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TRANSCRIPT
YOUR
BUSINESSMAGAZINE OF BUSINESS CLUBS NORTH EAST
SPRING 2011
Message From the Vice Chair • New Businesses • The Music Pod • Rona Kerr AccountantsBusiness Club Diary Dates • News From the Members • Business Awards
Business Club News • New Member Profiles • On the Move • International Trade
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Nicola Stephenson0843 2894708
Alison Gittins0191 388 4488
Jessica Trotman01207 585805
Jessica Trotman07958 605570
Jessica Trotman0191 387 1924
Dave Turner01609 881533
Darren Race07947 409838
Jessica Trotman0191 387 1924
CLUB CONTACTS 03
• Final Copy deadline for Summer 2011 edition is Friday 29th April 2011
Your business magazine is the publication of Business Clubs North East Ltd and is mailed direct to circa 700companies across the region. Published quarterly it features news and views from the 7 member clubs –Darlington, Derwentside, Durham, South Durham, South Tyneside, Sunderland and Tees Valley.
Disclaimer – The views expressed in Your Business Magazine are not necessarily those of Business ClubsNorth East Ltd or of the individual member clubs. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, thepublishers, or its partners, for inaccuracies or omissions, can accept no responsibility. Reproduction of anymaterial contained in this publication is strictly prohibited unless authorised by the Editor.
Magazine printed by Lintons Printers, Crook. Tel: 01388 762197. www.lintons-printers.co.uk
BCNE BOARD
ChairmanVacant
Vice-ChairmanPeter BrumbyCharlton & Co.
Company Secretary David Turner
Monica AndertonMonitan Information Services
Darren Racee4 Learning Solutions Ltd
Christine YuleDurham Business Group
Paul Finch Pulse Creative Marketing
Jayson GurneySoho IT Solutions
Magazine EditorJessica Trotman2gether
0191 387 1924 / 07958 6055700191 387 [email protected]
CONTENTS...4 Message From the Chair
4 Diary Dates
6 Club News
8 New Members
9 New Businesses
11 Business Awards
12 Business Awards
16 Business Bitesize
18 Member News
24 On the Move
26 Charity News
27 International Trade
7
9
22
20
A development during the last few months has beenthe increased diversity in the offer to MemberClubs/Networks at their monthly meetings.Speakers and topics have covered so manysubjects that members clearly perceivethem as being of interest and benefit tothem in running their business.I am sure this is one of the mainreasons for the increasingattendances.The diary dates in themagazine give moreinformation for eachmember organisationand do not forget thatby being a member ofone Club/Network, it doesentitle you to attend anotherClub/Network once during theyear.This in turn allows increasingnetworking opportunities.So do not forget to consider visitinganother member in the BCNE family, younever know who you may meet!This magazine is very popular with businessmenand women like you. Could I please, therefore,remind all of our members to consider using themagazine for part of their advertising? Rates are veryadvantageous and discounted to members.
As well as being sure you are reaching the right targetaudience, it does help the BCNE finances, which in
turn will allow BCNE to increase the range ofevents it organises. That is the end of the
commercial, but seriously we do want avibrant, successful magazine.
As I write this piece, plans are wellunderway for a special BCNE event
in May. It will be a first, an eventbetween all member
organisations. This will bean excellent opportunity
to market yourbusiness, through
the planned businessexhibition, to around
300 other businessesexpected to attend the World
Class event.Additionally there will be a guest
speaker of some repute. Who is it?That is under wraps at the moment but
keep an eye open for more details of theevent and how your business will benefit.
I hope to see you on the night.
Tuesday 15th March 2011Forget the Buzz... It’s just Social MediaJoin us on 15th march when Pascal Fintoni, ChiefExecutive of The Centre for eBusiness will take onSocial Media and will put all of the ‘noise’ aroundthe most popular social platforms; Facebook,LinkedIn and Twitter, into quiet perspective.• 6.00pm for 6.30pm• The Greenhouse, Annfield Plain, DH8 7XN• Free to members and invited guests
Tuesday 19th April 2011Quiz NightAn intelligent answer to a spring social featuringgeneral knowledge, sports, business and musicrounds all compiled by the Committee!!! No bribesaccepted. Pub quiz teams accepted!!• 6.00pm – 6.30pm• Venue tbc• Free to members and invited guests
May Meeting – BCNE Event
Contact DBN on 01207 585805Visit www.derwentsidebusinessnetwork.co.uk
Wednesday 9th March 2011‘The Power of 3’Psychologists tell us ‘There’s Something About‘The Power of 3’Tonight we will focus on 3 critical areas to yourbusiness – or indeed any business - Finance -Marketing - Human Resources.3 subjects for the price of One!• 5.30pm for 6.00pm• TEDCO Business Business Works, South Shields• Free to members and invited guests
Wednesday 13th April 2011AGM/BT in South TynesideThe AGM will be followed by a presentation by aleading member of the local business community• 5.30pm for 6.00pm• TEDCO Business Business Works, South Shields• Free to members and invited guests
May Meeting – BCNE Event
Contact Jessica Trotman on 0191 388 4488Visit www.stbn.co.uk
Thursday 14th April 2011 Money, Money, Money!......AND.... Finance! • 6.00 for 6.30pm • Wynyard Rooms, Wynyard Park, Billingham • Light Buffet on Arrival • Members FREE, guests £5.00
Thursday 12th May 2011 L.E.P. – What do they mean to my business?• 6.00 for 6.30pm• Crathorne Hall Hotel, Crathorne, Nr Yarm• Buffet on Arrival • Members FREE, Guests £5.00)
Thursday 16th June 2011 Marketing and how to raise your business profile• 6.00 for 6.30pm• Middlesbrough Football Club, The Riverside,
Middlesbrough• Buffet on Arrival • Members FREE, Guests £5.00
Contact David Turner on 01609 881533Visit www.teesvalleybusinessclub.co.uk
04 MESSAGE FROM THE VICE CHAIR
04 DIARY DATES
Peter Brumby - Vice Chair0191 [email protected]
DIARY DATES 05
Wednesday 2nd March2011‘Recovery or recession?’Andy Peace and Insolvency expert Michael Roycefrom Evolution Business Recovery ServicesLimited will talk about the main reasons there arefor businesses struggling in the North East andoffer hints and tips on how to cope with creditorpressure. Kate Schott from Enlightened Living willspeak about seizing the present moment andtaking a realistic and clear view of what you canachieve.• 6.30 for 7.00 pm• Morton Park Business Training Centre, Yarm
Road, Darlington• to book a place email
Wednesday 6th April 2011Title to be confirmedColin Kendal from the Federation of SmallBusinesses will speak at this joint meeting. • 6.30 for 7.00 pm• Venue to be confirmed
Wednesday 4th May 2011AGM/Marketing Master ClassClaire Mitchell, club Chair and MD of 19Marketing, will give tips on how to successfullymarket your business with a focus on the power ofsocial media marketing. Claire will cover how touse social media to reach potential clients inbusiness marketing campaigns.• 6.30 for 7.00 pm• Venue to be confirmed
Contact Nicola Stephenson on 0843 289 4708Visit www.darlingtonbusinessclub.co.uk
Tuesday 22nd March 2011March MadnessTonight’s event will see members and guestspitting their wits against each other in a lighthearted quiz aimed at encouraging interaction andcollaboration. Prizes will be awarded!• 6.00pm for 6.30pm• Ashbrooke Sprots Centre, Sunderland• £1.00 entry per person, guests welcome• Light refreshments provided
Wednesday 20th April 2011Online / Offline MarketingPascal Fintoni (Centre for eBusines) and PaulFinch (Pulse creative Marketing) will combine tolook at effective ways of marketing your businesson and off line. The event will provide many usefulhints and tip s to be used throughout the comingyear.• 6.00pm for 6.30pm• NE Business & Innovation Centre, Sunderland,
SR5 2TA• Free to members and guests• Light refreshments provided
May Meeting - BCNE event
Contact Jessica Trotman on 0191 388 4488Visit www.sunderlandbusinessnetwork.co.uk
25th March 2011SDBN Ball – Celebration of BusinessCome along and join us at our first Black Tie eventto celebrate the success and future of Businessacross South Durham. We will also use the eventto launch our Business Award categories for laterin 2011.• Venue – Whitworth Hall Hotel, Spennymoor from
19:00 until late• 3 course dinner• Live band• Tickets required• More details to follow
April 2011 (date to be agreed)Selling Strategies in a Tough EconomyThis event is for business owners, directors andentrepreneurs who are searching for solutions tothe business obstacles they face when trying tosell, manage a sales team, and grow business inthis tough economy. The topics covered willinclude the greatest barriers to growing sales inthis economy, why these things occur and someinsights into how to overcome them.• Venue to be decided, but will run from 18:00 to
21:00. • Great food• And a PRZE Draw!
May 2010 (date to be agreed)Drinks, nibbles and networkingA fun and social event with little to no formality.Join us for a few drinks, nibbles and a chat withfriends and colleagues.• Venue to be decided, but will run from 18:00 to
21:00. The event will:• Provide a structured but fun and high impact
networking event• Find out what every business attending can offer
or buy from you• Great food• And a PRZE Draw!
Contact Darren Race on 07947 409838Visit www.sdbn.org.uk
Tuesday 8th March 2011Telemarketing & Telephone Sales SkillsDread making those calls? Join us to hear somepractical hints and tips to help you win morebusiness!• 6.30 for 7.00 pm• Allergate House, Belmont Business Park,
Durham DH1 1TW• Light Buffet• Free to members and invited guests
Tuesday 12th April 2011Too many Easter eggs?• 6.30 pm for 7.00 pm• Chester-le-Street Cricket Club, Ropery Lane,
Chester-le-Street DH3 3PF• Followed by buffet and networking• Free to members and invited guests
May Meeting – BCNE Event
Contact Alison Gittins on 0191 388 4488Visit www.durhambusinessclub.co.uk
Wednesday 18th May 2011Business Clubs UnitedAn opportunity for businesses from around theregion to come together to promote theirbusinesses and network with other likemindedbusiness individuals.Supported by UKTI and Lloyds TSB this eveningwill feature a business exhibition and a keyspeaker providing inspiration and insight into theirworld of business.The evening will be punctuated with both formaland informal networking and will provide everyonewith great opportunities to widen their networksand develop new relationships.• 5.00pm – 10.00pm• Rainton Meadows Arena, Rainton Bridge• Attendance Free and open to any business in the
North East.• Exhibition space from £5
Exhibition space is limited so early booking isadvisable.
