Northern Insight - September 2016

NORTHERN

INSIGHT SEPTEMBER 2016

Meet the Dales business property media technology motors arts leisure issue 15

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NORTHERN INSIGHT

foreword Welcome to the September edition of Northern Insight Like many people I have been transfixed with the Rio Olympics in recent weeks which, at the time of writing, saw Team GB on course for a record medal haul.

There are also various success stories within this issue as we celebrate the achievements of some of the North Easts leading businesses from a range of sectors.

Our cover star is Urban Base, an estate agency with a pro active, honest and result driven approach.

In addition we have an interesting interview with North East mayoral hopeful Jeremy Middleton.

Look out also for a report from our first Golf Day which was held recently at Ravensworth GC in Gateshead and raised funds for the wonderful Percy Hedley charity.

29

This allied to the usual entertaining blend of news, views and social events makes for another barnstorming edition. Indeed much to entertain and consume ahead of those dark Winter nights.

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

Michael Grahamslaw, Publisher

contents SEPTEMBER ‘16 Business News 8-9 Recent Appointments 22 Entrepreneurs Interview 28-29 David Penny - Penny Petroleum

Fashion 30-31 Business Lunch 36-37

84

The Bank - Low Fell

Cover Story 58-59 Urban Base - Property Specialists

Technology News 82 Arts News 96-97 Travel 100-101 Leisure News 102-103 Northern Insight Golf Day 124-125

credits

125

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, Clarke Kennedy, John Gibson, Alastair Stewart, Gordon Taylor, Alex Nelson, Holly Grahamslaw 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.

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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.

© 2015 Published by MJG Publishing Ltd

7

BUSINESS NEWS

Entrepreneurs’

Forum announces awards shortlist The North East Entrepreneurs’ Forum has announced a shortlist of talented business leaders competing for its annual awards.

Running for more than a decade, the North East Entrepreneurial Awards recognise the talent, innovation and drive of business people across the region.

Shortlisted for the Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by Ward Hadaway, are Dean Benson, Visualsoft; David Penny, Penny Petroleum and John Waterworth, Parkdean Resorts.

The shortlist in the Emerging Talent category, sponsored by United Carlton, is made up of Ryan Davies, Gospelware; Lisa Eaton, Unwritten Creative; Mark James, Differentology; John Savage, Flame Heating Spares and Raman Sehgal, Ramarketing.

Room, Crowne Plaza Newcastle, in the city’s Stephenson Quarter on the evening of October 7th.

The Lifetime Achievement award and Mentor of the Year, sponsored by the Malhotra Group, will be announced on the evening.

More than 350 guests are expected to attend the event to celebrate the achievements of the region’s entrepreneurs, as well as to raise money for a number of local charities.

In partnership with the North East Local Enterprise Partnership for the third year running, the awards ceremony will take place at the Boiler

The evening will be hosted by comedian Jason Cook, best known for co-creating and starring in the hit BBC series Hebburn. The ceremony’s after

dinner speaker will be adventure fundraiser and Guinness World Record breaker Jamie McDonald.

Entrepreneurs’ Forum Chief Executive, Gillian Marshall, said: “We have some incredibly talented and inspirational entrepreneurs in our region who lead dynamic, innovative companies and provide fantastic employment opportunities in the North East. Our shortlists are made up of some very impressive entrepreneurs in a diverse range of sectors who all deserve recognition for their achievements.”

Robson Laidler set for growth One of the region’s longest established accountancy firms Robson Laidler, together with its financial services company RLFP, is investing over £380,000 in a five-year business transformation plan to meet its aim of 50% profit growth.

Robson Laidler and RLFP had a combined turnover of £3.2m last year. The accountancy firm was founded in 1920 and employs over 50 staff at its base in Fernwood House in Jesmond.

Robson Laidler now offers consultant-led business growth support. It has invested in a brand new advisory software package to offer strategic planning advice to clients on topics such as revenue and wealth growth, profit and cash flow improvement, tax minimisation and business marketing, Many of the firm’s clients are already benefitting from its new state-of-the-art cloud accountancy software packages and business advisory services. Part of the five-year growth plan will also see the firm launch its own app so clients can have finances at their fingertips.

The business has also expanded its board with three new directors to help drive business growth. It has also seen chartered Tax Adviser, Graham Purvis, take the helm as the company’s new Managing Director.

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8

BUSINESS NEWS

Square One Law help sports

Durham start up expands within

clubs maximise funds

first year

Square One Law has helped more than 20 sports clubs from the North East and across the UK to secure a status which enables them to save vital funds to invest in community sports facilities and activities.

Nearly 7000 sports clubs in the UK have benefitted from registering as Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs). CASCs were introduced by the government to promote public participation in sports. They allow sports clubs to receive various benefits such as charity-type tax reliefs and corporation tax reliefs.

John Hammill, Partner at Square One Law, said: “This year we have worked with more than 20 cricket, golf, rugby, tennis and multi-sports clubs to secure or maintain CASC status.”

A Durham based firm has expanded within its first year and taken on four new recruits.

National expansion planned for butcher’s shop chain A North East-based butcher is now eyeing national expansion after opening six shops across the region in the past 18 months.

The Fat Butcher has a portfolio stretching right across the North East. The business is now targeting its next stage of growth, which will see it expand to Southampton and Catterick Garrison, with further locations being looked at around the country.

The company has instructed international real estate advisor Savills to secure its new stores, with Newcastle law firm Sintons handling legal work.

it www.synergi.it

Concision, a specialist writing company, began trading in Durham just under a year ago. Since then they’ve helped businesses from different sectors all over the world get their message across by using just the right words.

Concision’s CEO Daniel Roe explains: “More and more, companies are beginning to realise how important it is to cut through the noise by communicating simply and clearly. Quality content is now the key strategy in marketing.”

Concision has been given financial guidance and support by Jesmond-based Robson Laidler accountants and business advisors.

NBS make the pawfect partnership with Newcastle College Newcastle-based NBS has partnered with talented artists from Newcastle College to create a unique design for their very own 3D Snowdog sculpture.

The UK’s leading provider of construction information and knowledge management services worked with a team of print and textile students to create a design for the Snowdog on the Great North Snowdogs trail, a large scale art and cultural event coming to the region in September.

The chosen artwork reflects the people, buildings and industries that are associated with the city.

MTrec becomes the first UK acquisition for Japanese-listed Trust Tech Inc Trust Tech Inc. has announced its plan to acquire MTrec Limited, which is one of the North East’s largest providers of staffing and training solutions.

The acquisition marks Trust Tech Inc.’s first significant addition outside of Japan, which will enable the company to establish a presence in the UK and European markets.

Founded in 2006, MTrec Ltd serves the manufacturing, engineering and industrial sectors.

Employing 56 staff, the business has enjoyed exceptional development with an average year-onyear turnover growth of around 23%.

Trust Tech Inc. is a leading Japan-based staffing business specialising in the provision of dispatching, outsourcing and sub-contracting staffing solutions.

Funding boost for Ravensworth Golf Club Ravensworth Golf Club Ltd is celebrating after receiving a £27,097 funding award from SUEZ Communities Trust, formerly SITA Trust.

Funding will allow the purchase of a replacement Verti Drain Machine to aerate the fields in order to prevent flooding and to allow buggy and trolley use to be available for more of the year.

Marianne Ivin of SUEZ Communities Trust said: “Ravensworth is a true community golf club. We’re thrilled to be able to fund the machine which will help keep the course in top condition.”

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9

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Reshaping your talent supply chain to drive business growth Andrew Howie, Sales Recruitment Consultant at durhamlane

The summer break has just come to an end and thousands of students across the country are making their first step on to the career ladder. They are young, bright, quick to learn and eager to get on. Yet, overwhelmingly, businesses remain cautious about taking on new graduates. However, according to a survey commissioned by the British Chamber of Commerce, more than half believe university leavers are not ready for work.

Andrew Howie, Sales Recruitment Consultant at durhamlane, explains why it pays to see the world differently: “Many companies don’t consider graduates as an alternative to experienced hires. But when we present our dedicated Sales Graduate Programme, which includes a sophisticated selection process and a rigorous 12-month training and coaching package, they realise that high-calibre graduates can be a cost-effective solution to support their growth plans.”

relevant to sales, such as verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and solid data analysis and problem solving abilities. Graduates are not easily scared away by challenges, instead taking proactive approaches.

Andrew’s 5 top reasons for hiring sales graduates are:

Increased Creativity: Because of their ‘new to the workplace’ enthusiasm and hopefully a fresh mind, graduates can be an excellent source of new ideas and solutions, which are the driving force of most businesses.

Q uick learners: At Uni, students get used to learning fast and digesting lots of information quickly, skills that are especially useful when new technologies are utilised. Universities foster selflearning, which is an excellent introduction to professional life in a forward-thinking company.

And young people are self-motivated and enthusiastic about work.

G ood personal and business skills: Graduates might not have technical or industry knowledge – which can be acquired – but they typically own skills and attitudes that are highly

H ighly flexible and adaptable: It can be a lot easier to integrate recent university leavers into a company culture than experienced workers.

They do not tend to have established work patterns in their head, meaning they can adapt quickly into new workplaces and work processes.

Proven ROI: Graduates may need more rigorous training than their more experienced counterparts but they come to the world of work with flexibility, fresh eyes, enthusiasm and strong interpersonal skills. Studies indicate that they can bring a 500% return on the investment in the long term. When taking training and coaching seriously, a graduate will deliver value for a business quicker than many may think.

“At durhamlane, we take the potential of graduates very seriously, because we recognise the huge benefits they bring to businesses”, Andrew says, “not only are the majority of durhamlane staff graduates, but we’ve attracted and placed several high-calibre sales grads into ambitious companies.”

The hiring journey doesn’t end with a placement; unlike other recruitment agencies, durhamlane are first and foremost a sales performance organisation and deliver future thinking sales training programmes centred around their proven sales methodology ‘Selling at a Higher Level’.

They are known for their ability to take talented graduates to a higher level of sales awareness with short, sharp half day training sessions, one-to-one coaching and learning reinforcement; a structured development programme they call “Learn, Do, Review” – learning successful tools and techniques required, applying the acquired knowledge at work, then reviewing and improving practice in personal coaching sessions. Andrew continues: “We not only find the best-fit candidates, but we equip them with the skills, tools and the right attitude to ensure they are perfectly embedded into the company; allowing businesses to grow with minimum risk and maximum impact.”

To find out more about the graduate recruitment service from durhamlane and the range of other services on offer – including sales consultancy, training and outsourced solutions, don’t hesitate to get in touch. info@durhamlane.co.uk / 0191 481 3800 10

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Calibre’s Steve Nelson (right) says adoption of IT for academy trusts is critical

IT: Schools out for mats While the Government’s non-legislative path to drive schools to become academies within a wider multi-academy trust (MAT) appears an inevitability, the move will impact on how senior leadership teams choose to adopt IT network provision within each school, says Steve Nelson, Operations Director at education network specialists Calibre Secured Networks Ltd.

Currently, 2,075 out of more than 3,300 secondary schools are academies while 2,440 of 16,766 primary schools have academy status, according to the latest government figures.

This is set to continue under the Conservative government, so against such a backdrop, it appears reasonable to suggest that the potential for more collaboration and economies of scale can only endure as more MATs come into being.

While the ultimate ambition for a trust, as a single entity, is to achieve a strong collaboration between all the schools involved and drive up standards by providing a consistent strategy and vision across a coherent group working together, the impact for IT networks (and the technology providers and installers) cannot be overstated and throws-up challenges that must bear careful consideration.

To meet these challenges requires specific skills and expertise, and starts by considering the basics from which the final specification flows. One unifying IT system covering several schools sounds harmonious but it also generates some tough questions. For

instance, how does a cohort of schools reduce several disparate finance and administrative departments down to a single department that everyone can use, and how do you identify which school is the best at what disciplines?

Similarly, how do you put the technology in place to meet these and other challenges, and whose platform do you choose – and why? How do you then migrate all the schools onto that common platform to support functions such as HR, finance, virtual learning, planning, management, and timetables among other systems?

The key to success is to have what’s euphemistically referred to as ‘one version of the truth’, meaning that a MAT has a single finance system with the data held in one place and not shared elsewhere.

Mobility is another consideration. Pupils need to be able to go into any of the MAT schools and log on using their mobile devices to access common platforms via homogeneous enterprise grade networks.

This all underscores the importance of having More at www.calibre-secured.net 11

technological engineering expertise that understands the issues and nuances and can ‘talk’ to schools in a common, purposeful and jargon-free language to deliver standardised and ubiquitous connectivity built on enterprise grade networks platforms.

Where such networks are adopted, the balancing act must be about the overall holistic improvement of educational provision These networks can be better managed centrally and offer sophisticated features for scaling-up technologies throughout buildings and campuses, delivering a host of costeffective features to enable network requirements to be raised to unprecedented heights of innovation, effectiveness and user applications.

They also provide the basis for a more streamlined pricing model for these parlous times for education; providing MATs with greater transparency and budgetary control and going a long way to eliminating the potential for expensive ‘surprises’ as networks expand to meet changing needs and the requirement for additional features.

It’s clearly evident that within our brave new world, no matter what the size and shape MATs are, there’s going to be a critical requirement for adopting new network technologies with more robust governance. With extensive experience of designing, delivering and managing enterprise grade networks for schools and other education providers operating on limited budgets, Calibre’s packages include cost effective solutions to meet requirements for scalable, resilient, robust and future proof systems.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

‘EXCLUSIVE’ arrival for Whitley Bay Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn with Mark Ions, staff and friends of Exclusive Ltd.

A recruitment specialist is the latest business to back the £36m Whitley Bay regeneration scheme, with a relocation plan that has already created jobs in the town.

Exclusive Recruitment and HR Consultancy has invested a five-figure sum in refurbishing office space in the former bank offices on Park View, after moving from its Prestwick Park offices near Newcastle Airport.

The business celebrated its ninth anniversary in July and its 10-strong team delivers recruitment services and HR consultancy from Exclusive’s bases in the North East, Scotland and Yorkshire.

In a pledge to support other local businesses, Exclusive’s Managing Director Mark Ions brought in local tradespeople to transform the building into state of the art offices, plus serviced workspace for small businesses, which has already created a business hub for the area.

a young family here, I am keen to work with other local companies and become part of a business community that will help to drive the town’s prosperity.

“

Whitley Bay is going from strength to strength...

”

Elected Mayor of North Tyneside Norma Redfearn was guest of honour at the official opening of the new premises, which continued the local theme with food provided by Middle East street food brand Papa Ganoush, which is launching its own restaurant on Park View in September, and was recently voted in the top 16 of the UK’s street food vendors. Drinks were provided by local micro brewery Dog and Rabbit, and music by North East band Just SO.

“We are a different type of recruitment company, one that acts with honestly and professionalism and we take our corporate social responsibility very seriously, which is why we were keen to involve as many local suppliers as we could to refurbish the building and help us celebrate the launch.”

Mark Ions said: “We are delighted by the warm welcome we have had from other businesses in the town, and from North Tyneside Council, which was extremely supportive.

“As well as providing space for other businesses we have already created two permanent jobs and we expect to bring more jobs to the area as we achieve our growth plans,” said Mark.

“Whitley Bay was highlighted in a recent Guardian piece about the renaissance of Northern coastal towns, and as a local resident myself, bringing up

“The last nine years has seen us grow into a business using technology to service a UK-wide client base, which leaves us free to base the

LMA Training and Consultancy, softplay specialists Kiki’s Cabin and two event management companies have already moved into the small business hub alongside Exclusive’s team.

www.exclusiveltd.co.uk 12

business somewhere with a good work-life balance for our staff.

“With its good transport links, including the nearby Metro, Whitley Bay fits the bill and we are delighted to be part of the town’s regeneration. This is an exciting time for the area, and for our business.”

The last year has seen the Exclusive team scoop a string of UK contracts for clients in the financial services, engineering, manufacturing and professional services sectors. Closer to home it is an on-site recruitment partner for Nissan Sunderland UK, and is working with big names including Santander, Tarmac, Inter Terminals and the Durham and Tees Valley Community Rehabilitation Company.

Welcoming Exclusive to the town, Norma Redfearn said: “The council is doing all it can to attract new businesses and help them set up here. I am therefore delighted to meet Mark and his team and to officially open their new office in the centre of Whitley Bay. He has used local businesses where he can to fit out the office and supply the food, drink and even the brilliant entertainment for the launch. Mark is a great ambassador for the town and I wish him and his team lots of success in this latest venture.

“Whitley Bay is going from strength to strength, and is undergoing a fantastic transformation with more than £36million of investment to regenerate the coastline and put the area back on the map as an attractive and flourishing place for residents, businesses and visitors.”

www.exclusiveltd.co.uk 224 Park View, Whitley Bay, Tyne & Wear, NE26 3QR. Tel: 0191 691 2222. Offices also in Yorkshire and Scotland.

Exclusive Ltd celebrated their 9th birthday by launching a brand new office in Whitley Bay and hosting the first ever (e) Festival.

Guest of honour and Elected Mayor of North Tyneside Norma Redfearn officially opened the new premises, with food, drink and music provided by local businesses Papa Ganoush, the Dog and Rabbit Micro-Brewery and Just SO. Operating nationally with some of the UK’s leading companies such as Nissan, Santander, Tarmac, University of Sunderland and many many more, Exclusive Ltd is an established brand in the North East specialising in Engineering, Technical and Professional Services Recruitment & HR Consultancy for businesses of all sizes.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

UNW certified for new travel industry accountancy service Newcastle-based UNW has become one of only two accountancy firms in the North East to receive certification to provide essential services to travel and tourism companies that offer ATOL protection to their customers.

ATOL (Air Travel Organisers) protection means that people flying abroad have assurances they will be able to get home without having to pay any extra if the company they travelled with collapses while they are out of the UK. To pay for this, all companies offering flights pay into a central fund.

As part of the regulations, travel and tourism companies paying into the ATOL fund must provide reports about their financial status, produced by their accountants. Until recently, anyone could provide the financial report on a client’s behalf, but the regulations have been tightened so that ATOL Reporting can only be carried out by certified accountants.

The new certification, developed by the Civil Aviation Authority and professional accountancy bodies, shows that the certified firm has been approved to accurately assess the information.

Under the new ARA Scheme, any accountant providing ATOL Reporting must be properly designated and have achieved the certification, which shows they are knowledgeable about the industry and ATOL’s requirements for the reporting of financial information.

UNW accounting services Partner Hazel Smith said: “ATOL registration means that travel agents are regulated and in order to do that they have to provide compliance reporting to ATOL. “Up until 31 March this year, any accountant could deliver an ATOL report, but now they must have a licence that requires training and sitting an exam.

“UNW is just one of two independent accountants certified in the North East to have this in place.”

UNW works with a number of clients to provide their ATOL Reporting information, including Newcastle-based sports travel firm Nirvana Europe. The company specialises in travel and For more information please visit www.unw.co.uk 16

accommodation packages for athletes and spectators at events such as the Great North Run and Ironman Europe.

Nigel Morris, Operations Director at Nirvana Europe, said: “You have to be ATOL protected if you are selling air travel. It provides us with complete peace of mind.

“We are the official travel partner to a number of key partners and provide flight inclusive packages for athletes, their family and friends.

“We have been UNW clients for over a year now and they are fantastic. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.”

UNW members of staff were trained and examined under the new scheme before being awarded a licence, which allows the firm to carry out ATOL Reporting work for travel businesses throughout the North East.

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

BUSINESS INSIGHT

RMT Accountants strengthen board with three new appointments

Mike Pott, Richard Humphreys, Phil Harnby, Stephen Slater, Paul Gainford, Maxine Pott, Anthony Andreasen and John Richards.

RMT Accountants & Business Advisors has strengthened its senior management team on the back of a strong first half of the year by adding three new directors to its board.

The Gosforth-based firm has appointed Paul Gainford as its new Director of Client Services, while Phil Harnby and Richard Humphreys have both been appointed as Directors of its specialist medical division, RMT Healthcare.

Each new Director is taking on responsibilities across different parts of the firm's operations, as well as heading up their own specific teams, and they collectively bring over 50 years' industry experience to their new posts.

RMT provides the full range of financial and business advisory services through its accountancy, specialist tax, medical and healthcare, corporate finance and recovery & insolvency teams, and works with firms of all sizes both within and outside the North East.

The 62 year-old firm is one of the largest independent practices in the North East and employs more than 75 people, with the new appointments now creating an eight-strong board.

Paul Gainford, who has been with RMT for 17 years, says: "The key to RMT's continuing success has been the ability to really get under the skin of our clients’ businesses, understand what their personal and commercial objectives are, and deliver the services, advice and support they need to achieve them in the most efficient way possible.

RMT story is one of constant development to meet

"The accountancy profession has changed out of all recognition since I first joined the firm, with clients rightly having higher expectations of a proactive business advice-based service, and RMT's way of working has kept evolving to ensure we've stayed at the forefront of the industry.

opportunities that the business can look to pursue.

"My new role gives me a great opportunity to make wider use of my technical accounting and audit knowledge, and to help our growing team deliver their expert insight and guidance to our clients with ever greater impact."

team can grow.

Mike Pott, Managing Director at RMT, adds: “Having been in business for more than six decades, the

this way provides fresh momentum for further

the needs of our clients.

"Paul, Phil and Richard are all outstanding practitioners, with the capacity to understand and deliver on their clients' objectives. Their expertise will bring a new perspective to the commercial "It's especially pleasing to be able to promote people from within our high-calibre team into director roles, and it also creates new career opportunities into which other members of the "RMT has enjoyed a strong first half of the year, with pleasing levels of growth being secured across all our divisions, and strengthening our board in progress."

For further information on RMT Accountants & Business Advisors, please visit www.r-m-t.co.uk 18

Delightful Durham Visit County Durham, the destination management organisation, held its annual Summer Garden Party at Crook Hall in Durham City on July 26th. The industry networking event was attended by over 120 Durham tourism businesses and industry partners. Guests enjoyed a Durham themed menu in the grounds of the 13th Century private home and its idyllic English gardens, which is one of Durham City’s must-see visitor attractions.

Charity Season!

Everyone loves the summer; it gives us a chance to relax, unwind, and jet off to foreign destinations for a bit of extra sun when the Great British summer disappoints! But the summer also provides us professionals in the North East with the opportunity to get out of the office, into the great outdoors, and do something worthwhile for all of the incredible charities that we support.

This summer is no exception. As proud sponsors of the North East Charity Awards, it fills us with pride when we see and hear about all of the brilliant fundraising efforts taking place across the region. We’re really looking forward hearing more about these and the associated charities when we reach the Charity Awards night in October!

As we all appreciate, charities rely heavily on the hard work and efforts put in by fundraisers and the kind donations which follow. As tax advisers and accountants, we thought it would be useful to share some simple tips to ensure that charities are able get the most from your money.

We often find that the simplest ideas are the best and most effective and now that charity event season is in full swing, we thought it would be useful to share the following simple tips for you and your clients when it comes to charitable giving:

Individuals I ncome tax relief is available on Gift Aid donations for UK income taxpayers, providing tax relief at upwards of 20%. Make sure you tick the Git Aid box! onations made before 31 January following D the end of the tax year can be carried back to

the previous tax year to provide accelerated or more efficient tax relief. ifts of land or shares gifted to charity can G attract income tax relief.

Companies orporation tax relief is available for C donations made by a company made during an accounting period. haritable Trusts can structure their tax affairs C efficiently by making use of the Gift Aid rules for trading subsidiaries.

Estates haritable gifts made during a lifetime or on C death are usually exempt from inheritance tax.

On 15 October 2016, we will be sending a team of hardy individuals to Manchester to take part in Rough Runner, a 10km obstacle course (think Total Wipe-out but harder…), where we will be raising money for St Oswald’s Hospice, the North East based charity which looks to improve the quality of life for people with incurable conditions and their families. It is a charity particularly close to our hearts and has provided support to numerous members of our team in times of need.

For further information on the charity or if you would like to make a donation, please visit out donations page: www.justgiving.com/ leathersllproughrunner.

Remember, donations may qualify for Gift Relief!

E states can be eligible to pay inheritance tax at a reduced rate of 36% for those who wish to leave larger legacies to charity on their death.

As illustrated above, it doesn’t take much to make a big difference to the charities involved and charitable giving is a great way to reduce your tax bill!

So now that we’ve talked about the tax reliefs, naturally you will be wondering what the next fundraising challenge is at Leathers LLP…..

For advice and assistance with your accountancy, tax and business needs, or for career opportunities, contact Leathers LLP at canwehelp@leathersllp.co.uk or call 0191 2246760.

INTERVIEW

In Conversation With

James Lumb Director, Advisory, KPMG

What were your career ambitions growing up?

I decided that Restructuring was the career for me in a gap year after school; I worked with Arthur Andersen and tried out the different aspects of accountancy.

I loved the cut and thrust of Restructuring; my first client was a plumbers’ merchant - I will always remember the kick I got out of my first deal - selling a navy blue bath for £300 in cash.

Can you briefly outline your career path for the readers?

My career at KPMG has been focussed on working with clients facing some sort of issue, like dealing with the loss of a major customer or a bad debt, or advising clients who are simply not hitting their own performance targets. For example recently I have been working with several clients that supply into the oil and gas sector, working through the financial and operational impacts of loss of sales of up to 50%.

That’s about understanding clearly what the new underlying business is and how it manages its new normal.

I’ve worked in several areas within KPMG; starting with SMEs, then focussing on property at the time of the financial crisis and, four years ago, moving to the North East to lead our Restructuring business here.

Before all that, I was lucky enough to do some other jobs too, like teaching English in Nepal and working in a hospital in Melbourne.

Describe a typical day in the life?

A fair proportion of the time I will be flat out working alongside our clients, but in the office an average day involves quite a lot of meetings with clients and colleagues and going to networking events. We meet regularly as a team to talk about what we are doing and how we can get to where we are going. I’m a keen exponent of an empty inbox – top tip for stress management.

I try to get a jog along the Quayside first thing in the morning – it’s a wonderful view and it’s also nice and flat.

Can you tell us what you're currently working on?

The areas we have been busy with in the region recently have been construction, the care sector, and suppliers into oil and gas and this year we have had a really nice mix of transactions and advisory work. I

can’t be too specific though I’m afraid – the work is invariably confidential.

Summarise your greatest business achievements to date?

