Category: What’s New?

Genesis 2015 Celebrates North East Entrepreneurship

By on 25th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?

Hundreds of representatives from the region’s business community came together this week for the North East’s first inclusive celebration of enterprise and entrepreneurship…

GENESIS 2015, which was fronted by the presidents of the region’s universities’ enterprise societies, showcased the home-grown entrepreneurial talent of the North East of England and brought together all five universities, the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and the enterprise ecosystem.

The day-long event hosted at Gateshead’s BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art coincided with The InCredAbles – what if? movement launch and the final of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum’s ‘If We Can, You Can’ challenge, and formed part of the region’s Global Entrepreneurship Week celebrations.

Focused on offering student and graduate entrepreneurs the opportunity to learn from the region’s start-up, professional, financial and business communities, GENESIS 2015 offered a series of workshops, one-on-one advice surgeries and networking opportunities as well as an Entrepreneurs’ Stories session and an Investors Panel, which saw up to £1million worth of investment up for grabs.

Guest speakers offering guidance to entrepreneurs included graduate success stories such as Brett Jacobson from Media Works; Tarek Nseir, founder of TH_NK; and Tony Cleary from the Lanchester Group; while Nevil Tynemouth from New Results Training hosted networking; and financial input was given by Andy Fishburn, head of investment at Virgin Start-up; Santander and the North East investment community.

FIRST Face to Face’s managing director, Charlotte Windebank, who supported the organisation of the event, said: “Over the last three years, graduate entrepreneurs have made a crucial contribution to the economy, creating 1,500 jobs, 450 businesses and £64million in turnover, and it is vital that as a region we continue to encourage and nurture the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

“Since the launch of the ‘If We Can, You Can’ challenge, we have been overwhelmed by its success, so it seemed fitting to combine this year’s final with GENESIS 2015 to create a truly innovative event celebrating entrepreneurship powered by the North East’s five universities.

“With up to 700 people attending over the course of the day it was fantastic to see the region’s business community really get behind the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.”

Amongst those spearheading the event was Edd Dutton, president of Northumbria University’s NUOVO; Laura Pritchard, president of University of Sunderland’s Enterprise Society; Abz Dawar, president of Entrepreneurs Durham at Durham University; Noah Knapton, president of Newcastle University’s Entrepreneurs Society; and Lizzie Dixon, enterprise coordinator at Teesside Launchpad.

Edd Dutton, founder of Giving Origin and Northumbria University’s NUOVO enterprise society, added: “The power of networking with your stakeholders at any stage of business is so vital in success. Entrepreneurs should always feel integral. They should believe in what they are doing and showcase not just their ideas but vision – GENESIS has fully supported that from conception. Giving Origin is pleasured to work with the GENESIS team in forming and curating the brand.”

Sponsors of the event included Ebac, TEDCO and Virgin Start-Up, Santander, Gateshead Council, NELEP, Tees Valley Unlimited, North East Finance, Entrepreneurs’ Forum, Giving Origin, O PR, FIRST Face to Face Ltd and Gospelware.

Carole White, chief executive of TEDCO Business Support, added: “We were very keen to be involved in such an important event for the region’s enterprise community. As one of the principle sponsors, it has been heartening to see first-hand the great appetite for entrepreneurship that exists in the North East and we look forward to working with some of the new ventures attending to help get their business moving in the future.”

For more information on GENESIS 2015 visit www.genesis2015.co.uk.

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Sunderland Tech Startup Take Their Software Global

By on 24th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?

A North East marketing agency has been appointed to help one of the region’s newest businesses launch its video recruitment software globally…

Sunderland-based McDonough Marketing Communications is working with software start-up business Shine to help promote its product, which uses cloud-based video to interview prospective job candidates.

Shine, based at the eVolve Centre in Rainton Bridge, is now engaging with large blue chip multinationals, all keen to harness the power of video in their recruitment campaigns.

“I wanted Shine to think and act like a multi-million pound software giant from the start”, said Natasha McDonough, MD of McDonough Marketing Communications.

“Software for recruiters is a vast market, but I could easily see how Shine could be different.  For a start, it’s cloud based, fully responsive and candidates can send interview answers straight from their smart phones.

“Having worked with many recruiters, I know how powerful a tool like this could be in their hands – they can literally sift, score and organise shortlists from wherever they are.”