Places can be booked via [email protected] orcontacting Jessica on 0191 388 4488
Monday 14th March 2011 Social Media as an Effective ToolWant to get your business’ social media activityright? Want to ensure that your time is rewarded?Whether you are using social media already or arejust thinking about it, this is the course for you. Saveyourself valuable time by learning at the outset just‘how’ social media fits within more traditionalmarketing activities. Armed with all the information,you can then consider which platform is best suitedto your business needs. We will share ourassessment tools with you and help you to craft anaction plan. This hands-on session is both practicaland enlightening, putting social media into context.• 9.00am – 5.00pm• Keilder House, Lakeside Court, Team Valley
Trading Estate, NE11 0NL• £199
Contact Morag Robertson, Centre for eBusiness on 0191 487 2002Email [email protected]
Be a Lean Keen Business MachineThe current economic climate means thatcustomers for all products and services are morefocused than ever on better quality at lower prices.For every business this means increasedcompetition and therefore, the need for an efficientbusiness model which eliminates waste, has neverbeen more important. This interactive workshopwill begin by introducing the concept of leanthinking and explaining how to eliminate theprocesses which add no value in meeting customerneeds, enabling you to increase efficiency and raiseprofits. Alison will demonstrate how you can do thisin an easy to use format that allows even the mosttime challenged of businesses to identify the threevital signs that will help to ensure you stay aheadof the competition, allowing you to maximise thetime that you have on the things that are going tomake the biggest difference to your business.Finally, you will also find out how to measure thissuccess, which is vitally important in today'schallenging and competitive economic climate.Monday 21st March 2011 • St James’s Park, Newcastle• 8.30am – 12.30pm• FreeMonday 28th March 2011 • The Thistle Hotel, Middlesbrough• 8.30am – 12.30pm• Free
[email protected] orvisit www.eventsnortheast.co.uk/kybff
OTHER EVENTS
A business networking group is closing in on a membershipmilestone as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.Durham Business Club is hoping to welcome its 300thmember this year after three decades of bringingbusinesses together from across the region to share theirknowledge and experience.Today, the group boasts hundreds of members ranging
from small home-based consultants to largeorganisations such as Teesside University and DurhamCounty Cricket Club. Managing Director Christine Yule said: “We are one of thelongest surviving business networking clubs in the NorthEast and the fact we are still here and going strongsuggests we’re offering something businesses value andappreciate.“I think it’s amazing that we are close to breaking throughthe 300 milestone and that shows the benefits ofbelonging to a business networking group, and how theyare a key source of information and support whendeveloping your knowledge and skills.”Durham Business Club launched its 30th anniversarycelebrations at its January meeting when Stephen Black,whose business MTelecom Ltd has been a member formore than 23 years, cut the anniversary cake.The club – which is part of the Durham Business Group –is preparing a packed programme of events in itsanniversary year including an awards ceremony,networking events with other groups and spotlightsessions with prominent regional business figures.
For more information about Durham Business Group andits services:0191 388 4488www.durhambusinessgroup.co.uk
06 CLUB NEWS
BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUPCELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Over 50 business people were in the audience for theFebruary meeting of South Tyneside Business Network,their latest in the series of “In Conversation With…..”Stewart Boak, Managing Director and Alison MurrayOperations Director both of ship repair and conversioncompany A&P Tyne wereguests of the Network.Executive Member DavidBaxter donned his “DavidFrost persona” to talkabout how A&P have cometo be recognised throughout the world as a centre ofexcellence.Members and guests were absorbed to hear how Stewartand Alison have taken very diverse routes in theirrespective careers to become two of the directorsresponsible for the future of the only remaining shipyardon the south side of the Tyne. Stewart told of how he started in the ship repair industryin Wallsend 25 years ago. His father, a fitter in the yard,told him he would be filling in for the two week holiday ofthe Messenger Boy and the rest, as they say is history.Alison, the only female senior director within the A&PGroup, spoke about her career journey through Franceand the USA before joining A&P Tyne in 2002.
During questions from the audience both directors werevery passionate and committed in their views that, despitethe current economy, the future of A&P Tyne is verypositive and one of the biggest challenges they are facingcurrently is finding skilled tradesmen in what is a very
busy time for the yard.Looking to the future Alisonexplained how the companyhave nearly twenty youngpeople servingapprenticeships within the
business and are committed to seeing an upturn in theskills shortage.Following the “In Conversation With…” session memberswere able to network over a buffet, supplied by Networkmember Tasty Bites, and discuss local business issues.South Tyneside Business Network is open to any size oforganisation and provides a forum for businesspeople tobe heard, an opportunity to market themselves as well asregular speakers on relevant and important businesstopics.
For more information about the Network:[email protected]
IN CONVERSATION WITH...
Happy anniversary – Stephen Black, of MTelecom,celebrates the 30th anniversary of Durham BusinessClub with Managing Director Christine Yule.
CLUB NEWS 07
Darlington Business Club (DBC) has had a complete re-brand including a new website. Chair of DBC ClaireMitchell says “We wanted to go with a logo thatrepresented Darlington and the brick train at Morton Parkseemed a perfect start-point.” DBC has also had a minorname change, dropping ‘and district’ to make it moreconcise and marketable. The new website is up-and-running with information on how to become a member,what events are on and member news.
www.darlingtonbusinessclub.co.uk
BUSINESS CLUBREBRAND
A New Year and atime for opportunity,or is it? It dependswhether you are aglass half-full orhalf-empty person.
Which are you? Although it might seem folly to suggestwe are out of the recession we have to be optimistic andplan for success if we are to remain positive and make themost of these challenging times. With a rise in VAT andthe prevailing economic uncertainty it would be all tooeasy to moan and groan. But let’s not do that. It is time towork together, collaborate and support one-anotherthrough these difficult times and the Business Networks,Clubs, Forums and BCNE are the perfect vehicle tosupport one another and create opportunity. We lookforward to working with you through 2011 and wish youthe very best success!
[email protected] 409838
A TIME FORCOLLABORATION!
Wednesday 2nd February saw Tees Valley Business Club,Darlington Business Club and South Durham BusinessNetwork come together, with the support of UK Trade andInvestment (UKTI) and Lloyds TSB Commercial, to offerbusinesses from the local are an opportunity to learn alittle more about exporting. The event, including abusiness exhibition, saw over 130 local businesses hearhow both UKTI and Lloyds TSB can offer, even thesmallest business with the most diverse product / service,support and advice when considering expansion into
foreign markets.The evening, compered by Wendy Gibson of Look Northfame, also featured guest speaker Michelle Mone, OBE, co-owner of MJM International andcreator of Ultimo, the UK's leading designer lingeriebrand. Michelle, listed as one of the top three femaleentrepreneurs in the UK and recently voted as the numberone woman in business by Glamour Magazine, enthralledthe audience with details of the ups and downs, bothpersonally and professionally, she has faced whilstbuilding and managing her highly successful career.Claire Mitchell, Chairman of Darlington Business Clubsaid “I was hugely impressed with our joint event inDarlington. Michelle Mone was an amazing andinspirational speaker and Wendy Gibson was an excellentcompere. The other speakers gave useful and interestinginsights into exporting and one even managed toincorporate ferret beds, which was a feat in itself! Thehigh number of attendees showed that business peoplewill still make time to attend if the topic and speaker areright, however short of time they are. I think that we’ll bebuilding on this success and we’ll look at organising morejoint events with the other Business Clubs very soon.”Pauline Osborne, Chair of Tees Valley Business Clubadded, “Our thanks go to everyone who attended andespecially to UKTI and Lloyds TSB for their continuedsupport of the Business Clubs Network.