A couple of deals spring to mind – the sale of Bon Marche to private equity out of the Peacock Group; that delivered a really strong business (it went on to float) from a difficult starting place. I did a super deal last year too, which generated a seven figure sum to a business which was facing real risks around its survival. Alas that one is confidential What's the best piece of business advice you've been given?

Consult, consult, consult. I’ve never once regretted asking for advice.

Who are your heroes both in and out of business?

Rugby league legend, ‘Sir’ Kevin Sinfield. An inspirational leader whose focus on detail, process,

“

performance, and hard work, combined with no small amount of talent, earned him absolute conviction from his team and utmost respect from his rivals.

Results just flowed out of that. And he did it the right way - with real dignity and humility.

As a footnote, I met ‘Sir’ Kevin earlier this year. It’s entirely true that you shouldn’t meet your heroes; I was so star struck that I couldn’t speak!

What motivates you?

Lots of things, but an easy answer is my children - providing them with a positive role model and spending time with them is the biggie.

When not in the swivel chair, how do you like to relax?

Most of my spare time is spent with my three young children. After that, I try to do some running and go and see live sport - especially Rugby League but anything really.

How would you like to be remembered?

”

Professional services’ ‘Sir’ Kevin Sinfield

www.kpmg.co.uk 21

BUSINESS INSIGHT

pointments.....Appointments.....Appointments.....Appointme NBS joins Global leader Autodesk as first UK Solution Associate Newcastle-based NBS has announced that it has become the first UK Solution Associate of US based Autodesk, an American multinational software corporation that makes software for the architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media, and entertainment industries.

Key appointment marks expansion of business development team A local software development firm in the process of expanding its business development team has appointed an experienced sales professional.

Martin Gardner, 41, has joined Scott Logic as a Business Development Support Executive, and will be based at the firm’s headquarters in Newcastle.

The psychology graduate, who lives in Cullercoats in North Tyneside, was approached about the newlycreated role on LinkedIn. He explained: “I was impressed by the approach, which seemed very well researched, and the interview process was handled smoothly and thoroughly.

Martin’s appointment marks the beginning of the expansion of Scott Logic’s Business Development Team, and further appointments are currently being made.

UNW promotes John Healey to Partner

The collaboration is a momentous occasion for the North East company providing an important UK and International association as they look to significantly expand their workforce in the near future with further plans for international growth on the cards.

NBS is the leading global provider of Business Information Modelling; (BIM) related content and knowledge management for the construction industry. This collaboration will simplify decision making for Architects, Surveyors and Engineers by providing them access to content throughout the entire project workflow, enabling collaboration across the different disciplines, saving time and money.

Lanchester Wines appoint new Head of Commercial Operations Lanchester Wines has appointed a new head of commercial operations, Barney Davis, who will lead the company’s global wine buying strategy, ensuring continued relevancy within the UK and European marketplaces.

North East based business advisory firm UNW has promoted John Healey to Partner.

Since re-locating to the region and joining UNW in 2014, John has advised on numerous acquisition, disposal and fund raising processes.

Barney will be primarily responsible for the buying of all bulk wine for the wider County Durham based Lanchester Group which includes Europe’s most modern bottling facility, Greencroft Bottling.

John began his career with the Coutts commercial banking team in London, before spending a decade at PwC in London specialising in corporate finance. He restructured and sold the £11 million London-based business before moving north to Newcastle.

Barney joins the company with extensive global wine buying expertise having worked in various purchasing, sales and general management roles within the wine sector for over 15 years.

UNW’s Paul Kaiser, who heads up the corporate finance advisory team, said: “I am delighted to welcome John to the Partnership. He has proven to be a great addition to the team and has already established himself within the North East business community as an energetic and tenacious business adviser who gets good deals done for his clients.”

Barney said of his new role: “This is an exciting challenge, enabling me to bring my wine buying and experience of strategic implementation into the UK marketplace to an already strong business.

Clarke Mairs LLP strengthens team with triple appointments A North East law firm is welcoming a trio of solicitors to its team as part of its continued growth plans.

Clarke Mairs LLP, based in Newcastle city centre, has appointed Consultant David Wilson, Litigation Solicitor Aimee Hubbard and Trainee Solicitor Joanne Rea to the firm.

David Wilson’s legal career spans more than 40 years. Prior to joining Clarke Mairs, David spent nine years at BHP Law. Aimee Hubbard specialises in commercial litigation. Originally from Ponteland, Aimee worked in London for five years before returning to the North East.

Joanne Rea will work in each department during her two-year training contract. She undertook her legal studies at Northumbria University.

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

KP Simpson welcomes new businesses with open arms It’s the start of a new academic term, which means fortunate graduates will have by now started their own businesses. Latest figures show that around 52,000 have set up a company before leaving university, with another 15% hoping to set one up on graduation. With all that debt they have inherited though, the last thing they need is losing money when it comes to taxation.

Despite our ongoing success as a rapidly growing accountancy firm within the North East area, we are naturally always looking for more customers to come to us with their needs, so we can offer you our utmost help.

Our team of accountants all sat the same professional exams as the other accountant down the road but the difference is each member of our team has their own vocation within the industry.

So whether it is taxi accounts, personal trainer accounts or medical accounts, you will always find one of our team that can match up perfectly.

Everyone likes saving pennies up, and with us you can save time and money by letting us go through your business queries. We fully understand and expect that the needs of each individual client will differ however the end goal is always the same, to minimise tax and put more money into your pocket.

Unlike the recent EU Referendum voting process, there isn’t a deadline nor is it ever too late to get in touch with our friendly employees who are driven by some of the feedback from our satisfied customers.

And always remember, ‘there’s only two things certain in life: taxes and death. So why pay more than you have to?’ - Until next time!

If you have any questions about any of the services we offer, give us a call on 0191 420 0550 or email us at info@kpsimpson.co.uk.

Stephen Sumner, Managing Director of Explore Wealth Management, one of the North East’s longest established Independent Financial Advisers, discusses Corporation Tax. Many business owners I have seen in recent months have brought up the subject of corporation tax and the new rules regarding the taxation of dividends or profits in their business. Up until recently most business owners, whilst still being liable for 20% corporation tax on their profits, were able to take most of their profits without any liability to income tax, providing these payments did not exceed the 40% income tax threshold of earnings over £43,000 per annum (threshold for the current tax year).

The new rules brought in now state that the first £5,000 of dividends are free of income tax however any dividends over this amount will now be taxed at 7.5%. Any dividends drawn where the income exceeds £43,000 will now be taxed at 32.5%.

Clients have asked how they can reduce their corporation tax bill and also extract money from the business in a tax efficient way. My answer to this question is simple. Place up to the maximum permitted £40,000 as a pension contribution and as an employer payment. It’s a little known fact that employer pension payments are in most cases classed as a legitimate business expense and if say a £40,000 pension payment for an individual was made then a limited company’s corporation tax bill would be reduced by a massive £8,000.

In the past I’ve found that some business owners have been reluctant to invest in pensions because of fears of locking up capital which they would prefer to keep in a more liquid format. This is no longer an issue for those aged over 55 as under the new pension rules they can “cash in” all or part of the pension fund at any time if necessary.

In most cases I am advising clients to draw the maximum dividends but ensure that their total income does not exceed £43,000 per annum. Any further funds they wish to draw out of their business should be made by way of a company payment into a pension plan, significantly reducing the corporation tax and income tax liability.

To find out how Explore Wealth Management can help you, contact Stephen and his team on 0191 285 1555 or visit: www.explorewealth.co.uk 23

Stephen Sumner

What do business owners need to do to reduce their corporation tax bill?

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Peter Rutherford, Commercial Director, Three Counties Group

The Clapham Omnibus Mr. Clapham and Mr. Omnibus are trustees of the estate of their late friend, Anton Preneur, a highly successful business man. They are holding funds for Anton’s young son, Anton II. Anton II is only three years old. He is to inherit when he is 18 at the age of majority. Clapham and Omnibus are discussing how they should invest the very substantial sum they hold for young Anton II. “We can’t afford to lose any of this money” declared Clapham. “I think we should just stick it in the bank and leave it there.”

Omnibus stroked his chin until Clapham told him to keep his hands to himself.

“I don’t think we can do that,” said Omnibus.

“Interest rates are pathetically low and inflation will devalue the fund. I believe we could be sued for breach of trust if we do that.”

“Even if we don’t lose any money?” queried Clapham.

“Yes because in real terms we will have lost money.

If inflation averages say 5% over the next 15 years then the purchasing power of the money will have more than halved,” said Omnibus.

“That’s clever. How did you work that out?” asked Clapham.

“The rule of 72,” was the response.

“The what?” questioned Clapham.

“Oh never mind! I will explain it another time. We need to get some advice from someone qualified.”

Omnibus was quite correct as it is a requirement under the Trustee Act 2000.

The trustees duly called in The Man from Three Counties who explained how the investment proposition worked by interrogating the performance of many thousands of funds and selecting the most persistent top performers in each area where investment was required.

Performance was monitored and funds that “went off the boil” were replaced without a subjective doubt or remorse.

“I could have a word with my old mucker, Jonnie Rodent. He uses the stockbrokers, Touch Allot and Profit-Much, so he knows what he is on about,” offered Clapham. “Or what about Sir Jasper’s Palace?”

The portfolios’ performance were also compared with the relevant Society of Trustees and Estate Practitioners (STEP) recommended asset allocations and found to be performing better in every case.

“No. Old J.R. has made more bad investments than you have had hot dinners and judging by the shape of you that’s quite a few. Don’t you remember when he bought those Northern Rock shares saying they would bounce back and, going further back, that the Sinclair C5 was the future for personal transport?” He continued “And Sir Jasper’s Palace isn’t independent regardless of what they say. I have a much better idea. We need independent financial advice.” Omnibus stated this firmly.

The Man from Three Counties also confirmed that the portfolios were rebalanced annually so that the agreed risk profile would be maintained. Further, a consolidated tax return would be provided which would ease the trustees’ burden in reporting to HMRC.

“Who then?” asked Clapham whilst trying to breathe in and turning a little red with the effort.

“We should enrol the services of The Man from Three Counties*. Three Counties is an Independent Financial Adviser and has a state of the art investment proposition,” declared Omnibus.

“Well that was impressive,” said Clapham.

“Yes and it ticks all the boxes for the Trustee Act so we can show we have done the best job possible and it covers our backs,” stated Omnibus.

“Pleased I thought of them,” said Clapham as he swayed back and forth with his thumbs behind his braces.

Omnibus looked at him, raised an eyebrow and said laconically “Oh really?”

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 *The Woman from Three Counties is also available for consultation.

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

Brexit the mortgage market and you Firstly, a warm welcome to the first in a series of articles outlining key areas in the mortgage market. Whilst I cannot promise to make these exciting (my beloved Leicester City has taken this year’s quota of miracles!), I hope to make the mortgage world less painful!

Innovate Mortgage and Loans is a new name in the finance world, we have been trading since 2002 and our team has over 80 years’ experience in the world of mortgages. We have helped 1,000’s of customers and plan to use this experience and knowledge to consider ways to make your mortgage work for you.

The last few weeks have been a busy time answering clients’ questions regarding Brexit.

So what might it bring for all of us who have mortgages? Well, we think it’s time to use it to our client’s advantage – re-mortgaging, remember that?!

Since the outcome was announced, swap rates (which influence the prices of fixed rate mortgages) have fallen sharply to historic lows. As a consequence, fixed rates in particular look extremely competitive right now.

Many clients are sitting on their existing lenders’ standard variable rate and have been doing so for some time. Over the last 5 years, 24% of mortgage holders have stayed where they are (source: YouGov) but now is a great time to re-consider that view. Many lenders’ standard variable rates range between 3.99% and 5.99%, and there are now potentially large savings to be made.

None of us can see into the future, but with remortgage enquiries gaining momentum once more - why not be one of those making Brexit proactively work in your favour?

Finding the best solution for you needs an experienced eye to ensure that you find the right balance between interest rate, fees, term and type of product and penalties. Local, face to face, independent mortgage advice can smooth the whole process.

Paul Hardingham is Director of Innovate Mortgages and Loans paul@innovateml.co.uk www.innovateml.co.uk 0191 2233514 Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loan secured on it.

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www.nationalrail.com

BUSINESS INSIGHT

The North East Entrepreneurial Awards The Entrepreneurs’ Forum has announced the shortlist of talented business leaders that are set to compete for its annual awards.

The North East is a creative and enterprising place which boasts some inspirational entrepreneurs, leading dynamic and innovative companies that provide fantastic employment opportunities. Running for more than a decade, the North East Entrepreneurial Awards recognise the talent, innovation and drive of business people across the region.

It’s always an incredibly tough task for the judges to narrow down entries into a shortlist and an even harder job to pick a winner in each category, and this year will be no exception.

The shortlists are made up of some very impressive entrepreneurs from a diverse range of sectors, which all deserve recognition for their achievements.

Last year the much coveted Entrepreneur of the Year award was presented to Geoff Thompson of Utilitywise, who founded his company in 2006.

Having previously held senior posts in consultancy and industry, Geoff has built a business that now employs more than 1,300 people and supports thousands of organisations across the UK and Ireland.

Shortlisted for 2016 Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Ward Hadaway) are Dean Benson of Visualsoft; David Penny of Penny Petroleum, and John Waterworth of Parkdean Resorts.

The shortlist in the Emerging Talent category, sponsored by United Carlton, is made up of Ryan Davies of Gospelware, Lisa Eaton of Unwritten

Creative, Mark James of Differentology, John Savage of Flame Heating Spares, and Raman Sehgal of Ramarketing.

Mentor of the Year (sponsored by the Malhotra Group) and the Lifetime Achievement award will be announced on the evening.

Last year the award was won by Alice Hall, who started Pink Boutique in 2012 with only £90.

Phenomenal growth has seen the company scaleup quickly and in three years the business now turns over more than £6 million and rising, shipping its products around the world.

Hosted by comedian Jason Cook, best known for co-creating and starring in the hit BBC series Hebburn, and with adventure fundraiser and Guinness World Record breaker Jamie Mc Donald as the ceremony’s after-dinner speaker, the blacktie evening promises to be a fabulous and fun celebration of entrepreneurship, with more than 350 of the region’s finest business minds and leading figures coming together to honour our high achievers, as well as to raise money for a number of local charities.

In 2015 the highly respected Mentor of the Year award went to serial entrepreneur Alastair Waite, perhaps best known for his involvement in building the recently sold Onyx Group. Alastair is a member of the inaugural Maserati 100, a list of Britain’s most successful philanthropists, investors, mentors and advisors to the next generation of business talent, as well as the founder of Altrelli Limited and Group CEO of Altec Engineering Limited.

The winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award will join a select list of the region’s most successful entrepreneurs, which includes last year’s winner Geoff Turnbull of GT Group, Sir John Hall and Sir Peter Vardy.

In partnership with the North East Local Enterprise Partnership for the third year running, the awards ceremony will take place at The Boiler Shop, Crowne Plaza Newcastle, in the city’s Stephenson Quarter on the evening of October 7th. The networking and drinks sponsor for the evening is SGP Technology Group.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum supports aspirational North East business owners from all sectors, providing inspiration and a helping hand through peer-to-peer mentoring and events that share experience, make new connections and create opportunity.

For more information, visit www.entrepreneursforum.net or call 0191 500 7780.

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B U S I N E S S

are you Exclusive? you should be!

Exclusive - September business events Are you ready to go to war?

BREXIT & the Big Irish Gateway Business War Games at Muckle LLP, Time Central, Newcastle - Tuesday 20th September 12 noon Thought Leadership - Are you willing to delve deep?

Join us at Bang & Olufsen Yarm with LEADR TV on Thursday 28th September from 6pm

find out more and register at exclusive.co.com

INTERVIEW

David Penny Penny Petroleum From an inconspicuous start at a service station in rural Northumberland, Penny Petroleum is a fuel and retail empire that now spans the north of England and Scotland. We spoke to Managing Director David Penny about the company’s journey, his experiences, and plans for the future.

How did it all start?

At university, I did a Business degree at the University of Liverpool; it was a course with a sandwich year, during which I worked for BP. In that time I spent six months in head office and six months on the road, managing a BP petrol subsidiary called Sealand Petroleum. This often meant running sites with no staff, and it was during this time I caught the retail bug.

I finished university and returned to BP, working as an area manager. In 1985 I was sent to the North East, I’d never even visited the area before, but I soon fell in love with it. I was promoted to UK Car Wash Manager, and recalled to head office in London, to write a business plan for the whole of their car wash operation in the UK. I much preferred to be out on the road; corporate office life didn’t rest easy with me. Because of this I left BP and moved back to the North East to work for an old customer, Philip Richardson, who was President of the Petrol Retailers Association. It was a bit of a jump between leaving a multi-national firm for an independent retailer in the North East, but I learned a lot.

After two years in that job I left, to spend three of the next four years backpacking around the world. I travelled through South America, Indonesia, Australasia, and most of South East Asia. I did two outdoor leadership courses in Canada, learning how to be a mountain guide. This gave me a lot of knowledge of the world, and I learned to be very independent. After four years I returned to the North East, moved back into my house in Jesmond, which I’d been renting out, and got married. At this point I didn’t have a job, we had a baby on the way and I was volunteering at the Haymarket Oxfam. I’d been looking for a business to buy, and in summer 1994 I mortgaged my house to buy Hedgeley Services, near Powburn in Northumberland.

Can you tell us about your first site?

There was a house with this site, so the family moved up. Spending six months on the same service station site in rural Northumberland took a lot of adjustment, having travelled the world not so long before. This site took a lot to get it going, trade was very seasonal and it needed a lot of development money, which I didn’t have, so I kept my head down. After a couple of years I managed to raise enough money to turn the old car showroom there into a café, bar and function-room. We got an off-license for the shop, which was probably the first granted to a petrol station, it was certainly the

first in Northumberland, and we got an on-license for the old car showroom.

How did the business grow from there?

I didn’t want to run that site full time, so I rented it out and was able to buy two more in the North East. It turned out they were too small and didn’t really get going. In 1999 I ended up buying the site on the Holy Island turn off on the A1, which I still have. At this point I realised that I needed some more urban sites, with an income in the winter, as my rural ones were far too seasonal. By 2003 I had two sites in Yorkshire, near York and Selby, bringing the total to four. The banks made this difficult, but eventually I was able to raise the necessary funds.

From here the business started to mushroom, and I acquired two more sites in Newcastle and Gateshead.

How has the market changed since you started?

When I first started the business there were 21,000 petrol stations in the UK, there are now between 8,000 and 9,000. A lot of this is down to Esso Pricewatch, which people may remember, and increased competition from supermarkets selling fuel at low prices.

What would you say your Unique Selling Point is?

From a strategic point of view I’d say it’s our business model, on the forecourt it’s our branding and making visits to our sites a unique experience, we like to be quirky rather than corporate. The off licenses in our petrol stations are branded as Penny Blacks, with black fridges and stamps on the floors of the stations leading customers to them. We also try to use every inch of space, which makes some of our sites unique. We have 15 tenants renting space we wouldn’t be using. These include an artist in Scarborough, a sound recording studio in Marske, antiques showrooms and tea rooms.

How do you keep your staff motivated?

We aim for our staff to proactively up-sell an extra 10p worth of items from the point of sale display to each customer, as this can yield a significant boost in profits; we processed over five million individual transactions last year. We have competitions and league tables to encourage this; the site that does the best in terms of sales each 28

month earns rewards for its social fund. Some have put this towards their Christmas party, one bought a radio and PRS license to provide music for the staff and customers.

What about you, how do you keep yourself motivated?

I call it the 5Ps. It’s not just about my own motivation, it for the business as a whole, I’ve got the senior management team involved already and we’ll be rolling it our company wide soon. The five Ps are perseverance, positivism, partnership, passion and pride. Perseverance goes right back to the start of the business, working through the tough winters at Hedgeley Services, and not letting the banks get me down when we needed funding to expand.

Positivism works in two ways, you have to surround yourself with positive people, as I’ve done with my management team, and being positive for them.

Partnerships is about building good relationships, internally and externally; with your staff, suppliers and even the banks.

Passion, you’ve got to be passionate about what you do, so it helps if you do something you’re passionate about. Pride, you have to be proud of your staff, and what you have achieved with them.

Pride in a job well done, however small it may be, is a strong motivator for continued success.

So what does your business structure look like today?

We now have 33 sites across the North of England and Scotland, and we have the freehold on more than half of them. Our turnover is over £100m a year, compared to less than £1m in our first year of trading, and we now employ over 300 people.

We’re the seventh largest independent operator in the country, and this size gives us a strong bargaining position when dealing with suppliers; I’m never afraid to switch to get a better deal.

Any plans for expansion?

The short answer is yes, you’re never the finished article, there’s always more that can be done. By the end of 2016 I’d like to have 40 sites, 50 the year after that, and over 100 in the not too distant future. We’ve also got plans to develop our existing sites, I can’t go into too much detail, but we’ve been part of some marketing workshops with Saatchi and Saatchi, and we’ve got some big ideas to improve customer experience.

INTERVIEW

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

For more information, visit www.entrepreneursforum.net 29

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

Bryony Gibson

How to Reduce Staff Turnover Bryony Gibson, Managing Director of Bryony Gibson Consulting, discusses the importance of engaging employees from day one.

According to research from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM), 30% of successful job seekers plan to move on within their first 12 months, with 58% expecting to work elsewhere inside three years.

Over 500 new employees and 1,000 managers were questioned during the study, which concluded that even though three quarters of new starters felt “delighted” with their switch, a new job did not guarantee loyalty or bring with it a long-term commitment.

So the days of having a ‘job for life’ are over, which is nothing new, but what I found really interesting was the generational shift in employee attitude seems to have been met with an overwhelming acceptance from staff managers.

The report went on to say that while the bulk of potential recruits are proactively planning to progress their career, salary, experience and prospects by job-hopping between organisations and industries, more than half of the managers quizzed predicted the majority of their new workers would leave within three years.

Now I’m not sure about you, but I’d much rather be part of a business where the management believe they have what it takes to keep me engaged and motivated, rather than one that’s resigned to losing people in a relatively short period of time.

Of course employee engagement needs to be

earned, but the ILM study dug deeper into this, indicating that in order to make a positive and lasting impression on today’s workforce, the first 30 days are the most critical.

To keep new employees motivated and retain them over the long-term, you need to engage both their head and heart: lear communication is crucial when defining C any role, setting objectives and describing what is required from new staff. roviding simple resources that explain the P company brand and mission helps your recruits to understand what you’re trying to achieve and how they fit into that vision. egular and flexible access to managers, but R not just in the early days, encourages people to feel valued, supported and listened to. eing honest about career progression from B the start will keep ambition aligned with opportunity. ake staff feel welcome by preparing for M their arrival; including setting up IT systems in advance and offering training on everyday things like operating telephones and company procedures.

L et everyone know who is joining the business and what they will be doing. Consider a team lunch to encourage bonding and book oneto-one meetings so your team can engage

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

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

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immediately. If you don’t already have one, consider a buddy or mentoring programme to help new starters settle in quicker. hink carefully about key tasks that utilise T people’s skills and experience and can be worked on in the first few days, as this will help new starters feel worthwhile and part of the team.

If you’re planning to recruit and invest time in someone, you need to make sure that they will be willing to commit themselves to you in exchange for support, training and help to develop both personally and professionally.

In my experience, people who are recruiting often have a negative view of too many short-term jobs on a CV, leading them to question motivation, commitment or even the ability to get along with colleagues.

Organisations worry that they will become the next rung on someone’s career ladder, so rather than take a risk and spend time and resource on training only to lose the employee before that investment pays off, they will opt for a safer option that they have confidence will deliver long-term business benefit.

By getting the induction period correct and setting off on the right foot, you should begin to develop a bond that will help you to retain good staff even if things go wrong in the future. Get it wrong and it can be hard to ever recover from.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Athena Risk Imagine the scenario. You’ve just won a new contract for your products or services overseas. It’s the first export contract you’ve acquired and now you have to send personnel and merchandise abroad for the first time. In this insecure world, you want to protect your employees and commodities but don’t know how to go about it.

Athena Risk is a brand new company based in Newcastle upon Tyne, founded by ex-military personnel, David Tait and Jason Hicks. With long and distinguished and decorated careers in the armed forces, they decided on leaving the military 10 years ago to move into the commercial risk management sector. It was during this time that they identified shortfalls within the market to form a company doing what they knew best, security risk management.

Athena was incorporated on 28th February this year and has rapidly expanded since its inception, more so with the partnership with one of the largest global airlines, which have a huge impact within the North East. Emirates airlines sponsor Athena Risk in conducting Travel Risk Awareness workshops throughout the UK. With many personnel at their disposal globally, the company can perform a variety of functions, such as vetting of individuals and companies, organisational risk analysis and provision of intelligence surrounding the areas in which company representatives are operating, which includes security risk management for all aspects of business travel.

“At this moment in time we deal with a wide range of organisations no matter their size or operational footprint, some perhaps have no ability or funding to employ a full time security director or manager

but still require expertise across a number of areas to protect their business and their personnel,” David says.

Eventually with a greater past performance, Athena will be able to provide their services to Government agencies and large commercial corporations and companies but that’s an ambition for the future.

“A lot of the companies we deal with know their products and services but don’t understand the environments overseas they are trying to deliver them in. Our job is to mesh the two things together to provide the ability to achieve their goals in safe and secure ways,” adds Jason.

It’s clear some larger organisations have the recognised hot spots like Iraq wrapped up. Athena will help when the country isn’t perhaps a natural area of concern and need for them as well as the SME sector. www.athenarisk.com 33

They run regular seminars with specialist guest speakers who advise on visa application, cash availability and every other ancillary requirement business travellers might need. This adds to the range of products and services the company offers, providing a full and comprehensive solution to risk problems abroad.

David is from the North East and Jason is married to a Geordie, therefore the decision to base themselves in the area seemed logical. Every area has requirement for the services they offer and they decided here was as good as any to set up the company.

As a company providing global services, both agreed the North East has excellent communication services having a premium airport and maritime port links, providing fast deployment to their areas of operation.

The company has already begun to spread its wings, looking for new clients around the world. In the United States they have recently incorporated “Athena Risk USA” and appointed a new Business Development Manager, responsible for acquisition of business throughout the United States.

Our region can now boast a professional risk management company whose professionalism can’t be questioned.

