, with the aim of earning understanding and support and influencing opinion and behaviour. It is the planned and sustained effort to establish and maintain goodwill and mutual understanding between an organisation and its publics.” Building and maintaining a positive reputation for a company requires much more than sending out press releases on a daily basis. It takes longterm engagement through comms activity based on insight and relevance. What’s more, the strategic PR function has to link back to the strategic objectives of the organisation or the true value can’t possibly be derived.

What’s the business benefit? The CIPR’s definition of public relations is hardly an elevator pitch that captures the true diversity of PR’s role but it’s a good start at illustrating the focus it has on relationship building. In order to improve your value as a PR practitioner, the trick is to shift away from thinking about tactics and outputs and much more holistically about the business benefit that public relations can bring. All of a sudden, this changes how you focus on what you do, how you talk about it with people and the approach you take to your continuous professional development (CPD).

sarah@sarahhallconsulting.co.uk

It can mean the difference between simply accepting a media relations brief and not knowing what part this activity has played in driving the company forward. It can mean asking more pertinent questions about how the work fits into the overall strategy. For example, asking how is it being evaluated, whether this is the appropriate course of action and what other communications support might be needed.

Have you got the appropriate skillset? Talking about PR as a management discipline means you have to be confident in what you do and have the skillset to back it up. Reviewing your CPD goals is a good start – if these are purely based around shoring yourself up tactically, you’re not going far enough. Good public relations consultants need to have strategic, leadership and ethical capabilities. They also need to understand how organisations work and are likely to have completed management and finance courses or non-executive director programmes. Public relations is a powerful management tool and the department that businesses should look to to lead the wider marketing function. We need to step up and prove we have the experience, knowledge and capabilities to do this. Get this right and the need to continually assert PR’s value will cease.

www.sarahhallconsulting.co.uk

@hallmeister

MEDIA INSIGHT

Creative partnership between MHW and Live Theatre Jim Beirne of Live Theatre with Wayne Halton

Leading North East PR consultancy MHW has established a three-year partnership with nationally renowned Live Theatre. The announcement cements a creative relationship that has existed between the two Newcastle-based organisations for around 10 years. Live Theatre is recognised nationally and internationally as one of the top new writing producing theatres and one that is demonstrating future thinking in new models of business sustainability and growth for arts organisations. Wayne Halton, director at MHW PR, said: “We’re long-time supporters of Live Theatre and the original and dynamic writing they nurture and promote both on stage but also within the local community. “Writing and original content generation across different media are matters of great interest as they’re also core to what we do on a regular basis at MHW. “While we don’t pretend to be as creative and bold as writers at Live Theatre, there are some common approaches and disciplines to what we each do. Clear, engaging communication is as important on stage as it is in our work.” Live Theatre is no ordinary theatre. As a writing, performance and educational centre it is unique in the North East, an important part of the rich

culture that brings colour and personality to the region. Wayne added: “We love being associated with something so unusual, that’s original, inspiring and utterly engaging. Our staff and clients are always thrilled by the powerful and intimate stage performances. We’re delighted to be part of

something so culturally dynamic.” Jim Beirne, chief executive of Live Theatre, said: “It is always a real pleasure working with MHW, they are a highly creative company and their support and advice over the years is highly valued by Live Theatre.”

For more information on Live Theatre see www.live.org.uk; and for MHW visit www.mhwpr.co.uk

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INTERVIEW

Michael Grahamslaw meets

Paul Hart Managing Director, Cargo Creative

Did you always envisage a career in the media? Every’s boys dream of being a footballer just wasn’t meant to be! I always enjoyed drawing and took note of identities, but followed the sporting route through 6th form. It was after this I ended up working in a shop and I decided to head back to college to follow the creative streak. This lead to an opportunity to work in London for various newspapers and ultimately BBC News. I knew the skills picked up there would be very transferable and I returned home in 2005 where I taught editorial and information graphics at Newcastle College. It was then that I began picking up freelance work and thought there may be the possibility of having my own business.

What inspired you to establish Cargo Creative? It came about as my freelance work just grew and grew. I always had an idea of a boutique agency that was approachable yet professional, and this is very much what we have now.

Describe a typical Day in the Life There really isn't one. We always start with a quick catch up with the team, and making sure

we have client work briefed in for the day. In this job you learn to expect the unexpected and we pride ourselves on being reactive to clients and prioritising and hitting deadlines, I guess this comes from the newsroom background!

What stands out in your career so far?

of a new site for Square One Law, a consumer engagement project for Northern Power Grid, and most interestingly some design work for the Ophthalmology Department at the Sunderland Eye infirmary looking at how we can produce literature for those with macular degeneration.

We won a variety of industry awards when I was in London which was great. However I think building relationships and our close knit team at Cargo stands out. Giving people a career gives me the most satisfaction and clients often comment on how good our team is, which always gives me a real buzz.

What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?

Who are your heroes in and out of business?

My wife Kirsty recently joined the team and has brought a fresh pair of eyes to the commercial side of the business.

I don't think anyone in particular but having been fortunate to work with a number of North East business leaders, I do like to observe different leadership styles, seeing what makes people tick and how they treat their workforce. Locally I think David Laws at Newcastle Airport does a fantastic job, having worked through the ranks to where he is now.

What are you currently working on? A whole range of stuff including the launch

I’m not sure about giving myself advice, but when delivering talks at Universities or Colleges I always say to take every opportunity that comes your way, and you really do make your own luck.

What does the future hold?

We are very much where I want us to be and positioned to give the best service possible to our clients.

How do you relax out of business? I’ve been known to enjoy the odd pint or two, this year I’m hoping to take up golf, and our 9 year old daughter plays a lot of tennis, so most weekends are spent touring the North at various competitions.

CARGO CREATIVE LTD 17a Northumberland Square North Shields Tyne & Wear NE30 1PX Tel. 0191 296 6081 paul@cargocreative.co.uk www.cargocreative.co.uk

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MEDIA INSIGHT

Boosting your digital presence Brett Jacobson, Managing Director, Mediaworks

Mediaworks’ Managing Director Brett Jacobson discusses how to dominate digitally this year.

With a new financial year on the horizon, how was 2015/16 for your business? If the numbers are lacking and you could have achieved more, it’s time to turn your attention to 2016. Stagnation is the worst possible scenario for any business. Fail to grow and innovate and you run the risk of boring your customers, giving your competitors a potential edge - but how do you avoid coming to a standstill? The trick is to keep moving - here’s how to improve your digital presence over the next 12 months.

Turn data into insight Any savvy businessperson will know that information is intelligence. However, far too many businesses still play the guessing game when it comes to digital marketing. In a fiercely competitive online world, there’s no room for uncertainty. Before you spend valuable time, money and resources on a campaign, you need to be sure that it’s right for both your business and customers - a spark of inspiration is no longer enough. Your website and social media channels are portals to a wealth of information. From bounce rates to social media impressions, tools like Google Analytics and Twitter Analytics will show what is and isn’t working for your business online.

By extracting insight from this data, you can give your customers what they want and improve your offering through a targeted digital strategy.

Integrate your digital channels We see many businesses who create a great piece of content for their blog. However, they don’t then send this out as part of their monthly client newsletter, they don’t tweet it to their followers, they don’t share it on their LinkedIn page etc. They think about and treat each of their digital marketing channels as separate parts and are missing out on valuable opportunities to connect these activities and reach more customers and prospects as a result. Your customers and prospects will all engage with your business in different ways. One might read your blog and the other might only follow you on Twitter. Therefore, it’s imperative that you ensure that any content you produce can and must be shared across all digital channels to ensure you are getting every bit of value possible from it. Its true that certain channels will appeal more so to particular types of content and topics than others and it wont always be suitable to share across every channel. However, at the outset of any piece of content you must take a moment to consider why you are creating the content, who is it targeted at and what channels it can be

promoted through for maximum benefit.

Communicate at each stage of the buying cycle It’s naive to think that every one of your customers is looking for the same thing. For example, those in the early stages of the buying funnel may be searching for information about your industry, while others could be deciding between services or even making a purchase. As such, you should tailor both your content and communications to match your customers’ needs at each step of this journey. Demonstrating this understanding through a carefully considered online strategy will set you apart from your competitors and help you become a trusted industry voice. In reality, your business’ digital performance is not wholly reliant on just one factor. For example, a user-friendly, informative website is a great asset to have, but what use is it if your potential customers can’t find it from the results pages or find a suitable action to take once they land on it? The truth is all aspects of your business’ digital performance are connected. Rather than focusing your attention on one piece of the puzzle, you should consider the whole picture. Mediaworks create integrated digital strategies for our clients which help them dominate their digital landscape.

MEDIA INSIGHT John Dias, Managing Director of Silver Bullet

“

Ask Silver Bullet

I’d like to get professional help with our marketing, but the first question they’ll ask is budget, and I can’t give them an answer?