MICHELLE MONE
08 NEW MEMBERS
Tees Valley Business Club2020 Creative Image LtdPatrick Montgomery, a commercial photographerbased a few miles from Middlesbrough, has run 2020Creative Image Ltd since 2003. His aim is to provide acreative approach to the imaging needs of bothSME’s/Individual clients who utilise photography toshowcase their products and/or people. His motto is“Creating the Right Image”. After all, we each haveonly one chance to make a good first impression! Contact: Patrick Montgomery
on 01642 700969 Email: [email protected] Web: www.2020creativeimage.com
A & M Solutions (UK) LtdA & M Solutions (UK) Ltd are a new company, set up toprovide electrical and mechanical services toIndustrial, Commercial and Domestic customers. Withover 35 years experience, the management can offernew electrical installation work, periodic inspections,rewires, PAT testing, maintenance etc.Contact: Andrew Rigg on 01642 287791 Email: [email protected]: www.aandmsolutions.co.uk
Featheridge Ltd T/A Spotlight AdvertisingWe provide “Offer Based Advertising”. For only £1 a daywe provide your business with a bespoke voucher, awebpage and six voucher led adverts in our magazinethroughout the year to drive new customers to yourdoor and track where they came from – all for only£365 a year!Contact: Neil or Victoria Ridgeway
on 01642 475717 Email: [email protected]
[email protected] Web: www.spotlight-offers.co.uk
Sunderland Business NetworkVelocity Driver Hire & RecruitmentVelocity is a local supplier of permanent andtemporary staff to commercial, transport and servicebusinesses. We have offices situated in the heart ofSunderland and Darlington enabling us to cover fromthe Tyne to the Tees.We pride ourselves on our commitment to deliveringthe highest standards of service.Contact: Sunderland 0191 5654020
Darlington 01325 520660Email: [email protected]: www.velocitydriverhire.co.uk
Professional People Management LtdProfessional People Maureen Lindberg is a Director ofProfessional People Management Ltd (PPM). TheCompany is an award winning company which offersHR services to businesses. The Company provides afull range of HR services including on site supportwhen required. PPM provides businesses withprofessional, practical and cost effective solutions topeople management issues - solutions which focus onthe business and its needs. Contact: Maureen Llindberg on 0191 5197214Email: [email protected]: www.ppmnortheast.co.uk
Consilience Media LtdConsilience Media is a professional publishing anddesign company specialising in producing first-classmarketing publications and web services atcompetitive rates to meet clients’ business goals. Thecompany offers a range of services including design,publishing, websites, branding and copywriting, andspecialises in offering marketing packages for smallbusinesses. Contact: Dan Brady on 0191 251 1104Email: [email protected]: www.consil.co.uk
Ettrick Health & Safety LtdEttrick Health and Safety are committed to theprovision of a cost effective, efficient and customerfocused Health and Safety service for clients from allindustry sectors, however simple or complex.Whatever the size of the company, be it large or small,we will provide the health and safety support, adviceand training needed, at a realistic and affordable cost.Contact: Paul Elliott on 0191 5288158
07711 463567Email: [email protected]: www.ettrickhealthandsafety.co.uk
South Tyneside Business Network
Aspire Technology Solutions Ltd“Our Team your Success” – Aspire are An awardwinning IT Support Company based in South Tynesideand Central London we provide IT Support, ManagedNetworks, Software Development, ProjectManagement, IT Outsourcing Services and DataCommunication services to all businesses”.Contact: 0845 643 9200 Email: [email protected]: www.aspire-ts.com
Finance Tree Raising money is a process which most businessowners and managers go through only once or twice intheir careers. When treading new ground it is essentialto tap into the experience and expertise of others whohave been there and done it many times before.We work with companies on their business plans,investment propositions, introductions to investors andthroughout the investment process.Contact: Jane Hogan on 07801 237 250Email: [email protected]
South Tyneside Training and EnterpriseNetworkEstablished for over 15 years, South Tyneside TEN isthe leading independent job search supportorganisation in the Borough. Registering in excess of200 clients per month, we have a large pool of highlymotivated job seekers. South Tyneside TEN is nowoffering a FREE skills matching and recruitmentservice to employers in Tyne and Wear to match ourjobseekers with your vacancies.South Tyneside TEN is a not-for-profit organisationand the service is provided free of charge. Contact: Carol Wakefield or Natalie Currer
on 0191 455 7778Email: [email protected]
Durham Business Club
ACTION COACHActionCOACH is the World's Number One BusinessCoaching Firm. I am a Business Coach based in theNorth East and I help Business Owners significantlyincrease profits, build great teams and to work fewerhours. You may be able to survive in business withoutthe help of a Coach, but it's almost impossible to thrive.Contact: Stephen Derrick on 0191 4066591Email: [email protected]: www.actioncoach.com/stevederrick
Rona Kerr AccountantsRona Kerr specialises in the provision of a wide rangeof accountancy services to small and medium sizedowner managed businesses throughout the North EastHelping businesses to fully comply with both HMRevenue and Customs and Companies House rulesand meet the necessary deadlines imposed, thebusiness provides its clients with professional yetfriendly advice and a full range of accountancy relatedservices including but not limited to accounts,bookkeeping, tax return preparation, VAT returns andregistration, payroll completion and general andbusiness start up advice. Contact: Rona Kerr on 01207 291271Email: [email protected]: www.ronakerr.co.uk
North East Healthcare Solutions“North East Healthcare Solutions are IndependentHealthcare and Protection specialists based inTeesside. We deal with all the major insurers to findthe right cover for the unique needs and requirementsof businesses of all sizes for Private Medical Insuranceand protection insurance. We offer free no obligationadvice quotes and reviews.”Contact: Shaun Tyson on 01642 737111Email: [email protected]: www.nehs.co.uk
Ad4Taxi.comAd4Taxi.com is a vibrant, new outdoor advertisingcompany operating in the North East and specialising inadvertising on and in taxis. This form of advertising is anexciting and cost effective way to advertise your company.Your business can be empowered by giving your brand aconstant presence in all city centre hotspots.Contact: Amy Wilson on 07886 986588Email: [email protected]: www.ad4taxi.com
Flow Learning LtdFlow Learning helps you blend learning and technologyto improve performance. We’re experts in e-learningand can help you create your own courses or you canaccess our extensive range whenever it suits you.Topics include: Safety, IT, Leadership, Diversity,communication and many others.Contact: Amanda Hoynes on 07771 956624Email: [email protected]: www.flowlearning.co.uk
Options 24/7Options 24/7 specialises in customised skillsdevelopment and IT training programmes. We offertraining in MS Word, Excel and Access which can bedelivered on site using our mobile resource of 10laptops. We facilitate workshops, team build eventsand provide coaching in areas such as PersonalEffectiveness and Communications skills.Contact: Eunice Craig on 0191 3400896Email: [email protected]: www.options24-7.co.uk
Red Maple Consultants LtdWe are an IT consultancy specialising in hosted contactcentre, homeworking, IT support and a multitude ofother IT services. Our bespoke services are tailored toyour business and our creative approach to IT ensuresyou receive the best possible solution for your budget.Contact: Alex Purvis on 0845 3881405Email: [email protected]: www.red-maple.co.uk
Rise ConsultantsRise Consultants is a full service businessdevelopment and project management agency based inNorth East England. Our services include all types ofbusiness development, project management, strategyand cluster development and support.Contact: Carolyn McGregor on 0191 3055097Email: [email protected]: www.riseconsultants.co.uk
SHEMSI am a Chartered Safety Practitioner with a Pg Diplomain Health, Safety and Environmental Management andsome 30 years experience. I specialise in the implementation of managementsystems to meet ISO 14001 (Environmental) andOHSAS 18001 (Safety). I offer real practical solutions tolarge blue chip companies and small business’s. I deliver IOSH/CIEH accredited and bespoke training.Make life easier, give me a call.Contact: Michael Collier on 01207 230250Email: [email protected]: www.safety-health-and
environmental-management-solutions.co.uk
Darlington Business Club
Polam Hall SchoolEducational excellence for boys and girls from 2 to 18.From the youngest in Early Steps Nursery to those inSixth Form - we are proud of all of our students andtheir achievements both in and out of the classroom.35% A* grades at A level and 100% into University ofchoice in 2010.Contact: Mrs Jane Cragg on 01325 463383Email: [email protected]: www.polamhall.com
When accountant Rona Kerr launched her new practice atTanfield Lea Business Centre this summer, she wasexcited to be bringing her worry-reducing services back toher home county of Durham, after building hercareer across Tyneside.An ACCA qualified accountant with morethan 16 years experience of working withsmall and medium sized businesses,Rona has vowed to support localbusiness owners. “When I decided totake the huge step of setting up myown practice this summer, I knewthat I wanted to help relieve theburden that many business ownersface with their accounts and tax. Inthe past I’ve met many skilledpeople who simply stick theirhead in the sand when itcomes to the figures andthen pay the price when thetax bill kicks in.” Rona’s view is that by building a trusting relationship witheach of her clients, they can work together to help keep
the client’s head above the ground, confident in theknowledge that they know exactly what tax they need topay, and when. Coupled with the no-nonsense, jargon-
free catch up sessions, where theyfind out easy ways to make
savings, clients can focus ondelivering a fantastic productor service.As one client sums up, “Rona
has provided an excellentservice. She is able to answer
every question I throw at her andshe (almost) makes balance sheets and taxation
interesting!” Quite some accolade and proof thatpeople buy from people - when Rona delivers herservice it is with care and good humour!”To celebrate the launch of the business, BusinessClub North East members are offered a FREE TaxReview Session. “I’m really looking forward to
meeting the Durham Business Club members eachmonth. Seek me out on Twitter (my Twitter name isRonaKerr) and let’s arrange to meet up or of course youcan contact me via www.RonaKerr.co.uk.”
NEW BUSINESS 09
The Music Pod was set up in August 2010 by local musicianNeil bankhurst, who had planned this self funded venturefor over six months. The main aim was to provideaffordable rehearsal rooms and recording for local bandswith an emphasis on providing excellent customer servicewhich he feels is severely lacking in this day and age. Neil, was in a number of bands in his younger days untilhe decided to have a 'proper' career and went into thePub/Night club industry, travelling around the country andeventually managing pubs down south then hotels in theLake District. Whilst earning a living with his 'real' job,Neil continued to play in local bands performing in manygigs and seeming to always take on the 'Manager' role inthe band, comparing himself to Jon Bon Jovi. Additionallyhe recorded the bands as well as arranged gigs, artwork,and cassette/cd production. So when he started the business, Neil decided that hewanted to help the bands out as much as possible, doingas much as he can for them. He has teamed up with somelocal companies in order to provide such help and statesthat he will only work with companies with the sameoutlook as himself - to provide great facilities/services atprices everyone can afford with the one goal being to helplocal bands. Neil also wanted to make sure that his Studio was not likea lot of those he has visited in his 24 years of making
music, there’sno stuffyengineerslaughing atnew bands orequipmentthat you canttouch withoutgetting 'thelook'. He has created a relaxed atmosphere where peopleof all ages, abilities and sanity can come and enjoythemselves. After all is that not what it is all about ? Future plans include having all the equipment so that eventhose who cannot afford a guitar etc can join their friendsin making music by using one of the guitars. Also a DigitalRecord Label is currently being set up to enhance thecurrent services on offer. The Music Pod has a statement above the door to thepremises which states 'where making music is all that matters' which sums upthis fantastic new business.
For more information contact Neil:0191 [email protected] www.themusicpod.co.uk
MUSIC POD OPENED!
NEW ACCOUNTANCY PRACTICE VOWS TO HELP REDUCE BUSINESSWORRY IN CO DURHAM
10 NEW BUSINESS
A top chef who has cooked for a host of celebritiesincluding Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Mick Jagger hascalled in accountancy group RMT as he looks to create arecipe for success for his new business. Earlier this year, one-time chef to the stars GraemeCuthell, left his job as head chef at the prestigious Hoteldu Vin at Newcastle Quayside to set up on his own in ahistoric building on the North Shield’s Fish Quay. The restaurant, called Irvins Brasserie, occupies theGrade II listed Irvin building which dates from 1913 whenIrvin and Sons opened the doors on their fish trawlingbusiness.Since opening his new restaurant in August, the chef hasenjoyed a bumper trading period and has now enlisted thehelp of Newcastle-based RMT as he prepares for futuregrowth.Mr Cuthell said: “2011 is going to be a crucial period formy business, as word spreads about the restaurant and its
popularitycontinues togrow. RMThas a proventrack recordof helpingSMEsthroughouttheirlifespanfromcreation toexpansion and it will be reassuring to know I have itsexperts at my disposal whenever I need advice andguidance.”Maxine Pott, Partner at RMT, said: “Irvins has had afantastic level of trade in the few months since its launchand we hope to help it go from strength to strength. WithGraeme’s track record and the unique location of Irvins,the restaurant has the potential to become one of theNorth East’s most iconic spots for eating, drinking andsocialising.”