PlanBEE launches innovative construction skills project School leavers and their parents joined representatives from North East construction firms and Gateshead College for the launch of a ground-breaking project aimed at building skills in the sector.

The event, hosted by Ryder Architecture at its Cooper Studios home in Newcastle, took place on July 25 and provided budding young architects with the chance to hear all about the innovative new higher level apprenticeship programme, which will start this month.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Outstanding people performance reaps rewards for Gateshead College

With two consecutive IIP Gold awards and an Ofsted Outstanding rating under its belt, Gateshead College’s ethos of being a people-led business is proving true the old adage that people are your most important asset.

Over the last three years, a fresh approach to people development and significant investment in its 500-strong workforce has led Gateshead College to be awarded Ofsted outstanding, and be ranked number one in the North East and sixth in the UK based on the success of its students.

To add to this, the college has been nationally recognised for its people-led culture, consecutively picking up two Investors in People Gold awards and maintaining an accreditation that just 13% of Investors in People businesses have achieved so far.

Working in partnership with industry experts, Gateshead College places as much importance on providing training and career development opportunities for its own staff as it does for the thousands of students and apprentices who attend each year.

This industry-focused approach to skills development is in place across all curriculum areas and recently included hairdressing tutors spending time at a local hair and beauty salon to pick up new styling techniques and learn about new products.

For example, part of the delivery of a bespoke warehouse apprenticeship programme for Vantec, all course tutors take part in work placements at the Washington-based logistics specialist.

Designed to provide knowledge of specific working

practices within the business, it helps tutors to give apprentices a more accurate insight into the processes and challenges that are part of daily operations at Vantec.

Mark Thompson, Director of people and organisational development at Gateshead College says: “We recognise that to make sure students leave us well prepared to join the jobs market, the people teaching them need to know exactly what employers are looking for.

“Providing work-based training allows our staff to continuously develop their awareness of industry needs while also keeping them ahead of the game in terms of recognising industry trends. It means our students and apprentices are equipped with the latest skills and experience so they can hit the ground running from their first day at work.”

A cultural shift towards realising potential across the organisation is a result of having a people first approach and a dedicated people committee at board level that oversees all staff development activity. Combined with a significant increase on investment in learning and development activities for staff, this has achieved a rise in internal promotions from 37% in 2014-15 to 45% in 201516.

To encourage staff to be the best that they can, a coaching and management programme helps www.gateshead.ac.uk 35

aspiring managers to realise their career ambitions, while enhancing the skills of those already in senior management posts. Those in top tier positions complete a level 5 qualification in coaching and then take part in a mentoring scheme to support budding managers. This inclusive approach promotes peer to peer learning and ensures that staff across the business are involved with training and people development.

Equally as important as developing teaching and role-specific expertise, Gateshead College pushes the health and wellbeing agenda through a Fit for Life initiative. All staff have access to health screenings, smoking cessation plans and mindfulness classes while being encouraged to take part in events for campaigns such as Mental Health Awareness Week. These initiatives have played a key role in reducing staff absences from 2.9% in 2014-15 to 1.5% in 2015-16.

Mark adds: “We’ve worked very hard over the last three years to bring about positive changes to create a working environment with plenty of opportunities for personal development and professional growth. And while the results speak for themselves in terms of recognition as both a top employer and one of the UK’s leading FE providers, the challenge now is to improve on what we’ve achieved so far and retain our positon at the forefront of people development practice.”

BUSINESS LUNCH

The Bank deserves high interest

by Jack Grahamslaw

Having been reopened to widespread acclaim in November 2015, I was still yet to visit The Bank Bar & Bistro. Driving past it many times though, I had often stopped to admire the imposing, Grade II Listed Lloyds Bank building set amidst the daily hustle & bustle of Low Fell High Street - it certainly appeared to be an intriguing potential venue for a business tete-a-tete. Banking on a good time then, I pitched up recently with a work colleague to discover what lies inside the stone-walled exterior.

spiked with a ginger & coriander salsa dip, the crab cakes garnered my colleagues’ seal of approval.

Our first impressions were good as we both noted the interior had been exquisitely refurbished. Shades of chocolate and sage combine to provide a warm allure whilst trendy mock red-brick wallpaper, exposed filament bulbs and leather bound chairs further contribute to the classy yet cosy décor. Far removed from your typical Lloyds TSB then? On arrival, we were greeted cheerfully by our waiter for the afternoon Dale, who smartly attired in Bow-tie and waistcoat, would later quip in good humour about feeling like a “croupier.” It’s little touches like this that bring a crisp sense of sophistication to The Bank.

A comparable sense of quality was apparent in our main courses too. On the cards for my business friend was The Five Bean Chilli, which consisted of refried mature spicy beans and arrived served with rice. I meanwhile “just had to” assess The Bank’s steak-frying credentials. Fillet steak served in a peppercorn sauce is a firm favourite of mine and this “6oz Petit Fillet” variety was just the right size for a lunchtime and did not disappoint. Pan-griddled, yet also vivid pink and juicy, the steak was cooked precisely to my liking and was complemented excellently by a silky and seductive pinot noir. Both mains came in at a very reasonable £21.95 so there’s no need to bring your cheque book either!

Already hugely impressed, we settled into a quiet corner table and got legged into a bottle of rouge whilst exploring The Bank’s lunchtime bistro menu. Boasting a stylish offering of burgers, salads, steaks, sandwiches and the ever-popular sharing platters, there’s certainly something to be found for everyone. There’s a neat economy to the menu and its definitely refreshing not to have to trawl through reams upon reams of dishes to find something you fancy. Tailor-made for business lunching then?

Desserts looked equally inviting with a wide array of favourites available to satisfy any sweet tooth. Crème Brulee, Apple Pie and Chocolate Brownie were all on the menu, I however fell victim to the divine, Strawberry & White Chocolate cheesecake which provided a memorable, table-tapping finale.

In the end, we both decided to kick off proceedings with a couple of stunning seafood-based starters, I opting for smoked salmon accompanied by crème fraiche and a dill & lemon dressing (£4.95) whilst my lunch partner tucked into the crab cakes (£4.50) with real gusto. My salmon was cured, wafer thin and possessed a real freshness which was enhanced further by the lemon shavings sprinkled artistically across the plate. Nicely browned and

After a close inspection then, The Bank certainly appears to warrant the hype and brings a semblance of style to a lively high street. With ample parking spaces available at the rear of the building it’s the ideal venue for a lunchtime/ evening repast. Being open Tuesday- Sunday from 11am, it also lends itself nicely to a business rendezvous. You can bank on that.

www.thebanklowfell.co.uk 36

BUSINESS INSIGHT

l-r: Adrian Dye, Sintons; Chris McCourt, Tait Walker; David Langley, North East England Chamber of Commerce

Dealmakers oversee acquisition of NECC Training North East dealmakers have enabled the creation of one of the region’s largest apprenticeship providers through the acquisition of the training arm of the North East England Chamber of Commerce.

NECC Training has been taken over by Middlesbrough College, which brings together two leading regional providers in the development of skills and training.

training provider that shares our commitment to the North East business community and who will provide the infrastructure and support needed to ensure this business is fit for purpose in the years ahead.”

Collectively, NECC Training and Middlesbrough College already deliver around 2,000 apprenticeships each year, providing courses in areas such as engineering, professional services, dental nursing and the technical industries.

Adrian Dye, Partner in the Company and Commercial team at Sintons, handled the legal aspects of the transaction.

But through the creation of a combined training provider, new services including higher apprenticeships, traineeships, bespoke workforce solutions and grant support for businesses will be introduced.

“Both the Chamber and Middlesbrough College are highly respected training providers in their own right, so the combination of their resources through this acquisition is a very positive move for the future of apprenticeship provision in the North East,” he said.

The deal, for an undisclosed sum, was overseen by Newcastle law firm Sintons and chartered accountant and business advisor Tait Walker.

“We are very pleased to have acted for the North East England Chamber of Commerce, our long-standing client, in this transaction.”

James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East England Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Chamber campaigns strongly for improvements in the delivery of skills for North East businesses, which is a key focus of our members.

Chris McCourt, Corporate Finance Associate Partner at Tait Walker, said: “It was a pleasure to be able to help the Chamber deliver their strategic objective to exit their Training business.

“The decision to sell NECC Training was not taken lightly, but our board agrees this move offers the best possible future for both our core membership business and NECC Training.

“This deal represents a great opportunity for staff and learners to access more opportunities as part of a bigger organisation. The Government has ambitious targets around growth of apprenticeships and I expect further consolidation in the sector with deals like this.”

“In Middlesbrough College, The Chamber is confident that we have found a

www.sintons.co.uk 38

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Lloyds Banking - Supporting Education Lloyds Bank is already the bank of choice for many state schools in the region and is now looking to take its educational expertise into the private sector.

Joanne Clough is the Area Director for healthcare and education supporting clients in the North East and Yorkshire and began her career from the Lloyds Bank Business Banking Graduate Training Scheme in 2002.

As a mother of two small children, Joanne is particularly passionate about healthcare and education. She has a clear strategy for how she and the team plan to support clients in these key sectors. In Education, she is determined to build upon the team’s excellent reputation with state schools and to deepen its relationship with local independent schools.

Joanne oversees a team of 7 Relationship Managers 2 of which are solely focussed on Education Clients and have internal accreditation and unrivalled expertise in the sector. The North East is very fortunate to have some outstanding independent schools within its borders and Lloyds Bank is able to provide strong advice and expertise to support the day to day running of these organisations.

Joanne explains, “It doesn’t matter what a school needs, be it funding for expansion, new sports facilities or IT suites, our ability to work alongside Bursars or head teachers, provides them with good quality financial advice and support to fulfil their requirements and ambitions. We are always on hand to discuss these needs and have local discretion to authorise borrowing of up to £500,000.”

Locally Lloyds Bank has a desire to increase its relationships with the independent education sector and provide financial support and know how, to ensure it continues to fulfil its obligations to pupils, parents and governors.

Financially speaking, educational processes can be difficult to grasp and the knowledge and local expertise at Lloyds Bank, will provide stability and support through challenging periods.

Leigh Taylor, regional director, SME Banking in the North East and Yorkshire comments, “We want to let people know how we are able to support www.lloydsbankcommercial.com 39

healthcare and education sectors in the region, and Joanne is particularly experienced at doing that. Her ability to make personal decisions on funding of up to half a million pounds, means she can put finance in place without the need to wait for further approvals; often that’s what Bursars or head teachers need which is something we are committed to. By giving our senior managers the authority to make quick decisions, it gives our clients that extra peace of mind knowing that the person standing before them is the one who ultimately will say yes or no.

“Joanne also looks after the healthcare sector in the region and has extremely close relationships with all health professionals from Doctors, Dentists and Care Homes to Pharmacies Opticians, Vets, and Children’s Day Nurseries. Her extensive experience means that she understands these businesses and the opportunities and challenges that they face.”

INTERVIEW

Michael Grahamslaw Meets...

James Blackwell CEO, Ronald James

What attracted you to a career in recruitment?

I initially enjoyed working in the car trade with BMW for over 4 years but realised I could make a better career in recruitment that was in a meritoric environment where progression was in my own destiny. I rapidly progressed in 5 years with Nigel Frank from Consultant to Team Leader to Manager of a team of 8 staff.

Can you briefly outline to readers what your current role entails?

We launched in October 2015 after I spotted a gap in the market for a boutique recruitment service specialising in the North East digital and technology industry. We think strategically, understanding the needs and the cultures of the companies we work with I am very much building for the long term and in time I would like 6 or 7 businesses in different sectors whilst giving free advice and guidance to young entrepreneurs along the way.

Is there a typical day in the life?

Not really and that is just the way I like it. I often like to start in the gym for a workout followed by a healthy breakfast and then take a look at my daily task list. That could involve meeting 3-4 clients or helping candidates find their dream role.

It's all about managing your time effectively.

settled in recruitment that I realised this is what I wanted to do. I now have a clear vision on what I want to achieve in business and in life.

What does the future hold?

What achievements stand out during your time at Ronald James Group?

We want to be the number one choice for digital and technological talent, giving back to the region by helping retain that talent here. My personal aim is to help young entrepreneurs achieve their dreams and live to their full potential.

Its just been a very interesting journey we have been building strong long term partnerships with some of the leading Tech companies across the region. We are set to achieve our goals for this year already.

Yoga, meditation, golf, football and time with my girlfriend and family.

What challenges have you encountered along the way?

I suppose developing a clear vision of where I wanted to go. I ran my own coffee shop prior to working in the motor trade but it was only when I

How do you like to relax?

How would you like to be remembered?

As an award winning successful entrepreneur who lives to his full potential and who helped others fulfil their own dreams and aspirations and as someone who gave back to the North East region.

For further information contact: james@ronaldjamesgroup.com www.ronaldjamesgroup.com 40

BUSINESS INSIGHT

North East firm joins UK’s elite One Awards, a leading North East quality assurance and accreditation organisation, has become one of the first businesses in the region to achieve Investors in People Silver with a new version of the Standard.

Based in Peterlee, County Durham, One Awards is one of only 350 organisations across the country so far to be accredited against the IIP Sixth Generation Framework which was launched in 2015. They are now part of an elite 11 percent of UK businesses overall to be awarded silver accreditation.

One Awards has been offering Access to Higher Education Diplomas, accreditation services and training to learning providers across the UK for more than 20 years. Licensed by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), the organisation also delivers services on behalf of NOCN, one of the UK’s leading awarding and assessment organisations.

Linden Cook, Deputy Chief Executive at One Awards said: “We are delighted to achieve silver accreditation with the new and more challenging Investors in People Standard, having achieved bronze in 2013. We are incredibly proud to be part of just 11 percent of UK businesses with silver accreditation and look forward to developing our organisation further and working towards gold in the future.”

Investors in People is the international standard for people management, defining what it takes to lead, support and manage people effectively to achieve sustainable results. Underpinning the Standard is the Investors in People framework, reflecting the latest workplace trends, essential skills and

effective structures required to outperform in any industry. Investors in People enables organisations to benchmark against the best in the business on an international scale.

Steve Burrows, Managing Director of Investors in People North of England said: “This is a fantastic achievement for One Awards. We believe that people make the difference and by investing in them you are looking to create sustainable success.

IIP is designed to help organisations and their people to realise potential, providing a simple road map for excellence. With their silver accreditation success, One Awards is certainly working to realise their people potential.”

To find out more about One Awards visit: www.oneawards.org.uk 42

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

The Middleton Factor As it stands, Jeremy Middleton is the only person to declare his candidacy for the new post of North East Mayor, to be voted on in May 2017, although the nearer we get to that date, undoubtedly others will throw their hats into the ring.

To elicit as much knowledge from the populace as possible, he will be conducting a number of road trips around the region, fact finding from both business and the individual. The information gleaned from those informal meetings will dictate a manifesto that Jeremy will use in his attempt to secure the post.

It’s that sort of attention to the wishes of the real people of the region that has persuaded him to run as an independent candidate. On Wednesday 10th August 2016, he and his team of volunteers conducted their first road trip, beginning in Morpeth and focussing on job creation for the region. Something particularly dear to his heart.

“We’ve had a long standing strategy in place for job creation here in the North East, to create a 100,000 jobs by 2024. The issue isn’t the strategy, the issue is making things happen. The two fundamental areas of common ground were firstly, the desire to help young people secure employment, at the same time improving skills. We have the highest

incidence of youth unemployment in the country and we have been told we must address this issue and quite rightly so,” Jeremy advises.

To facilitate that vitally important issue, he realises a bridge must be built between the world of employment and the world of education. The revolution as Jeremy sees it, is in the area of work experience underpinned by high quality careers advice.

Business in our region needs access to money. The area is a small to medium size business economy and presently 9 out of 10 businesses who apply for funding are turned away so Jeremy has pledged to institute a billion pound investment fund to provide loans and venture capital for business.

Jeremy continues, “We need more money funding job creation rather than more flagship buildings, the buildings are important but if the jobs are there, people will build the buildings anyway. To illustrate how this can all come about, there is a school, www.jeremy4mayor.com 44

Studio West based in West Denton, where the focus is to liaise with local employers for the skills they will require in future workers. The school then provides students with 12 weeks work experience rather than the traditional two weeks and in sixth form they receive two days paid work experience and that is promised by the Headteacher to every pupil.”

This is the kind of revolutionary strategy, Jeremy sees as vital for the economic well being of the North East in years to come. Businesses in general will have to give more but the advantages are obvious. He wants to spread this kind of tactic region wide.

Throughout the coming months, Jeremy and his team will be visiting various locations in the North East. Their aim, to advise everyone of his plans should he become Mayor of the North East as well as discovering the people’s expectations of this high profile and vital administrative position.

BUSINESS INSIGHT

HR - Managing the Manager’s Management?

Joanne Howe

Hi everyone, and welcome to this month’s column. Its September already - can you believe how fast the year is going? Anyway, as always I’m here to talk to you about the latest news in the world of HR. In a quiet evening after work one day, I was looking into the latest news when I spotted an online letter from Canada’s Globe and Mail newspaper which caught my eye.

The letter was from a manager at what they said was a “large profitable company” who felt they were being burned out due to an increase in workload. This landed our Canadian friend in a bit of a pickle.

In their own words – “If I refuse to work the extra time, he [their manager] says I am not a team player, if my regular work suffers, I am disciplined by my manager.”

This is where HR comes in.

A big part of what we do here at Howe Consultancy concerns being a go between for both sides – be it employee or company. In terms of our friend from the frozen north – we would act as a neutral party in their predicament. By taking on board their concerns and raising them with their management, while feeding back the management’s thoughts.

HR, as one answer to the problem in the letter correctly states, should care about your concerns. Interestingly, 25% of people surveyed in 2015 by the institute of leadership and management cited feeling “underappreciated” as a reason for wanting to move jobs, with 30% stating better management is what they hoped for.

Keeping staff happy and feeling fulfilled clearly goes hand in hand with management and can be a difficult balancing act whilst maintaining a good business.

If you need a hand, consider getting in touch with us at Howe Consultancy.

We will act as a business friend, managing your HR headaches while allowing you to get on with other matters.

Get in touch with us over the phone on 07921 256981 or through email at info@howeconsultancy.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIGHT

Summertime blues - it doesn’t have to be that way!

Jonathan Flower, Partner and Head of Family law Ward Hadaway, looks at why the long summer holiday can cause issues in family life.

Jonathan Flower

The common legend about matrimonial law is that Christmas excess creates a spike in new cases for Family lawyers in the New Year.

There is some truth in this, although it is probably as much about "easy media copy" as it is about statistical analysis.

In many ways, the long school summer holidays can create more of a high tide of family decisions.

For some, the family holiday may unfortunately be the final straw as people who are finding it difficult to get on with each other are forced to confront their problems during an extended time away together.

Add in the stress and organisation which family holidays inevitably bring and you can have a recipe for an unfortunately unhappy time that can be the catalyst for a break-up.

Even worse, we sadly hear of cases where family break-up has already happened but with the holiday long since booked, everyone struggles through a tortuous fortnight together.

However, whilst it is the case that family holidays can accelerate a break-up, they can also act as a prompt for more positive plans and action fortunately, matrimonial law is about much more than horror stories of family turmoil.

Primarily, our business as family lawyers is about resolving difficult issues for families. Part of that process is providing sensible and sensitive advice in the event of family breakdown. However, more and more, it is about putting in place happier plans for the family's future.

As well as a chance to relax, unwind and recharge the batteries, holidays are often a good time in which to take stock, assess and plan.

This is particularly the case for families who often find that the fast pace and demands of modern life leave precious little time in the normal course of events to take a long-term look at their situation.

For families with grown-up children, this could mean considering pre- and post-nuptial agreements, particularly in families with their own businesses or for those which have relatively substantial assets.

Future plans could mean considering financial issues or major purchases with a new partner or, in the case of family businesses, introducing other family members to the business and how that could affect financial relationships within the family.

If there is a need for Family Law advice within your family, make sure that you seek structured, constructive advice that meets your family's needs for the future.

For more information on the issues raised by this article please contact jonathan.flower@wardhadaway.com or call 0191 204 4376 46

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Emily Cannell

DIY Divorce Hidden Pitfalls There is no legal requirement to instruct a solicitor to deal with a divorce and an increasing number of couples elect to go ahead with a DIY Divorce without using lawyers.

With the vast number of advertisements for a ‘quickie divorce’ for £99 it is not difficult to understand the attraction.

Some people might think that it is self-serving for a lawyer to say that a DIY divorce can be dangerous, however, having helped a number of clients who have encountered difficulties in attempting to opt for the DIY route and then finding themselves at our offices later, it has led us to conclude that legal assistance in a divorce from the very outset is essential, albeit at a slightly greater price than the internet can offer.

Whilst a divorce itself can be relatively simple, particularly where both parties have concluded that the marriage is at an end, there are a number of potential problems that can arise if not dealt with properly. Although some matters are very basic for any prudent solicitor, they can be vitally important to an individual and may have fatal consequences if dealt with incorrectly.

By way of example, some common problems that we have seen in DIY divorces include the petition being incorrectly completed and the courts refusing to deal with the divorce which leads to further paperwork and delay. We have also

witnessed difficulties whereby respondents and corespondents will refuse to admit to adultery or a respondent is not prepared to give their consent to a divorce based two years separation. Where that is the case and the petition has already been issued it can lead to significant difficulties which could be easily avoided at the very outset of the matter and at minimal cost if dealt with properly.

Even if the divorce itself proceeds smoothly, it continues to concern us how many people wrongly believe that once they have their final decree of divorce which is known as the decree absolute and brings the marriage to an end, they assume that their ex-partner is automatically prevented from making any claim against them in the future in relation to finances.

That is on the whole entirely incorrect and can be fatal. Despite a decree absolute former spouses do still continue to have a right to bring a claim in relation to most financial matters unless and until there is a final court order in place that deals with the same.

Although it may be the case that both parties are clear that at the time of the DIY divorce they do not wish to make a claim against the other at

that stage and their relationship is fairly amicable, sadly that may not always remain to be the case and as circumstances change it may lead to an unexpected claim in the future which could have been readily and easily resolved at a time when the parties were able to communicate effectively and in a pragmatic sensible manner.

A further major pitfall may arise when parties do not receive appropriate professional advice is in the case where one spouse remarries before all financial matters have been resolved with their former spouse. It is important that all rights are preserved adequately in the divorce petition to ensure that you do not fall into what is known as the “re-marriage trap”.

A common preconception that people often have is that lawyers cost a fortune and will make matters worse, particularly where the parties feel that they are able to discuss and agree things between themselves in a very amicable manner. However, a good lawyer will listen to what it is that you hope to achieve and will protect and preserve your position whilst seeking to reach the end point in the most pragmatic and cost effective manner.

For further advice please call Emily Cannell, Associate Solicitor at Mincoffs on 0191 281 6151 or email ecannell@mincoffs.co.uk 48

There for the journey...

When life takes an unexpected turn, our family law experts can help.

Our specialist Family team offer advice in all areas of family law, ranging from pre or post-nuptial agreements through to relationship breakdown.

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

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Cross city switch for Morgan Douglas Putting the landlord first may appear to be the norm in a rental agreement, but thanks to one Durham student letting company’s move, it seems like the city’s tenants are being pushed to the forefront.

Morgan Douglas has recently moved into Elvet Bridge, Durham City from the neighbouring Belmont Industrial Estate, bringing with it the change of attitude that has made it such a success - and all in less than a year.

From their new location, which has been shown to give them the highest student footfall in the whole of the city, Morgan Douglas will use their years of experience in the industry to ensure that the often neglected tenant is taken care of.

Co-founder Douglas McCarroll says the mantra is born from his 27 years in the military: “A strong ethos of doing the right thing is something bred into you while serving. It’s only right that the tenant is treated with the same standards of service as the landlord. After all it’s the tenant who is living in the home.

“We really go out of our way to vet both tenants and landlords to ensure that both sides are responsible. We still offer an uncompromising service to landlords, but we like to think that by keeping tenants happy through excellent service they will respect the landlord’s property that much more.”

Morgan Douglas is Durham’s only dedicated student agent, offering properties in and around the city. Currently employing just Dougie and his business partner Gemma Bern, they are also set

to boost the region’s job shortage with part-time accountant and full-time student letting agent positions on the horizon.

Dougie says it’s great to give back to the region.

“It might only be a couple of jobs, but to be able to offer any employment to the city and the north east really feels rewarding. Growing the company is one thing, but helping the area get back to where we both know it can be, no matter how small the contribution, is another thing altogether.”

To find out more about Morgan Douglas student lettings and their range of properties, visit www.morgandouglas.co.uk or call them on 0191 389 8630.

Muckle LLP’s corporate team lead the way in North East dealmaker’s league Expert legal advisers at Muckle LLP have led the way in helping the number of corporate deals in the region reach an eight-year high, according to a new report published by Experian.

Overall, 112 deals valued above £500,000 were concluded in the North East between January and June – a 36% increase from the same period last year. The deals were worth a total of £1.7bn.

The report highlights positive trends for the region which has seen the number of deals and overall value reach the highest half-year periods for eight years and five years respectively.

Muckle advised on more mergers and acquisitions in the first six months of this year than any other law firm in the North East. The Newcastle-based law firm completed 13 transactions worth a total of £151m. This was almost double the number of deals by the second ranked firm, which completed seven, and the third with five.

Andrew Davison, Partner and Head of Muckle’s Corporate Team, said: “We are delighted that the North East has generated so much activity in the first half of the year and that we have retained the top spot in the latest rankings provided by Experian.

The corporate team has worked closely with clients and business partners to achieve a fantastic year

L-R Hugh Welch, Muckle; David Brind, Kitwave FD; Paul Young, Kitwave CEO; Louise Duffy, Muckle; Rod Wilkinson, KPMG

so far, concluding some significant transactions, including the recent Kitwave Wholesale, Fairstone Group and Avid Technology Group deals.

“However, this league table, which records deals over £500,000, only shows one part of the work we undertake on behalf of businesses. We have also advised on many more deals below the £500,000 threshold for our growing client base during the

same period.

"We have worked with many businesses, each with its own set of challenges, whether this involved helping a company acquire another business, enabling growth through new investment, succession planning to move the business on to the next generation or the ultimate realisation of value through sale.”

To find out how Muckle LLP can help your business please call Andrew Davison on 0191 211 7950 or email andrew.davison@muckle-llp.com. @MuckleLLP www.muckle-llp.com 50

The leading law firm in the North East for business Our expertise in providing legal advice for business is matched only by our commitment to provide unprecedented service. n

Experian has ranked us the most active dealmaker in the region since 2014.