There’s actually two different questions here – the first is how to determine your marketing budget whilst the second is how to choose your marketing services supplier! Determining your marketing budget is not an exact science. Many companies use a mathematical model of a percentage of revenue with B2B companies going for around 5% of their revenue whilst B2C companies take a higher figure of around 12%. This may give you a guide but should be taken as only this – it’s the statistical average of one survey whilst your actual figure is entirely, and only, your decision. The mathematical model also doesn’t take into account exactly what is included in this spend and what is budgeted elsewhere – is signage, for example, marketing spend or capital expenditure, similarly stationery, certain salaries, travel expenses etc. Budgets also need to take your existing customer base into account – who they are, where they are, what has worked in the past, what media interests them, what communications channels do you presently use and most importantly, what goals have you set for your marketing budget? Budgets also need to be flexible – if something works really well, whether this be in social media, outdoor advertising, CRM (Customer Relationship Management) or video streaming, can resources

be switched from other channels and platforms which are not performing so well? Most budgets are also worked out on annual basis yet marketing spend is very much determined by the time of year. Spring and autumn quarters are usually most productive for B2B companies whilst B2C revenue strictly depends on the product – 60% of Lego’s sales come during the Christmas period whilst the immediate post-Christmas period provides a boom time for family law services providers as the tension of family life over the break often proves too much for some. So be realistic with your budget based on research into your customer base, competitor analysis, evaluation of historical spend and expected return on investment (ROI). When you have all this information to hand, then is the time to seek help on the best channels to invest in. I can’t speak for other marketing agencies, but the first question we ask is not just about what your budget is. Our first questions involve learning about the client, their products or services, their competitors, their market place and their aims and goals. It’s only once we feel we have a grasp of what they’re about that we can start suggesting ideas, opportunities and strategies that they may not have considered before. But the available budget is obviously important

”

- it’s not a trick question which some clients seem to think, it’s just so an agency can effectively plan how to best utilise the finite resources. Advertising campaigns are a classic example here and as a general rule, if you don’t have a big enough budget for a properly designed and fulfilled advertisement campaign, don’t do it at all - one off adverts are usually an expensive waste of time with minimum ROI. Purchasing marketing advice and services will undoubtedly involve decisions on budgets but these usually arise further down the road when a potential client has briefed an agency with their requirements and aspirations which will involve a rough idea of available budget. Again, I can’t speak for others, but we tend to offer clients options dependent on their anticipated spend and which are also designed to become sustainable with marketing spend in one period producing additional profits that fund additional marketing spend for future periods and so on. In essence, it’s different strokes for different folks – we’ve produced highly effective social media campaigns at a fraction of the cost of a single printed recruitment advertisement in national media. Both worked well for their respective clients whose marketing budgets bore no resemblance to each other, and both clients continue to use the agency!

Do you need to 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

A N D T H E Y ’ R E O F F. . .

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TECHNOLOGY NEWS

Newcastle IT recruiter wants to secure training funding in light of new report

A Newcastle niche IT recruiter has welcomed a new report that reinforces the ‘seminal’ role digital businesses are playing in boosting the regional economy. SearchBI, which recruits for BI and Agile business technologies, says the Tech Nation 2016 report demonstrates clearly how important the digital tech economy is to regional employment but wants to see funding for ‘high cost’ university tech courses secured. The report shows that across the North of England, more than 280,000 people are employed in digital industries. Regionally, Newcastle and Durham generated the second highest advertised

digital salary growth of any cluster in the UK at 26.6%, with a turnover growth rate of 29% and GVA growth rate of 35%. Mark Harbottle, Director at SearchBI, said it was particularly encouraging to see that software and app development, hardware, devices and open source hardware were now among the most sought after roles. “The digital tech economy is a having a strong impact on the North of England, we are seeing huge demand for self-service business IT this year and beyond. These together with the dramatic increase in cloud-based/analytics solutions’ spend and demand for highly skilled people are

combining to drive even more growth in some of the most dynamic IT sectors.” He wants to see funding for training secured as BI and analytics are predicted to reach new heights: “Businesses are looking for a nextgeneration BI and analytics platform that helps them tap into the power of their data. It’s critical that funding for what’s seen as ‘high cost’ university subjects, such as technology and scientific courses, does not drop below current levels. It’s vital that investment in these subjects remains sustainable.”

Key appointment bolsters Scott Logic recruitment team Bespoke software development consultancy Scott Logic has welcomed a new Recruitment Manager to its growing workforce. Michelle Minnikin joins the firm in a newly created role, Recruitment Manager - Strategy, from Balfour Beatty, where she serviced its investment and corporate support functions. Based at the firm’s Newcastle headquarters, she will work with John Wright, Scott Logic’s Recruitment Manager - Operations, to ensure the company continues to attract high-calibre software

engineers and support staff. Scott Logic prides itself in being a business focused on its people and their development and has ambitious growth targets. Michelle will be tasked with finding creative ways to escalate the company’s growth strategy in order to meet these goals. Michelle said: “I am really excited to be joining a business full of smart people and I am proud to be able to use my experience in the recruitment sector to support its ongoing expansion.”

Gateshead’s Mesma delivers for national training provider Gateshead’s Mesma has supplied its online quality assurance and education software to one of England’s largest providers to ensure that it is better prepared for Ofsted inspections. With an office in Newcastle, Key Training has boosted its self-assessment and improvement planning using Mesma as part of the national services it undertakes to secure work for young people not in employment, education or training. Mesma is an adaptable, versatile and cost effective web-based resource, which enables

Ready to reduce costs and achieve more from your IT spend? Call us now and find out how.

important areas of the self-assessment process, associated improvement planning activities and observations of teaching and learning to be allocated to authorised people within an education environment. The software provides a central repository for critical data, improving Key Training’s capacity to undertake self-assessment tasks, deliver superior managerial control and bring greater transparency and efficiencies to time intensive administrative processes. This allows all the information required for an Ofsted inspection to be readily available at the press of a button.

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

www.itps.co.uk

@ITPSltd

0191 442 8300

Protect against Cyber Crime Now

Experts are warning that small businesses are now the preferred target for cyber criminals, but many SMEs are adopting a head in the sand approach, simply hoping it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen to them. > 74% of small organisations reported a security breach in the last year > 52% of spear phishing attacks in December last year were against SMEs Can you afford to ignore the threat to your business? Protecting your data is our world. If you want help to assess the changing threat landscape and put measures in place to protect your organisation, call us now.

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TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

Cyber-security - Got it covered? The threat from cyber-crime has never been higher. Andy Hunter, Technical Director of IT experts ITPS, takes a look at the current situation.

Cyber-crime is hitting the headlines with increasing regularity, and the Government’s latest Information Security Breaches Survey shows that 90% of large organisations and 74% of SMEs reported they had suffered an information security breach in the last year.

botnets until it crashes. For an internet-based business, this can be disastrous.

The average cost is reported as £1.46 million for big businesses, and £310,800 for SMEs and the EU regulations coming into force in 2018 will only add to the pain with fines up to £20m or 4% of their turnover, for security breaches that compromise customer data.

H ack attack - hackers gain access to the company’s infrastructure, often through an email containing a hidden piece of code, to allow them to harvest sensitive data such as credit card information and passwords.

The latest figures are particularly worrying for SMEs. Despite experts warning that they are now the preferred target for cyber-criminals, far too many of them are still adopting a head in the sand approach and hoping it won’t happen to them. Hackers often go after small businesses on the basis that they are likely to be soft targets and may lead the hackers to bigger fish via their contacts. However big your business, you need to have a secure IT infrastructure and a well-thought out backup strategy and disaster recovery plan in place, which is regularly tested. A staggering 80% of breaches can be foiled through basic precautions. These range from having policies in place around mobile working, acceptable use of personal devices such as phones and tablets and mobile storage media, through to downloading files, and using common sense before clicking on email links even if they look as if they are from a friend or colleague.

Typical security breaches practiced by hackers include: D istributed denial of service – hackers overwhelm a company’s website with huge amounts of data from an army of compromised

R ansomware - a malicious piece of code is introduced into the system, which encrypts all the data and paralyses the infrastructure so hackers can blackmail the company into paying for the decryption key.

Water-holing - hackers place malware on low security websites where lots of users gather, such as chat forums. Users then pick up the infection and pass it on, often to company networks the next time they log in. The UK Government is embarking on a big review of cyber-security and we were recently invited to a round table discussion on the draft Investigatory Powers Bill, chaired by Baroness Shields, Minister for Internet Safety and Security. The new bill will be the result of high level reports into how we strengthen security without compromising the right to privacy. Part of the meeting was spent debunking myths around the proposal to regulate the surveillance powers of the police, intelligence agencies and public sector bodies, dubbed a Snooper’s Charter by some. For instance there will be no ban on encryption, communications services providers will not be forced to keep historical records of all data they handle, and access to data will only be given in extreme situations, and then only after proper authority and strict oversight. I can understand concerns over privacy, but at the same time we have a collective responsibility to protect the UK, its people and its businesses. A current and very public stand-off between the FBI and Apple is a typical example of the delicate balancing act required.

As part of its investigations into the San Bernadino incident where 14 people were shot dead by a couple who the FBI believe may have terrorist links, the government agency has asked Apple to make a new version of the iPhone operating system that circumvents security features, and install it on an iPhone belonging to one of the perpetrators of the attack. Apple say this software does not currently exist, although rumours circulating in tech circles suggest otherwise, and that in the wrong hands would mean anyone in possession of it could unlock any iPhone. The FBI argues that the use of the software would be limited to this case, however Apple counters that it is not possible to guarantee such control, and that it would be the real world equivalent of a master key that could open millions of locks, from the personal to the professional. The FBI went to court to force Apple to comply, but at the time of writing Apple CEO Tim Cook is digging in his heels, saying this would set a grave legal precedent, and citing Apple’s commitment to protecting people’s privacy and security. The situation raises interesting questions as cyber-crime as a service (CaaS) continues to transform itself from ‘boys in bedrooms’ into a big industry in its own right, and thousands of IT systems are compromised every day. As security attacks increase in their complexity, businesses need to wake up to the threats and make sure they can meet the challenges. Are you confident you have taken all the necessary precautions to minimise the threat to your business? Whilst we won’t completely eradicate cybercrime, and there is no magic bullet solution, my advice is to get the right expert partner alongside you to help you assess the changing threat landscape and put measures in place to protect your organisation from those who wish it harm.

For more information visit www.itps.co.uk, email contact@itps.co.uk or tel: (0191) 442 8300

TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

INTERVIEW

In Conversation With...

Kevin Almond Head of Professional Services Department at IT and data centre experts ITPS.

What’s your current role? ITPS provides strategic IT consultancy, implementation, data centre provision and unified communications, as well as support services and workspace and disaster recovery. The 30-strong Professional Services team covers service-related functions from consultancy and installations through to support and managed services contracts where we embed our people on the client’s site.

What was your background before you joined ITPS? I spent 15 great years as an Air Defence Systems Engineer in the RAF, with the last four of those delivering training. I then spent a couple of years in various IT engineer roles before joining ITPS as an engineer in 2002.

What did you bring to the business world from your RAF background? Forces life is all about processes and delivering defined outcomes. You know what you are doing and where you are going to be, sometimes for as much as 12 months in advance. It’s also dynamic, for instance when you are on deployment or in a conflict zone you can’t predict what will happen and that type of environment maps across into service industries. This stood me in good stead when I moved into the reactive world of commercial IT where things break and customers have issues. It’s never predictable and you need to react fast, assess what’s needed, and put a solution in place to establish normal service for the customer as quickly as possible.