To find out more about Irvins visit:www.irvinsbrasserie.co.uk
To find out what RMT can do for you visit:www.r-m-t.co.uk
RMT IDEALINGREDIENT FORHIGH FLYING CHEF
A joint venture backed by a team of key North Eastbusinesspeople has launched an online service aimed atforging new trading ties between the region and the rest ofthe world.The privately-funded project aims to create a digitalenvironment in which commercial collaborations andopportunities between global businesses and the NorthEast can flourish.As well as a matching overseas firms and investors withtheir North East-based counterparts, thegatewaynortheast.co.uk site offers a concierge service foroverseas firms looking to do business in the region.It will also house a discussion area which will act as atrading floor and a tool to help foster new internationallinks with the region.Initially the site will focus on the Scandinavian market -where it has already gained the backing of a number ofbusinesses and potential investors - and from next yearwill look to expand its reach into the rest of Europe andbeyond.
The development of the site has been led by Newcastle-based digital firm Fat Frog, with the support of partners inSweden and a number of North East business leaders,who will monitor and regulate the online portal.Fat Frog’s Managing Director, Steve Blanks said: “This isnot simply a directory and we have received no publicmoney in creating this. The tool was developed bybusiness people for businesses who want to exploreInternational opportunities. We want this to be the bestenvironment to make this happen and the site willcontinue to evolve ensuring that we give businessesexactly what they need, whether that is an Internationalbusiness or a local SME.”Among the private sector individuals involved in theproject is Stephen Slater, Commercial Services Partner atNewcastle-based accountancy and business advisorygroup RMT.Mr Slater said: “With public sector spending cutsimpacting on every level of business, including exportmarkets and inward trade, the onus is on the private sectorto do our bit to help nurture new trading partnershipsbetween the North East and overseas markets. We hopethe new site will play a major role in helping the NorthEast economy through the tough times ahead.”
Businesses interested in international trade of anydescription should register their details at: www.gatewaynortheast.co.uk
NEW DIGITAL SERVICE OPENSNORTH EAST UP TO THE WORLD
BUSINESS AWARDS 11
Organisers of the Awards are calling for nominations fromindividuals, teams, branches and companies to celebratetheir achievements over the last year. These are the onlyawards in the region to have the full support of the mostrecognised accountancy bodies, AAT, ACCA, CIMA, CIOT,CIPFA and ICAEW – valuable recognition of the scale andcredibility of the event.
The awards evening will take place at theNewcastle Marriott Gosforth Park onThursday 9th June 2011 and will be amemorable opportunity to celebrate in thecompany of colleagues and peers. The 2010winners included P&G, Pricewaterhouse-Coopers, KPMG, Newcastle City Council,Perfiliate Technologies, County Durham &Darlington Community Health Services and
Thoburn & Chapman Chartered Accountants.
Further information on the Awards criteria and allsponsorship opportunities can be found on-line: www.accountancyawards.co.uk.
The deadline for nominations is Monday 18th April.
THE NIGEL WRIGHTNORTH EASTACCOUNTANCY AWARDS
Latimer Hinks Solicitors, one of Darlington and CountyDurham’s longest established law firms, has seen two ofits Partners cited by one of the UK’s most influential legalguides. Chambers UK Guide, which prides itself on theindependence and objectivity of its research, carries outthousands of in-depth interviews to assess the reputationand expertise of business lawyers. Its rankings take into account technical legal ability,professional conduct, client service, commercialawareness, diligence and commitment to clients. Latimer Hinks was ranked second in the North East in theAgriculture and Rural Affairs section, with Partner AnneElliott personally cited. In the regional Real Estate section,Partner Nicola Neilson was also cited. In the Agricultureand Rural Affairs section, Chambers states: "ThisDarlington team advises on a range of agriculturalmatters, including sales and purchases, agriculturalholdings, and succession planning. More recently it has
advised on an increasing number of windfarm developments. The team has a loyalclient base who praise the firm for having "afantastic appreciation of the commonconcerns held by farmers and landowners”." On client service, it states: "The team provides
a very personal service; it is always accessible and veryapproachable.” Anne Elliott is "extremely thorough and veryknowledgeable," according to sources quoted in the guide.She is commended for her advice on succession planning.A source quoted in Chambers said of Nicola Neilson, wholeads Latimer Hinks’ residential property practice: "She isvery efficient – she knows what we want and delivers.”Managing Partner Tim Haggie said: "Testimonials inChambers UK Guide do not come easily, so to be featuredtwice is an excellent indication of the reputation earnedover many years by Latimer Hinks Solicitors. I amdelighted for Anne, who has been at the heart of this firmfor many years, and particularly for Nicola, who is one ofour newest and youngest Partners. "It is now our firm’s job to continue to build on thatreputation and continue to provide high quality legalservices across our range of expertise and to clientsthroughout Darlington and County Durham.”
PARTNERS CITED BYLEADING LEGAL GUIDE
In 2011 we are going to combine the £1,000 ShellLiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards and the £10,000 ShellLiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.We have done this to improve the offering for the ShellLiveWIRE community. Please read on to find out how theawards will work from now on.Things that are staying the sameIf you're aged 16-30 and in your first 12 months of trading,you can still apply online for one of up to 6 x monthly£1,000 Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards.The Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the YearAwards process after the ‘Hot 40’ shortlist is announcedwill remain the same.The Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year willstill get £10,000.
The changesThe top three ShellLiveWIRE GrandIdeas Awardwinners eachmonth (as per thejudges’ scores) willautomatically beput through to our‘Hot 40’ shortlist
for the annual £10,000 Shell LiveWIRE YoungEntrepreneur of the Year Award final taking place inNovember. The remaining winners will be sifted by ajudging panel to complete the 'Hot 40' shortlist.Therefore, entrepreneurs must win a Shell LiveWIREGrand Ideas Award to be considered for the ShellLiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2011.There will be no separate application process for theannual award.
To find out more about the awards visit:www.shellwire.org/news/awards2011
IMPORTANT CHANGES TO THESHELL LIVEWIRE AWARDS
12 BUSINESS NEWS
Company bosses in the North East are being warned tokeep a careful eye on their Tweeters to stop loosewords costing business.As social networking burgeons across the region’sbusiness community, the technology is throwing upall manner of issues for company executives,according to legal experts at regional legal practiceBHP Law. Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook havebecome part of daily activities to establishrelationships with other businesses in the NorthEast. But this micro-blogging can lead to time-wasting, computer viruses and public humiliation,which is giving many executives sleepless nights.BHP Innovation Team consultant Deb McGargle said:“One bad comment could leave your businessreputation in tatters and it’s not scaremongering,it’s already happened. Just look at Virgin Atlantic whereemployees publicly called all their customers ‘Chavs’, orthe employees who tell the world exactly what they thinkof their boss in a status update. It’s a disaster waiting tohappen you might think; all the more so if you sent your
employee on a social media training course in the firstplace.”Deb said she had come across many employers who wereputting forward the idea of using disclaimers stating thatthe views of the blogger were not those of the company.“While disclaimers are often a lawyer’s best friend, in thiscase they are a company’s silent assassin,”
She explained that by using a disclaimer companieswere announcing to the world they may not knowtheir employees well enough to trust them to speakon behalf of the company and it is impossible tonegate voiced opinions in a vacuum cleaner-typeaction.Despite the pitfalls, Deb said she was still anadvocate of social media, when used properly, as itcould help companies become an integral part of thebusiness world and was a cost-effective way of
marketing.The key to managing it was to have in place an
understandable and well thought through policy tofit individual businesses and to clearly set out what
was appropriate for business and personal usage –together with the repercussions if used incorrectly.
For further information & advice:[email protected]@BHPinnovate
SOCIAL MEDIABRINGS WARNING
The majority of Limited Companies are required to fileaccounts with Companies Housewithin 9 months of their year end.If your company’s turnover is nomore than £6.5m it is ordinarilydeemed to be “small” for filingpurposes at Companies House.From just a small review of North East companies UHYTorgersens have identified that a number of companiesqualifying for “small companies exemptions”, includingthe filing of abbreviated accounts at Companies House,are not taking advantage of the exemptions.
The implication of this are that competitors may haveaccess to key information such asturnover, gross profit or net profit,all of which can provide them withan unnecessary advantage in thecurrent financial climate.
If you would like to find out whether your company istaking advantage of its available exemptions please feelfree to contact Paul McMahon:0191 [email protected]
ARE YOU TAKING ADVANTAGE OF YOURSMALL COMPANIES EXEMPTION
When young people start out in business they don’t haveyears of experience to back them up. Usually the urge togo it alone is because they feel they have the raw talent tobe better than the competition in their particular field, butfrom experience we know most are not experts in all theother areas needed to make a business tick.The experience of starting a business is daunting nomatter what the age, but we recognise that youngentrepreneurs have a different set of social issues to the
norm. Often youngentrepreneurs can still begrowing up, with friends thatoften do not understand thestresses and strains of runningyour own business. It can be
both the most exciting and socially stressful moments oftheir lives.The under 35’s in Business programme is designed notonly to bring young entrepreneurs together socially, butalso to provide them with the support needed to run abusiness by providing social and business mentors alongwith training to help them set up on their own.
www.yetrust.org.uk
YOUNG ENTERPRISE– INSIDE TRACK
BUSINESS NEWS 13
So it has been almost six weeks since the VAT increase,and it is difficult to measure the impact on smallbusinesses both across the region and indeed on anational scale. That said, The Centre foreBusiness predicts that thiswill be the year when the fullforce of the recession finallyhits home, with VAT rises andpublic spending cutscombining with price inflationand higher interest rates tohit the British public in thepocket. This means that people will be shopping aroundfor the best deal and, when it comes to competition, thewinners will be those who trade online.Online trading not only offers lower overheads and a widerpotential audience than traditional sales channels, it alsoenables sellers to adapt their offering in real time, whilealso ensuring they can compete on price. With the averageBritish family expected to be £560 worse off in 2010, this is
something that online traders can turn to their advantage.New technology offer cost-effective opportunities that willenhance the reach and profile of online retailers. Just 10years ago, shopping around meant traipsing between high
street retailers, often playingone off against the other, butonline retail has totallytransformed the concept. Inthis new age of austerity,these technologies will trulyoffer a key advantage to theretailers that embrace themeffectively.