She added, “I believe Shine has an incredible opportunity, not least through tapping into the North East’s recruitment market but on a global basis, too; so I was able to identify quite quickly how we could get a full inbound marketing campaign up and running.”

Mobile video consumption has increased by 35% in the last year, and mobile recruitment is also steadily growing.

Shine was initially launched out of frustration following years of CV sifting in previous roles by its founder and CEO, David Copple.

David has been involved with start-ups for a number of years and was previously the Chief Technology Officer of Test Factory. He also held roles at Communicator while it was part of the Leighton Group, and 2Touch.

The software created by Shine can be applied to various sectors, including the contact centre market, where there is a high level of recruitment required.

“Natasha lives and breathes marketing, she’s well connected and has introduced me to many potential clients already,” he said.

“Through working with Natasha and her associate team, I feel confident that I have a solid marketing plan in place along with a powerful brand image and highly optimised website. I’m thrilled to say we’re on track to building our customer base.”

For more information about McDonough Marketing Communications, please contact Natasha McDonough by emailing natasha@mmc.agency, or calling 0191 548 3448 or 07956 165978.

Further information about Shine is also available at www.shineinterview.com.

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Gordon Brown Staff Undergo Further Extensive Training

By on 20th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?

A North East law firm has proven commitment to its staff development plan by providing 24 members of the team with extensive training across disciplines…

Gordon Brown Law Firm has harnessed the potential within its management team by providing official training to its solicitors, in addition to traditional legal training requirements.

Thirteen employees have succeeded in the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 3 qualification already this year, with nine employees going on to complete a SFEDI Award in Social Media for Business Use. Benefits of the course include fast-tracking progression and targeting training to the precise needs of the future leaders of the firm.

In addition to this, Gordon Brown will also look to offer advanced opportunities to Level 5 ILM Diplomas for individuals interested in developing their knowledge of the business arena in the near future.

Three younger employees have completed a first year of study with Damar Training. Receiving one of the highest marks in the country, Sophie Gray passed both exams with distinction and all three will go on to undertake undergraduate study in the legal realm over the coming years.

Deb Tweedy, HR Manager and head of Gordon Brown’s human resources consultancy, Hadrian HR, is currently undertaking a three year programme with Northumbria University to complete her Masters in Employment Law.

Following the successful completion of BSL Level I Sign Language, legal secretary Christine Pearson has gone on to study BSL Level II Sign Language with Newcastle College. Internal training will be rolled out across the business over the coming months to those interested in learning the skill, making significant progress towards Gordon Brown’s fully accessible service pledge.

Other recent qualifications gained within the firm include the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Level 4 Professional Distinction, Cilex Certification at Levels 3 & 6 in Family Law, Conveyancing and Commercial Property.

Gordon Brown Law Firm managing partner Kathryn Taylor said: “We’re taking the next step in reaching our goal to offer a fully accessible service. Investing in people is at the heart of our unique business model, and as they continue to grow their skills portfolio, we continue to invest in them.

“Gordon Brown has always taken an employee-centric approach, and we believe the more resources and knowledge our staff have, the more we can help our clients find clarity on their legal issues. It also empowers them to fee earn in their own right.”

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Miller Homes Holding Children’s Christmas Card Competition

By on 19th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?

North East youngsters are being given the opportunity to help Miller Homes celebrate the holiday season, and wish homebuyers a Merry Christmas with a festive children’s drawing competition…

Children in the region are being asked to design a colourful picture for the front of a Christmas card, portraying what Christmas means to them and what they love about the festive season, whether it’s a wintery snow scene, jazzy Christmas tree or Santa and his elves.

The winning design will be made into a Christmas card which will be given to friends of the leading housebuilder, and homeowners moving into their new Miller home this December in the North East, as well as being displayed in the sales centre of the winner’s local development. The winner will also receive their very own pack of the designed Christmas cards to hand out to their friends and family.

Andrew Somerville, Miller Homes North East’s regional sales manager, said: “We want to give the region’s youngsters the chance to be part of Miller Homes’ festive celebrations this year, showcasing the fantastic artistic talent of one lucky winner and adding that personal touch to our Christmas well wishes.

“Christmas is such a wonderful time of year, especially for little ones who look forward to the festive season all year round, so we’re really excited about seeing all of the entries.”

Entry forms are available to collect now from the sales centres at any of Miller Homes’ North East developments, which are open Mondays from 12:30pm to 5:30pm and Thursdays to Sundays from 10:30am to 5:30pm.