You left ITPS to run your own business for a few years, what brought you back? ITPS stands head and shoulders above competitors in terms of the technical expertise and breadth of knowledge of the team. Plus the business owns the largest and best-equipped data centre and workspace recovery centre in the region, making it an attractive proposition.

How has the world of IT changed during your career? In the RAF I worked on air defence radar and communications systems, which were designed many years earlier and although robust and reliable it wasn’t viewed as cutting edge. We didn’t have the choice of communications medium we enjoy now, but military and commercial technologies are now closer together. The armed forces keep their technology going for many years to get maximum value, and the pace of IT change tends to be faster in the commercial world.

Does business drive IT, or is it the other way around? A combination of commercial and consumer demand drives IT change and in turn it’s processes, not technology itself, which drives business strategy. A lot of what we do depends on the individual client and what they are trying to achieve. Working across so many sectors means we can bring new ideas to the table and create individual solutions for each client.

What’s your motivation at this stage in your career? Continuously

developing

skills

and

knowledge to steadily advance my career has meant I’m very happy with where I am right now. In the IT world you never stop learning. Your early career is all about balancing the day job and continuing to learn and study for certification exams outside work. New technology is always just round the corner and it’s essential to keep pace with change and absorb new ideas so we can take them out to new and existing customers.

What’s been your career highlight? Teaching an AWACS Tactical Data Link course to a class of multi-national Air Force Technicians at NAFB Geilenkirchen in Germany, seeing them all pass their exam and subsequently getting a formal thank you from NATO HQ (SHAPE).

What advice would you give your younger self? Get the work life balance right. IT people love technology and find it difficult to leave behind when they go home, and ‘always on’ connectivity makes it so easy. They tend to have curious, enquiring minds and are always exploring and challenging how things are done. If you’re not careful weekends fly by and your children grow up in the blink of an eye.

What does the future hold? Cloud-based technology is transforming the way we live and work, and its full potential is yet to be realised. Our job is to help customers embrace technology change and work better, faster and more profitably.

For more information visit www.itps.co.uk, email contact@itps.co.uk or tel: (0191) 442 8300

BUSINESS INSIGHT

How to boost your career in the competitive world of PR The PR industry is thriving in the north east. And with good reason. PR is all about reputation - what you say, what you do and what others say about you. This is how The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), describes the management discipline. A good reputation online and offline is crucial for every organisation. In today’s dynamic working environment, PR practitioners need to keep their skills and knowledge up to date. The CIPR supports this with their extensive range of CPD opportunities and accredited qualifications to help young and not so young professionals develop their careers, integrating their digital and traditional skills. The first stage is the CIPR Foundation Award which nesma (North East Sales and Marketing Academy) has been running for three years. At the end of last year the CIPR accredited nesma as one of only five centres across the UK to deliver the CIPR Advanced Certificate. At the same time, they accredited nesma to teach the CIPR Internal Communications certificate. This made the Newcastle based training company only the second teaching centre in the UK to receive this accreditation. Laurel Hetherington, an experienced lecturer and trainer, leads the teaching on all the CIPR

Laurel Hetherington, left, presents a CIPR PRide award

programmes, together with Sally Keith, past chair of CIPR in the north east. Both lecturers are Fellows of the CIPR. The founder of nesma, Veronica Swindale, believes that the key to the centre’s success is their supportive approach. “We deliver the tuition in a variety of ways to suit both the employer and the student. We are able to deliver online and centre based programmes to fit in with students’ work and

personal commitments. We can run half day, full day, evening and Saturday morning classes or students can study on-line. We have also run incompany programmes for businesses as diverse as Arco in Hull to the NHS in Newcastle. As a result, our students keep coming back for more!” The next CIPR Foundation course begins on 18 May and the Advanced Certificate begins on 10 March.

www.nesma.co.uk veronica.swindale@nesma.co.u

North East distillery’s first taste of success A new ‘wild spirit’ is making its way into bars and retailers across the North East following the launch of an independent small batch distillery. Poetic License, based in Sunderland, currently crafts two gins and a vodka, which are all individually bottled, wrapped and labelled by hand. The business, which produces around 400 bottles per week, is the brainchild of North East entrepreneur, Mark Hird, who has more than 25 years’ experience in leisure and hospitality, including a stand-alone microbrewery, which he launched in 2012. “The recent revival in gin has been astounding,” said Mark. “I noticed demand climbing and spotted a gap in the market for high quality, artisanal spirits that mixed traditional techniques with modern flavours and set about bringing my vision to life.” After attending a comprehensive course in distilling, Mark invested in a 500L pot still and recruited a passionate, full-time distiller to help create the perfect blends. Months of experimentation followed, with various flavour combinations and processes being discounted, before the duo were finally able to settle on three core products – and Poetic License Independent Small Batch Distillery was born. Four months on and the distillery’s Northern Dry

Gin, Old Tom Gin and Graceful Vodka, are already being stocked in bars, hotels and restaurants across the North East, including popular cocktail bars As You Like It and Floritas in Newcastle, as well as the four star Wynyard Hall Hotel, County Durham. All three products are also available to buy in high-end, regional department stores, including Fenwick and Lewis and Cooper Ltd, with moves now being made to find stockists and distributors nationwide. “The name Poetic License symbolises our desire to break away from the norm. To create a drink for the wild spirts out there, which blends the traditional with the unconventional and appeals to

those imperfect perfectionists who want to enjoy a tipple that has been carefully crafted and packed with character. “We’re delighted that so many leisure operators and retailers have already been able to embrace this philosophy and appreciate the unique style of our spirits and hope that more across the UK will soon follow suit.” After mastering gin and vodka, Mark and his distiller Luke Smith, are now planning to develop limited edition flavours and extend their range with the addition of a dark and white rum and an absinthe.

More information about these products and Poetic License in general can be found at www.poeticlicensedistillery.co.uk

F r o m Bt hUeS IHNeEaSdSt eI aNcShI eGrHs T S t u d y

Michael Grahamslaw meets

Margaret Coates Newcastle Preparatory School

What was your background prior to joining Newcastle Preparatory School? I had a lifelong ambition to work in education and began my career at a girls boarding school in Kent. Returning North, I taught at the Royal Grammar School where I gained a huge degree of experience. Following that I became Head of Junior House at Durham High School for Girls which was a hugely enjoyable role, including setting up a brand new nursery. What have been your major acheivements at the school? First and foremost developing a fantastic staff team who have helped to develop a happy learning environment. This has allowed us to create a wonderfully creative curriculum which I am very proud of. Also I have enjoyed totally modernising the fabric of the school and it feels good to have such a vibrant place for learning inside converted Victorian houses. What positive changes have you seen in education generally and what further changes would you like to see going forward?

Unquestionably IT has enhanced learning and enabled children to learn facts and skills which are far reaching and exciting. Going forward though we must look at every child as being unique and not base development on sets of data. How much emphasis do you place on extra curricular activities? A huge amount. We offer an enriched programme so that there is something to suit every child with activities changing termly. This includes a Glee Club, Irish dancing, street dancing, sports activities, chess, drama, theatre, film, art, creative knitting and even a Lego club and the Great NPS Bake Off! What major achievements of students have happened in the past 12-18 months? Difficult to single one but we have had great success with girls sport as well as the boys winning a lot of football and rugby matches. Also great to see many NPS children becoming competent skiers, following the annual trip to Norway and

keen cyclists having ventured to Amsterdam. How good a grounding does NPS give your students ahead of upper school enrolment? Fantastic. We aim to create forward thinking, creative, robust individuals fully prepared for the challenges ahead. What have you got coming up in 2016 and beyond? This year we will be performing songs from Wicked working with professional musicians and choreographer and Year 6 children are developing a very special production. I am also looking forward to revamping the library using innovative ways of displaying books, investing in new exciting classroom furniture and enhancing the outdoor play areas. How do you relax away from the desk? In many ways. I am a lay preacher at Lanchester Methodist Church. I also enjoy flower arranging and love to sing. In addition keeping healthy is important to me.

Newcastle Preparatory School Tel 0191 2811769 www.newcastleprepschool.org.uk

A UNIQUE, FORWARD LOOKING SCHOOL WHERE EVERY INDIVIDUAL IS VALUED

NPS is an exciting and dynamic school where every individual is valued. There is a waiting list for September 2016 so please contact school for information for 2017 onwards. A school with a brilliant atmosphere as children and adults work together to achieve so much.

Reaching potential is a way of life at NPS Headteacher: Mrs Margaret Coates. 6 Eslington Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4RH Tel: 0191 281 1769 www.newcastleprep.co.uk

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22/02/2016 14:41:28

MOTORS INSIGHT

Lookers - The new name for Benfield Nigel McMinn, Lookers PLC

The first signs of the re-naming of Benfield, the North East’s largest Motor Group, have now started to take place. Acquired by Lookers plc in September 2015, now the second largest motor group in the UK, Benfield’s 30 strong dealerships and retail outlets across the North East of England, Yorkshire, Cumbria and the West of Scotland… are now being renamed Lookers. Nigel McMinn, Managing Director, Lookers Plc, said, “Customers will now begin to see the first signs of the name-change at our dealerships as the new signage and Lookers re-brand begins to take place. “Benfield is a strong regional brand, steeped in family values and history. It has therefore been essential, since our acquisition, that our namechange and rebrand plans have followed a phased approach to take our customers on a seamless journey to the new Lookers brand and values. “We said from the outset that the culture between the two businesses was a perfect fit and we are committed to preserving and nurturing this culture as well as putting in place new initiatives and retail standards, which allows our customers to benefit from larger scale investments under the Lookers brand.