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Corporate Law Firm of the Year at 6 consecutive Insider Dealmakers awards.

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Legal 500: “excellent across the board” forming an “integral part of its clients’ business”.

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Regional Law Firm of the Year at the Solicitors’ Journal Awards 2016.

Muckle LLP. We think you’ll like the difference. @MuckleLLP

BUSINESS INSIGHT

(L to R): Mark Lazenby, Rob Cameron and Helen Warren

Wylam Brewery Ltd restores the Former Palace of Arts The £1.8 million restoration of the iconic Former Palace of Arts in Newcastle’s Exhibition Park, and subsequent relocation of Wylam Brewery Limited to the site has been one of the city’s most interesting recent developments.

The Former Palace of Arts is the last remaining building from the 1929 North East Coast Exhibition which was a project to celebrate and encourage craft, art and industry at the start of the Great Depression. Having remained almost derelict for nearly a decade the building is now a fully operational 30-tap brewery as well as a bar, kitchen and Grand Hall which plays host to live music, weddings and events.

us, it wasn’t a straightforward process. Far from it”

After reaching full capacity at its former home at Heddon-on-the-Wall, Wylam Brewery directors Rob Cameron, Dave Stone and Matt Boyle had been searching for the right opportunity to realise their ambitious growth plans for years. Rob said:

Behind the scenes of these popular venues has been a close working relationship spanning a decade between Rob and Dave and Mark Lazenby, corporate partner and head of finance at Square One Law. Mark first acted for Rob in relation to the acquisition of the Tokyo Group of companies.

Following the acquisition, he was retained to act on behalf of the group and has been supported

by Square One Law’s corporate and commercial, property, banking and employment teams over recent years. This has included advising on premises acquisitions and joint venture arrangements, which included the involvement of Rob and Dave in Wylam Brewery Limited.

“Although we had plans to expand we were keen to wait until the right opportunity presented itself.

When we heard the site was potentially available we knew we couldn’t let the opportunity to make it the new home of Wylam Brewery go past. We were literally going to bring brewing back to Newcastle city centre which was a very exciting prospect.

“By the very nature of the project and the public interest in the site’s end use it was always going to be a complex and demanding project for everyone involved; so although it was the right decision for

Having contributed significantly to Newcastle’s social scene over the past ten years, Rob and Dave were owners of Tokyo Group Limited, a nationwide group of bars and night clubs that was headquartered in Newcastle. More recently, in addition to operating Tokyo Newcastle, they have been responsible for bringing the city well known venues The Town Wall and The Bridge Tavern.

Mark commented: “It’s always a pleasure to work with Rob, Dave and their extended team as the 52

manner in which they are developing their business is entrepreneurial, professional and fun.

“We were instructed to manage the process of the brewery’s relocation and this latest venture has proved to be one of the most challenging of their projects to date, especially given the sensitivities of the site’s proposed change of use. Although the project had its challenges, working closely with our property team we ensured Wylam Brewery’s vision was met and its target opening date was achieved.”

Helen Warren, senior associate in Square One Law’s property team said: “The great thing about working with Rob is his cool head, sense of perspective and determination to deliver his project. I led the negotiation process for the leases and licences required for the site upon which the Former Palace of Arts is located, as well as an adjacent site where the brewery tanks and car park are now located.

By undertaking careful project management throughout, which included a negotiation process with three parties, our team was able to drive the legal documentation forwards in conjunction with the planning process to achieve Rob and Dave’s objectives.

Rob added: “I try to work with people who really understand our brand and business model and that is the case with Mark, Helen and the team at Square One Law. I have always brought Mark into the early discussions of our possible business ventures so that he understands the longer terms aims and ambitions of our company, as well as our immediate goals. This has resulted in the way we work together being seamless, relaxed and really enjoyable.”

a c c e Reb Her 90’s Figaro is often found tootling on country roads whilst looking for the perfect picnic spot with the family.

Rebecca is one of our Partners and is Head of Wills, Probate and Trusts. She is a Trust and Estate Practitioner and one of the region’s few Solicitors for the Elderly.

Speak to Rebecca to see how she can help you, call 0191 389 5108 or email rebecca.harbrongray@gblf.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIGHT

Employers take note: don’t just relegate unhappy employees Following the European championships and the start of the Premier League season (and the championship for Newcastle supporters), it’s difficult to escape football in the media.

Unfortunately some clubs have been on the receiving end of negative media in relation to employment issues, including our very own Magpies.

However, it is Leeds United that has been dealt the most “red cards”, recently facing a constructive unfair dismissal claim brought by their Assistant Manager. We look at Leeds’ actions, how they led to an eye-watering compensation award and how to avoid the same issues.

What happened?

Mr McDermott and Mr Gibbs joined the Club as Manager and Assistant Manager in April 2013.

Following Mr McDermott’s departure in June 2014, Mr Biggs expected to be sacked and so discussed with Leeds the possibility of negotiating an early departure if a new Manager brought in his own Assistant.

Whilst Leeds wrote saying they wanted him to stay, their actions towards him told a different story.

Mr Biggs was omitted from pre-season training and was not assigned tasks under his contract or befitting of his role. This led to further exit discussions. Although he was being distanced from his role, the severance package offered wasn’t right so Mr Biggs decided to stay. However, the final straw was an instruction from management that

he cease all contact with the First Team and work with the Academy instead. Mr Biggs resigned and brought a claim for constructive dismissal.

The Law on Constructive Dismissal For an employee to successfully bring a case of constructive dismissal they must show: 1. The employer was in breach of its contract with the employee; and 2. That breach was “repudiatory” i.e. a fundamental breach; and 3. That they resigned in response to that breach.

The High Court concluded that the request that Mr Biggs work with the youth teams as opposed to the First Team (as he was originally contracted to) did not meet the terms of the contract. That was the first hurdle overcome. Secondly, the conduct of Leeds in making the request showed they no longer intended to be bound by the contract which was repudiatory. Finally, Mr Biggs resigned promptly in response to his employer’s actions meaning he was entitled to succeed in his claim.

Learning Points This case makes clear that it is not a breach of contract for an employee to express dissatisfaction or even a desire to leave employment provided they continue to hold up their end of the contract.

Whilst this may not be behaviour employers want to see, side-lining or demoting disgruntled employees is not the answer.

Employers should continue to deal with employees fairly and should have supportive discussions to identify the root cause and a resolution rather than giving the employee a further reason to resign, which could give rise to a claim.

Caution should also be exercised when negotiating exit packages with employees and placing too much reliance on the fact the employee initiated talks. Until they sign a valid settlement agreement they are free to bring potentially costly claims.

In this case the lack of early termination provisions in Mr Biggs’ fixed term contract entitled him to his full earnings under the balance of the contract. £331,426 was a steep price to pay for someone who wanted to stay if he got to do his job.

If you’re not sure to handle a difficult employee our team of experts are available by phone or email to give you some practical advice.

Please feel free to contact me on 0191 282 2883 or at charlotte.hornsey@collingwoodlegal.com 54

Family Matters “We deliver a highly professional yet personal legal service, employing the depth of expertise and experience that being a part of a top 100 full service law firm brings.�

Jonathan Flower Partner and head oF Family and matrimonial

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

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

34 Graham Park Road, Gosforth

Price Guide: Offers over ÂŁ1.175 Million Very well located in a popular area of central Gosforth is this outstanding three storey, semi detached family home. Graham Park Road is regarded as one of the most popular residential addresses within Gosforth and this represents one of its more stylish houses. The property has many impressive features and has been greatly refurbished by the current owners to provide a beautifully appointed seven bedroom home; the living accommodation is equally extensive with four reception rooms as well as a stunning kitchen by Mowlem & Co. Externally, the house enjoys an extra wide plot with lovely rear gardens which include a curved terrace and patio, ideal for al fresco dining, open lawned areas, well stocked borders and mature trees providing screening; to the front there is a landscaped garden with block paved terrace and drive leading to the enclosed courtyard, garage and outbuildings.

Contact rare! From Sanderson Young on 0191 2233500 ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk www.sandersonyoung.co.uk 57

COVER STORY

Its all about the Base Work really is a family affair for leading North East estate agent, Urban Base.

One of the fastest-growing property businesses in the region, it now boasts five offices - and just happens to have five members of the same family who are all bringing their expertise into play.

Son Kurt joined the firm almost ten years ago and now plays an important role as General Manager, supporting the family’s vision of excellence.

The company was set up in 1995 by property expert, Jan Dale, who had a vision of running an estate agency that offered an exceptional service to the market.

“I have been brought up watching my parents supporting their clients at the highest level and that level of service is what we aim to provide at every opportunity,” he said.

Jan cut her teeth on a range of prestigious developments in the region - from working with Sir John Hall at Wynyard to providing services to some of the biggest names in the industry such as Bellway Homes and Taylor Woodrow.

Word of mouth meant that not only was Urban Base brought on board to assist in the selling of premium properties but it also lead to the company attracting top staff who wanted to be part of this growing company.

Fast forward to the current day and not only is Urban Base proud to call itself a dynamic sales and rental property practice, but it also offers a complete range of land and new homes specialist services to the region’s developers and house builders.

“

We are extremely fortunate to have superb clients

”

And as the business has grown so has the numbers of staff – which includes a whole host of Jan’s immediate family.

Kurt’s wife Faye then joined the team, bringing with her invaluable experience at commercial agents DTZ and Knight Frank along with a genuine passion to sell every kind of house, from the established prewar semi in Durham City to the luxury flats on the Quayside.

“Who wouldn’t want my job?, “ said Faye.

“When you meet the owner at his Castle one day, and that follows with an appraisal at a seven bedroom mansion with a swimming pool, 12 seater cinema, and bowling alley the next - I’m in heaven.

“I love meeting new clients, and I am proud to be engaged in selling their luxury homes.”

It’s no surprise to learn that the Financial Director just happens to be Jan’s sister, Glynis. After a career at NS&I Finance, Glynis joined the team to support the overall management of the company - proving the family’s support to each other is indeed very powerful in ensuring the success of the business.

Her husband, Gordon, now heads up the rental division, managing landlords’ high end rental properties.

“We are extremely fortunate to have superb clients,” said Gordon “We rent out some very special investment stock, such as the iconic Baltic Quay penthouses, and Ramside mansions in Durham City, and my team do everything we can to ensure our tenants enjoy living in their newly rented homes.”

Jan already has the business planned for the next decade. With grandchildren Amelia-Elizabeth (aged 8), and Spencer-James (aged 5) it seems almost inevitable that the next recruitment phase has indeed already begun.

URBAN BASE can be contacted on 08456431186. Or visit www.urban-base.com 58

COVER STORY

59

PROPERTY INSIGHT

L-R James Hill with Lewis Chambers

Strong demand for new financial services business A financial services business launched by leading North East commercial and residential property specialist Bradley Hall has smashed through the £10m mortgage barrier in only seven months of trading.

BH Financial Services, part of the BH Group of companies, has exceeded initial targets and has restructured to accommodate customer demand.

James Hill, a financial specialist with more than 20 years’ industry experience, heads BH Financial Services, with a focus on providing commercial mortgages, business asset finance along with commercial and private vehicle finance.

More recently BH Mortgage Services was established to provide a bespoke residential mortgage brokerage service, headed by Lewis Chambers.

This comprehensive range of financial services, approved and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), is available through the growing network of Bradley Hall estate agency offices – in Grey Street and Gosforth, Newcastle; Durham; Morpeth and Alnwick.

James Hill said: “We knew there was an appetite for a professional finance broker when we established the business at the start of 2016. However, it’s fair to say we didn’t fully appreciate the demand there would be in both the commercial and residential markets.

“Many Bradley Hall clients want a one-stop-shop service, whether that’s helping source a really competitive mortgage on a home or a commercial loan or a better deal on their motor finance.”

Several large commercial loans are close to completion, allowing local businesses to expand their premises for future growth.

One of the key drivers of growth in the residential mortgage market is the fact BH Mortgage Services charges no fees to arrange a mortgage. Most other mortgage brokers take both a fee and a commission from the lender.

Lewis Chambers explained: “We’re trying to be as fair and transparent as possible when it comes to charging our customers. We have access to thousands of the latest mortgage deals, focus on getting the best deal and we only take a commission from the lender when our customer gets their house.”

While much of the current workload is coming through referrals within the Bradley Hall network, BH Financial Services is securing new work outside of this.

James Hill added: “To maintain and accelerate growth we recognise that BH Financial Services has to win work independent of the group. Our growing reputation and ability to compete so aggressively should be a winning combination for many people on the coming year.”

For more details visit www.bradleyhall.co.uk or www.bhfinancialservices.co.uk or call 0191 260 200.

60

URBAN Base We didn’t invent exceptional property service.

We just deliver it!

Contact us to arrange a FREE property consultation today - Sales, Rental & Urban Interiors www.urban-base.com NEWCASTLE 65 Quayside Newcastle City NE1 3DE

DURHAM 61 Saddler St Durham City DH1 3NU

MARKETING SUITE Number Fourteen Maling Street NE6 1LP

SALES & RENTALS • LAND & NEW HOMES SPECIALISTS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • FINANCIAL SERVICES • INTERIOR DESIGN

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Adderstone Crescent Jesmond

This very fine, three storey detached home represents the very best that is available within Newcastle for luxury private dwellings. The property, offering extensive seven bedroomed accommodation along with beautiful gardens, has many fine building features and tremendous architectural style with high ceilings, magnificent cornicing, lovely windows and a beautiful staircase. EPC: D

Price Guide: Price on Application

Lindisfarne Road Jesmond

A highly individual and luxurious home in the heart of Jesmond, representing one of Newcastle’s finest town mansions. This elegant, four storey detached family house is set in approximately one acre of south facing landscaped gardens and accommodates a bespoke open plan Poggenpohl kitchen, six double en-suite bedrooms, four stunning reception rooms and a leisure suite with pool.

Price Guide: £3.995 Million

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

Suncourt

Elmfield Park, Gosforth Suncourt, set back from Elmfield Park, provides a magnificent setting for a truly fabulous, detached house of luxurious quality. The 1930s property has been extensively refurbished including the addition of a second floor, and has superb style with six double bedrooms, drawing room with media wall, a stunning Herrington Gate kitchen, and an entertaining room with cocktail bar. EPC: C

Price Guide: £2.995 Million

North Avenue Gosforth

Occupying a prime position within the heart of central Gosforth is this highly impressive three-storey semi-detached family home.

The house has five double bedrooms and a great deal of style and character with tall ceilings, lovely plasterwork, attractive windows and super fireplaces. Externally are lovely gardens, a double length garage and a number of outbuildings. EPC: F

Price Guide: £995,000

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

PROPERTY INSIGHT

Hexit Duncan Young from Sanderson Young takes a look at the post-Brexit property market and offers some sound advice to those selling their homes in the near future.

Most but not all home sales occur because the seller is moving on to another property. Yet time and again many sellers become focused on the sale rather than looking ahead to the move. The sale becomes the be-all and end-all when really it is just a part of the whole move.

Estate agents the world over will recall occasions in a declining or static market when a seller refused an offer from a reasonable buyer only to see the value of their property fall further over time, leaving them worse off than ever. In these situations sellers need to take into account the ultimate aim – the move.

In this immediate post-Brexit period it is perhaps too soon to determine exactly where the market is heading.

But across the country in all but the hottest locations, prices have steadied and in some cases declined.

This is a time for caution not for alarm DUNCAN G YOUNG

and certainly not a time for digging one’s heels in over price. The smarter move is to understand that what one may lose on the swings, one may gain on the roundabouts. That is, a negotiated sale brings the freedom to negotiate a great purchase, always bearing in mind that the ultimate goal is a life or lifestyle move to somewhere else.

Flexibility and pragmatism make the best selling strategy in this confusing market where there is a great deal of ambiguity. There is low supply but this doesn’t necessarily mean high demand. Interest rates are low but so to a degree is confidence. So if your aim is leaving your home – Hexit – negotiation is the name of the game and, like the UK’s exit negotiations with the EU, there will be plenty of strong argument and posturing but in the end there will be a deal. It’s in everyone’s best interest.

Managing Director Sanderson Young T: 0191 2233500 E: duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk

New luxury housing development launches in Hexham Local five star housebuilder, David Wilson Homes North East, has announced the launch of its Woodland Rise development in Hexham, Northumberland. The development consists of 122 luxury homes, including affordable two bedroom homes. Three, four and five bedroom homes will also be available for sale, with prices starting from £244,995. The range of discount market value homes can be purchased with a 30% discount depending on eligibility.

One of the homes available at Woodland Rise is the Blackthorne, priced from £579,995. The Blackthorne is a beautiful three storey family home, with the spacious ground floor including the lounge, family room, dining room and a large family, dining kitchen. To the first floor there are four bedrooms, one of which has its own en suite, as well as the family bathroom. The beautiful second floor is a fantastic, flexible space that can be used as either a master suite or a den, perfect for families with children, along with the fifth bedroom that also has an en suite.

Another home available to buy from £339,995 is the Mitchell, a four-bedroom home that truly makes the most of all the space it has available.

The high specification kitchen with dining and family areas opens out onto the rear garden as does the bay fronted lounge. Downstairs there is a convenient utility room with storage whilst double bedrooms, including the master bedroom with an en suite shower room, are located upstairs.

Ashlea Wright, Sales Manager at Woodland Rise, commented: “We’re truly excited to launch these new homes at Woodland Rise. Each home on the development

has been carefully crafted to the high standard expected of David Wilson Homes and we anticipate the new homes will prove hugely popular with homebuyers. We have already received several enquiries from people registering their interest to buy, so would encourage those considering a move to Woodland Rise to get in touch soon.”

Sitting on the outskirts of Hexham, Northumberland, Woodland Rise is a development with a wide range of two, three four and five bedroom homes. Set in a beautiful semi-rural location, there are over 10 designs for homebuyers to choose from when it comes to their new home, all of which have been designed with the beautiful surroundings in mind.

To find out more about Woodland Rise or to book an appointment, please visit: www.dwh.co.uk/woodlandrise 64

PROPERTY INSIGHT

George Bond

First Impressions Are Everything ‘The entrance hallway should always be a real talking point, as this dictates the rest of the interior’. George Bond Interior Design discusses their current project and the thinking behind the internal layout.

The brief was to create a modern yet sophisticated home that flowed and allowed natural light. The proposed internal layout certainly ticks these boxes as we have created an open, flowing interior which is spacious and light, with a few talking points along the way. The hallway and double staircase sets the tone for the interior as it WOW’s you when entering the property; and situated directly above the staircase, a domed ceiling with back light onyx marble. The glass double doors situated in the centre of the double staircase, allows you to see straight through the house, giving self-explanatory access to the back of the property, or also known as ‘the of hub of the house’. This area consists of the Tel : 0191 281 7799

kitchen, dining and seating area, along with access to the lounge and office. Our intentions where to create a ‘hub’ that everyone would gravitate to or pass through, making it a social space. The bi-fold doors running the length of the kitchen brings the outside in and adds to why you would want to be in this space.

Ray Watkin

It’s been a busy year so far for George Bond Interior Design, and it looks as though that’s not going to change as we dive into a huge renovation project which consists of a complete internal reconfiguration and extension to the back of the property.

The first floor consists of three spacious bedrooms, all with en-suits, and a master bedroom quarters that includes a walk-in wardrobe which leads through to a large en-suite. All the bedrooms are accessed from the open first floor hallway which runs the perimeter of the double staircase, resulting in no long slim dark corridors.With the internal layout design complete, now the real fun starts as we work solidly for the next two months on the interior design, from lighting layouts and bespoke furniture, to soft furnishing and floor finishes; watch this space. email: ray@georgebond.tv 66

www.georgebond.tv

twitter @GeorgeBond_

PROPERTY INSIGHT

Final three homes at Hill Top Farm Only three luxury homes remain for sale at Dere Street Homes’ exclusive Hill Top Farm development, located adjacent to Ramside Hall Hotel just outside Durham City.

Sales and Marketing Manager, Marie McQuaid, commented, “We opened our showhome here last October and have enjoyed incredible interest and visitor figures ever since with most visitors returning several times to talk to our Sales staff to understand the options available on these very high specification homes.”

The three remaining homes are The Granary and Dower House, both released for sale at £875,000 and Mill House at £910,000.

the five bedrooms and family bathroom. The rear facing master bedroom has full en-suite bathroom facilities and a separate dressing area, with bedrooms two and three enjoying en-suite facilities while bedrooms four and five share the family bathroom.

Energy saving has also been a priority at the development with heat recovery systems taking

the heat from bathroom and kitchen vented air, to heat fresh air entering the homes. Underfloor heating to ground and first floors together with open fireplaces and tripled glazed windows let abundant light into the homes yet also allow for low energy utilisation. The luxury homes also come complete with one year’s complimentary membership to both the Golf Club and Ramside Hall Hotel’s new Spa and Leisure Club.

Plot 13, the Dower House, is a five bedroom executive detached home featuring large floor to ceiling windows which allow natural light to flow through both stories of this home, separate family and living rooms and the private driveway leading to an external double detached garage. The design also features an imposing double height hallway which leads to the grand open plan living room.

The luxurious kitchen and dining area is at the rear of the property. Elegant French doors lead onto the garden which adds to the light and airy feel. The separate utility area also has external access. The spacious family room flows from the kitchen and dining area which allows plenty of space for a busy household to cook, eat and relax. In addition to this a separate home office provides a quiet study area.

Stairs lead up to a galleried landing and onto Full details are available from the on-site Development Sales Manager, Thursday to Monday 10.00am to 5.00pm on 07983 080952 or www.derestreethomes.co.uk 68

FINAL THREE HOMES!

PLOT 13-DOWER HOUSE 5 BEDROOM DETACHED HOME

Showhome Interior

PRICE £875,000

Showhome Interior

Showhome Interior

SHOWHOME OPEN THURS - MON 10.00AM - 5.00PM Hill Top Farm, Off Pittington Lane, Carrville, Durham, DH1 5TD

t. 07983 080952 e. info@derestreethomes.co.uk

www.derestreethomes.co.uk @derestreethomes

derestreethomes

DEDICATED TO DEVELOPING HOMES OF CHARACTER & INTEGRITY

MEDIA INSIGHT

Christian Cerisola

We’re going live on social Noticed how all the big names in social media are now scrambling to develop their platforms to cater for live content?

Like they’ve been hoofed up the rear end with a Snapchat-sized boot, the demand for quick fix formats has grown enormously in recent months and the big guns have adapted accordingly.

Many are now encouraging us to produce live content in very simple ways, each ever so slightly different to the other. One click of a button on Facebook and you’re broadcasting live to your audience (in keeping with Facebook, that film then stays on your feed). Snapchat’s entire being has been based around content that’s here today, gone tomorrow. Periscope thrives on live content and sits hand in glove with Twitter and now Instagram has joined in with its own ‘Stories’ that disappear after 24 hours.

Miss it and you miss out.

I’m a fan of the raw, mostly unscripted nature of much of the content coming from this encouragement to broadcast live. So what does it all mean and how is this going to benefit our efforts as businesses to keep up with the trend and remain relevant and engaged with our audiences?

Well, clear, consistent and compelling content has always been the foundation, but now honesty is more important than ever. No faking it. Simulated or false narratives are going to become even harder to pull off. If you thought it was tough before, now

there really is no hiding place.

Of course, you don’t have to participate, but there’s something very endearing about an individual or organisation willing to take the risk of not really knowing what the outcome is going to be once they hit that start button.

I trialled it myself recently and took to Facebook Live at the end of a 37-mile, day long run for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF). My feed under the live video (people can post comments as you broadcast) was dominated by congratulations and then soon questions about the run itself and who I was with when running across half of the North East. The responses, as you can imagine, were honest and unedited. It bloody hurt!

It wasn’t a polished two minutes by any stretch.

And here’s the key. I’m of the belief that an audience that has invested in you enough to have liked your Facebook page or followed you on Twitter or Instagram will forgive and support your early efforts to push the boundaries of exciting and raw content. It’s okay to suck as long as you’re giving something of yourself. Don’t feel confident

enough to film your chef’s prepping a dish from your kitchen? Perhaps your audience will start to wonder what you’ve got to hide. Go for it!

A tour of your manufacturing facility to see where the magic happens? If you have all the right elements in place anyway, why would you fear the world’s prying eyes tuning in? Nobody’s going to stop buying your amazing gadget because you had your finger over the screen for a millisecond.

The pattern of things-we-can-do-while-on-social is only going to grow. The volume of people refusing to even leave their chosen social platform to go elsewhere to find their content while online is only going to grow ever bigger.

Twitter investing in the rights to stream NFL American Football games and Facebook’s Live streaming of Wayne Rooney’s Manchester United testimonial ahead of the season are good examples of the way ‘live’ is now happening on social. Soon, you wont even have to avert your gaze from your Facebook-tinged screen to catch all the live Premiership games. Sounds great, right?

What are you going to do to keep your audiences engaged and switched on?

Christian Cerisola is Director at Newcastle PR agency Glue PR. www.gluepr.co.uk 70

MEDIA INSIGHT

Domestic violence leads to White Sorrow A global book tour, which launched in Newcastle, is making its way around the UK and further afield to help families who suffer from domestic violence.

The Author is doing meet and greets, selling and signing the book, with the aim of raising funds for charity. Now available on Ebay (signed copy), Amazon in paperback and for Kindle download, the book is selling fast.

The Author is 34 year old, five foot tall Andrea Aviet looks like a bright, intelligent, beautiful and strong woman‌.

And indeed she is, but she has survived horrendous struggles in recent years. Educated to hold a masters degree she lived a privileged life in the home of her successful businessman father. That is until she came to England on holiday, met a man and wed him here, settling into married life.

Now Andrea, who is the mother to two girls aged seven and four, is telling her nightmare story of domestic violence, emotional and mental abuse, starvation and what she heart-renderingly refers to as slavery.

Her book, aptly titled White Sorrow has been published for her by UK Book Publishers and managed by Get Brindled, both North East based companies.

Through White Sorrow, Andrea tells her story of five years of abuse, at the hands of her 20 stone

husband Mark and his entire family – estranged from her own kin, forced into sexual encounters and alienated from everyday life.

She is speaking out across the UK to motivate women in the position of domestic violence she was in to get out and hopes to raise funds she can donate to Domestic Violence charities.