Remember, as we enter the third decade of the internetrevolution, it’s no longer enough to simply sell online. Youneed to stand out and adapt in order to compete. For moreinformation about the latest trends in eCommerce andonline retailing, or for any other information on anyeBusiness topic, contact The Centre for eBusiness:0191 487 [email protected]
AGE OF AUSTERITY WILL DRIVECUSTOMERS ONLINE
The Government announced in last year’s Budget a newpolicy for regional economic development, which meansthe role of RDAs will be replaced by local enterprisepartnerships. This closure of RDAs will be formally ratifiedin the Public Bodies Bill which is expected to become lawlater this year.This being the case One North East isnow currently preparing andimplementing a transition and closureplan. Under this plan some activitiescurrently managed by the organizationare being transferred to partners bothwithin the North East and at nationallevel via the Government.While this is a very difficult time One North East remainfully focused on investing the remainder of their £230mbudget for this financial year into the regional economy.Looking ahead to 2011 – 2012 the anticipated budget isthought to be sufficient to meet One North East’s legalcommitments but does not provide funds for any newinvestments into the regional economy, however this sumshould allow them tomeet on-going legalcommitments over thefinal 12 months.In line with Governmentpolicy, One North East ispreparing certain areas
of their business to transfer to other organisations to takeforward. To ensure that the relevant expertise andexperience is available to lead the complex closure of theAgency, several new internal appointments have beenmade to ensure they have a strong directors’ team.
Ian Williams has been promoted fromthe post of Director of Business andIndustry to Deputy Chief Executive.Peter Judge is now the Director ofLegal Services and Procurement andTrevor Waggett is now Director ofFinance and IM&T.While there are challenges toovercome, the North East economy
has emerged from recession in better shape than fromany previous economic downturn, due to the new depthand breadth of its business base and One North Eastremains committed to working with and supporting in anyway they can the new local enterprise partnerships andNorth East Economic Partnership which will lead futureeconomic development.
AN UPDATE FROM ONE NORTH EAST
WORLD CLASSEVENTWEDNESDAY 18TH MAY 20115.00PM – 9.00PMRAINTON MEADOWS ARENA, HOUGHTON LE SPRING
Supported by UKTI and Lloyds TSB Commercial this evening will feature a businessexhibition and a key speaker providing inspiration and insight into how to becomeWORLD CLASS.
The evening will be punctuated with both formal and informal networking and willprovide everyone with great opportunities to widen their networks, develop newrelationships and take away some great hints and tips on becoming WORLD CLASS.
• Attendance is FREE• Exhibition space from £5.00• Exclusive promotional opportunities for members only• Sponosrship packages available
For more information contact Jessica on 0191 388 4488 visit www.bcne.org.uk
S U P P O R T E D B Y
WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT PREVIOUS EVENTS...
‘I thought the event was great it just shows that when there is the chance to network with larger numbers it makespeople stop and think it’s worth the night out. I think it would be good for it to happen on a regular basis, I wouldcertainly take a table again. It’s much easier to speak to someone at a stand that you probably wouldn’t have justgone over and spoken to in a room.’
Carol Cain | Square 17
‘Just had to congratulate you and your teams on organising such a vibrant and inspiring event People there saidwe should do more joint ventures.’
John Scheel | Positive Solutions (Financial Services) Ltd
‘As an exhibitor I was most impressed with the organisation of the exhibition stands and their tremendous valuefor money. I personally made several positive contacts, some of which have already led to follow up meetings.’
Duncan Dando | Q.provision
‘Cracking event, brilliantly organised; many thanks for the invitation.’
Phill Brown, Web Developer | Consilience Media Ltd
‘It was one of the best Networking events that I have attended with excellent organisation, facilities and most of allturn out. I am sure that everyone had a successful night and am looking forward to the next one.’
Nevil Tynemouth | New Results Training
‘It was an excellent event and a fantastic evening.’
Phil Moir | Richard Reed Solicitors
‘What a great evening, i made some good future contacts am following up as we speak (or tweet!)’
Stuart McMullen | 4 Seasons Ltd
‘Great meeting! Just heart warming to see so many other small business owners- and so many new faces.’
Mike Whitehouse | Printerfood Ltd
‘I’ve attended many networking events over the past 20 years and this is the best yet. I’ve gained a lot of potentialnew contacts and business from tonight’s event.’
Tony Carlin | NatWest Bank
16 BUSINESS BITESIZE
ONE IN FOUR DIRECTORS OFSMALL FIRMS IS A WOMENGender disparity is still rife – not only on the FTSE-100boards, but in the grassroots businesses that drive the UKeconomy. Only a quarter of directors at Britain's medium and smallsized firms are women, according to research producedfor The Independent on Sunday.The gender disparity in the UK's biggest listed companiesis well-known, but the survey shows that the problem isalso rife in the grassroots businesses that drive theeconomy.Analysing 619,000 firms with 500 or fewer employees,database company Blue Sheep found that 70 per cent oftheir directors were men, 25 per cent women and 5 percent unknown.The news piles further pressure on Lord Davies ofAbersoch to come up with an effective strategy to getmore women on company boards when he reports his planto the Government in February. The former StandardChartered chairman was asked by the Department forBusiness last summer for ideas to tackle the inequality.
TUC DESCRIBE UNEMPLOYMENTFIGURES AS DESPERATEUK unemployment rose by 44,000 to almost 2.5 million inthe three months to the end of December, according to theOffice for National Statistics (ONS).Youth unemployment rose to a fresh record high, withmore than one in five 16 to 24-year-olds out of work aftera rise of 66,000 to 965,000.The unemployment rate is now 7.9%, with youthunemployment running at 20.5%.Northern TUC Regional Secretary, Kevin Rowan said: “Thedesperately disappointing unemployment figures wereonly to be expected in light of the government’s slash andburn economic policies. They confirm that the Governmenthas been cutting jobs far quicker than it has been helpingcreate them. All of the key mechanisms for creating workand building an economic recovery in the North East andCumbria are either being dismantled or cut.”
NEW EMPLOYMENT LAWS WILLCOST £730MNew data has suggested that North East firms are facingcollective costs of £730m over the next four years as theyimplement new employment laws.As the government prepares to bring in a mass of freshemployment legislation starting from April this year, theNorth East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) believes thiswill increase the burden on companies.The organisation believes that the additional burdencomes at a time when the coalition parties have put theonus on the business community to keep the economygrowing amid major spending cuts.
RECORD NUMBERS DECLAREDINSOLVENTA record number of people were declared insolvent inEngland and Wales in 2010 although the number of newcases fell in the last three months of the year.There were 135,089 people declared insolvent last year.The Insolvency Service said, up 0.7% on 2009 and thehighest since records began in 1960. However, there was a13.6% drop in the last quarter of the year compared withthe same period in 2009.A spokesman for the Association of Business RecoveryProfessionals, said: “The number of people in formalinsolvency procedures fell in the last quarter of 2010.However, personal insolvency continues to run at a recordhigh.”In business, administrations rose 1.4% to 642 in Q4 2010compared with 633 in the third quarter.The latest figures reflect a 24.4% decrease on the samequarter a year earlier when 849 entered administration.
NEW FUND PROVIDESINVESTMENT OF £30M FORNORTH EAST Businesses in the region benefitted from investmentfunding of nearly £30m last year following the successfullaunch of the Finance for Business North East Fund. Launched last January the £125m portfolio of sixinvestment funds, received enquiries from close to 1,000businesses in its first year in operation. A total of 77 investments were made in 72 separatebusinesses across a wide range of sectors, with the £14minvested by the fund leveraging a further £15m in privateinvestment. Around 400 jobs have been safeguarded, over 25 new jobshave been directly created and almost 500 new jobs areexpected to be created by these companies over the nextthree years.
POOR RECORDS CLAMPDOWNSLAMMEDTHE Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has warnedthat the new drive by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) toclamp down on poor bookkeeping among SMEs will beused purely as a revenue-raising exercise by theGovernment. The Business Records Checks initiative isexpected to target 50,000 small businesses in spot checksto see if their business records meet the minimumreporting standards. If not, a fine of up to £3,000 will belevied, with the potential to raise £600m over the next fouryears. The FSB believes that the consultation lackedinformation on how HMRC would choose businesses andcarry out the checks. The FSB recommends that thecharging process is left as it currently stands, and thatsmall firms are given the opportunity to improve theirrecords if processes are deemed inadequate.
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18 MEMBER NEWS
It’s not everySaturdaylunchtime thatI return hometo find amessage onmy ansafonesaying “if youare the ladythat doessecretarialwork and youwant somework pleasering me”. Idid, andarranged tomeet her that
afternoon (just as well Virtual Assistants don’t stick tonormal office hours). The lady, who I cannot name for confidentiality reasons,but for the purpose of this article I will refer to as Mary,started writing almost 30 years ago and got her inspirationfrom living in a Sunderland coal mining community. Shecame to know many wonderful people who, even though
they lived such hard lives, were always cheerful andhonest and their doors were always open. This amazinglady, in addition to writing her books, has served in thearmy, been an artist, written poetry and had it published.I brought the first manuscript back to the office, re-typedit in a format suitable for submission, and designed thebook cover. Mary was delighted with the end result. Thishas now been submitted to three agents, with more in thepipeline, and we are eagerly waiting to find out if they areinterested. Manuscript number two is now beingprepared.Thanks to Mary I have added manuscript preparation as aservice that I can offer to clients, so if there are anybudding authors out there who need a professionalmanuscript producing, The Essential VA is the place to go. Mary’s comment to me at our first meeting was “I’vewritten 4 books and if I don’t get them published now Inever will”. Why? Because she is 90 years old - anincredible and very spritely 90 year old. How old is your oldest client?
For your complimentary one hour consultation contactMargaret:0870 8799 [email protected]
NEW SERVICE AVAILABLE AT THEESSENTIAL VIRTUAL ASSISTANT
North East company, SensaPharm Ltd, have launchedtheir new range of anti-malarial drug testing kits, whichare flying off the shelf thanks to help from Pulse CreativeMarketing who designed and developed a packagingsolution.Dr Neil Sullivan, experienced biotechnologist and founderof pharmaceutical research company SensaPharm Ltd,developed a comprehensive range of testing productswhich aid the production of anti-malarial medicationsworldwide. Having previously worked with the Pulse CreativeMarketing team to produce promotional material such asfolders, posters and stationery, SensaPharm once againenlisted their services to assist with the design andproduction of a new packaging solution allowing the anti-malaria testing kits to be distributed safely worldwide.The new boxes were required to hold several vialscontaining a compound developed by Sensapharm whichwould be transported to pharmaceutical company’sworldwide to assess the purity of anti-malarial drugs incountries such as India, Africa, Korea and China.