“This is an exciting time for Lookers to develop our brand values further across the North East of England, Yorkshire, Cumbria and the West of Scotland.” Lookers have already embarked on a comprehensive customer communications and re-branding marketing campaign, including increased TV and Radio advertising, digital media and outdoor advertising, promoting ‘Lookers’ as the new name for Benfield. “Lookers and Benfield both originate from family backgrounds and we have carefully designed and targeted the name-change and rebrand activity to effectively ‘combine’ the best of the two brands. “Customer feedback and response has so far been very good and we are all very excited about the new era for Benfield under the Lookers brand.” Nigel added. The enlarged Lookers plc group nationwide now represent 31 brands across 160 dealerships, employing over 8,500 staff with a turnover of over £4 billion, selling over 200,000 cars per annum.

Benfield Motor Group Tel: 0191 298 1400 Fax: 0191 298 1410 www.drivebenfield.com

MOTORS INSIGHT

All-new Sportage and Optima models launch at Jennings Kia

Steven Flack, franchise manager at Jennings Kia in Stockton, with the all-new Sportage models.

Customers visiting Jennings Kia, part of the award-winning Jennings Motor Group, are taking advantage of two all-new models in the range – the fourth generation Sportage SUV and the Optima.

The group’s Concorde Way dealership in Stockton and the Parsons Road branch in Washington, have both models on display and available to test drive. Steven Flack, franchise manager at Jennings Kia in Stockton, said; “We are delighted to be able to offer the all-new compact SUV model, which features an attractive, all-new interior and exterior design, a host of advanced new technology features and greater quality.” The all-new Kia Sportage compact SUV, which made its global debut at the 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show, boasts a spacious interior along with advanced technologies, revised engines, improved handling and a new GT Line trim. A range of new and updated engines and transmissions deliver enhanced efficiency and performance for both private and fleet customers. A new 1.6-litre T-GDi is available for the first time on the Sportage and exclusively for GT Line buyers. The new-look interior features high quality materials and design integrity, as well as greater

practicality and a range of technologies to improve comfort, convenience, connectivity and safety. The latest model comes with a choice of 16, 17 or 19-inch aluminium alloy wheel designs, with the GT Line specification available with a unique 19-inch wheel option as standard. Priced from £17,995 the entry level Sportage ‘1’ comes with 16” alloy wheels, LED running lights, front fog lights, air conditioning, DAB radio, Bluetooth with voice recognition and Music Streaming, USB and Aux ports, cruise control and speed limiter, leather trimmed steering wheel and gearshift and all-round electric windows with driver’s auto down function. Customers who prefer a saloon to an SUV, can take advantage of the all-new Optima model, which is loaded with class-leading technologies, such as wireless phone charging, a safety enhancing 360-degree Around View Monitor and a reversing camera. In addition, the latest model also boasts major improvements in comfort, refinement and space with Lane Keep Assist, Speed Limit Information Function, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross

Traffic Alert technologies, which aim to help improve driver safety. Customers can choose from three versions, including ‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘4’ with the GT and GT Line versions due to be added later this year. All versions are extensively equipped – with the entry level ‘2’ grade available with a 7.0 inch satellite navigation system, European mapping and a reversing camera as standard. Steven added; “Previous Optima models have proven successful with customers and we are sure that this one will be just as popular. “The all-new Optima model has been redefined, enhanced and perfected and delivers a full peace of mind and stress-free driving experience. From its eye-catching design to its state-of-theart features, the model sets a completely new standard in quality.” All of Kia’s new cars come with the manufacturer’s market-leading seven year 100,000 mile warranty, as well as Kia’s Care-3 and Care-3 Plus servicing packages, offering retail and fleet customers fixed-cost, inflation proof servicing for the first three or five years.

For more information about the range of products and services at Jennings Kia, contact Stockton on 01642 632299, Washington on 0191 5525800, or visit www.jenningsmotorgroup.co.uk

ARTS NEWS

Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty to be revived at the Theatre Royal The UK’s most popular dance company, New Adventures, returns to Newcastle Theatre Royal this Spring with Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. This ground-breaking production heads to Newcastle Theatre Royal from Tue 5 – Sat 16 April 2016. Directed and choreographed by Sir Matthew Bourne OBE, Sleeping Beauty is a revival of the classic gothic tale for all ages. With sumptuous sets, costumes and evocative lighting, the audience will be transported in time. Returning to the central role of Aurora is rising star Ashley Shaw. Ashley recently played Lana in a production of The Car Man, Kim in Edward

Scissorhands, Sugar in Nutcracker! and the title role in Cinderella. Cordelia Braithwaite made her debut with New Adventures in Swan Lake in 2013. She will also play Aurora this season. Sir Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty premiered in 2012 and was the fastest selling production in the company’s history. The show was created for New Adventures 25th birthday celebrations and completed Sir Matthew Bourne’s OBE trio of re-imagined Tchaikovsky ballet masterworks that started with Nutcracker! and followed with the international hit Swan Lake. The leading role of Leo will once again be played by Dominic North and Chris Trenfield who

Tony Award winning musical at the Sunderland Empire

co-created the role in 2012. Perrault’s timeless fairy tale was turned into a legendary ballet by Tchaikovsky and choreographer, Marius Petipa, in 1890. Bourne takes this date as his starting point, setting the Christening of Aurora in the height of the Fin-deSiecle period when fairies, vampires and decadent opulence fed the gothic imagination. As Aurora grows into a young woman, we move forward in time to the more rigid, uptight Edwardian era. Years later, awakening from her century long slumber, Aurora finds herself in the modern day; a world more mysterious than any Fairy story!

Annie to hit the Sunderland Empire stage Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, will come to Sunderland Empire for one week only from Monday 28 March – Saturday 2 April 2016 and will star Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan. Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. However, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. Lesley Joseph is best known for playing Dorien Green in the hugely successful sitcom Birds of a Feather, alongside Pauline Quirke and Linda Robson. They recorded over 100 episodes over a period of nine years.

Double Platinum selling artist Newton Faulkner joins the cast of Green Day’s explosive Tony Award winning musical, American Idiot, on its UK Tour. Newton will be taking on the role of Johnny from May 2016 and will grace the stage of the Sunderland Empire 24th – 28th May. Newton will join the previously announced X Factor finalist Amelia Lily (Whatsername), Alexis Gerred (Tunny), Llandyll Gove (Gerard), Lucas Rush (St Jimmy) and Steve Rushton (Will), who will all be reprising their critically acclaimed roles from the London production. Winner of two Tony Awards and the 2010 Grammy Award winner for Best Musical Show Album, American Idiot is the story of three boyhood friends, each searching for meaning in a post 9/11 world. The show features the music of Green Day and book by Billie Joe Armstrong and Michael Mayer.

WHEN IT COMES TO MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS WE’RE LIKE A DOG WITH A PHONE!

MARKETING PR DESIGN DIGITAL ADVERTISING www.clothierlacey.co.uk tel: 0191 273 9897 email: info@clothierlacey.co.uk

ARTS NEWS

Brendan Healy 1956 - 2016

What’s on this March? The Bodyguard March 1 -12 Sunderland Empire T: (0191) 566 1040 www.atgtickets.com/venue/sunderland-empire

Peter Andre March 3 Newcastle City Hall T: (0191) 277 8030 www.newcastlecityhall.org

Richard III March 8-12 The People’s Theatre T: (0191) 265 5020 www.peoplestheatre.co.uk

Lord of The Flies March 8-12 Newcastle Theatre Royal T: (0844) 8112 121 www.theatreroyal.co.uk Esteemed Geordie entertainer Brendan Healy sadly passed away on the 18th February 2016 after losing his battle with cancer. After attending St Cuthbert’s Grammar School, Brendan began his career as a musician playing keyboards and toured with various North East bands, perhaps most famously the folk group Lindisfarne. Healy then went on to appear as an actor in several television roles which included the

shows Spender, Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Crocodile Shoes and Badger. He was also immensely popular within his hometown Newcastle and could be seen as a regular fixture in the biennial Sunday For Sammy charity concerts at the City Hall and Gateshead Sage. Healy also produced, directed and appeared regularly in the Tyne Theatre’s annual ‘Geordie’ pantomime in which he always exhibited infectious energy and natural comic timing.

Film of The Month - ‘Triple 9’ Featuring a star-studded cast of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Woody Harrelson, Casey Affleck, Aaron Paul and Kate Winslet as a fiery Russian mobster matriarch, Triple 9 is perhaps one of the most absorbing police thrillers in recent times. Chris Allen (Affleck) is an idealistic and incorruptible detective tasked with cleaning up the streets of Atlanta, Georgia. Corruption is rife amongst the ranks of Allen’s

force however as a rogue band of bent coppers conspire with a lethal team of bank robbers to stage an impossible heist. Director John Hillcoat (The Road, Lawless) combines suspenseful writing and intense cinematography with a good hearty dose of explosions to create a truly memorable crime caper.

Record of The Month - Elton John ‘Wonderful Crazy Night’ In a recent interview, Elton John expressed his desire to produce a ‘Jingly-Jangly’ album of optimism to reflect his current outlook – he delivers in emphatic style. I mean if there’s been a finer display of ‘Ivory Tickling’ than on his rollicking lead single Looking Up then I haven’t heard it! Although his voice carries more gravel than before, Elton, now at 68 has not lost the knack for crafting the perfect pulsating piano riff. In fact Wonderful Crazy Night remains joyfully upbeat and infectious throughout in contrast to 2013’s more maudlin atmospheric offering The Diving Board. The album – his 33rd outingcontinues the association with super-producer T Bone Burnett and marks an attempt to rediscover his bombastic sound of the 70’s. Still a highly exuberant showman, Elton rolls into Newcastle on December 3rd to play the Metroradio arenathe sun aint going down on him just yet.