As well as Newcastle the book has already been to Dublin and is on its way to York, Frankfurt, London, Manchester and hopefully next year will have made it as far as Australia for the annual Domestic Violence Conference.

You can follow Andrea on Facebook on www.facebook.com/whitesorrow1 or get more information on www.whitesorrow.com

If you are having an event and would like raffle prizes or for Andrea to attend to speak, then please just get in touch at andrea@whitesorrow.com

We believe in the power of great stories.

INTERVIEW

Michael Grahamslaw meets...

Veronica Swindale Founding Director, nesma

What were your career ambitions growing up?

many of our students, whether they work for large multinational organisations, small enterprises or the public sector.

At first I wanted to be a teacher, but when I was in the sixth form I realised what was involved dealing with young teenagers so I thought moving into industry might be less risky!

As a member of the CIM regional board I am working with fellow members to deliver a robust programme of events for our members. The last event was a guest talk by Dr Dave Chaffey on ‘How to drive digital marketing success’. Dave is the author of a key textbook and blog, so the event was well attended by both managers and students.

Can you briefly outline your career path for the readers?

I began as a bi-lingual secretary at the Cambridge Probation Service, moving to be bilingual secretary to the Drapers Professor and the Department of French at Cambridge University. I then moved to A & P Appledore starting as a bi-lingual secretary before being promoted to a marketing and project consultant post.

I also have two new consultancy clients, one in Carlisle and one in Middlesbrough, where I am evaluating their marketing strategies.

One of the most exciting projects nesma is developing is through the Rugby Player’s Association. Last year Argentinian international Gonzalo Tiesi studied with us and introduced us to the RPA. We are now planning the young players’ personal development programme for this season with the Falcons Academy coaches.

At the same time as my work at Appledore I earned my postgraduate teaching and marketing and management qualifications.

As a result I understand all too well the pressures our students have when they work and study at the same time.

What is your greatest business achievement to date?

The next development was also twin tracked - I became marketing manager at European consultancy CERES and began as a part time lecturer in marketing at Northumbria University.

The most fulfilling achievement is to know that I have built a business which has a recognised brand, is know for its professionalism and for delivering results. nesma is now working with marketers from North Yorkshire to Scotland and across to Cumbria and Lancashire in the west.

As if all that wasn’t enough I set up my own consultancy business, mmd limited which provided marketing consultancy and training. From then on I have always had a balanced portfolio of consultancy and lecturing through my career. I became course leader at Gateshead College, followed by sales and marketing manager for pharmaceutical multinational, Cardinal Health.

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

I probably don’t listen to advice as much as I should do. The advice I would give to anyone is that you have to look after yourself.

I founded nesma seven years ago, to provide qualifications, training and consultancy in marketing and PR.

Can you describe a typical day in the life of Veronica Swindale?

Who are your heroes in and out of business?

I like Richard Branson’s just do it attitude. People can pontificate too much and life is too short.

I can usually be found walking the dog on the beach first thing in the morning. The working day begins with checking emails and social media to check students and tutors have the most up to date information. That done, I turn my attention to prepare the lectures and training I will be delivering during the week.

Closer to home Claire Riley, Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs for Northumbria Healthcare is a manager who leads by example and gets fantastic results.

Once I arrive at the office my time is taken up with meetings before delivering lectures, training or consultancy. This can be delivered in our offices in Gosforth or at the client company’s own premises.

Away from the desk how do you like to relax?

Socialising with friends, walking the dog, tennis, supporting rugby.

How would you like to be remembered?

What are you currently working on?

Professionally I would like to think that I have helped people to develop themselves and therefore have created choices for a more fulfilling work life balance.

I am enjoying doing more research for a new module the Chartered Institute of Marketing have introduced for their Diploma students, Driving Innovation. It is a key area for so

Personally I hope I will be remembered as a very good friend.

www.nesma.co.uk 72

INTERVIEW

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MEDIA INSIGHT

Jay’s Tolkien

Jay Johnstone

Jay Johnstone is a well known personality in the north east media world through his directorship of marketing agency, Hunter Johnstone.

What is much less well known, is his life as a fantasy artist and how important his contribution is to the genre.

He specialises in creating works from the J.R.R. Tolkien novels, although he has produced works from other major fantasy productions such as Game of Thrones.

“Tolkien is my passion and has been since a friend suggested reading his books when I was sixteen years old. They were a revelation to me and affected me greatly and what’s more have impacted deeply on my life ever since,” he says.

The beautiful fantasy work is intricate, involved and highly specialised and covers a variety of styles from 1.5m portraits, intricate iconographic paintings and medieval style manuscripts working in oils, egg tempura, gouache and gold leaf. It’s all done with Jay’s particular style and his undoubted love and understanding of the fictional works. As a result, he has become much sought after in the fantasy art world.

He travels extensively to conferences and exhibitions around the world, even having a show at the Oscars in LA in 2014, passing on knowledge and talking about his popular work. On September 24/25th 2016, Jay will be participating in a Tolkien weekend being held at the castle in Newcastle.

Tolkien’s grandson Royd, will be in attendance along with talks, shows and presentations celebrating Tolkien’s world.

“The world of Tolkien is highly involved as anyone who has read the books will testify, full lineages of characters, different races and a dark plotting, provide endless opportunities for artists like me. Often it’s not what to paint but choosing what to paint. I was pointed in my direction by a particularly disturbing dream I had soon after my marriage. The dream is very involved but its ending saw me in the knave of a church looking down at some icon imagery. At first glance they looked like religious icons and manuscripts but on second look however they appeared to me to be characters from the Tolkien books. ‘The Book of Hours’ a wellknown Christian illustrated text stood near and the imagery was simply stunning. At first, I simply copied the image I’d seen, the full blown paintings morphed out of those first experiences,” tells Jay. When you examine some of the iconography, even the layman can see that he has gone to extraordinary lengths to give the work a genuine feel, such as painting on clay with egg tempura, You can see Jay’s work on www.jaystolkien.com 74

varnishing and inlaying with 24ct gold.

Jay first exhibited at the British Tolkien Society, Return of the Ring event at Loughborough University, a conference attended by the most influential literature academics, fans and scholars from around the world.

Despite reservations surrounding the event and encouraged by his wife, Elizabeth, Jay was persuaded to attend. Like many things in life, when trepidation comes in to play, the result was unbelievably and completely opposite to his expectations. His first show was a resounding success and Jay’s paintings are now sought after and collected around the world.

In 2015, Jay founded the Sci-fi Fantasy Network, a website to help support and help Fantasy and Sci Fi writers, artists, film makers, exhibitors and crafters to come together, share their views and give them an online platform to get their message out to fans.

The site covers news, reviews and stories and is supported by a truly international team of writers and film makers. www.scififantasynetwork.com The Network journalists will be on site at the Newcastle event in September, reporting and feeding back on all that’s going on. Jay is working tirelessly to ensure the Newcastle event is a success.

It’s fantastic that there is a major global player in the Tolkien and fantasy art scene based in the North East of England, a true devotee and exceptional artist.

MEDIA INSIGHT

Why you should see your website as an investment and not just as another cost If you’ve ever had a website built for you or your business, you’ll probably know that a bespoke look and high quality development doesn’t come cheap. For a lot of business owners, that initial cost can be a real issue, which is why so many resort to cheaper alternatives like drag-and-drop, DIY website builders.

However, a well-built, responsive and SEOoptimised website is worth it’s weight in gold and can provide a significant return on investment over its lifespan.

The main problem is that so many business owners see the cost of a website as just that; a cost, and in a lot of cases they’re completely right to do so.

Too often, websites are build on a solely aesthetic basis, ignoring the essential role of a website’s functionality, speed & search engine optimisation in directing traffic, and therefore potential customers, to your website. The common result of this is a website that might look the part, but generates very little in the way of traffic and new customers. If this sounds familiar, then your website is probably just a cost and not an investment.

This leads us into an important question: what is the point of a website? What should a website always deliver in return for the amount you have invested? Every website should do the following: • Look aesthetically stunning across all devices • Be optimised for speed and easy functionality • Be optimised for SEO in order to generate leads

When a website is developed properly and follows each of these rules, it should effectively carry out the job of a salesperson, but obviously at a significantly lower ongoing cost. If you also factor in that a well built website could last you for over five years and still look more modern and professional than your competitors’ websites, that initial cost works out as very decent value for money.

The defining factor of a website’s success is in the return you see in terms of both sales and new customers. You may only need one sale for the website to pay for itself, or you may need hundreds, but as a general rule of thumb, a website should look to pay for itself within the first year of it’s launch, and from that point after, it should start generating an additional return on your investment.

One thing to note here is that it’s incredibly important to keep your website as fresh and updated as you possibly can, from both an SEO perspective as well as the perspective of a potential customer visiting your site for the first time. We’re probably all familiar with the amount of blogs that are neglected or fall by the wayside for one reason or another, but this also applies to removing pictures of staff who have left the business, updating your

address, updating images of your shop or office if you’ve refurbished or making sure your products or services are all available and correctly priced. A typical visitor is becoming wiser to differentiating between a well maintained site and a neglected site, so making sure you’ve got either a member of staff or a web developer keeping this updated on a monthly basis is really crucial to a website’s long term success. A neglected or well maintained website reflects your business' overall image.

Similarly, for a more niche business that doesn’t get a lot of organic traffic, a website alone might not be enough to see a return on your investment.

If your website’s key product or service doesn’t get a lot of monthly searches on Google, then you’ll need to support your website with targeted marketing, including social media marketing, online advertising, pay per click and PR in order to drive visitors to the website.

In summary, if you’re a business looking to redevelop your current website or build a new website from scratch, then it’s important that you choose your web developer carefully to ensure they can deliver a website that gets results. Remember that while the look and style of a website is crucial, the ease of use across all devices and optimisation of a site’s speed and SEO is equally as important, because it means your website can generate high volumes of traffic, and therefore potential leads.

Your next website doesn’t just have to be another expensive cost, it can be a smart investment in your business. If you’re looking for your website to become an investment and start delivering results, contact DigiPro Media today to discuss your project and requirements in more detail.

To find out how DigiPro Media can help your business with web design, PR, online marketing and social media management, please contact Ryan Harland and the team. e: contact@digipromedia.co.uk www.digipromedia.co.uk @DigiProMedia 75

MEDIA INSIGHT

Sarah Hall

Stand out insight for your organisation from the

Ofcom report

One of the most important pieces of research to be published each year is Ofcom’s Adults’ Media Use and Attitudes Report.

The report looks at media use, attitudes and understanding, and how these change over time, including groups that tend not to participate digitally.

Covering TV, radio, mobile and games, with a particular focus on the internet, the research is full of insight for any public relations and marketing professional wishing to engage on behalf of an organisation.

Why it matters to your business If you’re not sure why the data is relevant to your business, the report highlights the shifts in how people are engaging with online content and services.

The implications are widespread and impact on any communications campaign you’ll run both now and in the future.

Here are four key headlines from the report: Devices before laptops T here has been a considerable increase (from 6% in 2014 to 16% in 2015) in the proportion of adults who only use devices other than a PC/laptop (e.g. smartphones and tablets) to go online, indicating that these devices are no longer just supplementing PCs/laptops, but are starting to replace them.

Mobile preferred T here is an increasing preference for mobile devices over more traditional media devices. While in 2014, adults were most likely to say they would miss their TV set the most, mobile phones are now the mostmissed media device. The smartphone is the device mostly used for social media and is the preferred device for the majority of online activities.

Apps and web site usage matures There has been a sizeable increase in the proportion of internet users saying they only use websites or apps that they’ve used before (42% vs 31% in

2014). This is seen across all socio-economic groups and may be linked to the growing tendency to use ‘digital intermediaries’ such as Facebook, Google, YouTube and Amazon for much activity.

Channel confusion T here is increasing polarity between different age groups in terms of communications activity.

Whereas 25 years ago, all age groups shared just two common means of communication - landlines and letters - the landscape is now considerably more varied, and there is a risk that common means of communication that cut across demographics are becoming increasingly rare, with implications for social connectivity and information-sharing.

What does it mean for you?

It’s worth downloading the free report and working through the 200 page document, or at least the executive summary.

What you learn will advise how your organisation engages with your target audiences.

For example, the data showing that almost twothirds of over-75s, and a third of 65-74s say that they do not use the internet at all, would suggest that more traditional means of engagement with this demographic is likely to have greater success.

The growing number of people favouring mobile devices over more traditional media devices,

76

underlines the need for organisations to have a responsive and easy to navigate website, where appropriate geared to easily deliver what the public wants, whether that’s buying things online or completing government processes.

The statistic that just under half of internet users watch video clips online at least weekly demonstrates that video’s increasing popularity as a means to engage shows no sign of abating and should form part of every marketer’s armoury.

With just under six in ten (59%) of mobile users using their device for content creation (which can include taking photos or videos), curation of user generated content could prove a powerful way for organisations to build relationships with the audiences that matter to them.

Free insight for your organisation Whether you’re a public or private organisation, local government or an individual looking to build online influence, the Ofcom Adults’ Media Use and Attitudes Report holds all sorts of valuable planning information. You’ll be hard pressed not to come away with insights relevant to you.

The 2015 quantitative survey was conducted by Saville Rossiter-Base among 1,841 adults in-home using a CAPI (Computer Aided Personal Interviews) methodology between September and October 2015.

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MEDIA INSIGHT

Ask Silver Bullet Mark Brooks

“

”

We’re planning to launch a new product for the construction industry but having great difficulty in understanding how to market to this sector.

The construction sector presents a good example of both Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Consumer (B2C) marketing and of the importance of properly understanding the Route to Purchase before you start spending your hard earned marketing budget.

In 2014 the UK construction sector contributed some £103bn in economic output, around 6.5% of the total economy and was responsible for around 2.1m jobs, around 6.2% of the UK total, so this is a vast market which seems likely to continue to grow.

It was, however, until quite recently, notoriously conservative in its attitude to marketing, although this is rapidly changing.

The route to the construction market is varied and quite complicated involving, end users, who include both commercial organisations and consumers, architects and other specifiers, and buyer groups such as Fortis and National Buying Group. In addition, the variety of services and products the sector requires is truly vast from the provision of Health & Safety services such as advice on CDM regulations to the supply of everything from bricks to light bulbs.

The first act must be to decide where your products are likely to be used as this will determine to whom you need to target your marketing, and, in turn,

how this is to be achieved. For example, steel lintels are not targetted at the consumer market as their use involves skills beyond most DIY practitioners and are aimed at both builders’ merchants and direct to construction companies. They are also, with utmost respect to their manufacturers, a strictly utilitarian item, the purchase of which is determined by weight to strength ratio and, of course, price, meaning branding is of lesser importance than features. They are also specified by type by architects and other construction professionals.

Our advice for marketing lintels would therefore be a strategy that included CDP sessions for specifiers, printed and digital sales collateral, including Point of Sale for stockists, trade exhibitions and direct sales to buyer groups and construction companies.

Marketing strategies of old were usually sales promotion based (there is nothing wrong with this) but there is now an increased investment in customer engagement through informative, entertaining content aimed at the end user.

At the other end of the scale, however, are say, kitchen fittings, which require marketing to end user consumers, buyer groups and developers whilst they too can also be specified by architects and construction professionals. But here, functionality is no longer the most important

criteria with appearance and pricing bringing in the all important question of branding and the old adage of “selling the sizzle not the steak!”

The CMA (Construction Marketing Association) recently found that 86% of their members have increased their marketing activities and budget with increased spend in website development at the expense of traditional trade shows. Many manufacturers have identified that end users often require more than just the bare bones of product information, but are looking for installation guides, product certification and quite often something as simple as friendly advice. SEO and social media are now heavily utilised by the manufacturers and the merchants alike – with both parties understanding the importance of regular, interesting and often exciting blog/social and website content updates.

The main marketing challenges facing companies selling to the construction sector are the lack of strategy, a dated websites, lack of social media activity and a failure to differentiate from competitors. Overall, however, the construction sector is realising that marketing is becoming a key priority, to both build strong relationships with the merchants, but also to engage with the end user on a consistent basis to become the industry expert on your product type.

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 80

TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

Pay as you go IT support

Biometric access control for ISO 27001 accreditation

Colin Grant

Shaun Oakes

Shaun Oakes, Managing Director of ievo Ltd, the Newcastle-based manufacturer of biometric recognition systems, explains how access control is a vital factor for organisations working towards ISO 27001 accreditation.

Diamond Group may have spread their expertise across the technological aspect of business, but that doesn’t mean they have forgotten their starting point - They continue to offer the product which helped them get off the ground.

The security of information or data storage is becoming increasingly vital to every organisation with their Information Security Management System (ISMS) now recognised as virtually a yardstick of their professionalism and integrity. The 2013 upgrading of the original ISO/IEC 27001 standard created a universally recognised benchmark by which all organisations could be judged before entering into commercial relationships and, as such, has become an extremely valuable asset for companies, highlighting the importance they place on data security as part of best business practice.

One of the four services offered by The Diamond Group, IT support is available for all of their clients. Unlike most other IT support companies however, Diamond don’t believe in long term contracts for businesses that don’t need them.

Whilst no ISMS can guarantee perfect security, and security breaches over the last few years are well documented, ISO/IEC 27001 accreditation will not only help businesses manage the security of their data but will also advertise this expertise to existing and potential clients. The standard looks at a number of core sections, which include IT systems, business processes and, most importantly, people.

Small businesses sometimes don’t require the same ongoing support for their IT systems that large companies do. When faced with technical issues, it can occasionally be easier to contact a support company with a one-off problem.

The Diamond Group have therefore established a pay as you go system which offers that little extra help with IT issues without any contracts or commitments, allowing small businesses the freedom to walk away at any time.

An integral part of the accreditation process (Section A.11) deals with access control, looking at key areas such as user access management, user registration and password management and here the use of biometric security systems with fingerprint recognition readers enables organisations to not only cover all requirements of the Standard, but also facilitate additional security measures, should they be required to significantly reduce risks of security breaches and cyber attacks.

Remote support starts at £1 a minute and/or £70 per hour for on-site support with no call out charges for businesses located under 30 minutes away from their offices in Gateshead.

As part of their customer support, if Diamond believes a company may benefit financially from a contract more so than using the pay as you go service, they can offer discounts based on the amount already spent.

Many organisations, of course, rely simply on swipe cards or a numeric pin entry access system, but while access pins can be passed around or even guessed, with key cards sharing many of the same downfalls as well as increasing costs due replacing lost/damaged cards, biometric security systems bypass many of these vulnerabilities, and are becoming increasingly popular. Fingerprints are unique to each individual – unlike codes or key cards they can’t be passed or shared.

It’s quite surprising to learn that 27% of small businesses don’t have any IT support at all, which is why Diamond also offer a month’s free trial period for new customers. This trial gives customers an opportunity to see the benefits of IT support with weekly remote administration, proactive IT support and 9 times out of 10, instant responses when faced with an issue.

The implementation of the latest biometric recognition systems allows the organisation to secure commercial sites worldwide, adding an additional layer of safety to the businesses access control infrastructure. Each site’s visitor movements can be accurately monitored in real time from the access control system with certain areas restricted if needed. This provides the organisation with a sophisticated level of personnel movement information, vital for health and safety and fire roll call protocols..

Registering for the free trial is easy - simply call the Diamond Group quoting “DG-IT30” and briefly explain the support requirements your business would need. A member of the Diamond team will then pay you a visit to understand your business and its requirements before installing the relevant software for your trial to begin.

Once your trial has ended, it’s entirely up to yourself if you wish to continue using Diamond’s services. If you, like many other customers, are satisfied with the service, a member of the team can give you a quote and begin your contract or pay as you go service with the company.

ISO 27001 is now the standard by which the security of an organisations’ data is judged and companies without the accreditation, or which rely on old technology, may well be excluded when it comes to tendering for major contracts.

For more information about the IT support service, call the Diamond Group on 0191 519 3700 and visit their website www.diamond-group.net.

www.ievoreader.com 81

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

Newcastle firm shows the Calibre of its charity support It was on your bike for staff at Newcastle IT firm Calibre Secured Networks Ltd, who took to two wheels recently in aid of a local charity that helps people with blood cancer.

Directors Karen and Steve Nelson, whose company provides IT network services to UK clients from its office at Science Central, pedalled from Seahouses to The Bike hub on the Quayside in Heaton to raise over £2000 for Bright Red’s sponsored cycle ride, ‘Ride for Red’.

Calibre sponsored 10 places on the ride and commissioned a commemorative jersey for the event, which they supported in aid of Steve’s father, who died from leukaemia in 2011.

Friends from their local cycling club, North Tyneside Riders (NTR), joined them on the coastal 53-mile ride to offer their support and encouragement.

This year’s event marked not only the sixth Ride for Red but also the six-year anniversary of the charity, which raises funds and provides voluntary support for leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma sufferers and those with myelodysplasia and myeloproliferative diseases.

Those who weren’t able to be in the Calibre team but wanted to be involved paid for their own places and rode in normal club colours alongside the others to raise money.

Karen said: “We’re passionate about promoting a healthy workforce. We had no hesitation in saying we would enter the challenge and are pleased that we’ve been able to support such a

worthy cause. We’re hoping to make it an annual contribution, selecting additional members each year.”

Bright Red’s Ashley Elliott, Charity Manager, said: “With the generous support of Calibre and others we are able to provide much needed services and help for those across the north east suffering from blood diseases. So it’s a big thank you to Karen and Steve for their efforts.”

Newcastle business to exhibit at world’s largest security exhibition ievo Ltd, the Newcastle-based manufacturer of biometric recognition systems, will exhibit at Europe’s largest security exhibition in the Ruhr district of Germany, Security Essen 2016.

Security Essen is the world’s largest trade show for security and fire prevention products and services. The exhibition will house stands from businesses worldwide. Industry experts as well as over 280 businesses attending will be expecting to see the latest innovations and trends. ievo Ltd, the industry-leading manufacturer of

biometric security systems, will be exhibiting for the first time. The company will be displaying their innovative range of biometric fingerprint readers, which are used as part of access control systems for organisations worldwide. The Ultimate, Micro and USB desktop reader as well as their recently upgraded Rev. 4 Control Unit are expected to draw attention from industry experts, security integrators, installers and end users.

The event takes place from 27 – 30 Sep at the MESSE ESSEN GmbH. You can find ievo Ltd on booth #4C05 in hall 4.

Scott Logic welcomes remaining 2016 graduates Bespoke software development consultancy Scott Logic is celebrating the continuing popularity of its graduate program, which this summer has attracted 11 new high-calibre appointments, including 2 former interns.

The new starters, 3 of whom will be based in Newcastle, 4 in Bristol and 4 in Edinburgh, were welcomed to the firm, which delivers bespoke software solutions to global clients across a number of complex sectors.

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

As well as plenty of work, the graduates enjoyed a packed diary of activities, including go-karting, pool and an interactive ‘values challenge’.

Scott Logic heard from hundreds of applicants for this year’s available roles in software development, testing and User Experience (UX) design. The successful candidates represent the cream of the crop of graduates from the UK’s leading Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) degrees at Dundee, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Napier universities.

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

Call us now and find out how.

0191 442 8300 82

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How much data can you afford to lose?

Data is one of the few assets that cannot be replaced, and while many businesses say they cannot afford to lose any data, they are complacent about IT backups.

Contact us today to tour our data centres:

One day they may have to explain to their customers that vital data has been lost forever.

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Without backup there is no recovery. Talk to us about secure, high speed backup solutions tailored to your needs and budget.

Our world assures yours

call 0191 or email

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TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

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TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

Doing good is good for business There is a saying that ‘doing good is good for business’, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) is now no longer just a box-ticking obligation on tender submissions, it actually forms an essential part of the strategy of every successful organisation.

I know from experience that North East people are a generous bunch, and while I was gathering my thoughts over the content of this article I was not surprised to discover that philanthropists here give more back to the North East than in any other part of the country.

As a North East-based IT and communications business we have played a part in supporting our local community from our first day of business 16 years ago, and several months ago we decided to evaluate and formalise our CSR activity. The results were a pleasant surprise, and if you are new to creating your own CSR policy, here are a few of our tips for success.

Business value You need your directors’ buy in, so be clear about the commercial value to the business.

In our case we found that delivering a positive social impact increases employee engagement, reduces our recruitment costs, and has a positive influence on both bringing in new customers and developing closer links with existing clients.

Create a clear strategy We created our own CSR policy to include two strands. On the corporate front we

support the great work of St Oswald’s Hospice, The Percy Hedley Foundation and the Sunshine Fund, plus we also support a range of local small charities and good causes as opportunities arise.

experience I also work with their pool of people, which enables me to bring different viewpoints and experiences back into our own business. It’s a two-way process that benefits both our organisations.

Involve staff

Measurement

Getting our staff personally involved with our CSR activities gives them a stake in what we do. We created a staff-run focus group drawn from every area of the business, which meets regularly to consider individual requests, make decisions and organise our fund-raising activities. By harnessing the energy of our 110 staff members we can do so much more, and being involved in the focus group helps them in their role as ambassadors out and about across the business, encouraging participation.

When we first sat down to formalise our CSR policy we were surprised at the range and level of activities already going on informally within the business. Creating a structure has helped us to measure what we do, and identify the positive difference it makes to our working environment, and to the community around us.

Benefits in kind CSR does not have to be about making big financial contributions. Smaller charities and good causes often struggle with lack of resources and offering them skills and experience can be just as valuable as making a cash donation. I sit on the board of one of the larger charities we support, the Percy Hedley Foundation, and while they benefit from my 25 years of high level business

In India businesses with revenues of £105m are required to donate 2% of their profits to charity, but while this has brought the issue to the boardroom it is proving difficult to enforce. It will be interesting to see if other countries follow the lead of a country where one in three of the world's poorest people live.

I believe we should not wait for legislation to force our hand in the UK. By working together and creating a measurable strategy around CSR activities we can all play our part in making sure our charity partnerships go beyond purely fundraising and develop into relationships where both parties truly benefit.

by Susan Jopling, Director of Corporate Strategy and Policy, ITPS.

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TECHNOLOGY INSIGHT

How much data can you afford to lose?

by Garry Sheriff, Managing Director, ITPS

Garry Sheriff

Data is one of the few assets that cannot be replaced, yet you would be surprised at how many organisations tell us they cannot afford to lose any data but are still complacent about IT backups.