As Neil explains, “It was important for us to develop acost-effective packaging solution to enable the safetransportation of the kits. The compound we havedeveloped will detect any impurities in anti-malarial drugsworldwide which essentially will improve anti-malariacare for millions of people. Having previously used theservices of Pulse to design boxes for some of our othertesting kits I knew they would be able to provide us with asolution to send our kits out knowing they will arrive inperfect condition”Paul Finch Marketing Manager said, “We have workedwith Neil on a number of previous occasions and it wasgreat to be set the challenge of developing a packagingsolution. The boxes we produced are made of cardboardand include a fitted interior which will safely hold the vialsin transportation. It’s been a pleasure working with Neiland we look forward to providing continuing support withthe development of his marketing.”
NORTH EAST FIRM’SANTI MALARIAL KITSFLY OFF THE SHELF
MEMBER NEWS 19
First2Print started life as a smallcompany operating from a 150 sq.ft office at the North East Businessand Innovation Centre (BIC) in 2008.Fast-forward less than two yearsand the business has moved theiroperations into one of the site’sbiggest industrial units, now occupying more than 6,000sq. ft after seeing their turnover grow by more than 125%in 2010.The business, which is run by married couple Donna andMartyn Young, provides tailor-made design and printsolutions, utilising state-of-the-art digital print machinerywhich they have gradually invested in as their customerbase has grown. “When we started out, gaining financial support from
banks for business expansion was, and still is, reallydifficult for small companies and start ups,” says Donna.“Our solution was just to just get on, investing profits thatwe made into the future of First2Print.”Donna points to this process of self-investment, as well assupport from the North East BIC and Sunderland CityCouncil, as being pivotal in the emergence of First2Printas one of the region’s fastest growing print firms.“The support that you get from basing your business atthe BIC has really been a catalyst for the success of ourcompany. I’m not sure there is anywhere else in the regionwhere the fiscal growth of our business could be matchedso appropriately by space providers.”
For further information visit:www.first2print.co.uk
FIRST STEPS TOSUCCESS
One of the region’s radio stations is joining forces with abroadcasting consultancy to offer media training intelevision, radio and digital skills. Radio Teesdale, whichbroadcasts from Barnard Castle, will be hosting thecourses at their Enterprise House studios in conjunctionwith Lush Places Media. The half and full day sessionswill be run by broadcasting professionals and giveindividuals and organisations an insight into the modernmedia world. Radio Teesdale Station Manager Peter Dixon said: “Whatyou say and how you say it can be crucial to the successof any organisation. And like anything there’s a knack toit. These courses will give even a novice a realunderstanding of how to use the media.”Andrew Glover, Director of Hamsterley based Lush PlacesMedia, is a well known broadcaster and multimediatrainer. He’s been working in journalism in NorthernEngland for nearly 30 years and has reported, producedand presented for the BBC, Sky and ITV.He said: “Many people are apprehensive or lackconfidence when they are in the camera eye or in front ofa microphone. These courses are a practical hands-onway of getting over such nerves and understanding howto take control.”The courses also include hints and tips on how to get themost out of the local, regional and national media andguidance on using social media including Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and Facebook.
More details can be found at:www.radioteesdale.co.ukwww.lushplacesmedia.com
MEDIA TRAININGIN FOCUS
Chopwell based socialenterprise, Gamelan atPlay, has been awarded£10,000 by Arts CouncilEngland to run acommunity festival ofGamelan music andIndonesian arts onTyneside in 2011.
Gamelan at Play offers communities the opportunity toplay a beautiful set of Indonesian musical instruments,which includes gongs and metallophones, called aGamelan [pronounced gamma-lan] to promote socialcohesion and community development throughout theregion. “There are now four Gamelan orchestras in the North Eastregion and there is a growing level of interest in playingGamelan music as a result,” said Sue Finn, Manager of
Gamelan at Play.“The festival weare hosting will bean opportunity toshowcase thework of local
performers alongside artists of national and internationalstanding.” Gamelan at Play will be working in partnership with TheSage Gateshead, Gem Arts, Northumberland Creative &Performing Arts, Durham Gamelan Society and GatesheadCouncil to deliver a festival that will include music,puppetry, storytelling, dance and drama and withnumerous opportunities for the public to join in.Director of Gem Arts, Vikas Kumar, stated ‘I am certainthat the lead organisation Gamelan at Play will deliver afantastic festival and we look forward to working withthem to develop and deliver the programme’ whilstSarah Kekus, Head of Schools programme at The SageGateshead, described the Gamelan festival as ‘a veryexciting programme to be a part of’.
For further information contact:[email protected]
ACE AWARDS GRANT FORTYNESIDE GAMELAN FESTIVAL
20 MORE MEMBER NEWS
Five enterprisingstudents from CatcoteBusiness andEnterprise College inHartlepool were amongthe stars of the recentYoung Enterprise TradeFair at the MetroCentre.The Super Cats team
run a Young Enterprise business making personalisedjigsaws and mouse mats to order. After a highly
successful daycompeting againstforty six other
businesses from twenty three schools across the region,the team won the award for Best Team ProgrammeCompany.Managing Director, James Dean, said, “We worked as abrilliant team and met a lot of people during the day whichgave us lots of confidence. We are very proud to have wonthe award.” He added “We’ve got ourselves very involvedwith Young Enterprise this year and Christine Yule MD ofDBG is the business adviser for the school. It’s a veryspecial school for students with both physical and learningdisabilities and their commitment to enterprise educationis brilliant!”
SUPER DAY FOR SUPER CATS!
North East marketing agency, Pulse Creative Marketing,has launched ‘Pulse Select’ to help businesses accessexpert marketing solutions as and when they require,without being tied into lengthy contracts.From marketingadvice, design and print of promotional material towebsite design and PR, this great new service providesbusinesses with quick and easy access to a variety of costeffective marketing solutions to suit their budget. Paul Finch Marketing Manager said, “With the currenteconomic climate, it has never been more important topromote your business cost-effectively. We understand thefinancial constraints businesses work under and havetherefore developed a range of affordable marketingpackages. As well as being great value for money the‘Pulse Select’ marketing packages are flexible, allowingbusinesses to select the support they need as and whenthey require.”
Whatever stage your business is at,help is available with a wide range ofmarketing services to suit yourbudget. The packages are alreadyproving popular with businesses asthey represent excellent value formoney.As Paul explains, “We still offer a fullmarketing agency service, however we are finding that our‘Pulse Select’ pay as you go marketing solutions areproving more and more popular with businesses that wantto spread the cost of their marketing.”
To find out more and to arrange a FREE MarketingReview contact:0191 516 [email protected]
The team at South Shieldsbased Solar Solve Marinewere delighted when theyreceived an order tosupply 11 of theirSOLASAFE rollersunscreens for installationat the bridge windows of
the fleet replenishment vessel RFA ‘Fort Victoria’. Shewas built by Harland and Wolff and delivered to the MODin 1993 with SOLASAFE screens installed at windowslocated in various parts of the vessel, including thenavigation bridge; flying control room and replenishmentat sea control areas.The new screens for the navigation bridge were needed asadditional equipment, as part of the vessel’s refit andupgrade to a revised role with the aim of providing FortVictoria with an independent boarding capability as well asa combined capability in conjunction with a destroyer orfrigate. The vessel recently deployed from the UK to the
Middle East where she nowoperates at full capacity inher new role acting as the
Command Platform with the Commander of the TaskGroup and his staff onboard. She is currently deployed aspart of a special counter-piracy operation with HMSNorthumberland in the Somali Basin with CombinedMaritime Forces’ mission-based counter-piracy task force.John Lightfoot, Solar Solve Marine’s chairmancommented, “We do feel a sense of victory with this orderbecause since the vessel was delivered another type ofscreen has been installed at a few of the windows.However, it seems that for whatever reason, and I don’twant to speculate here, a decision has been made torevert back to Solar Solve Marine’s SOLASAFE brand andwe are delighted about it.”“I’m informed that the reason these roller screens wereordered by Fort Victoria’s staff is to reduce the bridgetemperature and give protection against ultra violet rays.This is exactly what they do but they have the addedadvantages of cutting down solar glare resulting inreduced eye strain. They also contribute towards powersaving costs and less greenhouse gas emissions.”
VICTORY FOR SOLAR SOLVE
PULSE SELECT – COST EFFECTIVEMARKETING SOLUTIONS
MORE MEMBER NEWS 21
A local accountancy firm, BluSky Chartered Accountantsbased in North Shields and
Sunderland, has been heavily involved with Sages testingand the launch of an online accountancy package foraccountants and small businesses.Sage One is the first online and Mac-enabled accountancytechnology that Sage has produced. The product allowsaccountants to see a range of client information, includingVAT and banking transactions in real-time. Jon Dudgeon,partner at Blu Sky Chartered Accountants, has beentesting Sage One since July. He said “The simplicity ofSage One is outstanding, the product is really exciting andto be involved in the testing has given us a really good
insight into how the product works. Our viewis Sage One gives our clients and other smallbusinesses the advantage of being able toview a snapshot of their business data andtake control of their businesses finances withthe confidence that their accountant is able to
view and check key data and VAT for them.”The product is divided into three functions which are soldseparately. Sage One Cashbook allows users to enterbanking transactions and share the information with theiraccountant. Sage One Accounts can be used to createinvoices as well as calculate and submit VAT returns. SageOne Accountant Edition enables the accountant to seereal-time data on their client including outstandinginvoices and cash management. If you are interested infinding out more about the product or would like to take afree trial of the product log-on to:www.sageone.com
or contact Blu Sky Accountants0191 258 7676
BLU SKY ENTERS THECLOUD WITH SAGE
Leading North East commercial law firm Muckle LLP hashelped construction giant Owen Pugh & Company Limitedacquire North East based drainage company, HCS DrainServices Ltd.The team at Muckle LLP successfully completed theacquisition in just two weeks, enabling HCS Drain Servicesto become part of Owen Pugh’s drainage and sewagedivision, providing it with larger capacity and expertise forinfrastructure works. The acquisition has already partlycontributed to an increase in turnover for Owen Pugh from£20.4m to £25m. Joanne Davison, associate solicitor at Muckle LLP, said:“Owen Pugh is a long standing client of ours and this isthe second acquisition we have handled for the companyas it grows and strengthens its portfolio of services. Thisparticular deal had to be completed in a very shorttimescale and I am delighted at the positive outcome forour client. We had a team of six working on the purchase,headed by partner Peter Robinson who project managed
and coordinatedthe sale process.”John Dickson,executive chairmanat Owen Pugh,said: “This
purchase was a very good strategic fit for us and we arecontinuing to grow and invest in our business. Theacquisition of HCS Drain Services Ltd is another welcomeaddition to our group. Muckle LLP was instrumental inhelping us to secure this deal so quickly and we areextremely grateful to the team for all of its support. Theywere excellent at handling the acquisition sensitively andat mediating between both ourselves and HCS DrainServices. This meant that the entire process went verysmoothly and the purchase was achieved in thechallenging timescale we wanted.”