Completed entry forms must be returned to the sales centres by 5:30pm on Monday 30th November 2015. Entries will be judged by a panel of judges from Miller Homes, with the lucky winner being notified by Friday 4th December 2015.

Committed to creating sustainable communities that cater for a wide range of buyers, Miller Homes has developments located across the North East. With prices starting from £129,950, homebuyers can choose from Bishops Park in Gateshead, Park View in Low Fell, The Acres in Bedlington, Wheatfields in Seaton Delaval, Portland Wynd in Blyth, The Meadows in Framwellgate Moor, Wheatlands Chase in Redcar, Acklam Woods in Acklam and Clairville Grange in Middlesbrough.

For more information on Miller Homes in the North East call 0808 250 6426 or visit www.millerhomes.co.uk/locations/north-east-of-england.

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Sunderland Beachfront Bistro Prepare Surf And Turf Night

By on 19th November 2015in Food & Drink, Lifestyle, Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

Surf’s up at a Sunderland bistro as it prepares to serve the finest food from the land and sea…

The Beach House, at Pier Point, Roker seafront, is hosting a special Surf and Turf Night on Friday November 27th.

The event, devised by 1879 Events Management, will include a unique two-course menu, specifically designed to showcase fresh ingredients from beneath the waves and beyond.

This includes a salad of crab, prawns and salt and pepper squid, followed by a main course sharing platter, featuring minute steak with chimichurri sauce, piri piri chicken fillets, spicy chorizo sausage and a mixed garden salad.

The platter, designed for two people, will also include crab claws, king prawns and mussels, as well as patatas bravas or spicy potato wedges.

David Moses, General Manager at 1879 Events Management, which also manages catering and events at the Stadium of Light and National Glass Centre, said: “The Surf and Turf Night will pay tribute to the Beach House’s seafront location, as well as the amazing array of ingredients available from the North East coast and countryside.

 

“It also forms part of a continuing programme of events designed to make eating out more affordable and enjoyable for couples and families.”

Surf and Turf at The Beach House is priced at £30 per couple, including two courses with mixed bread and olives served on arrival. A selection of desserts will be available to purchase at an additional cost.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/thebeachhousesunderland or www.1879events.com. Bookings can be made for November 27th by calling 0191 5659473.

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Alex Nelson’s Places To Go: Darlington

By on 18th November 2015in Have Your Say, In & Around, Lifestyle, Places To Go, What's New?

Stationmaster Alex Nelson has been suggesting places to go by train every month for ten years. This month, he’s headed to Darlington…

 

 

Over the past few decades, County Durham has been getting smaller. First of all, the county lost Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland, Stockton and Hartlepool in 1974, followed by Darlington when it became a unitary authority in 1997.

With its population of over 100,000, Darlington is a town famous for many reasons, not least for the world’s first locomotive hauled railway service (from Stockton to Darlington) founded by Edward Pease and his business associates.

The company initially provided only the track, which was hired out to whoever wished to run a train, hauled either by horses or by steam. The transition to standard railway management was a gradual one, spurred on by frequent disputes between drivers over right of way, and by the dangers of the higher speeds of steam locomotives.

The town does have its own railway museum, but it’s been several years since I’ve visited, as opening hours are much reduced. This isn’t at the main Darlington station, sometimes known as Bank Top, but at the original station at North Road, a 20 minute walk north of the town. It’s the first stop on the branch to Bishop Auckland, which runs infrequently, but stops alongside the museum and the shed where the iconic new steam locomotive 60163 Tornado was built in 2008.

North Road Station Museum is known as the Head of Steam, and is open Wednesday to Sunday, 11am-3.30pm. There is an admission charge of £4.95, with reductions for concessions and children. The big problem it faces, however, is that despite being a very interesting museum and incorporating the fascinating Ken Hoole Study Centre, it is dwarfed by the National Railway Museum off-shoot at Shildon, just up the line, which is much larger and benefits from free admission.

The Shildon museum is where people tend to gravitate, but on a day trip to Darlington, it’s well worth a visit to the original.

 

The town centre contains many interesting alleyways (or vennels), particularly between the High Street and Skinnergate, which runs parallel to the west, away from the railway station. There are many independent shops and specialist cafes on these vennels.

My wife and I enjoy many of the shows at the Darlington Civic Theatre, which is a more intimate performance space than the likes of the Sunderland Empire or Theatre Royal in Newcastle. The theatre is also close to the railway station for a ride home afterwards, but requires careful planning of train times if you’re to avoid a long wait after the show.