Without backup there is no recovery, and the price of their complacency could mean one day having to explain to their customers that vital data has been lost forever.

Although there are many backup options ranging from on-site traditional tape through to a cloud solution involving multiple data centre sites, protecting your data need not be complicated.

Here are some key points to consider: Communications - make sure your IT partner has the right high availability communications links in place. Cheap backup deals often turn out to be expensive when you realise your data is safe but will take four days to recover, because you have inadvertently signed up for slow download speeds.

Risk versus cost - decide what level of risk you can live with, to balance that with the cost of protection. Your IT partner should help you establish two crucial elements. The first is your recovery time objective, which is the time you are prepared to operate without some or all of your IT. The second is your recovery point objective, which is the amount of data loss your business can cope with.

Every business is different, for instance a financial services organisation might invest in a backup

solution that is as close to zero RPO and RTO as possible, whereas a less data-dependent company might decide it could happily operate for 24-hours without a fully functioning IT infrastructure, and a correspondingly lower cost.

Identify the cost of downtime - we helped one of our clients establish that every minute of downtime would cost them £112, or £161,280 a day. In our experience implementing a business continuity strategy nearly always costs less than the pain of dealing with downtime.

Define downtime levels - can your business cope with a complete loss of all systems for a short time, a loss of several business critical applications, or a few hours’ slow-down in email traffic? Your definition of acceptable downtime levels will be unique to your organisation.

Tailored solutions - make sure your backup solution is right for your business. For instance if a client is looking for zero recovery point and time objectives we backup their systems and data to one of our Tier 3, ISO27001-certified data centres, and back that up to a secondary data centre using separate communications links, ensuring their data exists in several places. There is a saying in the IT

world that if your data is not in three places, it isn’t anywhere.

Scaleability - your backup solution should flex alongside your business so you can store as much data as you need, when you need it, on a pay as you go basis.

Recovery times - remember that if it takes you four hours to backup, it will take four hours to recover. A data centre model can make that process instant for you.

Testing - if you don’t test your backup you won’t know whether it will work at a time of crisis. Your backup strategy should include details of how that backup is tested in a ‘live’ situation, and how often. This is probably the most vital element of a successful strategy, but often the most neglected.

I hope that has given you an idea of the importance of backup. If you lack the in-house expertise to manage it yourself why not outsource backup to a trusted IT partner? We take all of the risk, while you benefit from our expertise and continuous investment.

Loss of data is a business risk just like any other, and backup is your insurance against that risk being made real.

For more information call 0191 442 8300, email contact@itps.co.uk or visit www.itps.co.uk 86

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Newcastle Royal Grammar School, Eskdale Terrace, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4DX

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13/05/2016 15:44

FROM THE HEADMASTER’S STUDY

88

FROM THE HEADMASTER’S STUDY

Michael Grahamslaw meets

Ken James The recently appointed Headmaster of Red House School in Norton, Teesside.

What was your background prior to joining Red House School?

so much more. A Red House education includes an extensive coeducation programme - sport, the arts and outdoor education and numerous excursions broaden the horizons of the children, engendering a richer educational experience. The holistic education we offer is key to preparing the children of today for the world of tomorrow.

I have always been in teaching and I’ve held various roles in a number of independent schools in the UK, including Director of Academic Administration, Housemaster and Director of Cocurricular. In 2008 I was appointed Headmaster of Fyling Hall School, near Whitby, a school which has many similarities to Red House. After nearly five years leading the School, I decided to spend time working in Australia and has held management roles in two leading independent schools. Most recently, I was Head of Senior School and Deputy Headmaster of Cranbrook, one of Sydney’s leading independent schools.

What plans do you have for Red House?

When I was appointed to the post, Red House had plans to relocate to a site on the Wynyard estate. However, we have taken the decision to invest in our current location in Norton. The School is at the heart of Norton village set on the beautiful village green.

Master planning our current site for future generations is going to be very exciting. We plan to continue to offer an excellent education with small classes and very reasonable fees whilst updating our current facilities.

Why did you choose Red House?

I’m a proud Northerner, born in Durham and educated in Huddersfield, and I’m delighted to be returning to a part of the world I love. I knew of Red House (it competes against Fyling Hall which could lead to some interesting fixtures!) and it is well known for being an excellent academic school. Given its reputation and size – I want to know all the pupils by name - it was an opportunity I could not resist.

Over the summer we’ve made a start. We now have an excellent multipurpose surface on the school grounds for hockey and tennis which is a real bonus. We will continue to work with community groups and share community facilities but to have our own dedicated playing surface will benefit our sport enormously.

What do you consider to be the most important aspect of education?

Part of our strategic plan is to extend our catchment and our bus services. We’re providing a bus services to cover Durham. It’s important to offer parents in the area a choice of independent schools and we are different to the current provision.

Academic excellence and intellectual growth are, quite rightly, at the very heart of what we do. We are proud to have been ranked the No. 1 independent school in the area for results at GCSE and our Early Years Foundation Stage was rated as ‘outstanding’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. We challenge the children from the day they join us but, most importantly, we encourage the children to develop their love of learning.

Where will you be in twenty years’ time?

This is difficult to answer as I start my first term in a new school! I have worked in a number of schools and it’s time for me to ‘settle down’. I’m excited by the prospect of leading Red House and, at 45, I have a good few years left in me yet. Who knows, perhaps I will be leading Red House into its second century.

However, we truly believe that educational development is not simply confined to the classroom and life at Red House is about

www.redhouseschool.co.uk 89

Come and share our vision!

Nunnykirk

Centre of Excellence for Dyslexia

Now booking places for 2016-17 and 2017-18!

Email: barryfrost.nunnykirk@gmail.com

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17/06/2016 13:08

MOTORS INSIGHT

Vice President and Managing Director officially open North East’s new Harley-Davidson dealership L-R Grant Anderson,Sohail Khan,Robert Lindley,Nas Khan,Burt Perry

Gateshead Harley-Davidson, part of the multi-award winning Jennings Motor Group, officially opened the first phase of its highly prestigious dealership with a VIP event.

Designed and project-managed by local firm, Focus Architecture & Surveying, and constructed

by Newcastle-based Sendrig Construction, the new state-of-the-art dealership, located on Ellison Road, Eslington Park, was officially opened

by Rob Lindley, Vice President and Managing Director of Harley-Davidson® Motor Company Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Commenting on the opening, Rob Lindley said: “The opening of a new dealership in the North East is important for Harley-Davidson UK & Ireland and enables us to better reach and service our customers in this important region of the UK. To be opening this dealership with a trusted motor group that we already work with is important to us in knowing that the dealership will deliver the high levels of service our customers expect. I have personally known the Khan family who own and operate the Jennings Motor Group for over 20 years and I am tremendously proud and excited to see them open their second store with us. HarleyDavidson is, at its heart, a family business and it is wonderful when we are able to partner with successful family businesses like Jennings. The new facility is fantastic and completely reflects the prestige and culture that surrounds the HarleyDavidson brand.”

Operating as part of the highly successful,

independent, privately-owned Jennings Motor Group, which has been selling cars in the North East for more than a century, the new high-spec design store, which has created 12 jobs for local people, complements the company’s successful Leeds Harley-Davidson franchise in West Yorkshire.

Sohail Khan, Director of Jennings Motor Group, was responsible for overseeing the company’s latest investment and expansion project, from construction through to the recruitment process.

Sohail said; “We were delighted to welcome senior representatives from Harley-Davidson to share the official launch celebrations with us.”

Refurbishment of the new 2,500sqm site - a former car dealership - includes a 450sqm showroom which has been designed to express the industrial feel of the local area and heritage of the North East.

The existing steelwork structure of the building has been emphasised and expressed along with brick and timber cladding to the internal finishes.

No expense has been spared with the interior design, which incorporates bespoke furniture specifically designed and manufactured to reflect the industrial theme of the scheme including counters, sales desks, coffee tables and changing room mirrors.

Specific attention has also been given to the

interior of the dealership and the finishes of the building to convey the heritage and origins of Jenning’s Motor Group’s 104-year history.

Sohail added; “We are immensely proud of our history in the North East and we wanted to showcase this in the interior of the new showroom.

Our architects and construction team have done an exceptional job in meeting the brief, both internally and externally.

“We are absolutely delighted to bring the prestigious and globally recognised HarleyDavidson brand to the North East region and look forward to replicating the success of our existing Leeds Harley-Davidson dealership, here in Gateshead.”

Customers can take advantage of an extensive range of new and quality used Harley-Davidson motorcycles on display at the new store, in addition to a range of aftersales facilities, including service and Harley-Davidson genuine parts and accessories. An impressive range of MotorClothes® and merchandise is also available.

Externally, the new dealership can cater for up to 75 motorcycles and has 20 car parking spaces.

The second phase of the project for Jennings Motor Group is the completion of a workshop, which is expected to be opened in October/November.

For more information about the range of products and services at Gateshead Harley-Davidson, call into the Ellison Road dealership, contact 0191 4619100, or visit www.jenningsharley-davidson.com 92

RAISES THE BAR LOWERS THE COST M{ZD{6 2.2d SE 150ps

ONLY £199 +VAT PER MONTH With Mazda Contract Hire Advance rental £1194+VAT followed by 35 monthly rentals of £199+VAT

Specification includes • 7” Colour touchscreen display and Multimedia Commander • Integrated Bluetooth® • 17” alloy wheels

• Leather steering wheel and gear knob • Cruise control • DAB radio • Air conditioning

To book a test drive° call 01642 256 655 or visit www.jenningsgroup-mazda.co.uk Middlesbrough, Cargo Fleet Lane.

OPEN HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10.30am-4pm.

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda range: Urban 25.4 (11.1) – 60.1 (4.7). Extra Urban 45.6 (6.2) – 83.1 (3.4). Combined 35.3 (8.0) – 72.4 (3.9).

CO2 emissions (g/km) 188 – 104.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results.

Contract hire offer for business users for: Mazda6 Saloon 150ps SE Diesel, without Metallic paint. Orders received between 01.07.16 and 30.09.16, subject to availability, status and agreement. Figures based on a non-maintenance contract hire package with advance rental of: Mazda6 Saloon 150ps SE Diesel, without Metallic paint £1,194, then 35 monthly rentals of £199. Includes £500 dealer contribution. Excess miles over contracted mileage of 10,000 over 12 months charged at 12 pence per mile. Guarantee may be required. Prices exclude VAT at 20%. Prices and details are subject to change without notice. For full specification, wear and tear provisions and other T&Cs see Mazda Contract Hire Master Agreement and your local dealer. ALD Automotive Ltd., trading as Mazda Contract Hire BS16 3JA. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Model shown is Mazda6 Saloon 150ps SE Diesel, OTR from £22,295. Model shown features optional Soul Red Metallic paint (£670). °Test drives subject to applicant status and availability.

MOTORS INSIGHT

Lookers become the largest Mercedes-Benz dealer group in the UK as part of ongoing expansion

National motor retailer Lookers (the new name for Benfield Motor Group) will be making a significant investment in its dealership network with the purchase of Drayton Group, the four-time winner of Mercedes-Benz Retailer of the Year award. Drayton Mercedes-Benz is a respected and well-established name in the West Midlands for vehicle sales, servicing and more for the luxury German brand.

The acquisition of Drayton Group reinforces Lookers position as one of largest motor retailers in the UK. The £55.4m purchase of Drayton Group includes 7 dealerships, bringing the number of Lookers Mercedes-Benz locations in the network to 14. Lookers now have a total of 160 dealerships in the nationwide motor dealer network.

The acquisition is another show of confidence by the company in the wider UK automotive market and follows other key acquisitions, including last year’s £87.5m purchase of North East based Benfield and its 30 strong dealership portfolio.

The purchase of Drayton Group is expected to be complete towards the end of October and comes as Lookers refocuses its attention on expanding its core Motor Division following the recent agreement to sell the Parts Division for £120m.

Drayton Group is based in Stafford, Stoke,

Shrewsbury, Stourbridge, Worcester, Walsall, and Wolverhampton. Each location is staffed by friendly professionals who are fully committed award winning teams. The location of Drayton Group dealerships complement the existing network of seven Lookers Mercedes-Benz dealerships across Sussex and Kent.

Mercedes-Benz is continuing to increase in popularity in the UK. 2015 market share of Mercedes-Benz was 5.56%, up from 5.05% on the previous year. Mercedes-Benz and Lookers are confident this growth will continue with more new exciting models coming to the market. New launches include the all-new 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43, Mercedes-AMG GT R, 2017 CLA to name only a few.

Lookers Chief Executive Andy Bruce said: “The acquisition of the Group is a perfect fit in terms of franchise, geography and culture. The Drayton www.lookers.co.uk 94

Group is a business that we have respected for many years because of its fantastic reputation.

“Together we will now be the largest Mercedes-Benz dealers in the country and one of the largest motor groups in the UK. Importantly though, despite our size, Lookers still feels like a family business that cares about its people. We believe every dealership is unique and will have its own profile of customers with their own particular demands.

“We are currently seeing a lot of opportunity in the prestige car market as demand increases among the UK’s discerning motorists. We know that Mercedes-Benz is a fantastic brand with a rich heritage and is one that Lookers has worked well with, built and developed as part of our national network of motor dealerships.”

Lookers’ Interim Financial results were announced on Wednesday 17 August, and showed an increase of 23% in revenue while reducing debt.

ARTS INSIGHT

Get fired up with new corporate team development sessions Four years ago after taking her redundancy from a major blue chip company, Warkworth based Lorna Watkinson formed Rainbow Pottery Painting to work with playgroups and nursery schools to create unique pieces of mini art to treasure and keep.

Now, after successfully developing the business, she is turning her creative and managerial flair to the diverse audiences of corporate business and mindfulness.

Here, Lorna tells us her personal vision for her business and how she can help take away executive stress from those with a busy, hectic lifestyle.

After seeing the way that children reacted to painting on pottery, I experimented with using the same techniques with adults. I quickly found that the creativity associated with painting could release ideas in groups, encourage people to get to know each other in a different way, recognise the strengths of others and facilitate the pooling of ideas.

My corporate training days are specifically tailored to deliver positive outcomes based on the needs and aims of your organisation. I spend time understanding your business and then create a session or course that uses a mix of pottery painting exercises and more traditional paper and verbal activities.

One of my most popular workshops gives participants the opportunity to express their vision

for their business or personal life through painting their thoughts on ceramic mugs. Group discussions take place to establish and cement the vision through sharing and the mugs are then fired in our kiln. Once produced, every time you have a cup of tea or coffee, the mugs are a lasting reminder of the goals or objectives set, which again helps to reinforce personal beliefs or targets. Indeed, I’ve applied my own experiences to the business and as a result, I’ve changed direction leading to increased opportunities within the business.

Pottery painting is a fun, relaxing and rewarding activity that is accessible to all. The beauty of pottery painting is the use of some very simple but effective and impressive techniques that ensure excellent results across a spectrum of abilities. No artistic skill is required to achieve great results first time.

Time and time again, people feedback to me what a relaxing and enjoyable experience they had with pottery painting, how proud they are of their finished work and how amazed they were with what they produced even though they felt that they had no artistic ability.

Likewise,

business

leaders

report

increased

motivation amongst their staff, a closer-knit team and better problem solving capabilities within the organisation.

Each of our sessions focuses on a specific potterypainting project. Sessions can be run on a standalone basis or as part of a block of weekly or monthly courses.

Increasingly, I’m also running courses for people who understand the benefits of a clear, calm mind.

Our mindfulness sessions are absorbing, relaxing and give the participant a new skill as well as raising self confidence levels and creating pride in their end result.

We’ve had some great feedback from both corporate and individual clients following their workshop sessions.

“It challenged the way we think ”, “Our team is much better equipped to face the challenges ahead” “Lorna provides a valuable visual prop as a reminder of what is important to our business” “The course was well structured and has a wonderful element of fun!”

Contact Lorna Watkinson on: 07788779711 www.rainbowpotterypainting.co.uk info@rainbowpotterypainting.co.uk 95

ARTS NEWS

Evita set for Sunderland With more than 20 major awards to its credit, and an Oscar winning film version starring Madonna and Antonio Banderas, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita is iconic. Featuring some of the best loved songs in musical theatre, including Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, On This Night of a Thousand Stars, You Must Love Me, and Another Suitcase in Another Hall, this spectacular production promises once again to be the theatrical event of the year. Don’t miss the 2017 UK tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s extraordinary musical Evita.

Following its smash hit run at London’s Dominion Theatre, Bill Kenwright’s production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita is set to thrill audiences once again across the UK. The tour will open in Bromley on Thursday 12 January and is set to visit Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 4- Saturday 8 April 2017.

Telling the story of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, Evita follows Eva’s journey from humble beginnings through to extraordinary wealth, power and iconic status which ultimately lead her to be heralded as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’ by the Argentine people.

Further dates and star casting to be announced.

A new musical production based on the much-loved movie masterpiece Singer and actress Sarah Harding will make her stage debut in Bill Kenwright’s new production of the timeless story Ghost – The Musical. She will star as Molly opposite Andy Moss as Sam. Taking its inspiration from the classic movie, this innovative reimagining will feature an expanded book, new music and original staging. The show will tour the UK this autumn, opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre (1 Sep) and coming to Sunderland Empire (26 Sep – 1 Oct).

For over ten years Sarah Harding was part of one of the most successful pop acts in UK history, Girls Aloud. With 20 consecutive Top Ten singles, Girls Aloud received 5 Brit Award Nominations and

Box Office: (0191) 454 1234

Mill Dam South Shields NE33 1ES www.customshouse.co.uk

became the first girl group since the Spice Girls to achieve 6 consecutive Top 3 singles. Sarah’s acting credits include Bad Day, Coronation Street and St Trinians 2: The Legend of Fritton’s Gold.

Joining Sarah on stage is Andy Moss. Andy is best-known for starring as Rhys Ashworth in Channel 4’s Hollyoaks for 8 years. His credits also include Cutting It, Coronation Street and most recently he appeared as Paul Cuthbert in the long running BBC soap opera Doctors.

With book and lyrics by Bruce Joel Rubin, Ghost – The Musical will be directed by Bob Tomson and choreographed by Alistair David.

“Let your event take centre stage” Weddings, Conferences & Events 96

ARTS NEWS

What’s on this September?

Mini Mayfair Rock Night September 3 Newcastle City Hall T: (0191) 277 8030 www.newcastlecityhall.org RJ Thompson September 3 Sage Gateshead T: (0191) 443 4661 www.sagegateshead.com Sister Act September 5-10 Sunderland Empire T: (0191) 566 1040 www.atgtickets.com/venue/sunderland-empire Jason Manford September 7 Whitley Bay Playhouse T: (0844) 248 1588 www.playhousewhitelybay.co.uk Eric Burdon & The Animals September 7 Newcastle City Hall T: (0191) 277 8030 www.newcastlecityhall.org

Mary Poppins prepares to fly onto the stage at Theatre Royal The full cast has been announced for the Disney and Cameron Mackintosh multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins, which will play at the Theatre Royal from 9 Sep – 29 Oct 2016.

The magical story of the world’s favourite Nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane has been triumphantly and spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible effects, unforgettable songs and a critically acclaimed cast.

The show stars Zizi Strallen as Mary Poppins, Matt Lee as Bert, Neil Roberts as George Banks,

Record of the month Blossoms

Toots & the Maytals September 9 O2 Academy Newcastle T: (0191) 260 2020 www.academymusicgroup.com

Rebecca Lock as Winifred Banks, Penelope Woodman as Miss Andrew and Wendy Ferguson as Mrs Brill.

Grimm Tales September 13-17 The People’s Theatre T: (0191) 265 5020 www.peoplestheatre.co.uk

Zizi Strallen most recently starred as Lana in Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man. Her previous West End credits include Cats, Rock of Ages, Dirty Dancing and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Ronan Keating September 14-15 Newcastle City Hall T: (0191) 277 8030 www.newcastlecityhall.org

Tickets are from £22.50 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21.

‘Hello hello who put love in my head? I know I know, it’s made of lead’ isn’t the deadliest of rhyming couplets to kick off your new LP with but I can assure you it gets much better than that. After supporting The Stone Roses at their homecoming Manchester gigs and topping the UK album chart with this, their debut offering, Blossoms have had quite the few months. Spearheaded by synth-laden lead single ‘Charlemagne’ its little surprise the stockport quintent’s self-titled album has catapulted them into the sphere of public awareness. There’s an approach to songwriting, perhaps something similar to the 1975 as they seamlessly weave 1980’s electro-pop with snarling indie-rock. The result is a catalogue of bright, jangly pop-rock tunes which sound genuinely great. The real standout proves to be the neworder influenced Texia, which is brimming with dancefloor sparkle. Bristling with energy on stage, Blossoms have acquired a growing reputation as a live act, their date at The Riverside Newcastle on October 3rd is therefore not one to be missed.

Educating Rita September 14-17 The Customs House T: (0191) 454 1234 www.customshouse.co.uk Cats September 19-24 Sunderland Empire T: (0191) 566 1040 www.atgtickets.com/venue/sunderland-empire The Season Ticket September 23 – October 8 Northern Stage T: (0191) 230 5151 www.northernstage.co.uk Professor Brian Cox September 24 Newcastle City Hall T: (0191) 277 8030 www.newcastlecityhall.org Putting The Band Back Together September 28-30 Northern Stage T: (0191) 230 5151 www.northernstage.co.uk

“More than just a theatre” Box Office: (0191) 454 1234

Mill Dam South Shields NE33 1ES www.customshouse.co.uk

THEATRE CINEMA RESTAURANT EVENTS GALLERY 97

ARTS INSIGHT

Your office can say a lot about you,

Commission an Artist. They complete paintings of your dogs, cats, ho say it with art tracts, landscapes, fantasy – you think it, they make it!

e team themselves love to help clients and ists with their artwork. Artists can also uggle sometimes and, with a couple of artists the back office team, Commission An Artist acutely aware of the issues artists face.

The process is very simple:

Step 1 - Submit Your Brief by clicking the button below. Try to give us as mu information as you can so that we can good feel for your project.

wever, Commission an Artist artists are Your office can say a lot about you but too many peoplefor areour ignoring Step 2 -Wait artists to respond ver alone, there is full support before, during the value of artworks in brightening up their If you wantup to 48 hours brief.workplace.

This usually takes d after the commissions.

Having done this to leave a lasting memory and something to talk about between your so long, the team can usually pre-empt anytry it with Step clients then art.3 - One of our expert art consult ues and resolve them quickly. contact you with some options, prices profiles to choose from. e project management services make the

That is the message from process Commission an Artist, is based in North ole commissioning verywhichsimple.

Yorkshire and finds artists to produce original works for everything from businessan premises to homes. mmission Artist provides a safe cushion The look and feel of your offices says a lot about you and artworks can m which tothecommission an inmorea productive. improve atmosphere in which people work,artist making them Alternatively, a drab office can send out a negative message. Commission ofessional and safe environment. This is for an Artist regularly completes art projects for corporate clients who want something a little different. th clients and artists who would like that They recently supplied thirty pieces of art to a client who was looking for ra bit of support so figures thatin action youalongaren’t images of famous sporting with other on famousyour people like John Keynes and Albert Einstein. The company, Spreadex, wanted to have n any more. something a bit different, and something their staff and clients had not seen before.

The results outstanding, have the 1966 World Cup with mmission anwere Artist is they a great platform toBobby Moore holding the cup in that famous image, but yet the artwork has been in a unique way for them. This isfrom a prime example how youthe can leave e, wherecreated there are artists all ofover a lasting memory for your clients. rld, at different stages of their careers, so We have many example of previous work, including works done for a club in Farringdon, London, where artist painted a pop art mural directly onto the ey charge relative tothetheir experience and wall in a dark area. It completely transformed the space into something very cool. Commission an Artist’s tipsthat on choosing and displaying artwork include: pabilities.

This means your budget is colour foreasily your offices -with that can mean everythingchoice from furniture of to ually met Thinkquite a great a brightly colored piece of artwork hung to brighten up a pale, beige wall. ists for your project.

Incorporate your company colours into the artwork, so if your colours are

Step 4 - Choose your artist and get yo Get thecommission lighting right - a dark room can feel depressing fl orescent started.

We and will look after lighting can be too harsh so choose bright but natural bulbs which shows off yourevery artwork step of the way. red, white, and blue, then perhaps some more abstract images could work very well.

ecorating an office with tasteful artwork and other design objects gives D the company or executive an opportunity to display their personality so choose pieces that reflect your personal taste – something that will give you pleasure when you look at them ood art serves as a conversation starter so do not be afraid to try something G a bit more challenging than a ‘safe’ landscape - but it is important to work out before you commission something what image you are trying to project.

S omething personal or local to the area are also great ways to approach your art project. It can be a real ice breaker, just be careful you don’t go too mad!

Commission an Artist are professional and experienced project managers, so to get them involved visit www.commissionanartist.co.uk www.twitter.com/uk_artists www.facebook.com/commissionanartist Instagram - www.instagram.com/commissionanartist For more information please contact us by -Tel: 0800 298 7673

Email: info@commissionanartist.co.uk 98

www.commissionanartist.co.uk

ct us by -Tel: 0800 298 7673 Email: info@commissionanartist.co.uk

TRAVEL INSIGHT

Out & About - Girvan Stationmaster Alex Nelson has been suggesting places to go by train each month and for September, he takes a look around Girvan.

Girvan, on the south west coast of Scotland, is not the first destination of choice when considering a rail trip to the coast. It takes longer to get to from the north east than London, and is on the indirect route to Stranraer via Kilmarnock. It can be reached along the Tyne Valley to Carlisle, then on into Scotland via Dumfries, although many journey planners route you instead via the more circuitous but faster route through Edinburgh, Glasgow and Ayr. The answer is to go one way and back the other, to take full advantage of the scenery options.

I stayed last autumn for two nights at the Royal Hotel, a few minutes walk from the station on Montgomerie Street, using a voucher from Groupon. It’s a basic, friendly hotel, and I had a good view from the front first floor bedroom. Read the reviews for the Royal on tripadvisor, but I had no complaints. If you want to go a little upmarket, try the Queens Hotel further along Montgomerie Street, and if you really want to go upscale and have over £300 per night to burn, book into Donald Trump’s Turnberry Hotel and golf resort which has

come under the spotlight given his USA Presidential nomination. That’s a bit out of town to the north and you would need a car to get around, but the railway is quite sufficient if you stay at the Royal or the Queens.