MUCKLE LLP COMPLETESACQUISITION FOR OWEN PUGH
(L-R) JoanneDavison, PeterRobinson (MuckleLLP) and JohnDickson (executivechairman at OwenPugh
BLS Electronics Ltd, ofAnnfield Plain, Stanley is thechosen supplier oftransformers to AudioKitchen – who in turn makethe amplifiers used by super-band The Kings of Leon. TheKings of Leon’s latest album,
‘Come Around Sundown’ features both bass and guitaramps with BLS transformers at their very heart.
BLS also supply Ashdown Amps and their sister company,Hayden Amps, along with other ‘boutique’ amplifiermakers. They also supply one-off, bespoke transformersto the end-user market.Established for almost 40 years, BLS are one of thehighest-profile manufacturers in the North East ofEngland, supplying transformers to the likes of SeawardElectronics Ltd, Parker Hannifin and hundreds of otherSME’s and individuals throughout the UK.www.blselectronics.co.uk
BLS ELECTRONICS – AMPLIFYINGTHEIR TRANSFORMER RANGE
22 AND FINALLY
Training in Childcare Limited, and its subsidiary businessThe Care People, have been invited to create a bespoketraining and employment programme for aboriginalpeople in Alice Springs andDarwin in the NorthernTerritories and Moree in NewSouth Wales.The visionary programmeprovides the unemployedwith training towards a recognised qualification in bothchild and adult care; then offers them jobs through thecreation of a social enterprise employment agency, ownedand operated by the workers themselves.The pilot projects were awarded to the Boldon based firmsby the Australian government’s Aboriginal EmploymentStrategy (AES) during a UK Trade Mission to Melbourne
and Sydney. And, if the schemes are successful,the project may be rolled out across thecontinent.Angela Brown CEO of both Training in Childcareand The Care People said; “The AES hascommissioned us to design three pilot schemesto help the long-term unemployed indigenouspopulation enter or return to the workplace. Theschemes will be based on the original childcare
training and employment model we launched with thehelp of David Miliband MP in South Shields in 2006. Wefurther developed this to incorporate adult services and
introduced it to Sunderlandin 2007 with the support ofBack on the Map.”Mrs Brown says her staffwere delighted to learnabout the contacts and are
excited about the prospect of working in Australia.Whilst funding arrangements are being finalised, fellowdirector and legal expert, Michael Brown, is working withthe Australian law firm Gyngell Associates in Sydney toestablish an Australian subsidiary. “I am happy to stay athome looking after our UK companies and let the staff dothe travelling,” he said.
BOLDON TRAININGCOMPANY CLINCHESCONTRACT IN OZ
School children at Sacriston Junior School in CountyDurham were surprised and thrilled to find out whoseartwork had been chosen to be used on a calendar forDunelm Property Services at a special assembly.Visiting the school, Dudley, Dunelm Property Services’resident ‘elephant’ presented the winning pupils withprizes including their own copy of the calendar. Dudley
first visited the School to launch theproject in July as Dunelm PropertyServices began work in the area forCestria Community Housing torefurbish over 400 properties. Heather Newell, Director at DunelmProperty Services, explained: “Weare always very keen to helpchildren understand our work – forlots of different reasons; mostimportantly from a health andsafety point of view. In this schemewe are working in many of thesechildren’s family homes so it helpsthem to understand what the workis all about. Of course, we get lotsof young people who are reallyinterested in the work itself andwe’ve probably inspired a good fewbudding joiners and plumbers alongthe way too!”Pauline Warren, Headteacher atSacriston Junior School,
continued:“This has been a super project – helpful andfun. The children have learned a lot about not playing onbuilding sites and have thoroughly enjoyed the competitionitself; they are very competitive!It has been particularly good for the children to see such apositive and, for them, permanent outcome of their work,it’s so good for their confidence and self-esteem. I’d liketo thank the team at Dunelm Property Services for theirideas and support; I hope we can continue workingtogether into the future.”
‘MAMMOTH’ THRILL FOR CHILDREN
Children from Sacriston School with their speciallydesigned calendars
Leading North Eastcommercial law firmMuckle LLP has appointedwealth protection expertKeith Hately as Partner tohead the firm’s privateclient team. Keith has anexcellent reputation foradvising business owners,
wealthy individuals and families on all aspects of estateplanning, including wills, trusts, inheritance tax andsuccession planning. He said: “I am absolutely delightedto have joined Muckle LLP, a firm with an outstanding
reputation fordelivering firstclass legalservices tobusinessowners. The
partners are committed to developing private clientservices and our aim is to become the team of choice forbusiness owners and their families. We are uniquelypositioned to understand our clients’ business and familyinterests and, by working with their other professionaladvisers.Hugh Welch, senior partner at Muckle LLP, said: “Therecruitment of Keith Hately is a real coup for the firm.Keith is one of the best private client lawyers in the regionand having his expertise on board presents a greatopportunity for us to grow our private client practice byhelping senior business people protect their personal andbusiness assets.”
NEW HEAD OF PRIVATE CLIENTSERVICES FOR MUCKLE LLP
ON THE MOVE 23
North East basedscience and healthcaremarketing specialist,HorizonworksMarketing, hasappointed Gaia Hudsonto boost their growingteam. Gaia joinsHorizonworksMarketing at an
exciting time in its growth, as the company has recentlymoved into new offices in the centre of Newcastle. She hascome on board as a Marketing Account Manager, with 5years experience in sales and marketing including mostrecently working in the European sales department of amarket leading clothing brand.Gaia comments: “I am really pleased to be joining
Horizonworks Marketing. This opportunity will allow me tosupport a range of different clients in driving theirmarketing ambitions forward. Horizonworks Marketinghas a ‘no nonsense’ approach to marketing and I thinkthat this is what the sector needs.” Samantha Davidson, Managing Director of HorizonworksMarketing comments: “I am pleased to welcome Gaia tothe team. We have exciting plans to develop our profileand client base over the next year and Gaia will play anintegral part in this.”At Horizonworks Marketing, Gaia's role is MarketingAccount Manager and is responsible for a wide range ofmarketing activities to service client accounts.Horizonworks would like to offer businesses a freeMarketing Healthcheck, if you would like to give yourmarketing a spring clean this year, contact us:0191 269 [email protected]
HEALTHCARE MARKETINGSPECIALIST EXPANDS TEAM
Durham Business Group has appointed Alison Gittins to beMembership Development Manager at Durham BusinessClub and Jessica Trotman who will manage the Group’sOffice Services providing virtual office services for SME’s.Christine Yule, Managing Director of Durham BusinessGroup, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Alison andJessica to Durham Business Group at an exciting time forthe organisation.“We’re developing our training and office services to helpbusinesses across the region reach their potential “Alison, joins Durham Business Group from Young EnterpriseNorth East where she was Corporate Relations Officer.She said: “I was a member of the business club for manyyears through my previous role so I know all about the
benefits of belonging. Iwill be working to increasecollaboration between members and introducing a rangeof new benefits.”Jessica, added "I'm very excited for the potential ofDurham Office Services, because it's something that willenhance the image of North East businesses whether theyare start-ups or more established concerns. It's all aboutproviding a professional image for our clients whether weare taking phone calls, organising meetings and takingminutes or sourcing new opportunities with tele-marketing."
www.durhambusinessgroup.co.uk
TWO NEW RECRUITS FOR DURHAM BUSINESS GROUP
24 ON THE MOVE
The New Results Training team is expanding and Nevil isnow joined by Nicola Tynemouth in a businessdevelopment role bringing with her 20 years of sales andaccount management experience. “We are really pleasedthat the business is expanding and we need this extrasupport and it shows that we mean business in 2011 andlook forward to more growth” said Nevil “Nicola is a greatasset to the business and she has already had a massiveimpact bring new business and customers”Nicola explained “It’s great to be part of the New ResultsTeam and the first piece of work I have been involved withis setting up the new Introduction to Selling Course that isopen to all” – These courses were set up based on
feedback from clients wanting sales training for individualsor smaller groups. Nicola added “There hasn’t been a quietmoment since I joined and I can see that we are in for abusy 2011! We are already planning in more open coursesincluding an NLP sales Diploma for later in the year andmore of the Introduction to Selling half day courses”The company’s core business is delivering bespoke salestraining courses, and they have recognised a need forcourses open to individuals or smaller groups.
Contact us:0800 [email protected]
NEW FACE SUPPORTINGGREAT NEW COURSES ATNEW RESULTS TRAINING
Philip Wills, a former in-houselegal advisor to the Diocese ofDurham is bringing a newspecialism to regional law firmBHP LawPhilip’s focus will be civillitigation, in particular onhousing matters acting forlandlords and tenants. But hewill also advise parishes and
individuals drawing on his expertise in ecclesiasticalplanning and property issues, marriage and burial law,church trusts, leasing arrangements and charity law.
His expertise inchancel repairliability is
particularly timely since parishes have a deadline of 2013to register land where owners have an obligation underancient law to pay for the upkeep of a church.He explained: “I chose to join BHP for a new challengeand because it has an excellent reputation for client careand very high standards. It is an expanding firm which hasa great deal of vision and focus for the future. I willcontinue as a member of the Durham DiocesanSafeguarding Management Group in relation to issues ofchild protection, and am able to grant common marriagelicences to couples as an alternative to banns, for examplewhere a foreign national is involved or where couples havenot had their banns read.”