Darlington is also an excellent place to change trains, having a flat floor plan with no bridges or subways between platforms. Watch the indicators, though! Whilst southbound trains routinely leave from Platform 1, northbound from Platform 4, and locals to Middlesbrough/Saltburn from Platform 2/3, these are prone to swap around from time to time.

I learned this the hard way when I foolishly directed a lady on her way to Whitby (via Middlesbrough) to wait with me on Platform 1 whilst her train gently slid out of Platform 4… and it was her last connection. I wrote an apology in the Whitby Gazette and it won Letter of the Week, but the memory still fills me with dread.

On the railway, I’m supposed to know what I’m doing…

Alex Nelson

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Sign Language Santa On His Way To Metrocentre

By on 18th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

Intu Metrocentre is set to spread some festive cheer with a special event for hearing-impaired children…

As part of its Christmas festivities, intu Metrocentre, Gateshead, will be running two special sessions with Santa and Mrs Claus for children who communicate via sign language.

The sessions, which will run on Sunday November 22nd and Sunday November 29th from 10am – 11am, will give the children the chance to visit Santa’s grotto and tell him what they want for Christmas.

The idea for a signing Santa came after members of the intu Metrocentre Customer Services teams received sign language training.

“We wanted to make sure that everyone had the opportunity to enjoy our Christmas programme, and these sessions will mean that children with hearing problems will be able to join in the fun too,” said Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at intu Metrocentre.

“There’s so much going on in the centre throughout the festive season, including our seasonal pantomime, Santa’s grotto, our extended opening hours and raising funds for Text Santa. We’re really proud of this part of our Christmas programme.”

The sessions with Santa and Mrs Claus will take place between 10am and 11am. Members of the centre’s Customer Services team who have been trained to use sign language will also be on hand on the day.

Shoppers must book in advance for this free activity, and can do so here. Spaces are limited, so shoppers are advised to book early.

For more information about the centre’s Christmas programme, including Santa’s Grotto, visit www.intumetrocentre.co.uk/Whats-on/Christmas.

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Durham Police Looking For Restorative Justice Volunteers

By on 17th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?

Ron Hogg, Durham Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), is looking for volunteers to help reduce crime and support victims…

The Restorative Hub, launched in 2016, will train volunteers from across County Durham and Darlington to support victims, by offering them the chance to meet and communicate with their offender.

120 volunteers are already trained following a successful pilot scheme in Darlington. Mr Hogg is now seeking a further 120 volunteers from across County Durham.

He said: “Restorative Justice is highly valued by victims as it gives them a voice and a chance to get the answers and explanation they deserve. This often helps them to recover and restores their peace of mind.

“For offenders, the process helps them understand and take responsibility for the harm they’ve caused. Evidence shows that offenders who meet their victims in a restorative justice process are less likely to reoffend.”

Volunteers will work alongside colleagues from the Police, Courts, Prisons and Probation, and will also handle cases on their behalf. They will work with a variety of issues, from neighbourly disputes and anti-social behaviour, to low-level crime like shoplifting and criminal damage, to more serious crimes, as their experience grows.

Andrew Hancock, one of the scheme’s coordinators, said: “We’re looking for fair-minded people who want to make a positive contribution to their community. No experience is necessary as full training will be given. Successful applicants will be awarded funding worth £625, to allow them to complete the accredited training programme.”

The training, which will run in various locations from February to June 2016, equips trainees with the knowledge and skills to effectively facilitate restorative justice processes, and leads to a recognised level 3 qualification. In return for the investment made in them, volunteers are asked to donate around 3 hours a week to working with victims and offenders for the first 18 months after qualifying.

Former volunteer facilitator Hayley Morrison commented: “It’s been extremely satisfying to see the difference you can make. I’ve helped traumatised victims regain their confidence and find closure, while also helping offenders turn their lives around and make a fresh start. It’s given me experience I could never have gained elsewhere, and made me a much more rounded person in the process. It even opened the door to my current career in the Police.”

An information pack with an application form and full details of the role can be obtained by contacting the Restorative Hub on 0300 003 1818, or by emailing kevin.thompson@darlington.gov.uk.

There will also be a chance to meet Hub staff and volunteers at a special Criminal Justice Volunteers Fair to be held at Police Headquarters in Durham, on Wednesday 5th January from 6pm-8pm.

