Tag: business

Drop And Wrap Service Running For Sunderland Christmas Shoppers

By on 24th November 2015in In & Around

Shoppers in Sunderland can get Christmas all wrapped up thanks to a new initiative…

From November 26th, Sunderland’s Business Improvement District company, Experience It Here! will be running a special Drop and Wrap service in partnership with National Skills Shop for Retail.

Shoppers will be able to unload their gifts at the new Elephant Tea Room, High Street West, and leave them there to be wrapped while they enjoy the packed programme of seasonal events running in the city.

This includes an ice rink, Christmas market and funfair.

“Christmas shopping can be hectic,” said Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, Ken Dunbar.  “We’re hoping that the Drop and Wrap service will help reduce stress and give visitors a chance to enjoy our events, without having to lug their gifts around.”

The Drop and Wrap service will be run by staff and apprentices from National Skills Shop for Retail, as well as several volunteers.

“There’s so much going on in Sunderland this Christmas, so it’s great to be able to provide a service that will make it easier for people to take advantage of that,” said Chris Hall, Sales and Marketing Director at National Skills Shop for Retail.

“We expect the service to be very popular and are appealing for volunteers to get into the festive spirit and give us a hand.”

Shoppers can have their presents wrapped from £2 per item, with 50% of proceeds going to charities run by Sunderland Minster.

“Not only will this service help Sunderland’s visitors to enjoy the festive season, but it will also raise money for some really great causes,” said Sheila Bamber, Canon Provost at Sunderland Minster.

“We’re very grateful to Sunderland BID and National Skills Shop for Retail for choosing our charities to be the recipients of the money that’s raised.”

For more information about the Drop and Wrap service, or to volunteer, please call 0191 649 8686.

[cwa id=’test’]

Darlington Retailers Enticing Black Friday Shoppers

By on 23rd November 2015in Local Biz

Retailers in a North East town centre are tempting Black Friday bargain hunters with in-store, as well as on-line, offers…

Originally an American tradition, Black Friday, held on the first Friday following Thanksgiving, has become an international event, kick-starting present buying with huge savings and discounts.

And as businesses across the globe prepare for this year’s event, on Friday 27th November, one town hopes to boost business even further.

Retailers in Darlington town centre are hoping to persuade shoppers to turn up to the stores in person – rather than shop solely on line – and have lined up plenty of bargains to persuade them to do just that.

Throughout the course of the day, high street giants, such as BHS, along with smaller independent stores such as Chestnut Clothing at Grange Road, and Footprints at Skinnergate, will be slashing prices on everything from homeware to clothing and electrical goods.

Alex Hirst, manager of Distinct Darlington, which was set up to promote business in the town centre, said: “Nationally it is expected that Black Friday sales could hit the £1billion figure and Darlington’s shops are naturally keen to attract a slice of that.

“Many have been increasing their stock considerably in order to meet projected demand and a great deal of thought has gone into the offers and discounts they will be offering.

“They are also keen to attract people into the stores and have come up with some great bargains which won’t be available on-line.

Last year Black Friday resulted in a national online spend of £810m with discounts averaging 37 per cent.

To help shoppers identify bargains and track down discounts, Distinct Darlington will be highlighting special offers on its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DistinctDarlington.

For further information about Distinct Darlington visit www.distinctdarlington.co.uk.

[cwa id=’test’]

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.”

[cwa id=’test’]

Thousands Flock To Metrocentre For Star-Studded Christmas Lights Switch-On

By on 20th November 2015in Entertainment, Film & TV

Thousands gathered to watch some of TV’s top stars light up one of the UK’s largest shopping centres…

Families from across the North East headed to Gateshead’s intu Metrocentre at the weekend to watch X Factor favourite Lola Saunders, and Gogglebox family the Moffatts press the button which signals the start of the festive season at the centre.

Former fishmonger Lola, from East Boldon, made it through to the live finals of the X Factor in 2014 and has since performed live across the UK, as well as recording tracks with legendary producers such as Artful Dodger.

She was joined underneath intu Metrocentre’s Tree of Light in Town Square, by Metro Radio’s breakfast team, Steve and Karen, as well as Mark, Betty and Scarlett Moffatt, from Bishop Auckland, whose straight-talking has made them one of the most popular households on Channel 4’s Gogglebox.

The celebrities were joined by intu Metrocentre’s Head of Fun, Mac Toal, his deputy, Myah Rose Wilson, the centre’s Metrognomes, and Santa himself.

Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at intu Metrocentre, said: “Lola and the Moffatts attracted possibly our biggest Christmas crowd ever, and the atmosphere in the centre was absolutely amazing.”

intu Metrocentre’s Christmas light switch on forms part of a packed programme of seasonal events, which also includes Santa’s grotto, a pantomime, and extended opening hours until January 3rd, as well as raising funds for Text Santa.

For more information visit www.intumetrocentre.co.uk/Whats-on/Christmas.

[cwa id=’test’]

Rent A Cop Episode Four: Francis Confirms Feelings Towards Broccoli

By on 20th November 2015in Entertainment, Film & TV

Episode four of ‘Rent A Cop’ just aired. What do we think?

 

We were hoping that this week’s Rent A Cop headline might have been ‘Francis Makes Spectacular Arrest’, but sadly ’twas not to be.

A criminal was – sort of – caught, in the form of a rogue lock gluer, but Francis wasn’t really there, so…

Perhaps the most notable thing to come out of this week’s episode is the importance of broccoli in a healthy, balanced diet. According to Francis, “That’s the key. Broccoli. It’s awesome.”

For further information on broccoli, click here.

Perhaps the star of the show was Dave Ovens. Granted, his walkie-talkie competency leaves much to be desired, but the way he stared down the lock culprit as he walked away was like the physical embodiment of justice itself.

 

Twitter has once again had much to say, though not all of it positive.

https://twitter.com/Hea1y/status/667501996195344384

Harsh.

If you missed the fourth episode, it’s now available on BBC iPlayer.

Check out our thoughts on episode one, two and three.

In other news, please be aware of the unidentified man currently on the loose in Darlington. If your locks have been recklessly glued, you can call Sparta Security on 0800 0234480.

What do you think? Is broccoli the next big thing? Do we eat enough of it? Leave a comment below!

[cwa id=’test’]

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.

[cwa id=’test’]

Luxury Ramside Spa Awarded Five Bubble Rating

By on 19th November 2015in Local Biz

A luxury North East spa is raising a glass in celebration, having been given a five bubble rating, despite only being open for a few months…

The multi-million pound Spa at Ramside Hall Hotel near Durham opened in August, with its facilities just receiving a massive thumbs up from The Good Spa Guide.

The Guide is regarded as the leading authority in the UK and only recognises and rewards spas which meet its strict criteria.

Following a recent inspection visit, the spa was told the good news – that it has achieved the highest possible rating.

“We’re delighted to have been told by the Good Spa Guide that we’ve achieved five bubbles,” said Jill Russell, Spa Director.

“It’s very unusual for a spa which has just opened to have achieved this so soon, so it’s a great endorsement for the fantastic facilities we have here.”

 

The Good Spa Guide said that it loved “the sense of peace and relaxation that pervades The Spa at Ramside, and the amount of natural light that spills into the space.”

The report also praises “the huge spa with plenty of loungers. We also liked the idea of having one area for spa guests only; health club members tend to be in a hurry, while spa-goers need to slow down and chill out.

“The upstairs treatment area is very quiet and restful, and the sleep sanctuary is perfect for chilling out post-treatment.”

Awarding the Spa at Ramside a five bubble rating, the Guide praises it for “its light and airy design, extra-large main pool and hydrotherapy pool, excellent spa restaurant, carefully designed treatment rooms and restful sleep sanctuary.”

It also praised the spa for its “good treatments and good value spa days and packages.”

 

The £8m Spa at Ramside opened in August and offers five pools, including one of the UK’s biggest hydrotherapy pools, fourteen treatment rooms, a thermal suite, a Sleep Sanctuary and a Rasul mud chamber.

It also offers a wide range of spa experiences which can be totally personalised to each individual.

For more information, or to book the Spa at Ramside, call 0191 375 3088, email enquiries@ramsidespa.co.uk, or visit the website at www.ramsidespa.co.uk.

[cwa id=’test’]

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.

[cwa id=’test’]

15 Ways To Stay Positive At Work

By on 13th November 2015in Have Your Say, Lifestyle, What's New?

Andy Knowles, MD of Jak Inc, shares his top tips for keeping smiling…

 

I’ve had an interesting journey over the last ten years.

Starting a family business wasn’t part of my career plan, and things were going nicely for me at Coca-Cola enterprises. I had a great boss, loved the brand, and there was bags of opportunity for career progression.

But somehow, here I am with a portfolio brand business, sporting an annual turnover of £1m plus.

Interestingly, one of the challenges many entrepreneurs face is burnout or fatigue. I’ve attended many personal development seminars over the years, including a three-day trip to Kentucky, where I met a handful of truly inspirational mentors. I even found myself finishing their sentences, as I’ve read their books repetitively!