You would not go to explore Girvan in the winter, but a late summer stay, about this time of year, is eminently possible, and whilst you could explore the main street in 20 minutes, the harbour and the promenade can be enjoyed. A small boat goes out 16km to Ailsa Craig, the volcanic rock which sits off Girvan, which is now an uninhabited island.

Also in the harbour is the RNLI station which is the home to one of the Mersey Class lifeboats, often open to the public. Last year, Girvan lifeboat station became briefly famous as it had a 17 year old schoolboy, Sean Lowe, on the strength as a volunteer crew member. He has his RNLI pager during school lessons and had permission to leave on his bike to pedal to the lifeboat station if there was a “shout”. The RNLI is one of Britain’s best loved charities, and most effective charities too, saving lives at sea from stations around the coast.

A visit to one of their lifeboat stations is always worthwhile, whether in Girvan or elsewhere.

The station in Girvan first opened in 1877, but the building burned down in January 1946. The London, Midland and Scottish Railway which owned the station was aware of impending nationalisation and elected not to rebuild at its own expense.

When nationalisation went through, the new British Railways picked up the tab for building a new station, but used a 1930s design which was not completed until 1951. It’s an evocative design, now showing its age in peeling paintwork, but is still welcoming visitors to the town. I enjoyed a good Chinese and Indian meal from the town’s ethnic restaurants, and used Girvan as a base to discover the delights of both Ayr and Stranraer, travelling to each by train. I even managed a side trip to Prestwick Airport, which makes Durham Tees Valley look busy! Girvan is no daytrip destination owing to the journey time, but for a night or two away it’s worth considering a visit to this largely forgotten corner of Scotland.

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 99

TRAVEL INSIGHT

Japan - A Place of Contrasts, Curiosity and Culture Clashes

by Travel Writer, Ken Spearen To this day, rural Japan remains steeped in tradition, ancient culture and mystique. Before travelling it is essential to buy a Japanese etiquette guide book to ascertain what is, and what is not, “acceptable” behaviour in Japan.

I’ve found Japanese language and culture totally fascinating ever since the multi award-winning TV mini-series Shogun was first aired in the UK in the late 1980s. The story is loosely based on a novel of the same name by James Clavell who was also the TV mini-series’ producer. His adaptation depicts an English pilot major John Blackthorne being blown off course and shipwrecked off the coast of Japan in 1600. With the essential help of a pretty Japanese translator, his life-transforming cultural experiences in not only surviving in feudal Japan in the early 17th century but also rising to the high rank of Shogun are central to the story.

Our tour guide informed us that the simple greeting of hello, “konnichiwa” in Japanese (pronounced konitchy-wah), initially breaks down social barriers bringing a smile in the process but be aware that tipping, no matter how well meant, is seen as very offensive. As in all other culturally different countries, you simply need to follow the local rules and regulations if you do not want to extend your stay - the hard way! Don’t be alarmed by the proliferation of people wearing surgical face masks. By far the most common reason is they have a cough or a cold and they're wearing one out of consideration to others. However, the younger generation have adopted them as a fashion statement. You see, kids are daft and gullible everywhere in the world.

Many travel commentators would have us believe that whilst Japan is technically a capitalist country with a free market economy, Japanese society, culture and the way its people think remain true to its past. This does not interfere with everyday tourism providing you do not go off the beaten track and remain within the bounds of the country’s idea of what tourists want/need to see.

In other words, be mindful of where you point your camera/iPhone.

Try to witness, or better still, take part in, a traditional tea drinking ceremony (Chanoyu) seated on the floor. This above all else clearly demonstrates centuries of culture and tradition and the simple cuppa back home will never be the same again. Be aware though that the full length Japanese version can last for 4 hours so opt for the tourist version of tea only, unless of course, you don’t mind a numb derriere and cold tea.

Getting to Japan independently is a nightmare as visas, permits and other appropriate documentation are mandatory to gain access to the country.

Whilst you may only get a sanitised version of the Japanese way of life with an organised package, it is better than trying to go it alone. You must remember that up until 1897, Japan was a closed country and totally unaware of the world around it.

Despite being continually dogged by earth tremors, today’s Japan remains one of the most visited countries in the world attracting nearly 20m international tourists last year. Unsurprisingly, Japan’s near neighbours China, South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong account for nearly half of all visitors but the USA with over a million visitors and the UK with over ¼ million visitors are up there in the top ten.

Japan boasts an amazing 19 World Heritage Sites, including the stunning Himeji Castle and the historic monuments of ancient Kyoto and Nara.

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Other, more obvious tourist attractions include the somewhat schizophrenic neon city of Tokyo where east and west cultures collide and, somewhat surprisingly, the re-built city of Hiroshima as well as the iconic Mount Fuji and ski resorts such as Niseko in Hokkaido and Okinawa Island.

Riding its world famous 200mph Shinkansen bullet train is also an experience in itself even if you are not going anywhere in particular whilst a visit to watch the snow monkeys bathe in hot springs in the Jigokudani Snow Monkeys Park is nothing short of mesmerising and should not be missed. NonDarwinists should go there with an open mind.

Although hordes of camera-wielding Japanese tourists are a common sight around the world, domestic tourism remains a vital part of the Japanese home economy and Japanese culture. I was amazed to find from our tour guide that most Japanese youngsters and their parents holidayed at home and their highlight of the year would be a visit to Tokyo Disneyland or perhaps Tokyo Tower, a 333 metre high observation structure very reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower. Older students are also dedicated staycationists and prefer the more intellectual charms of Okinawa Island or Hokkaido National Park for their sole annual holiday.

Getting to Japan from the UK is problematic but then some things worth doing don’t come easy.

My advice is to book with a specialist UK-based tour operator so that everything is arranged and taken care of in advance of travelling. You will be up against a mountain of bureaucracy and red tape if you try to go it alone.

Specialist travel agents include Virgin Holidays, Thomas Cook, Kuoni and Travelsphere but many others (including some cruise operators using the ship as a five star base) provide a tourist service to Japan.

TRAVEL INSIGHT

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LEISURE NEWS

Comedy favourite ready to raise laughs at

Oyster

Festival

TV funnyman Bobby Davro is set to get the guests chuckling at Hardwick Hall Hotel on 30 September at the 13th annual North East Oyster Festival.

The comedy icon will join 80s pop heartthrob Paul Young for a day of entertainment and fine food in what has become one of the leading events on the North East’s social calendar.

The event is organised every year by Ramside Estates. Proceeds will be donated to Butterwick Hospice Care which operates hospices in Stockton and Bishop Auckland to care for people of all ages with progressive life-limiting illnesses.

Bobby Davro made his TV debut in 1981 and quickly became one of the country’s mostloved entertainers. In 2007 he joined the cast of Eastenders as the lovable cockney rogue Vinnie Monks. In recent years he has also appeared on ITV’s Dancing on Ice and Channel 5’s Celebrity Big Brother where he finished fourth.

which will include a Champagne reception, a

The stars will also be joined at the event by soul singer Diane Shaw, who has performed alongside stars like Sister Sledge, Irish folk musicians JJ Galway Band and North East comedian Steve Walls who will compere.

for an incredibly good cause and I am confident we

Tickets are being snapped-up fast for the event,

three-course fruit de mer menu, oyster stalls and complimentary beer, lager and wine.

John Adamson, Director of Ramside Estates, said: “The aim of the event is to have a great day but to ultimately raise as much money as we possibly can can have our best year yet.”

Tickets cost £140 per person and are available by calling 01740 620 253 or by emailing events@hardwickhallhotel.co.uk.

The Botanist earns its poetic license One of Newcastle’s most popular bars has partnered with Wearside’s Poetic License to extend its specialist gin menu. It now offers 11 unique spirits from artisan and small-batch distilleries around the country.

The Botanist in Monument Mall has made an exciting addition to its aptly-named The New World Gin List, which features some of the UK’s

finest examples, all local to each of the sites that discovered them.

Northern Dry Gin is the product of independent Sunderland distiller Poetic License, which creates high quality gin and vodka using traditional production methods dating back to the 1800’s.

Paul Burns, The Botanist’s Senior Business Development Manager, said: “Poetic License was

first suggested to us by our head bartender Jordan Fish. Since bringing in the Northern Dry edition it has become a hugely popular choice with customers and gin-enthusiasts alike.”

Poetic License was launched in autumn 2015 by Entrepreneur and Managing Director of Tavistock Hospitality, Mark Hird, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the leisure and hospitality sector.

26 Goldspink Lane | Sandyford | NE2 1NR, UK | t: 0191 232 5888 102

LEISURE NEWS

Head north for Snowdogs and an overnight stay in Sunderland Visitors heading to the North East this autumn for the region’s largest ever, free, public art trail are being encouraged to extend their stay at a top hotel.

From 19 Sep - 29 Nov, streets, parks and open spaces across Tyneside and Gateshead will be home to Great North Snowdogs, a trail of 60 large and 95 mini sculptures inspired by the Raymond

Briggs story, The Snowman and The Snowdog.

To help visitors get the most of their trip to the North East, The Hilton Garden Inn Hotel Sunderland, is offering a 20% discount on its best available rate, subject to availability.

The 141-bedroom hotel, adjacent to Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light, is the only one of its brand

between Birmingham and Glasgow. Along with a state-of-the-art gym, it houses the highly regarded Karbon Grill, a pan-American fusion restaurant.

Reservations can be made by contacting 0191 500 9494 or enquiries@hgisunderland.com.

Callers must quote Great North Snowdogs at the time of booking.

Guide to shine a light on food and drink scene Sunderland’s food and drink scene is being celebrated thanks to a new guide that will hit the city’s streets.

Eat Drink Sunderland, which showcases some of the best bars, cafés and restaurants that the city has to offer, will soon be on businesses’ coffee tables and in hotel rooms across Sunderland. The 36-page magazine, as well as 20,000 copies of an A6 foldout guide which is being distributed throughout the city, will help guide hungry visitors to the perfect place to fill up.

For those who do not get their hands on a printed copy, an online version of the fold out guide is available at www. sunderlandvibe.co.uk with a downloadable city centre map to guide them through the places they may want to sample.

Partners including Sunderland AFC, Sunderland City Council, the Bridges Shopping Centre and the University of Sunderland have teamed up to make the guide possible.

The Vault prepares to open An innovative £2M scheme to create the UK’s first hotel for young people with autism and learning difficulties has been given the green light by Gateshead Council.

The St Camillus Care Group has been granted planning permission to transform the former Rivers Edge Hotel at Gateshead into The Vault, which will not only provide respite care for young people with a range of learning difficulties but will also train them to work within the hospitality industry.

Initially 20 jobs will be created to carry out the refurbishment, with 30 jobs available within the hotel when it is opened in October.

Already the ground floor of the hotel is operating as an Americanstyle diner which is currently being used by people with autism. The hope is that eventually this will be open to the public.

The hotel also has a function room which is currently in use by groups, with a long term aim of it being available for hire for business meetings and celebrations.

Acclaimed Head Chef appointed at new £700k Quayside restaurant The Jolly Fisherman on the Quay has recently opened at the former Waterline pub site and has gained a renowned Head Chef to deliver its quality seafood offering.

Adam Hegarty will oversee the restaurant’s kitchen, creating seasonal food made using only the best fresh seafood and locally sourced produce, having headed up some of the region’s top eateries, including Wynyard Hall and The Baltic’s Six Restaurant.

The 40-year-old, originally from Devon, has lived in the North East for 15 years and has over 18 years’ industry experience, enjoying a stint at London’s Claridge’s in the early days of his career.

Adam will run the restaurant’s two kitchens, which are being installed to meet the venue’s focus on exceptional food, as part of the £700,000 venture which has created up to 25 local jobs.

The project is being led by local restauranteur David Whitehead, in partnership with Star Pubs and Bars. David also runs the popular Jolly Fisherman pub in Craster and Plough Hotel in Alnwick.

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INTERVIEW

Your Eye on the Region

Samantha Doyle Area Sales Manager - Sodexo Prestige

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

It might come as a surprise to some people to discover that I was actually born in South Africa, in Springs Provence, near Johannesburg. I moved to the North East when I was really young and we settled in Chester-le-Street. I have always been really passionate about the North East and never had any inkling to leave. People seem to think if you work in the hospitality industry you need to move around but luckily I’ve always found plenty of opportunities in the region.

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

If you’re a business person from the North East trying to encourage people from outside of the region to come here, it can sometimes be a challenge - mainly because of the perceptions that are still held by some people in the south. However we’ve definitely been helped by events such as the Rugby World Cup which has put us well and truly on the map - and not just because of our sporting pedigree. It may sound like a cliché but it is true that we are friendly and welcoming and that creates a strong foundation when building relationships, something that doesn’t always come naturally in some cities/ countries.

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

Well it’s not the weather! Seriously, it’s the location and close proximity to the different

scenery, the fact that we can get from the city centre to the beach or to the heart of stunning countryside in no time at all. We have everything on our doorstep - culture, history, great shopping - everything. And of course the great football passion in this region which I share.

Do you have a favourite hotspot for a business meeting?

I am lucky enough to have a selection five amazing venues in the city centre of Newcastle which I look after, which take some beating in terms of location and variety. A firm favourite is our corporate box, at St. James' Park, overlooking the hallowed turf, simply stunning and which offers the opportunity to step outside the box into the stands for a breath of fresh air or simply to take a break.

Where do you like to eat in the region?

My top three favourites are local to where I live: The Red Lion at Plawsworth, The Cookson Spice in Chester le Street or Bill's in Durham.

Where do you like to unwind in the North East?

I am always on the go and very rarely do I relax and unwind, however, family time is incredibly important to me so this means a trip to the local park, cinema or exploring on Waldridge Fell and spending quality time with my little boy, Freddie.

Are the people really friendlier?

Most certainly yes and renowned for it,

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something I believe we should all be very proud of.

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

Such a difficult question, it's hard to pick just one view however Durham Cathedral, the Quayside and coastline are all equally impressive - take your pick!

Do you think living and working in the North East offers the same opportunities as elsewhere in the UK? I believe all opportunities are out there, you just need to reach out and grab them for yourself, no matter where you are in the world. In the hospitality industry, there is more potential than ever in the North East, however I would encourage anyone starting out in the industry to gain as much experience in different venues and cities as possible before settling down.

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

I haven’t worked elsewhere for long periods of time, however my current role takes me all over the country as we have venues in London, Liverpool, Leeds and Brighton to name but a few. My heart has always been in the North East, and I am very grateful for the opportunities it has sent my way. I continue to work very closely with our convention bureau to promote the North East as a great place to live and do business.

INTERVIEW

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LEISURE INSIGHT

Nothing championship about these facilities!

by Michael Grahamslaw

Father & Son sample some pre-season action in St. James’ Park’s Heroes Suite as Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem roll into town.

Despite being a season-ticket holder for nigh on 40 years (now that’s what I call emotional masochism) I have never once been to a preseason friendly. It’s simply never appealed to me personally and even the chance to observe how any new signings are settling in is outweighed by that overwhelming lack of context. What I do love however is a good old bit of corporate hospitality and as I knew from my previous experiences, the fantastic team at St. James’ Park have this down to an absolute tee.

Brand new for last season’s 2015/16 (bitter-sweet) campaign, I was yet to experience the Heroes Club but was soon to learn of its unequivocal virtues. I was accompanied by my son Jack, who is similarly plagued with the terrible affliction of being black and white daft, but had never been to a pre-season fixture either.

Upon arrival we were greeted warmly by our hostess and shown to our table.

Still being so new, the surroundings in the Heroes Club are sleek, modern and impeccably furnished whilst the open-plan layout creates a real sense of warmth and camaraderie with neighbouring tables. I also noted that such a floor design would encourage networking with other potential

business folk- some food for thought I think.

The plethora of dishes available was equally impressive as diners can indulge in as much or as little as they fancy and aren’t tied down to a fixed three course offering. This buffet style format is refreshingly casual yet also of high quality which was especially evident in the selection of starters.

Vast seafood platters were set up in the corner of the room which consisted of all our “fruits de la mer” favourites including Salmon, King Prawns, Crab, Crayfish, Sea Bass and Lobster. Fill your boots Michael my son! Jack meanwhile plumped for an excellent-looking Northumberland Broth accompanied by a crusty white roll which he assures will “warm the old cockles”on future cold winter days. These plates were cleared most efficiently by our obliging waitress who was more than happy to supply us with another couple of pints in the process!

Our main courses proved to be no less fulfilling.

Tasked with bringing a touch of the oriental to Tyneside, one of the executive chefs set up station in the centre of the room and expertly began cooking up stir fry dishes on request whilst I watched on in awe of his culinary brilliance. He stirred within me a desire to order chicken teriyaki, an old favourite of mine, which was doused www.nufc.co.uk 106

perfectly in soy sauce and was bursting with flavour. Jack, then having discovered the hot buffet, returned to the table with his plate piled high with Pork tenderloin, Chicken fillet in a white wine sauce and a selection of seasonal vegetables. An array of eye catching desserts; profiteroles, chocolate fudge cake and vanilla cheesecake were also earmarked for the half time interlude. Naturally, all this was washed down by another brace of match day beers.

Following a rallying cry from 1969 Fairs Cup winner Bobby Moncur, our guest speaker for the afternoon, we assumed our seats in the Director’s Box (yes the Director’s box!) to scrutinize how Rafa’s boys have been shaping up pre-season. Situated in the Milburn Stand and hovering bang on the halfway line, these seats boasted incredible panoramic views across the hallowed turf and were unquestionably the best in the house. In the end, The Magpies clung on for a 3-2 victory and a deeply contented Jack and I returned to the suite to dissect the game over coffee & liquors.Corporate hospitality at St James’ Park provides a truly memorable experience for everyone-including non-football fans.

Given the unrivalled seating, attentive service and delicious cuisine we left feeling like heroes...if only just for one day!

In the Heart of Jesmond The Caledonian Hotel Newcastle is located in the heart of Jesmond, a chic and leafy area, only one mile from Newcastle city centre with a vibrant cafe and bar culture.

The hotel itself combines Georgian architecture with a contempory edge having recently been refurbished. 90 spacious en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped conference and banqueting centre, and a range of dining options are all available. Choose from the relaxed ambience of the Billabong Bistro, the lively Billabong Bar or alfresco dining on the heated outdoor terrace.

With ample free private parking and easy access to all major transport links, including Newcastle International Airport, the Caledonian Hotel is ideally situated for both the business and leisure traveller.

To make your booking email events@caledonian-hotelnewcastle.com or tel: 0191 281 7881

LEISURE INSIGHT

Sunday lunching with Harriet

by Clarke Kennedy

Having been given the elbow by Caroline, my girlfriend of two weeks, I’ve decided to pick myself up, dust myself off and get back out there. No man is an island as they say.

Fortunately, I seem to have really have landed on my feet this time.

Dashing between meetings in my old beemer one morning, I stopped to fill up for some juice.

Over on filling station 4 meanwhile a blonde bombshell seemed to be having a bit of troubs with the unleaded trigger. Nothing the old Oxbridge razzle-dazzle can’t fix. Accentuating my pectorals as I went, I waltzed over to knock her bandy. She told me her name was Harriet, she worked in telesales and she really liked my new corduroy slacks -15 sheets from Greenwoods. I even managed to wangle her fuel through my new Northern Insight expense account – and she’d really like to see me again! How about that for a runaway petrol pump romance!

With Caroline’s spectre still looming over me though I would have to really pull out the stops this time. Luckily my boss wanted me to sample Sunday Lunch at Matfen Hall Hotel in Northumberland of which I’d heard many great reports. Determined to get my factual facts in order I did a bit of online recon and soon learnt that Matfen Hall dates all the way back to the 17th century and is now a popular countryhouse hotel and golf resort. Just the jobbie.

We spluttered up the driveway in my 3-series and Harriet revealed she was already blown away by the idyllic setting. The striking stately home cuts an imposing figure thanks to its magnificent

brickwork and immaculate up-keep whilst the sundappled fairways which surround the hotel only enhance this glorious spectacle. Already feeling hugely impressed, Harriet & her Blue Harbour-clad lothario sauntered through to the 2AA rosette Library Restaurant, admiring on our way the portraits of the gentry which adorn the walls. After being greeted pleasantly we were advised that we should first decide on our order in the lounge area before adjourning to the restaurant a little later. A chance to unfurl some of my repertoire!

Settling in over a most agreeable bottle of Malbec we got to know each other a little better, with Harriet joking that this was exactly the type of place she pictured me growing up in the home counties! Oh deary me. We sat in the capacious library lounge glancing over our menus and soon noticed that it boasted fantastic value for money with a 3 course lunch available for only £22.95 PP. Having made up our minds we were then welcomed into the restaurant itself which exudes stately allure thanks to grand high ceilings and book-lined walls. The tucker was equally great as I kicked off with home smoked duck breast on a bed of carrot and orange salad whilst Harriet opted for lemon scented smoked salmon terrine accompanied by fromage blanc and rye croustinis. There was a notable freshness to the “foliage” which our www.matfenhall.com 108

waitress assured was down to the kitchen sourcing only the best local produce available. Harriet was certainly gratified, this one was not getting away!

Just as I was trying to initiate a spot of under-thetable “footsie” we were interrupted by the arrival of our mains. I plumped for Roast Beef which was thinly sliced, melt in the mouth tender and cooked to a perfect pink - set off exquisitely by the vino.

Harriet meanwhile decided on pan-roast corn fed chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce. Steamed vegetables consisting of carrots, broccoli and green beans all cooked al-dente were housed next to us in a huge tureen and proved to be deliciously crunchy.

This certainly left Harriet salivating or it could this have been down to my wood spice parfum?

I spotted desserts of dark chocolate tart and apple crumble travelling to adjacent tables and whilst they did look like tempting tucker I couldn’t have possibly partook. I had fencing trials that Monday night.

A few weeks on from our luncheon, I seem to have banished the ghost of girlfriends past with myself and Harriet now “going steady”. Given the sumptuous food, scenic backdrop and inescapable elegance it is very easy to be seduced by the charms of Matfen Hall. I also hear they do weddings?

LEISURE INSIGHT

In Conversation With...

Tina Lowes Director of Sales, Lumley Castle Hotel

Tell me about your career so far?

I originally started with Barclays in their Seaham branch before moving to Heathrow Airport as a foreign cashier. Following this I enjoyed 10 years in various roles one of them in the City on Lombard Street which was hugely challenging and enjoyable.

I then returned to the North East in the 90s with various roles from branch banking to training and then agriculture, corporate and business. Then followed spells as an Area Business Manager, a Regional Business Director and Head of Premier and Small Business for the North East...all in their own way a challenge, but great fun.

What attracted you to a move into the Hotel Industry?

After taking redundancy in early 2015 I had a 6 month spell at Tyne Metropolitan College.

Following a family bereavement I took a break and then decided to do something completely different.

I had no hospitality experience whatsoever but decided to go for the role here and after 4 interviews got it...it somehow seemed meant to be!

Describe a typical “Day in the Life” I look after a team of 10 and am responsible for

weddings, special events, banquets, marketing, conferences, events and accommodation.

Daily I have to ensure we are maximising sales opportunities and I do a lot of business development myself which involves showcasing Lumley’s facilities to potential new clients. We are a “No Ordinary Hotel.”

What are Lumley Castles main unique selling points?

We are a Castle! Our unique facilities allow us to do something different and we have become renowned as a great venue for black tie dinners and the most popular wedding destination in the North East. This truly is a magical place and many business people love to escape here to strategise amidst the stillness and ambience on offer.

What are you currently working on?

Many things; we have recently partnered with Rockliffe , Seaham and Matfen Hall to promote the region as a venue for the American market.

In addition we are developing Chinese Weddings which are very popular, as well as an area for Outdoor Weddings. www.lumleycastle.com 110

Is there a mantra you aspire to when doing business?

Am I allowed 2? If so...customer service is key and nothing is impossible.

Where do you see the business in 5 years time?

Going from strength to strength. We are looking to achieve planning permission for a marquee for larger weddings and conferences and we will also be further developing the corporate and events side to the business.

Away from the office how do you like to relax?

I love travelling and have recently enjoyed a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean. Here I was able to indulge one of my favourite past times when cycling around Croatia, Venice and Slovenia. I am also a regular member of Sunderland Walking Club.

How would you like to be remembered?

That my glass was always half full and that I always approached any challenge with a positive attitude.

A Truly Unique Celebration With a comprehensive programme of festive events including Elizabethan Banquets, Casino Party Nights, Tribute Nights, Christmas Lunches, New Year's Events and lots more. We have something for everyone this Christmas season. We invite you to celebrate with friends, family and work colleagues and make your Christmas and New Year's Eve 2016 the best yet.

Special Offers Apply: 1 complimentary in every 20 • 10% off if the event is paid in full by the end of September

Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester Le Street, County Durham, DH3 4NX. Tel: 0191 389 1111 Christmas@lumleycastle.com www.lumleycastle.com

LEISURE INSIGHT

Splendid Chablis A couple of issues ago we highlighted the Chardonnay grape, or more precisely the ABC (anything but Chardonnay!) movement that had built up as a result of poor wine making over many years. So now let’s look in a bit more detail at one of Chardonnay’s greatest wines - Chablis.

Chablis is three things; a region, a town and a wine.

The region of Chablis is in north central France to the east of the town of Auxerre, situated half way between Paris and Beaune. Drive down the Autoroute du Soleil on your way to the south of France and you will pass it. Here the countryside consists of gently rolling hillsides made up of limestone and chalk - perfect conditions for the Chardonnay grape.

The town of Chablis is small, about half the size of Morpeth, and located some 10 miles east of Auxerrre, right in the centre of the region,. Scattered around the town are a series of tiny hamlets and it is here that most of the growers are found along with the 4,500 hectares of Chablis vineyards. It is an area very much focused on grape growing and wine production.

As a wine, Chablis is simple; it’s an appellation for white wine made from 100% Chardonnay grape.

Classic Chablis is very dry with a fresh, flinty

minerality running through it. The use of wood should be limited to only the richest, most powerful wines and most good Chablis sees no wood at all in its production.

Like many wine regions Chablis has a hierarchy with the wines here being sub-divided into 4 levels.

The geography of the region is rather like a saucer, with the land on the edge being slightly higher than that of the more central area. The vineyards situated on these higher parts enjoy a very slightly cooler climate and produce the lightest, freshest style of wine known as Petit Chablis. Elegant and racy, these make great aperitifs and are ideal with simple fish dishes. Petit Chablis accounts for about 15% of the total production.