X Factor Live Tour March 10 Metroradio Arena T: (0844) 493 6666 www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Wet Wet Wet March 11 Metroradio Arena T: (0844) 493 6666 www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Single Spies March 15-19 Newcastle Theatre Royal T: (0844) 8112 121 www.theatreroyal.co.uk

Ellie Goulding March 16 Metroradio Arena T: (0844) 493 6666 www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Little Mix March 17 Metroradio Arena T: (0844) 493 6666 www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbot March 18 Newcastle City Hall T: (0191) 277 8030 www.newcastlecityhall.org

Guys and Dolls March 22- April 2 Newcastle Theatre Royal T: (0844) 8112 121 www.theatreroyal.co.uk

Brendan Cole: A Night to Remember March 23 Sage Gateshead T: (0191) 443 4661 www.sagegateshead.com

Rick Astley March 31 Sage Gateshead T: (0191) 443 4661 www.sagegateshead.com

INTERVIEW

Stephen Tompkinson The star of television and stage talks to Northern Insight about his work, loyalty to the North East and his involvement in Variety, the Children’s Charity. “My involvement in the charity goes back to when I was asked to present a Silver Heart to Robson Green about 10 years ago. I’d always heard great things about the charity, but seeing firsthand what these children go through and their determination to live as normal life as possible is truly humbling.” In a tribute to the work and commitment to the charity, the northern branch of Variety, the Children’s Charity (formerly Variety Club) have organised An Evening with Stephen Tompkinson and Friends at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Newcastle on Saturday March 12th, an event that will see dramatist, songwriter and screenwriter Tim Firth, Stephen’s colleague and friend for over 20 years interview the actor and in a This is Your Life style Q&A session that will take Tompkinson and the audience for a little trip down memory lane. Tompkinson, born in Stockton-on-Tees has an acting career as long as your arm and is definitely considered a North East success story, and one that has never forgotten his roots. He started his acting career in 1987 after attending London’s Central School of Speech and Drama and is now recognised as the leading character in many TV productions including, DCI Banks, Wild at Heart, Grafters, Ballykissangel, Brassed Off, Drop the dead Donkey and more recently Trollied; the comical drama set in a supermarket, where the dysfunctional staff manage to stumble through their work, usually with hilarious consequences. Asked what, out of his long acting career, was his favourite to work on Tompkinson told us: “Probably Brassed Off as this was my first big screen film and the fact that it was a true story.” The movie, which was filmed in Grimethorpe a northern town in Yorkshire told the real story of the closure of the mines and the struggles of the town folk as they come to terms with the drudgery of everyday life with no jobs, no money yet somehow still pull together in their joint love for the brass band they are so very proud of. Tompkinson, who has the acting ability to play both comical and serious roles also told us that he has some very big shoes to fill as the he stepping into the breach by taking over from the legendary Brendan Healy following a lengthy illness in the Sunday for Sammy (SFS) shows, which have been a regional staple since 2000 – the biennial gathering of the region’s entertainment crop who come together to put on a great show and raise funds for the next generation of North East performing arts talent in the name of their friend and fellow performer, Sammy ‘Ronnie’ Johnson, who died suddenly aged just 49, in 1998. “I feel very honoured to be asked to take Brendan’s place in the SFS shows, they are indeed big shoes to fill, however I will do my very best to make my dear friend proud. It’s still an honour to work in the North East – it’s also a chance to catch up with old friends and family. Rest assured this local lad will never forget his roots!”

Variety, North East Presents An Evening with Stephen Tompkinson at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Newcastle on Saturday 12th March. Presented by Tim Firth, entertainment by North East magician Ryan Phelps and music by local band Brigade. Tickets, include four-course dinner cost £50 each, tables of 10 or 12 are available, however individual seats can be purchased. Contact Variety office on 191 214 5959 or Chairman Ray Crawford on 07872 457 046.

THE WEEKEND SHOWS Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Our most exciting shows are on the weekend – you’ll get five top acts on every bill in a two hour showcase. Live comedy 7 days a week!

THE NORTH EAST’S FAVOURITE COMEDY CLUB “The Stand Comedy Club Newcastle hits the target. It has a brilliant atmosphere and great staff. I almost wished I lived in Newcastle so I could gig there every week ...almost! Seriously it’s what a comedy club should be and more.” John Bishop

The Stand Bistro has quickly become Newcastle’s favourite hidden gem. Situated on the cobbles of High Bridge, we are open seven days a week serving food, speciality teas and coffees, continental and craft beers from 10am until late. Our menu is comprised of locally sourced ingredients, using only the choicest cuts and freshest produce. We have something for every palate from our famous Sunday Lunch, our ever popular lunches to our pre-show bistro classics. To reserve a table call us on: 0191 232 1410 or 0191 232 0707 bistro@thestandco.uk | thestand.co.uk @StandNewcastle /StandNewcastle StandNewcastle thestand.co.uk

31 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EW Box Office: 0191 300 9700

LEISURE INSIGHT

Great local fact finding fun! To celebrate the enormous wealth of talent born of our region, Tyne Idols create, organise and host unforgettable experiences, promotions and tours throughout the North East. Michael Grahamslaw met Ray Laidlaw(of Lindisfarne fame) to talk about the story so far.

PR as well as moonlighting as often as possible with his own shows on Radio Northumberland....all this whilst hosting the Real Ale Tours too. Keeping us in check is Julie Clay bringing her wealth of experience from Newcastle Arena and the Theatre Royal handling tickets sales and marketing. Its a great team and we love what we do.

Tell me about the inspiration for the Tyne Idols concept? Like most great ideas it was born over a beer or two in the pub! I’d written an introduction for a Tynemouth visitor guide for my good friends Paul Irwin and Chris Wilson, but also tried my own Rock’n’Roll tour. With Paul’s experience already operating well-established EastCoast Tours we felt we could take this further so we did some research, came up with the name and off we went.

Any great anecdotes so far?

What are the range of tours on offer?

Many but one of my favourites was on the Get Carter tour. We had stopped at the Bridge Hotel for a pint and I met a guy who had changed the clutch three times in one week in the Red Jaguar seen tailing Michael Caine over the High Level Bridge!

Its very much all aboard our classic double decker for a whole variety of things. We do a classic one, showing all the sites of NewcastleGateshead. In addition our Mouth of the Tyne Tour is very popular from Shields to Blyth. Its eye opening to learn of all the major TV series that have been filmed in this part of the region alone. On the last Thursday of each month we do a Real Ale Mystery tour which takes you to a different local brewery followed by some ale tasting in award winning real ale pubs along the way. We also do special events like the Get Carter and Sting tours we did last year. Its all tremendous fun.

Do you hope to involve any famous people from the region in the future? It’ll be a challenge to top Roger Daltrey who we brought to the region last year for the 40th Anniversary of the movie Tommy but most definitely. We are working on the forthcoming Sunday for Sammy shows, will be involved in the Tall Ships Race and also with Glenn McCrory on his new play. A run of Get Carter Tours are in the pipeline as well as a very special event towards the end of the year with two very good pals of ours....but I’ve already said too much. Let’s just say that if anyone wants to be the first to hear of our events then you can join our mailing list by heading to tyneidols.com

Who are the team behind Tyne Idols? Paul Irwin, MD of Eastcoast Taxis and Tours, along with Chris Wilson who is the man behind all things graphic including the website are the joint driving force. Chris Phipps and I share the tour guide duties and this is a joy to me as I love music, film and TV culture generally. Chris worked on the Tube and has over 30 years experience in the media. We also have another music nut, Keith Newman who is working with us to produce a Tyneside Punk Tour. Keith doubles as our PR guru with Highlights

Any long term expansion plans? Certainly to develop the showbiz and culture side, to introduce a tour showcasing the history of the river and most importantly to continue having fun with guests who join us for the tours we’re so very proud of.

For all bookings please call Julie Clay on 0191 2531618 or email info@tyneidols.com www.tyneidols.com

This Cabin is First Class by Michael Grahamslaw Airport food is always a subjective subject. In my experience it can either be very good or very poor. From the comments on TripAdvisor on the subject, there doesn’t seem to be anything in between. Thankfully, in the north east we do things properly and a new facility has recently opened for discerning travellers which proves the point. The Cabin in Newcastle Airport is a breath of fresh air providing a premium service in a (literally) first class environment. Unashamedly aimed at travellers who demand the best of everything including cocktails, fine wines and Champagne, craft beers and the best locally sourced foods, this is a lifestyle choice and one that is not based on price. My business colleagues and I kicked off with a glass of buck’s fizz (what else? when in Rome etc) as we surveyed the menu. Incidentally, did you know that Buck’s fizz was created in 1921 by a bartender called McGarry who worked at the Buck’s Club in London? I didn’t, but we all drank to his inspired idea anyway! Little did he know that his improvisation would still remain popular to this day. By now, with us all champing at the bit for sustenance, we kicked off our culinary experience at The Cabin with sharing platters which included

artisan bread with virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar, chorizo, smoked salmon, chicken liver pâté topped with truffle butter, cornichons and toast; and salted cod croquettes. Being true trenchermen, our party followed up with a posh burger on a brioche bun filled to the gunnels with grilled mushroom and thyme infused halloumi cheese and accompanied, of course, by the obligatory truffle fries with parmesan; charcuterie of Dropswell Farm’s hand-made classics including Lomo (pork tender loin) Bresaola (aged salt beef) Coppa (aged pork) and Durham ham, all served with horseradish cream and artisan breads, and confit of duck, marinated in honey, soy sauce and served with creamy mashed potato and crispy seaweed. A Northumberland cheese board followed featuring three local regional cheeses (Chevington, Bladon Blue and Redesdale) accompanied by fig jam and crackers. Risking a fork in the back of the hand, we all had a try of this much to the displeasure of the fellow diner who ordered it. Get over it man! The Cabin serves both small and large plates depending on your appetite and is open from 4.30am to 8.00pm daily. Check out its full menus on www.newcastleairport.com and just imagine yourself relaxing pre-flight with a glass of fizz in your hand in outstanding surroundings.

Without doubt, dining at The Cabin is like being in a business class lounge of a top airline without the dress code. Sure, it’s not a cheap experience but then exclusivity has a price. It won’t be acceptable to some because of that but then the fast food outlets and cafés are also open to satisfy lesser needs but where’s the adventure in that? The Cabin is aimed at discerning travellers in both economy and business class cabins that want to feel special in plush surroundings with good food. After all, travelling is all part of the holiday and travel experience and not just a journey to be endured. As Robert Louis Stevenson is reputed to have said, “it is better to travel hopefully than to arrive.” A relaxing and comforting start all adds to that pleasure. The Cabin is bound to do well at Newcastle Airport. It is the perfect place to kick off a business trip or your holiday and I fully expect it to go from strength to strength in the months ahead.

NEWCASTLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LTD. Woolsington, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE13 8BZ

TRAVEL INSIGHT

Hawaii – a bridge too far? by Travel Writer Ken Spearen Over the years, I’ve been asked on countless occasions about my favourite holiday and travel destination. When exotic places like Hawaii or Acapulco pop into the conversation, people are always eager to know more. It seems the more inaccessible the destination, the more its charms are intensified and, frankly, over-blown.

Our trip to Hawaii was a very long drawn out affair which, with hindsight, we would do differently - If there is going to be a next time. Our journey started when we flew out of Newcastle to San Diego via Heathrow and LA before boarding a cruise ship to Hawaii following a most welcome overnight stay in San Diego. From the outset, you need to be aware that the decision to go to Hawaii should not be taken lightly as it is almost 7,000 miles away from the UK. After a long haul flight, on boarding your cruise ship, the reality of the situation is that you spend the first

five days at sea crossing two time zones in the process. This is obviously repeated on the return journey. So, to avoid cabin fever, it is very important to choose a ship that is appropriate for you, your age group and your wants, needs and expectations. If this is done correctly, you may not notice the lack of landfall. The Hawaiian Islands offer the most accessible active volcanoes in the world with driving, helicopter and even walking tours available. The five most frequented Hawaiian ports of call are Hilo, Kona, Lahaina, Honolulu and Nawiliwili. Hilo is situated on the east side of The Big Island and is famous for its active volcanoes. A visit to its Volcanoes National Park is a must with its dramatic waterfalls and fertile rainforests. Kona on the west side of the Big Island is famous for its internationally renowned coffee and its abundant macadamia trees. A visit to Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory is a must. The garlic varieties are simply sensational. Lahaina on Maui attracts nearly two million tourists a year. It is possibly the most swish of all the islands where the latest sports cars sit cheek by jowl with sleek yachts giving it a very “SanTrop” feel. Honolulu, on Oahu’s south shore, is the capital of Hawaii which is famed for its iconic crescent beach

and high-rise hotels. It’s hugely popular with surfers whilst its famous Waikiki neighbourhood is also a hub for discerning diners, vibrant nightlife and quality shopping. A must-see is the floating USS Arizona Memorial. Ironically, the literal translation of Honolulu is “safe harbour” but considering it is where most of the US fleet was sunk by the Japanese in Pearl Harbour in 1941, like much of Hawaii, it did not live up to its billing. The USS Arizona Memorial, built over its still visible rusting remains is a very eerie, atmospheric and moving experience indeed. Nawiliwili on Kauai, is the fourth largest Hawaiian island and a mere youngster at only six million years old. It is also known as “the green island” due to its breath-taking waterfalls and lush vegetation. Its nickname is well earned as it has 460 inches of rain every year making it the wettest place on earth! Unlike its built-up sister islands of Oahu and Maui, only 3% of Kauai is developed and life moves slowly there. Cars even wait for roosters to cross the road! There’s an old joke in there somewhere. Overall, the Hawaiian Islands are very popular with the Americans (it’s not so far for them to travel) but basically it has the same holiday offer as the Canary Islands so popular with British holiday-makers. The only difference between the two is that Hawaii still has active volcanoes and the Canaries do not. So, if you like long haul travelling, volcanoes and overpriced tourist tat, then Hawaii is the place for you but if not, the Canary Islands are much nearer home and at a more costeffective price.

TRAVEL INSIGHT

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Sometimes, some exotic destinations are just not worth the bother as the experience is more perceived than actual.

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LEISURE NEWS

North East hotel’s latest investment

mood lighting has been installed.

A leading North East hotel is preparing for more business, following a £150,000 refurbishment of its biggest suite.

John Adamson, Owner of Ramside Hall Hotel, said: “The Bishops Suite is always in great demand and we’re expecting this to increase further now that it has been refreshed. We have already had great feedback from people who have seen it and we fully anticipate that it will continue to attract events.”

Ramside Hall Hotel, near Durham, is one of the region’s most popular venues, hosting a wide variety of business events, celebrations, awards and charity dinners. And now the hotel is welcoming more business, following on from a complete makeover of its Bishops Suite.

The hotel also has a ballroom which can take up to 320 guests, the Fountain Room which can take up to 60 and a number of smaller meeting rooms.

The suite can take up to 600 guests and can also be divided into three smaller rooms, making it a flexible space suitable for meetings, balls or awards.

The refurbishment of the suite is the latest investment at Ramside Hall, following on from the creation of a £8m luxury spa, the addition of a wing of rooms and an additional championship golf course.

The refurb has included redecoration, new carpets and curtains to give the room a brighter look. The 2 bar areas have also undergone a revamp and new

Durham CCC to play at South Northumberland CC David Harker, Group Chief Executive at Durham CCC, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with a new audience. I hope that we’ll get a lot of people to the game that ordinarily might not venture into a cricket ground but would want to come along and join in the festivities at South North.” This will be the second time that South North has hosted a first team fixture. It is hoped that it will follow the huge success of 2014 where Durham beat Warwickshire at South North, going onto win the Royal London One-Day Cup at Lords.

Durham County Cricket Club is delighted to announce that they will play Warwickshire CCC in a Royal London One-Day Cup match at South Northumberland CC this season. Captain, Mark Stoneman, will lead his side in the fixture, which will take place on Wednesday 27th July, at 12 noon. South North’s ground is less than three miles from Newcastle City Centre, giving supporters who live north of the River Tyne a great opportunity to watch first class cricket closer to home.

26 Goldspink Lane | Sandyford | NE2 1NR, UK | t: 0191 232 5888

LEISURE NEWS

King Kev officially opens the spa at Ramside One of the North East’s leading venues welcomed Kevin Keegan to mark the official opening of its new state-of-the-art spa.

outdoor vitality pool, five heat experiences and a 25m swimming pool, along with a balcony infinity pool which overlooks the hotel grounds.

The former football manager, player and Newcastle United legend unveiled a special plaque at Ramside Hall Hotel’s multi-million pound Spa at Ramside, as part of an official opening ceremony on February 5th.

John Adamson, owner of Ramside Hall Hotel, said: “We’re absolutely delighted and honoured that Kevin Keegan agreed to officially open our new Spa. The facilities that are offered really are among the best in the region, so it’s great to be able to mark the hotel’s newest addition with the help of such a regional icon.”

“I’ve been a frequent visitor to Ramside Hall over the years and it just gets better and better. The spa is absolutely amazing, as good as any I’ve seen anywhere in the world,” said Kevin. The Spa at Ramside, near Durham, includes a hydrotherapy pool, an

The £8m spa is part of Ramside Hall Hotel’s recent £16m extension, which also included a second golf course and a new wing of bedrooms.

Success for Seaham Hall Based on the Durham heritage coastline, 5 star boutique hotel Seaham Hall is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted in the Business Tourism category for this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. Seaham Hall, a Georgian manor house, offers contemporary and luxurious interior design, blending the old with the new and eclectic. With a £3M refurbishment programme complete and new suites coming online in the next few months, the hotel will shortly feature 22 individuallydesigned suites, two restaurants and a stunning 44,000 sq ft spa, together with over 1,000 sq ft of event space, all with natural daylight and wonderful views across the 37 acres of grounds and coastline. Ross Grieve, Managing Director of Seaham Hall, said: “Our team strives for excellence no matter whether the guest is a business or a leisure visitor but it’s particularly satisfying for us to know that Seaham Hall is seen as a leader in the demanding field of Business Tourism in the influential VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2016.” The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence will be announced at a ceremony taking place at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Tuesday 8th March.

All-day restaurant haven, The Alchemist, arrives in the North East The highly fashionable restaurant chain, The Alchemist, is opening a brand new all-day restaurant at intu Eldon Square’s new catering development, Grey’s Quarter. The site will be double fronted, facing both internally towards the mall and externally onto Newcastle’s Nelson Street. The Alchemist is part of the Living Ventures Group, who operate some of the most exciting brands in the UK restaurant sector. The restaurant launched in 2010 and already has popular concept branches in London, Manchester and Leeds. These all-day havens, open for coffee, brunch, lunch, dinner and cocktails, are known for their on-trend design and sense of theatre, as well as both classic and innovative food choices with Mediterranean, North American and British influences. Simon Potts, Managing Director of The Alchemist, said: “We are really looking forward to bringing The Alchemist to Newcastle and to being part of the fantastic restaurant space at intu Eldon Square. Our designers are working on eye catching plans for the venue that will reflect the rich history of this fantastic city and we look forward to wowing guests with our molecular mixology and creative food offering later this year.”

From pastries to pasties Food lovers at a leading North East hotel are being served an afternoon tea with a difference. At Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester-le-Street, sandwiches have been replaced by Scotch eggs and pastries by pasties, in a savoury twist to traditional teatime treats. The new savoury afternoon tea menu replaces the lunch menu on Mondays and Fridays and has been designed to cater for those who want a less formal midday meal or who crave a heartier mid-afternoon snack. Among the delicacies on offer are ham and pease pudding rolls, bacon and leek quiche, Newcastle Brown Ale chutney, scones, chocolate brownies and a choice of speciality teas.

LEISURE INSIGHT

A Taste of America comes to (our) Washington by Michael Grahamslaw

I recently received a media release announcing the opening of Carter and Fitch Pizzeria, Smokehouse and Bar within the Mercure George Washington Hotel so I thought I’d take a business colleague along to check it out for Insight readers. From the release, I gathered that following a £½m investment, this new themed restaurant aims to give diners an authentic US eating experience. Being aware that it is named after a smokehouse with Mafia connections during the prohibition era in America, I was cognisant that I might have to choose my words fairly carefully in case I “dissed” the ghosts of its past and end up swimming with the fishes. I need not have worried though, as the food, service and the American-influenced ambiance were all superb and most enjoyable. Seating up to 90 diners with more room available on the outside terrace during the summer months, this restaurant has been two years in the making. Its authenticity is down to the culinary experiences of Chris Hume, the head chef of the George Washington Hotel for the past four decades. He travelled across much of America to sample the food in Arizona, California and New York to gain an insight into how their dishes were prepared - and more importantly, should taste. And I thought I had a great job! The restaurant’s faithfulness to the source has been exhaustive and its owners actually imported a specially made smokehouse oven all the way from Oklahoma for the sake of authenticity.