Because of this, I’ve learned an awful lot over the years about how to fight the fatigue. Below are my top 15 tips to help you stay focused, and be more positive at work…

1. Utilise Your Commute
Don’t write off your time in the car as ‘wasted time’. Listen to audio books, podcasts or inspirational music on your commute, and use that time to learn something new, or get fired up.

2. Get Places Early
Arrive early and focus on the tasks ahead. Even if you’re only ten minutes ahead of schedule, use that ten minutes to wake up and get your head straight. You’ll be grateful for it later in the day.

3. Your Emails Aren’t Always A Priority
Avoid checking emails first thing. Instead, focus on the tasks that can’t be put off. Check your emails periodically throughout the day, which will stop you from getting bogged down in them.

4. Stop Procrastinating
Are you making the most of your time? It’s easy to put things off until later, but those things will pile up, and when you finally have to face them, you’ll wish they were done earlier. Schedule your day in advance, and stick to it.

5. Take A Break
Plan breaks into your day to allow for recovery. Trying to do too much all at once will wear you out, and you’ll lose sight of the end. Take a moment to re-focus on your tasks, and come back to them shortly.

6. Take Something From Your Meetings
Take notes from your meetings, and leave them with clear and achievable objectives. Write down your action points, and share them with the involved parties.

7. Don’t Neglect Your Health
Exercise is proven to reduce stress, and the resulting feel-good factor can boost your productivity.

8. Pace Yourself
Rushing tasks will only create more errors, which you’ll inevitably have to fix. Take your time, and get it right.

9. Support Your Colleagues
Share your achievements with the people around you, but don’t forget to support them too. Be there for your colleagues when they need a little positivity boost, and they’ll be there for you when you need one yourself.

10. Stay Compassionate
Negative colleagues can get you down, but try to remain compassionate towards them. People are usually negative for a reason, but don’t let it affect you too.

11. Collaborate
Never be afraid to ask for help. Collaborate with others to achieve mutual goals, and be aware that sharing the load of some of your tasks can help you get through them.

12. Accept That Some Things Are Boring
Unfortunately, not everything at work is fun, but those things still need to be done. Bite the bullet and face the mind-numbing tasks head on. The sooner they’re tackled, the sooner they’re done and out of the way.

13. Accept Criticism
Don’t be offended by negativity, and instead try to understand any criticism aimed at you. Take that feedback constructively, use it to improve yourself and your work.

14. Relish Your Days Off
Sometimes it’s okay to spend your days off in bed, but try a few different activities too. Variety is the spice of life, and leaves you in a more positive mood.

15. Adapt
Businesses have to change to survive. Make sure that you’re open and adaptable when it’s important, and do your best not to resist it.

Looking for more great business tips? Visit the Jak Inc Blog.

Jak Inc are the North East’s finest print, design, and marketing agency. Keen to reinvent your brand? Visit www.jakinc.uk and find out exactly how to do it.

[cwa id=’test’]

Rent A Cop Episode Three: Audience Question Show’s Authenticity

By on 13th November 2015in Entertainment, Film & TV, Local Biz, What's New?

Episode three of ‘Rent A Cop’ just aired. What do we think?

 

Half 10 on a Thursday night is quickly becoming our favourite time of the week.

Episode three of Rent A Cop aired last night, and this week’s episode has seen Francis and the Sparta team reaching out to Darlington’s LGBT community. Political correctness is thrown swiftly out the window around three minutes in, when a gay couple – victims of a break-in – are jokingly asked “is this the first time your back door’s been knocked in?”

Francis goes on to battle with his instincts during a trip to Leeds, tasked with protecting a coach-load of drag queens on a night out. “I’ve got to keep telling myself, ‘it’s a man! It’s a man, Francis…”

We’re also shown another side to Sparta apprentice Pembow, who seems to be struggling with staying focused on the job at hand… and staying away from the booze. It’s admirable of Francis to give him the benefit of the doubt, but will Pembow’s employment survive until the end of the series?

 

Meanwhile, over on social media, audience reactions look as though they might be shifting away from being favourable. The burning question on everyone’s mind seems to be… is this for real!?

Apparently Francis’ exploits in this week’s episode have been enough to convince many people that Rent A Cop is all just one big joke. Personally, we’re with @leanneram88 on this one…

Yep, it’s real.

If you missed the third episode, it’s now available on BBC iPlayer.

Check out our thoughts on episode one and two.

What do you think? Is Sparta Security for real? Is it scripted? Is it a joke?

Leave a comment below!

ADVERTISERS