Go further towards the centre of the region and here the land is lower and flatter and this is where the Chablis vineyards are found. Fuller and a shade richer than the Petit Chablis, this makes up the bulk of the region’s production (65%). Great wines to drink either on their own or to partner chicken or

fuller flavoured fish dishes.

Within this central area are several hillsides and where these face south and south-east are found the vineyards of the Chablis Premier Cru. The fact that these vineyards are tilted more towards the sun means the grapes they produce are fuller in flavour and result in wines with greater character. There are seventeen 1er Cru sites each individually named.

Amongst the best known are Beauroy, Fourchaume, Mont de Milieu, Montmains & Vaillons. These wines combine elegance and power – about 18% of the total production.

Finally there is Chablis Grand Cru – the ultimate expression of Chablis. The 7 Grand Cru vineyards, (Bourgros, Preuses, Vaudesir, Grenouilles, Valmur, Le Clos, & Blanchot) lie next to each other on the north side of the town of Chablis on a steep hillside that faces south and south west. Production is tiny at only 2% of the total with the wines being intensely rich and powerful; some of the world’s finest white wines.

Further information about the aforementioned wine 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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Have a sneaky peak at our 12 days of Christmas!

Sunday 20th November Christmas Market Free entry 11am-4pm

A host of exhibitors selling all kinds of festive crafts.

Christmas shopping starts here!

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Friday 2nd December Ladies *All Inclusive Night £35 pp

Buffet, *unlimited drinks, disco and waiters in the buff!!

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Friday 9th December Disco Party Night £22.50 pp 3 course festive meal, party games and disco

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Saturday 10th December Bollywood Curry Night £20 pp Curry, pint, disco and a little Bollywood dancing!

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Sunday 11th December Family Fun Panto £20 per adult • £10 per child

Lunch and Santa visit, Reindeer trail, buffet lunch, Santa and the Panto Aladdin

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Wednesday 14th December Sing along Lunch with Bingo £10 pp

Friday 16th December Disco Party Night £22.50 pp

3 course festive meal, party games and disco

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Thursday 22nd December * All Inclusive Ladies Night £35 pp

Buffet, *unlimited drinks, disco and waiters in the buff!!

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Sunday 25th December Christmas Day Lunch £43.50 per adult • £22.95 per child Make it special for all the family, Welcome drink, 4 course lunch and visit from Santa

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Monday 26th December Boxing Day Family Fun Panto £20 per adult • £10 per child

Lunch and Santa visit, Reindeer trail, buffet lunch, Santa and the Panto Aladdin

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Saturday 31st December New Year’s Eve Family Party £39.25 per adult • £25 per child

Sumptuous buffet, children’s entertainment and disco

Festive lunch, bingo and a sing song

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Thursday 15th December Festive Afternoon Tea £10 pp

Indulgent afternoon tea, and a trip back in time with our very own tribute to Doris Day

Follow us on Twitter @HIWashington

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Washington

Emerson Road, Washington, NE37 1LB Contact: 0191 418 9482 E:events@hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk www.hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk

LEISURE INSIGHT

Escape to the country Seeking rest & recuperation after a Hard Day’s Night at the office, Michael Grahamslaw checks in to County Durham’s South Causey Inn to recharge the batteries.

Situated less than 10 miles away from Newcastle City Centre in the idyllic Beamish Valley, The South Causey Inn is a hidden oasis of calm.

Originally a 2-storey farm house, this 4* Inn has been impressively extended and now boasts 37 guest bedrooms, 4 bar areas and a well appointed restaurant. Just the place then to rock up to after a business day to forget! With my Wife Lisa out “Zumba-ing”, I drafted in my son Jack, who was also feeling a little bit of the executive burnout, to keep me company.

Sat proudly atop a hill with ivy-tickled brickwork and surrounded by beautiful sloping countryside, the South Causey Inn exudes an endearing, homely charm - and after being received most warmly in the Hotel’s cosy, wood-panelled reception area, my brow began to unfurrow and I immediately felt relaxed.

We were soon to learn though that this is not your typical inn, which is something that became especially apparent after being shown to our rooms. The South Causey Inn is home to a number of themed rooms each carrying their own unique twist. Notable examples include the “American Trilogy” room; a hark back to America’s golden age which comes complete with Hollywood photographs and retro car bonnets and the “Hadrian’s Villa” with its roman ornamental lions and glistening gladiator shields. There’s even a 1960’s London Bus, a signature of the hotel which has been decked out in velvet and renovated as a unique getaway for two. With its remotecontrolled candles and plush interior, it’s a big hit

with the recently hitched.

On the cards for Jack & I though was “Captain Cook’s Cottage” which proved to be no less enchanting. With anchors, lobster pots and various other seafaring objects scattered throughout, this nautical-themed room was certainly a sight to behold. A giant Union Jack even came emblazoned on the wall. In addition to these novelty quirks was all your usual mod cons which included 3 flat screen plasma tvs (one in the bathroom), free wi-fi and a fully operational power shower. The cherry on this multi-tiered cake though happened to be our private outdoor hot tub which also comes as compulsory with a selection of the other themed rooms. “Now this is a bit of us” we joked whilst changing for dinner.

En route to the South Causey’s in-house eatery we observed a steady stream of non-guests enjoying the facility and it soon became clear why. Still feeling in need of some sustenance I was relieved to find there was a myriad of choice available. A large chunk of the menu is shaped around hearty comfort classics think; beef pies, steak and chips, sausage casserole yet the chefs also draw upon a whole host of different cuisines. Ordering then proved quite the dilemma. Although the seafood chowder caught my eye, I went for the Steak Strips which I smothered in a tangy teriyaki dip.

Jack meanwhile tucked into a saucer full of freshly steamed mussels served in a white wine and cream sauce which is a personal favourite of his. “Viva la molluscs!” he proclaimed after sliding open the final shell. Whatever that means? www.southcausey.co.uk 114

With the digestive juices really flowing our main courses arrived. Jack enjoyed Mince & dumplings accompanied by seasonal vegetables whilst I decided on the Chicken & Chorizo jambalaya, a rice dish consisting of chicken breast, mild chorizo sausage, roasted red peppers and fiery Cajun spices.

The end result was an ecstasy of flavour and I devoured it with real enthusiasm.

Totally satisfied then and with the colour well and truly back in our cheeks, two jolly sailors retired to their quarters for a restful nights sleep. We awoke the next morning, breakfasted royally on a south causey full english and left feeling fully reenergised – ready for whatever the week could throw at us. If like us you’re after a night of quirky family escapism, or you’re a businessperson looking for a cosy meeting space, the South Causey Inn is a hugely versatile venue - I urge you try it.

Registered charity number 515943

Join Sir Geoff Hurst & Gordon Banks for an evening to celebrate the 50th anniversary of England’s World Cup win.

Friday 30th September at , the former 1930’s flour mill which is now one of the most iconic venues on the Tyne.

Percy Hedley Foundation @percyhedley

HELPING YOUR BUSINESS GET TO WHERE IT NEEDS TO BE

CLIMB ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT THE PERCY HEDLEY 1966 DINNER WITH CREATIVE DESIGN & BRANDING.

www.climbcreative.co.uk

LEISURE INSIGHT

DOUBLING UP

by Jack

Grahamslaw

Jetting off to the glittering French Riviera the following day we decided to kick off the annual family holiday with real exuberance by staying at the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, which -situated only 2 minutes away from Newcastle Airport- proved to be the perfect starting point.

Upon arrival we were checked in with a flourish by the most courteous of hotel staff and it quickly grew apparent that this was not your typical Airport hotel. Of course belonging to a stable of such revered credentials it came as little surprise that the DoubleTree boasts 179 stylishly furnished guest rooms, a sleek woodpanelled bar area and a fully equipped modern fitness suite. Whilst business facilities include a large banqueting room and sophisticated meeting spaces. Not too shabby eh? And despite only being a whistle stop overnighter we did have time to soak up some of this luxury.

There were shades of a Bond picture in our deluxe interconnecting rooms which featured soft spotlight lighting, strikingly-angled glass windows and electronically controlled curtains.

A state of the art LED TV, mp3 alarm clock and mini-fridge completed this modern yet inviting feel. Further adding to the allure was the view directly overlooking the airport itself which was a truly magnificent sight to behold when lit up in the evening. I’m sure some of the more anorak-clad punters could while away hours contemplating such a spectacle!

Already feeling relaxed, unwound and with the holiday mode switch firmly “ON” we headed

down to the in-house dining venue ‘Fratello’s’ for some authentic Italian food in warm and convivial surroundings. Fratello’s (one point on a North East culinary triangle) specialise in creating vibrant, flavoursome dishes which certainly seemed to be a real hit with both holiday-making families and executive business travellers. Having this chic Italian eatery on the ground floor is unquestionably a huge asset for the hotel and is often frequented by non-guests as it provides free on-site car parking to all diners.

For starters we enjoyed Gamberoni Pastella; king prawns lightly battered in a crisp tempura coating and served with a tangy sweet chilli dip, Tomato & Basil Bruschetta; dressed expertly with just the right amount of balsamic vinegar and a Caprese Salad which was such a work of art we almost couldn’t bear to touch it. Inevitably though we “had to” and Mum reported that it was bursting with palette-awakening freshness. Praise Indeed!

For main courses me and Dad opted for a very fine Penne Arrabiata which was subtly spiced and suitably tangy, Holly tucked into Pizza Margherita whilst Mum eschewed the carbs and decided on Salmon Sachetto; a freshly steamed salmon fillet accompanied by a zesty lemon, thyme butter and served with vegetable ribbons alongside a side www.doubletree3.hilton.com 116

order of crunchy broccoli stems. A last minute attempt to shed some of the party pounds?

Desserts then were unfortunately also off the cards although we did sample an excellent bottle of Chianti which aided somewhat in sending us over. A good nights sleep however was always assured thanks to the patented “Sweet dreams

by DoubleTree bed” compulsory in every guest room. I must confess I had some trouble peeling myself away from its irresistible clutches the next morning!

We awoke in the wee small hours, showered, changed and were checked out very efficiently by- I must again stress- some of the friendliest reception staff we have encountered in some time. We did have time though to bolt down a quick continental breakfast including a selection of buttery pastries, cured meats and forest fruits (Served from half 4 every morning) which provided a bit of ballast for the journeying ahead! Therefore with our bellies filled and with palpable sense of excitement, 4 Geordies headed out into the early morning air.

Whether like us, you have an early flight to catch or you’re a business traveller seeking comfort and luxury, The DoubleTree by Hilton simply oozes class and comes highly recommended.

LEISURE INSIGHT

The Fighter and The Writer After being left hugely impressed by The Saltwater Fish Company in Fenwick’s Food Hall last month, our intrepid pair continue their tour of the region’s culinary hotspots. For September, they check out Adrianos in Gosforth.

Cookson novel,” smiled Gibbo. “It is naturally Sardinian in tone accompanied by a healthy mix of Mediterranean favourites with a variety of meat and seafood offerings in particular. Every dish is an experience.

Adrianos Restaurant stands just off Gosforth’s High Street, almost hidden to the casual eye of a passer by. However once discovered it is a gem of a place. A restaurant with genuine Mediterranean flair, it brings a dash of Sardinian sunshine to our doors.

Adriano Addis, the man behind the popular Da Vinci’s of Jesmond, has created a modern restaurant which retains a rustic feel despite its chic design.

Old wooden dressers and furniture from Italy, wooden floors, and two massive olive trees imported from Sardinia give it a unique look and appeal.

An impressive semi-open kitchen and wood burning pizza oven adds character and a variation of choice on the menu.

It was to be an evening of indulgence and satisfaction.

Gibbo began traditionally enough with an old favourite leek and potato soup (£4.95) while Glenn opted for the more exotic Carpaccio di Manzo

which is marinated thinly sliced fillet of beef served on a bed of rocket and finished with a balsamic dressing at £10.95.

Moving on The Writer plumped for Gamberoni aglio dio Peperoncini (king prawns finished with a white wine and garlic sauce with a hint of chilli).

Price £20.96.

The Fighter, meantime, struck out again trying three dishes from the menu of Sardinian Tapas: Pancia di Maile Conceci (slow cooked belly pork), Calamari Fritti Con Cipollineael Peperoncio (deep fried squad) and Alette di Pollo (chicken wings with honey and Balsamic glaze). Each priced slightly differently, the cost of the whole main course came in at £16.45 and was well worth it.

“The menu has more pages than a Catherine

“Admittedly Adrianos is not cheap but then not many restaurants of such stature are.”

Dishes like Sardinian suckling pig and Gnocchi alle Melanzane help to offer something that is a little bit different.

Having washed down their delicious first two courses with a bottle of Inzolia white wine (£15.45), it was on to a final flourish - Glenn with tiramisu (£5.95) and Gibbo, the cheese board (£6.95).

“The whole experience was a delight,” said McCrory, the North East’s first World Boxing Champion. “The decor is light and refreshing and the place has a theatrical feel to it.

“It’s friendly and lively even early in the week and the service is absolutely excellent.

“We’ll be back right enough!”

If you would like Glenn and Gibbo to review your venue, please contact Mike on mjgrahamslaw@outlook.com to co-ordinate.

118

www.adrianos.co.uk

On Thursday 18th August the Quayside’s newest restaurant, The Jolly Fisherman on the Quay, welcomed guests to its official launch party.

Guests were greeted with Champagne on arrival and had the chance to explore the results of the casual dining restaurant’s £700,000 refurbishment. Tasters of the restaurant’s food offering circulated the room whilst guests enjoyed the sounds of live acoustic music.

The venue is owned by local restauranteur David Whitehead, who is also the face behind The Plough Hotel in Alnwick, as well as the original Jolly Fisherman in Craster.

HG Afternoon Tea Insight Magazine:Layout 1

8/4/16

12:29

Page 1

Come and indulge in Afternoon Tea at Horton Grange!

Afternoon Tea at Horton Grange is a mouth-watering blend of the sweet and the savoury and the sparkling too! All of our Afternoon Teas are presented with a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite cakes on a three-tier stand and, of course, a fine selection of teas and coffees from Pumphreys!

Available 7 days a week, 12pm - 5pm

The Horton Afternoon Tea From £16.95 The Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea From £17.50 Horton Grange Country House Hotel

@HortonGrange

Horton Grange Country House Hotel, Berwick Hill Road, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne NE13 6BU. T: (01661) 860686 E: info@hortongrange.co.uk W: www.hortongrange.co.uk Photography: Jonathan Stockton Photography

Crathorne Hall Hotel

Book and benefit‌ Book your meeting or conference to take place in August, September or October and choose from the following to enhance your day: - Bacon rolls or fruit platters and orange juice to be served with your arrival refreshments - An afternoon pick-me-up of confectionery and soft drinks - Coffee and KitKat for your delegates onward journey e - Organiser goes free delegat y a d - Complimentary upgrade for the organiser should they stay over - Discounted syndicate hire Additionally the trainer can enjoy a complimentary breakfast on arrival prior to the event.

rates

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For more information or to book, please call 01642 700398 crathornehall@handpicked.co.uk rathornehall@handpicked.co.uk handpickedhotels.co.uk/crathornehall @CrathorneHall facebook.com/crathornehall Crathorne Hall Hotel, Crathorne, Yarm TS15 0AR

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

For all your hair and beauty needs

The Salon To book an appointment please call

0191 2666707

43a Station Road, Forest Hall, NE12 7AR

Ravensworth Golf Club Overlooking the Angel of the North

One of the oldest golf clubs in the Durham County Golf Union. Situated in the village of Eighton Banks just to the South of Gateshead the club is only 500 yards from the A1 giving easy access to golfers all around the region and beyond.

The Course was opened in 1906 and underwent a major redesign in 1925 by world renowned golf architect Dr Alistair Mackenzie made famous through his design of Augusta National in the USA, home of the Masters. Many features are typical of Dr Mackenzie’s course with offset greens a recognisable characteristic.

The club hosts the Ravensworth Bowl scratch open which forms one of the legs of the Durham County ‘Green Jacket’ merit event. In the days prior to air travel the competition was a favourite stopping off point for many of the world’s top professionals on their way to the Scottish Open.

Many golf courses benefit from a signature hole and at Ravensworth the par three fifth hole vies with many other holes on the course for the title. It is fair to say that Ravensworth has more than just one signature hole and whilst not a long course there are many creatively designed holes that have been enhanced over the last 100 years. At just under 6,000 yards and with a standard scratch of 70

the course has an interesting mixture of very long and very short par 4’s which gives a chance to golfers of every ability.

Rather than overplay the course, the club has gone down the route of quality golf at affordable prices. This means that the course is rarely packed although of course the Saturday and, to a lesser extent, Sunday morning competitions generally fill up quite quickly.

Most turning up to play through the week and weekend afternoons can be accommodated even at short notice and be assured of a relaxed game of golf.

The club does welcome Societies, Corporate visiting parties and Charity events and does offer discounts for group bookings of 16 or more. Corporate and individual memberships are available to suit every pocket and a flexible membership gives the occasional golfer a reduced annual subscription and pay as you play option.

Occasional golf is priced between £12 and £25 per round and Individual tee bookings can be made online.

For tee bookings, www.brsgolf.com/ravensworth/visitor_home.php or by telephone to 0191 4876014 (option 1) between 8am and 3.30pm For Corporate, Society and Charity enquiries contact: Aidan Heslop via email secretary@ravensworthgolfclub.co.uk or 07880 436949

The inaugural Northern Insight Golf Day was recently held at Ravensworth Golf Club Guests enjoyed a fantastic stableford competition with the combined team of George Galloway (ITPS), Duncan Young (Sanderson Young), Mike Bowers (Cellular Solutions) and Rod Davies (Willi's CafÊ) taking first prize. Funds were also raised on the day for Northern Insight’s chosen charity, The Percy Hedley Foundation.

LEISURE INSIGHT

Stobo Castle Health Spa The magnificent Scottish Castle is set deep within the Scottish Borders countryside in private grounds and surrounded by vast pine forests and a tranquil lake. Award-winning Stobo Castle is the ultimate escape where one can indulge in a luxurious haven, unwind and enjoy some of the finest hospitality and first class service that Scotland has to offer.

From the sweeping driveway when one enters the castle, guests are enveloped into an environment of unrivalled luxury, serenity and calmness.

The personality of each room is unique but all are rich and elegant with the perfect ambience to make one feel comfortable. The internationally renowned Cashmere Suite is Scotland’s most luxurious and opulent bedroom. A haven of sensual pleasure, it is the ultimate in style and comfort, featuring cashmere wall coverings and “his and her” four poster beds. A handcrafted, oval limestone bath weighing over a ton and big enough for two is the focal point, with an extensive range of Molton Brown products for guests to enjoy whilst relaxing in the decadence of the bathroom.

Whatever the senses desire, there are customised spa treatments available to detoxify, smooth, tone and revitalise as the mood suits, carried out by highlytrained personal therapists. The new range of Couples Treatments include special rituals designed for two people to enjoy together. Why not be massaged with 2,000 litres of warm water without getting wet on a Dreamwater massage bed?

Guests at Stobo are drawn to Scotland's only 25m Ozone Pool offering panoramic views of the Borders countryside and giant Hydrospa with relaxing water jets. Knowledgeable fitness trainers run a full range of classes throughout the day, suitable for every level of fitness. 2013 saw the complete refurbishment of the gymnasium and more recently, three outdoor, torch-lit hot tubs were added.

At Stobo, chef's create dishes sourced from only the finest Scottish produce that are not only delicious but promote healthy eating whilst satisfying even the heartiest appetite. In case there was any doubt, decadent desserts are on the menu, as are champagne, cocktails and fine wine.

The gently burbling Japanese Water Gardens are truly spectacular and are designed to promote a Zen-like calm. Water from the Stobo Lake tumbles down a cascading waterfall, whilst delightful little bridges take you over peaceful pools.

Stobo Castle combines the finest spa facilities in Europe with premier hotel service and adds a personal touch to make Stobo your very own personal haven.

www.stobocastle.co.uk 126

‘inSpire’ Private Medical Insurance Plan

Inspire private medical insurance gives you access to medical excellence at Spire Washington Hospital

Key benefits of the plan: • Receive treatment at Spire Washington Hospital – part of an award-winning hospital group • Wide range of specialities and procedures undertaken • High quality medical treatment and patient care • Clean, safe and comfortable surroundings • Premiums are not linked to claims • Nil excess option for inSpire

Call APRIL UK for your free quote

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@SpireWashington APRIL UK is a trading name of APRIL UK (Insurance Services) Ltd (registered in England No 3179382), who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registered number 308655.

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Did you know?

Nuffield Health is a not-for-profit organisation, reinvesting all profit in our hospitals, gyms, medical centres and our expert staff.

This results in accessible, innovative ways for people to get and stay healthy, from our free ‘meet our expert’ events to our leading wellbeing and clinical research.

Our aim is to make the nation healthier, we do this with: • 11,000 employees - including 4,000 clinical practitioners • 2,000 Accredited & Governed Physiotherapists.

• 200 Corporate Fitness and Wellbeing Gyms

• • • • •

31 Hospitals 77 Fitness and Wellbeing Gyms 4 Medical Centres 50 Health Clinics 66 Specialist Rehabilitation Centres

We do not offer private medical insurance, empty promises or poor quality service. What we do is combine our hospitals, health clinics, fitness & wellbeing gyms, diagnostic units and a wide range of treatments into one complete health and wellbeing service.

To find out more about the services available at Nuffield Health Newcastle Hospital call or visit our website.

0191 212 5215 / 0191 212 5274 Newcastle.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com

Gift Vouchers Available 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

Boxing promoter weathers storm & combines forces across the country

Professional boxing is as much a sport of ups and downs as any, and in the arena of the small hall show, where promoters in the NorthEast find themselves up against each other, it’s often a battle.

The likes of Eddie Hearn, Frank Warren, Dennis Hobson et al can count on using the like of Wembley, the O2 Arena, Cardiff’s Ice Arena, York Hall and more for their grand shows; here in the north-east, aside for the distant memory of ‘Geordie Roar’ at the Metro Radio Arena there’s the Lancastrian Suite, O2 Academy, Gateshead Leisure Centre, Morpeth Riverside Lodge and Hartlepool’s Borough Hall.

Now, promoter Steve Wraith, after an indifferent run through 2016, has not only teamed up with and put on a successful show in Tolworth, SW London with Joey Pyle, he’s also combined forces with Manchester’s Pat Barrett of Black Flash Promotions to take professional boxing back to the heart of Newcastle.

September 25 will see the ‘Showdown at St James’ followed swiftly by a trip to Guildford on September 30 at the Mandolay Hotel where he’ll once again work alongside messers Pyle & Edwards – two pro shows in five days anyone!

“The north-east boxing scene has never been more exciting and I would be lying if I said that promoters aren’t competing against each other at present.

There is most definitely a pecking order and some egos demand being at the top of that order.

“Not me; I’m quite happy being involved in a sport that I love and trying to do my best for the fighters. I have a good relationship with the right people in the fight game and as I continue to build my stable I can promise plenty value for money shows both up north and down south over the

next 12 months.” Working with Pyle is not new to the Tyneside promoter, they’ve a friendship going back a number of years whereas the collaboration with Barratt is borne out of circumstance, and to the benefit of Tyneside boxing meaning the current crop of experienced pros can get a runout in a globally recognised stadium. The show is to be co-headlined by Newcastle’s Sam Best and Sedgefield’s Jeff Saunders, two young undefeated prospects with very bright futures ahead of them.

There’s a history of working with other promoters as well, even though he’s only been in the pro game for four years. During this time there has been shows with Sunderland’s Phil Jeffries, staging his Summer Rumble in 2012 at the Stadium of Light, a co-promotion with Frank Warren in Gateshead, and last April he provided a successful undercard for the Hearn/Joshua show at the Arena.

Wraith has also worked with the new kids on the Tyneside block in Fighting Chance on several occasions as well as having come off the back off a very successful show in the capital. It therefore should be of little surprise that he is teaming up with Pat Barrett, a well-respected individual in the fight game and someone who has been there and done it.

Linking up was a no-brainer then as it’s no secret that Barrett has big plans for north-east boxing, much like ourselves at Pro Boxing Newcastle Gateshead.

Visit www.proboxingnewcastlegateshead.com or Twitter @proboxnclegates 130

Telephone 0191 2299632

STANNINGTON PARK I OFF GREEN LANE I STANNINGTON I NE61 6AT

More of everything inside.

This prestigious development offers a traditional village setting with 4 & 5 bedroom homes boasting a high level of specification.

NEW SHOWHOMES COMING SOON

Inside : †

• Roca sanitaryware • Steam oven • Warming drawer • Wine cooler cabinet • Appliances including a coffee maker and an additional freezer in the utility • Allowance towards ‘Hammonds’ wardrobes • Bi-fold doors on selected plots • Motorised double garage doors

Everything and more outside.

Outside: • Excellent gastro pub/ boutique hotel on your doorstep • Beautiful landscaped boulevards • Desirable location for access to local schools • Acres of open space including a communal recreation area • Excellently situated for access to the A1 • Miles of walks starting right from your doorstep • A short distance from the award winning Northumberland Coast • Stunning rural landscapes • Set in the heart of Northumberland

All this from only

£449,995 Part Exchange available*

Click: www.bellway.co.uk Call: 01670 789 572 Visit: Monday 12.00pm - 5.30pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 11.00am - 5.30pm, Thursday 11.00am - 8.00pm, Friday - Sunday 11.00am - 5.30pm.

Prices correct at time of going to press. Images are for illustrative purposes only and may include optional upgrades at additional cost. *Bellway reserve the right to refuse a Part Exchange, terms & conditions can be found at www.bellway.co.uk/special-offers/part-exchange. †Specification varies between plots and is subject to change and availability.

Bringing Back the Buzz of

"Old Italia"

Happy Hour from £4.95 Two Courses £7.95 Three Courses £9.95

Two Course Set Menu £12 (Both set & happy hour menu available Mon-Thurs 12-7pm and Fri-Sat 12-6pm)

Traditional Sunday Lunch served Free Room Hire for all functions and celebrations

The perfect venue for your Christmas party

WINE BAR RESTAURANT FUNCTIONS WWW.ROSA12.COM Rosa Twelve, 580 Durham Road, Low Fell, Gateshead, NE 9 6HX. 0191 4878257