Further information is available on the Durham PCC website.

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North East Theatre Company To Debut Legally Blonde Musical

By on 17th November 2015in Entertainment, Events, Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

Newcastle will be turning blonde next week as a North East theatre company takes to the stage with their premiere of the smash-hit musical Legally Blonde…

West End Musical Theatre Company will be performing the musical based on the popular film, which tells the story of Elle Woods as she turns from sorority sister to legal high-flyer. Elle makes the move to Harvard Law School when she realises that her boyfriend is dumping her for someone more ‘serious’.

Elle, played by Cheryl Moody, even considers turning brunette!

The cast of North East performers will be entertaining audiences all week from 24th to 28th November at the Tyne Theatre, and the show even features two dogs – Chi-Chi the chihuahua, and Patsy the bulldog.

Despite having taken leading roles before, Cheryl say this is the most demanding part she’s ever had.

“I loved the movie as a child, and when I realised there was a musical version I couldn’t wait to audition for the role of Elle!”

Cheryl, who works as cabin crew for Thomas Cook airlines, already had the flowing blonde locks needed for the part, and the similarities don’t end there.

“I love playing Elle, and to be honest, I don’t find it too difficult. I am a very girly girl, I own a chihuahua, I love pink and I have been known to be a bit dizzy at times!”

As the lead role, Cheryl performs numbers such as Take It Like A Man, So Much Better and Legally Blonde.

Elle’s love interests are Warner, played by Kevin Rhodes, and Emmett, played by Alex Easten. Elle is advised to follow her heart when it comes to love in Paulette’s powerful, moving and funny song Ireland.

The Newcastle-based theatre group pulled off a remarkable coup when they gained the licence to perform the North East amateur premiere of the show. Ken Anderson, Managing Director of West End Musical Theatre Company says:

“We were delighted to obtain the exclusive amateur performance rights for the North East, prior to its general release in 2016. The show includes memorable music with great lyrics, lots of dancing and plenty of energy.”

Legally Blonde is on at the Tyne Theatre, Westgate Road, Newcastle. Performances are nightly at 7pm from Tuesday 24th until Saturday 28th November, as well as matinée performances at 2pm on the Thursday and Saturday.

Tickets can be booked online at www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk, by calling 0844 2491000 or in person at the Tyne Theatre box office.

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North East Ice Skater Joins Dancing On Ice Star In Sunderland Frost Village

By on 17th November 2015in Entertainment, Events, Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

A rising North East skater will be getting the chance to showcase her skills alongside a Dancing on Ice star this Christmas…

As part of the activities taking place in Sunderland this festive season, aspiring ice skater Anna Waters will be performing with her coach Andrei Lipanov – one of the professional skaters from ITV’s Dancing on Ice – at the opening gala of the Sunderland Frost Village on November 26th.

An exciting programme has been put together by Sunderland’s Business Improvement District, which includes the creation of an ice rink at Keel Square, which will operate right up until Christmas Eve.

Andrei, who taught celebrities including Clare Buckfield, Heidi Range and Bonnie Langford for the TV show, currently coaches Anna, who is originally from Wallsend.

The pair specialise in Adagio pair skating, a highly skilled and acrobatic style of ice performing.

The skaters will launch the ice rink at a gala performance, alongside young ice skating duo, Josh and Ellie, from the hit CBBC documentary series Ice Stars.

Following the opening, the ice rink will run daily skating sessions and is available for private hire, along with a programme of activities including the chance to be coached by Andrei on various dates throughout the festive season.

“We’re so pleased to be able to give someone from the region the chance to perform with Andrei,” said Ken Dunbar, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID.

“It brings another dimension to our fabulous Frost Village and another reason for people to come and see what we have on offer in the run up to Christmas.”

Along with the open air ice rink, Sunderland Frost Village will offer a traditional Christmas market with more than 25 stalls selling food, drink, gifts and crafts and a traditional fun fair with a waltzer, ferris wheel and bumper cars on the former Vaux Brewery site.

Anna replaces Andrei’s regular skating partner, Susie Lipanova, who is unable to take part due to family commitments.

Sunderland’s Frost Village will be open daily between 10am and 10pm (8pm close Monday to Wednesday), and until 4pm on Christmas Eve – though skating on this day must be booked in advance.

Prices for skating starts from £6.50 per child and £7.50 per adult.

Full activity listings and opening times are available at www.sunderlandchristmas.co.uk.

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