Apart from the obvious appeal of the prime steaks on offer, its menu is a true carnivore’s delight with dishes like St. Louis ribs; pulled pork; Texas-style Pitmaster brisket, sliced and moistened with bourbon BBQ sauce whilst its USA-style burgers are ginormous. Spoilt for choice, my dining companion and I shared a platter of starters consisting of pulled pork, brisket, voodoo wings, baby rib tips, house slaw and BBQ sauce. Yee-Ha! After a fulsome starter, I thought I might struggle with the 10oz striploin steak when it arrived but in true trencherman fashion, I devoured it with great enthusiasm. That said, a pudding was definitely out of the question. I must admit to being somewhat taken aback when our wine waiter suggested a bottle of pinot noir from Romania (from where?) to accompany our meal but as it was a recommendation from an expert and his tip depended on it, we thought we’d give it a try and found it to be surprisingly good. This had been a great dining experience and C&F is well worth a visit.

Carter and Fitch is within the George Washington Hotel, Stone Cellar Road, High Usworth, Washington, (SatNav: NE37 1PH).

LEISURE INSIGHT

Chocolate & wine, heaven! One of the essentials for Easter is chocolate, but pairing chocolate with wine is not always an easy task. In recent years there has been a real upsurge in the appreciation of fine chocolate with most manufactures giving precise levels of cocoa solids in their products - most of the Easter eggs we eat are made from materials that the chocolate enthusiast would not even think of as chocolate so for the purposes of matching wine with chocolate we’ll leave the chocolate eggs and bunnies for the kids and concentrate on the better stuff! As a general rule, to successfully match any wine with chocolate or a chocolate dessert it should be at least as sweet as the chocolate it is paired with. With that in mind forget about the vast majority of dry wines (both white and red) the chocolate will clash terribly and make the wines taste really tart and even drier. Many of the wines that do a good job with chocolate are fortified and have higher alcohol levels. A good example is Port that always has some sweetness. Don’t bring out your finest

vintage, go for a younger example, perhaps a Ruby, LBV (late bottled vintage) young Tawny, or Colheita (essentially a vintage tawny) where the fresher fruit and more pronounced sweetness will match well with the chocolate.

The sweet red wines of the Yecla region of South East Spain are also a good choice. The vineyards are situated high up in the hills inland of Alicante and here the Monastrel grape makes delicious rich and juicy wines.

Australian and South African answers to Port will also work well.

All of the wines mentioned so far are pretty hefty – chocolate demands that depth of flavour – but lighter styles can sometimes work as well. The sweet and semi-sweet sparkling wines of the Piemonte region of North West Italy can be wonderful with light chocolate puddings. The best examples are low in alcohol and very refreshing.

Similarly, sweeter Madeira - Malmsey (also known as Malvasia or Full Rich) will do the job well - often a little lighter than Port, and for those with a really sweet tooth go for a wonderful Pedro-Ximénez Sherry. If you have never had PX imagine putting a load of raisins in a food processor and pressing the button! Very dark in the glass the aroma and taste is fabulous! A great wine with most things chocolatey is Banyuls. This is a sweet red wine from the eponymous little village situated in the Roussillon region of southern France just next to the Spanish border. Similar in style to a port it is lighter and fresher.

Today many chefs are using unsweetened chocolate in savoury dishes - using small amounts to add lustre, colour, flavour and texture to sauces. A fillet steak with a rich chocolate sauce is partnered perfectly by a good Australian Shiraz from the Barossa Valley or maybe McLaren Vale. The hot climate of these South Australian regions produces full-bodied reds often with a hint of sweetness on the finish and go brilliantly.

Further information about the aforementioned wines can be found at www.richardgrangerwines.co.uk or instore at Richard Granger Fine Wine Merchants, West Jesmond Station, Lyndhurst Avenue, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 3HH

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LEISURE INSIGHT

Valentines Day with a twist by Michael Grahamslaw Call me an old romantic but when Valentine’s Day came around, I headed for the only place that I knew Lisa would love - St James’ Park of course (what’s wrong with that?). Surrounded by hordes of avid Toon fans and in sight of the hallowed turf itself, what else could a girl ask of a romantic meal? Although Jack and Holly weren’t so sure, I just knew this was the right place to have a Valentine’s Day lunch. Newcastle United FC totally understands what constitutes a memorable Sunday lunch. A great meal followed by a taster tour of the stadium’s facilities was just what the doctor ordered for me, especially as I had been playing football that morning (well, trying anyway) and was in need of both physical and mental sustenance. After parking our car, we made our way to the comfortable surroundings of the Magpie Room for a special Valentine’s Day 3-course lunch. Starters included seared scallops and chicken Caesar salad but with it being a cold day, Lisa and I opted for some warming vegetable broth which set us up for the main event. The choice was from roast rib eye of Northumbrian beef or roast loin of pork; beer battered cod steak or sautéed gnocchi with stilton, peas, spinach and cream. We both opted for the baron of beef and followed it up with sticky toffee pudding and treacle tart - real comfort food and just what I needed after the morning’s exertions. Lisa even received a small gift as a memento of the day. What more could a girl ask? (what is your problem?). Anyway, it put a smile on her face - but was it for the right reason? No doubt I shall find that out later. The service throughout was exemplary.....indeed Premier League standard. Prices start from just £13.95 for two courses and £16.95 for three which is very good value considering the quality of the food served.

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TRAVEL INSIGHT

Out & About – Teeside Airport Stationmaster Alex Nelson has been suggesting places to go by train each month for ten years. For March, he takes a look around Teeside Airport.

The advantage of train travel over coach excursions is that you can go any day you like. Not to this month’s destination, though, which is only served once a week on a Sunday. It’s Teesside Airport, generally known now as Durham Tees Valley Airport, but the railway station, out on the perimeter of the airport, never changed its name. There’s even a special train which leaves Darlington for Hartlepool at 11:05, and connections into this train are available at 10:04 from Newcastle, 10:13 from Chester-le-Street and 10:20 from Durham. The train arrives at Teesside Airport at 11:14. Additional connections are available from Bishop Auckland and Northallerton. Because of its peripheral location and the poor rail service, Teesside Airport station vies with Shippea Hill in Cambridgeshire as being the least used railway station in Great Britain, according the the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). It is my aim to correct this position by putting three times the annual usage of the station on the platform at one time, a stunt akin to putting 6 million people on Darlington station platforms at the same time, which is an event I do not see happening, even if it were actually possible.

Northern Rail manage the unstaffed station and have asked us to be careful with platform loadings and the number of people on the bridge at the same time. We shall therefore be prepared to marshal the crowds, and send people singularly over the bridge which has not seen any crowds for many years. On leaving the platform we expect to have a Volkswagen van which has been converted into a mobile sweet shop on hand before the short walk to the flying club which has a new café which we will be welcomed into. Intrepid travellers are welcome to partake in a side trip to the airport terminal building, via the St. George’s Hotel, which is owned by Peel Holdings who run the airport. There are few flights these days, mostly to Aberdeen and Amsterdam, the latter being a KLM service which connects at Schipol with world-wide flights. The Aberdeen flights are run by Eastern Airways, and have been hit by the low oil price which is affecting the oil and gas sector. Eastern also run occasional flights to Norwich too. After seeing the airport it’s back to the platform, with no bridge to cross this time, to join the same train as before on its way back from Hartlepool to Darlington. We hope the driver will

remember to stop, because if not we will be stuck there for the entire week, but the train driver will have carried us to Teesside Airport on the outward run and is not likely to forget. Children are welcome on this unusual outing, and indeed are specially welcome because the savings with a family railcard are huge. The fare from Newcastle is £19.40 day return, but this can be reduced by having a ticket from Newcastle to Darlington and another from Darlington to the Airport, which is only £4.40. With a railcard of any sort, this reduces the price to £2.90. Skinflints wishing to minimise the train ride to a fare of £2.60 return can park at Dinsdale and travel from there at 11:10. Why Northern run a special train to Hartlepool is beyond me. It would be much easier to simply stop two trains on the Darlington to Middlesbrough line which are running through Teesside Airport without stopping. You can book tickets from any station over the phone at Chester-le-Street station on 0191 387 1387, or buy the ticket on the day from any staffed station on conductors on the train. Come and make a little bit of railway history on Sunday 13th March.

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

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LEISURE INSIGHT

The Salon Opens in Forest Hall A renowned local hair stylist and Newcastle College beauty lecturer have joined forces to give a former Forest Hall beauty salon a new lease of life.

Brooke Troughton and Judy Mahoney have invested over ÂŁ50,000 in the property on Landsdowne Road to open The Salon, a hair and beauty emporium, consisting of two therapy rooms, two nail stations and a dedicated pedicure area, along with six hair stations. Brooke commented "Since opening on January 4th the feedback has been phenomenal and we have been regularly fully booked which is fantastic for such a new business. "

Brooke said "the aim is to grow this arm of the business ahead of the Summer and we have chairs available to rent and I am actively searching for someone to do Hair Extensions. We have a huge range of offers available including our Moroccan oil signature package, make up by Olaplex and so much more. There really is something for everyone. Brooke is assisted by Chloe Nailen who has over a decades industry experience.

Judy continued "Many Newcastle suburbs have independent, niche salons so its wonderful that Forest Hall now has one to call its own. "

Judy is a former Body Therapist of the Year and promises a pampering experience to remember from the huge range of holistic and beauty treatments available.

Brooke brings a wealth of experience to the Hairdressing side of the company having worked extensively with Toni and Guy and in a self employed role before launching The Salon.

Judy said "From a 15 minute eyebrow wax to a 2 hour firming treatment, with so much in between, we aim to give clients the opportunity to unwind and destress. "

International award winning Newcastle based interior designers, George Bond Design, were appointed in October 2015 to oversee the project. Former TV presenter and Northern Design Awards Head Judge George Bond said "When Judy and Brooke first invited us to the property we could see the huge potential. With its first floor, corner position, we decided on a white and pale grey theme with an injection of black and red. The whole area flows perfectly, providing a truly relaxing feel, allowing the clients to enjoy their experience." The Salon was officially opened on February 5th by HRH Princess Katarina, a judge from the Northern Design Awards along with Katie Cutler from the Katie Cutler Foundation.