DIOCESE ADVISOR JOINS BHP
Darlington Business Club (DBC)has a new Chair; Claire Mitchell,MD of 19 Marketing. Claire hasbrought over 20 years ofbusiness and marketingexperience to the club with theaim of increasing themembership and visibility in theregion. She has already madeher mark on it by dropping ‘andDistrict’ from the name to make
it more marketable and creating a new logo based on thebrick train at Morton Park.Originally from Teesdale, Claire is now based betweenDarlington and Catterick. Previous positions have seen heras Marketing Manager for Courtaulds Aerospace andExplorer Group, as well as Business Development
manager at the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE).Claire says; “I’m delighted to take on the role of Chair atthe business club. I think all business owners in the areashould have a club they want to be a part of, so I’ve kickedoff a new marketing campaign using all the tools at myagency’s disposal. I would like to open the club to some ofthe town’s bugger businesses and those on the peripheryto use all of the experience and knowledge at ourdisposal. I’m excited to support local business andpromote networking in the town.”With Claire’s appointment at the head of the club comes aradical change to the pricing structure of membership.She is making changes that will allow regional charities toapply for free membership and smaller businesses to paya reduced rate. This, she hopes, will mean the clubattracts a broad section of the business community withbusinesses large and small becoming members.
DARLINGTON BUSINESS CLUBAPPOINTS NEW CHAIR
ON THE MOVE 25
Deb McGargle, commercialisation consultant at BHP Law,has been appointed to the board of Women into theNetwork (WIN) an organisation dedicated to supporting,connecting and promoting women in business across theregion.Founded in 1999 by Dinah Bennett of Durham University’sCentre for Entrepreneurial Learning, the networkingorganisation has supported more than 2,000 womenthrough workshops and events helping represent theirbusinesses on a regional and national stage.Dinah said: “Our main aim is to support, connect andpromote female entrepreneurs, from those working fromtheir own homes to multi national corporations, all
helping to sustain our regionaleconomy. We are really privileged thatDeb has agreed to join our board andI am sure she will prove a greatasset. Alongside her legal expertiseshe will bring boundless enthusiasmand energy, lots of connections, and areal understanding and empathy forthe role.”Deb, a consultant with the InnovationTeam at BHP Law, explained “I cameacross WIN in 2007 after attendingone of their events when I wasrunning my own company givingcommercial and legal support tohome-based small firms and foundthe support they offered to women inbusiness absolutely incredible. I didthink long and hard about committing
to be a director and what I could bring to the network butlooking back I realised that my work had dipped into allmanner of business sectors.”Deb added: “All of the Directors of WIN bring somethingdifferent to the table; each is like a carefully selectedjigsaw piece coming together to give the organisation theability to support business women across the North Eastand I am delighted to be a part of it.”
To find out more about WIN visit:www.womenintothenetwork.co.ukBHPInnovateBHPInnovate
WIN GAIN NEW BOARD MEMBER
As part of its transformation Finance Treehas appointed a new Managing DirectorJane Hogan to take the business forwardadvising companies seeking investmentand venture capital. Jane joins David Popeits new Director of Corporate Finance andMartin Stephenson who joined the team
towards the end of last year. Jonathan Gold who has in the last year co-founded RiversCapital Partners, a new venture capital company said:“Businesses in the north east have a great opportunity ifthey only come forward and take it, and it is good advisorsthat will help them take advantage of the venture capitalavailable here in the region. It is still tough out there andthere is a lot of competition for investment but goodbusiness can secure investment and we have changed
Finance Tree to help."He commented further; "That’s why I havestepped down from running Finance Tree toconcentrate on managing Rivers Capital andbrought in a new team who have financeraising and deal experience in David andMartin, ably managed by Jane".The team have already been working with anumber of business and David Pope said "...
the banks have continued tightening their lending criteriaand for some businesses venture capital offers a viablealternative source of finance; the problem is often a lackof understanding of what investors are looking for andhow to find them. Jane commented: “The fact that the team members haveall started up, grown, bought and sold businesses meansthat they understand what customers need from theiradvisors. The most important thing if you’re trying to helpbusinesses to raise money is that you give them access toexperience, expertise and connections. They don’t careabout the trappings. It is that understanding of whatpeople want which really attracted me to the company.”
For more information visit: www.financetree.biz
NEW CORPORATEFINANCE BUSINESS ISRIGHT FOR THE TIMES
26 CHARITY NEWS
Insurance staff have beensafeguarding the future ofone of the region’s bestassets.BiB Insurance in Darlingtonhas been supporting localcharities for the past tenyears, raising more than£10,000 for good causes.This year they decided tohelp the Great North AirAmbulance which provides
air cover for medical and accidents emergencies flyinggravely ill people to local hospitals for life-saving treatment
and recently presented a £1000 cheque to GreatNorth Air AmbulanceEach flight costs the charity £2,500 with the
helicopter crewed most of the time by a pilot, paramedicand a doctor. Every year about £3m is needed to keep thevaluable service going.Air Ambulance fundraiser Robert Colgrave said: “We relytotally on the generosity of the public and donations assizeable as the one from BiB are essential to keep us in theair.”BiB assistant accountant Tracey O’Neill said: “We havesupported a variety of charities over the years and wethought the air ambulance was something that potentiallywe all might have need of one day.”Her colleague Joanne Cockfield added: “It’s something foreveryone; you just don’t know when we might need theirhelp.”
GNAA CHARITY BOOST
St Clare’s Hospice in South Tyneside is launching a newinitiative to encourage businesses to support them bybecoming a Corporate Member. Vanessa Mustard-Wright, Corporate Fundraiser for StClare’s said,” Our new membership scheme means that itis now easier than ever for local businesses to support us.For just £250 a year companies can give a regular donationand know that they are contributing toward supportingthose who need it most.” Corporate Members of the Hospice receive a framedcertificate to display in their workplace as well as aninvitation to an annual supporters reception. Their companyname is listed on the Corporate Members page of St Clare’s
website and they will receive aCorporate Members pack upon signingup with details of St Clare’s eventstogether with a quarterly newsletter. Vanessa added, “We would like to hearfrom any businesses interested in
joining the scheme, which we feel represents value formoney in the current financial climate. If you choose to paymonthly, membership costs just £30 in the first month and£20 for the remaining 11 months.”The money raised from Corporate Members will enable StClare’s to continue working toward their fundraising targetof £1.8m every year which looks set to rise by almost£50,000 due to increases in VAT and other associated costs.
For more information on becoming a St Clare’s HospiceMember please contact Vanessa:0191 451 [email protected]
CORPORATE MEMBERSHIPSCHEME LAUNCHED
Towergate Risk Solutions Newcastle has been part of theteam which has donated more than £541,000 to CancerResearch UK to fund a specific project to combat thedisease.The money raised by Towergate Newcastle is providingfunding towards a team of world-class scientists, headedup by Professor Adrian Harris, who are carrying out world-class research. This includes looking at ways toblock tumours from hijacking the blood supply which canthen grow and spread round the body.Neil Forrest, Managing Director of Towergate RiskSolutions Newcastle, said: “One in three of us will getcancer at some point in our lives. Most of us know someonewho has had cancer and has perhaps had the support of alocal hospice. So we are truly thankful to our staff and
clients for their hard work anddonations to help support thisfantastic cause”Professor Adrian Harris said:“We’re starting to see somereally exciting results from our research. My team areinvestigating ways to block tumour growth by cutting off theblood supply. In a recent early stage clinical trial, we’veseen encouraging responses from a potential new cancertreatment we are investigating that targets a tumour’sblood vessels. We are really keen to build on these results,and I really welcome Towergate Charitable Foundation’scommitment to support our work for another twoyears. This will build on the incredible £541,000 they haveraised so far.”
TOWERGATE NEWCASTLEDONATES OVER £500,000 TOCANCER RESEARCH UK
Mark Evans ofTowergate, ProfessorAdrian Harris of CancerResearch and MarieSibley from Towergate
Staff from BiB Insurancepresent the proceeds oftheir charity work to theGreat North Air Ambulance
While the global economy and industries are constantlyevolving, this has never been more apparent than now.There are big opportunities on the horizon with thetransition to a low carbon economy and the ever fasteradvances in new technologies.
The factories, power stations and coal mines of the past willbe a far cry from the wind farms, robotics, nanotech,biotech and gaming software parks of the future.
The UK has a long standing tradition in pioneering andleading new industries and even now we are still leading theway in the industries of the future such as life sciences, ICT(information and communications technologies), advancedengineering and low carbon. And the North East is playing amajor role in this success with our products and expertisemuch in demand in overseas markets.
The UK life sciences market is among the strongest andfastest-growing in the world and the biotechnology,healthcare and pharmaceuticals industries have anoutstanding record in drug discovery, a strong academicbase and increasing Government support for research anddevelopment.
In the North East the medicines and pharmaceuticals sectoralone is worth in excess of £2.3 billion in exports andNewcastle’s Centre for Life is pioneering work in areas suchas stem cell research, genetics and fertility.
The UK’s ICT sector is the largest in Europe, worth around£130 billion in 2010 and the region boasts “Digital City”initiatives in Middlesbrough and Sunderland helping pavethe way for new technologies in this field, while Teesside is areal hub for the computer gaming industry.
The automotive sector contributes £9.8billion to the UKeconomy, with six of the world’s top ten vehicle makersbased here, while our aerospace sector is the largest inEurope. Nissan in Sunderland is clearly the North East’smost famous automotive name and, along with othercompanies such as Smith Electric and Avid Vehicles, they areleading the way in the development of electric vehicles.
This is just one of the ways in which the UK is leading thetransition to a low carbon, resource efficient economy.Other innovations include climate science modelling andcarbon technologies, offshore wind energy and wind, waveand tidal testing.
The North East already boasts NAREC, a world leader in therenewable energy sector, while work continues to establishthe region as a manufacturing centre for wind turbines. Andrecently Northumbria University secured funding forresearch to strengthen predictions of future global climatechange.
So many industries of the future are already here and UKTIis committed to helping firms take their products andexpertise to the world.
For information about the wide range of servicesavailable through UKTI contact the North EastInternational Trade Hotline on:
0845 05 05 [email protected]/UKTINorthEast
David Coppock International Trade DirectorUK Trade & Investment (North East)
THE FUTURE IS HERE IN THENORTH EAST NOW
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