The Salon, 43a Station Road, Forest Hall, NE12 7AR Tel : 0191 2666707

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Open 6 days a week Monday - Wednesday 10 - 6 Thursday - Friday 10 - 8 Saturday 10 - 5

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LEISURE INSIGHT

Happy 11th Birthday BeFit!

I would like to extend a great big thank you to all of our wonderful clients who have not only supported us over the last 11 years, but have been so delighted with the results they have recommended us to all of their friends, family and colleagues. I should probably have retired years ago, but to work in an environment where you see people improving in health, strength, fitness, body shape

and mentality - it is a joy to come to work. Many people have walked through our door doubled with pain in backs, legs, shoulders, necks etc. And have walked out feeling great – most of them saying “I wish I had known about you earlier and saved myself years of pain”. Many of our clients have cancelled surgery, as they haven’t needed it after being here. What a marvellous thing to hear.

I feel very fortunate that our clients are more like friends and our workforce a great team who all pull together. Good luck and good health to you all. Thank you again.

Isabel Pellegrino and the BeFit Team

Personal Training – Private Air Conditioned Studios Injury Rehabilitation And Prevention – Sports Conditioning Health Kinesiology – Biosignature Nutritional Advice – Massage – Active Isolated Stretching EXERCISE AS INDIVIDUAL AS YOU ARE 7 Kenton Shopping Centre, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne t: 0191 213 5300 e: info@be-fit.co.uk www.be-fit.co.uk

LEISURE INSIGHT

On the Tee Box - At Matfen Hall Golf Club

Location

Signature Hole

Situated 15 miles west of Newcastle in the charming country village of Matfen. Despite the rural location it is close enough to the main A69 to provide easy transport links and within touching distance of Hadrian’s Wall.

The elevated tee box of the Par 4, 9th Douglas hole provides stunning views across the course and of the Country Hotel. The lake to the right catches your eye as you try and drive to fairway that narrows at the landing area. A hole you can stand back and admire a good shot but never be too disappointed if it doesn’t quite work out as you always have the beautiful view to console you.

Setting Set in 300 acres of beautiful Northumbrian countryside and the backdrop of the stunning and award winning Country Hotel and the ancestral home of owners Sir Hugh & Lady Blackett. Home of Head Professional and European Senior Tour player John Harrison.

Length of course White tees - 6700 yards Yellow tees - 6355 yards Red tees - 5569 yards

Course Type Sympathetically laid out classic parkland course which incorporates challenging water features and unique obstacles such as our ‘Ha-Ha wall’. 3 separate loops of nine holes combine as 3 varying course options. This layout allows plenty of tee availability especially useful at prime weekend times for visitors and hotel guests.

Toughest Hole The 219 yard Par 3, 8th Standing Stone. This challenging Par 3 involves a long carry over the dissecting River Pont to steep banked and slightly raised green that slopes back to front providing a tricky putting surface. Usually made more difficult by the prevailing wind pushing your ball into the widest part of the hazard. Par is always a result on this picturesque hole.

P urpose built 19th Hole ‘Keepers Lodge’. Fully stocked Pro Shop.

Longest Drive Par 4, 9th Dewlaw which is a classic risk and reward hole. Take the risk and aim your drive over the water and rough with a carry of 260 yards leaving you a relatively easy short approach. Get it slightly wrong and you will lose your ball in the hazard or rough and you may wish you hadn’t taken the risk. Course management is a must on this hole.

Prices Midweek greenfee - £35 per person Weekend greenfee - £40 per person Society & visitor packages available with discounts on larger groups Earlybird/Twilight - £20/£10 per person

Memberships

Facilities 2 7 Hole Championship course offering 3 separate layouts. Separate 9 hole Par 3 course with family friendly EasyGolf concept. Golf Academy with covered driving range and short game practice areas.

Full - Annual £819 - Monthly £68.25 Off Peak - Annual £595 - Monthly £49.58 9 Hole - Annual £450 - Monthly £37.50 Age related and country club options available

Golf Manager: Peter Smith Telephone: 01661 866400 Email: golf@matfenhall.com Website: www.matfenhall.com

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LEISURE NEWS

Wraith Promotions is back! 2016 sees the relentless return of Wraith Promotions - the UK’s Premier Event Management Company and, with Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead, Newcastle Legends and The Longsands under its umbrella Managing Director Steve Wraith goes with what he knows best, a time tested business strategy that will not only bring the best in sports, music and entertainment to the region whilst catering for the wants and needs of the people, the business and corporate sector, and the client base built up over many-a-year in the industry - Wraith Promotions is back and ready to roll www.wraithpromotions.com

FRIDAY 18 MARCH 2016

Steve Wraith and Pro Boxing Newcastl e Gateshead return to their spiritual home of Dunston's Lancastrian Suite in aid of the Graham Wylie Foundatio for an evening of professional boxing n and sponsored by Grosvenor Casin o and Ideala Health. Headlined by a between Tom Whitfield (Birtley) and Northern Area title fight, and rematch, Daniel Cope (Hartlepool) over ten roun ds sports fans will also see in action the as outings from Paul Gidney and Lee debut of Christian Adjoufack as well Mould, Billy Snaith and the self-styled 'Hands of Stone,' the undefeated Jeff £35 via www.proboxingnewcastlega Saunders. Tickets are available from teshead.com/tickets/ or calling Peter on 0191 2299632 and doors will open around 6pm.

FRIDAY 22 JULY 2016

c and emy for an evening or quality musi Dolls head to Newcastle's O2 Acad d Pisse Sex or via the 00 tors, 7720 Selek 0844 ne Style hotli can be purchased via the ticket Supported by The Skapones and the ts are available priced at £12.50 and Ticke . more ing want pm. you 6:30 leave from will entertainment that demynewcastle with doors opening www.academymusicgroup.com/o2aca

SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER 2016

The best in the business are back on Tyneside. Following on from recent, succe ssful jaunts to the region From the Jam the O2 Academy for some late summ and Bruce Foxton head back to er fun as part of their 'A and B Sides Tour - Performing all The Jam's A and years performance this is one not to B sides from 1977 to 1982.' After last be missed and tickets are available price d at £20 and can be purchased via the ticket hotline 0844 772000 or via www.academymusicgroup.com/o2aca demynewcastle

ITES

NSORSHIP OPPORTUN

Y & SPO CORPORATE HOSPITALIT

Boxing Newcastle Newcastle Legends or Pro standard whether it be a as it all. Newcastle nce e elle vid pro exc t we tha ing ing e ourselves in deliver nts to professional box prid eve we sic gs mu ldin live Bui have brought to od rs We wo . ake ing Here at Colling al and amateur box from after dinner spe with stakes in profession e plenty to offer ranging Longsands. ead esh The e Gat nag stle ma n wca eve Ne we Gateshead event we hav nt base as has Pro Boxing musical extravaganza clie and ing m eas rdo tising) and sta incr g ver n, llin (ad ow tba its £25 Legends has , criminal royalty, foo ilable ranging from la crème of world boxing nsorship opportunities ava spo and sing erti adv al. of to Tyneside the crème de number and profession se events we also have a for sponsorship, amateur mail.com Alongside putting on the our fighters are available email petermann78@hot or 2 963 229 1 £250 (sponsorship); even 019 on er Pet h wit ch tou in get m please do not hesitate to w.newcastlelegends.co If you're interested then tlegateshead.com ww www.proboxingnewcas

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LEISURE INSIGHT

Grosvenor sponsorship at the top of the market Sponsorship and advertising deals have long been a part of the business acumen, getting your brand out there and in the public eye paramount to survival and, for Steve Wraith with his business enterprises, maintaining those over long-term is key. One of those relationships has been with Grosvenor Casino in Newcastle, a partnership which goes back to his fanzine days and the early stages of Players Inc the better part of a decade ago where they, along with the O2 Academy, were regular advertisers. Those relationships still stand today and, in the case of Grosvenor, has expanded over the Tees to the Stockton establishment affording a strong foothold within the mainstream gaming establishments network. In Cheryl Flowers (Newcastle) and Becky Warren (Stockton), Grosvenor have established Business Managers who can relate to the environment around them meaning that, people like Steve, can tap into the benefits and facilities in which are available. Working with local businesses and sports clubs has been a timeproven strategy for mainstream establishments and one that, through the demographics presented, has shown both ongoing and increasing success. “It’s been proven that there’s similar demographics in boxing fans to the casino client base and, with Newcastle being one of the first affiliations with clubs, along with Blackpool it has been something proven to work long-term and therefore gets more support from head office. “We’ve always been keen to support local teams and talent and have done for some time which generally works for us, however, every proposal we get is different and unique to the situation.” Although there is no advertising strategy, for which there is no need, the sponsorship route serves the casino well, if the proposal is right. With Steve that correctness has been ongoing for over four years now in the boxing capacity and suits both parties.

It has seen many a great night at the casino for sporting dinners with the likes of Roberto Duran, David Haye and Riddick Bowe primary examples of how it has worked in the past. “Our main sponsorship is done with Steve and we’ll continue working with him as it has seen some great success in the past and we both get what we want and need from the deal. “We have to look at the PR opportunities, footfall, commercial awareness that is presented and Steve brings that, it’s just a shame we couldn’t continue with the dinners. They, unfortunately, are out of our hands but we had some great success with them and if we continue to achieve our objectives then we’ll continue to work together.” On Stockton, and with the long-term relationship built on Tyneside, it seemed a logical path of progression to approach Becky Warren and Grosvenor Stockton after Steve, who now has a boxing manager’s licence, signed Thornaby-based Olympian, Christian Adjoufack. Both Casinos will play host to respective press conferences throughout 2016 and beyond and, with the Newcastle venue a primary sponsor, it bodes well for a prosperous future for all concerned.

Grosvenor Newcastle can be found on St. James Boulevard in Newcastle, and Grosvenor Stockton is on Bridge Road, Chandlers Wharf in Stockton; both venues great additions to Steve Wraith’s Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead.

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