Tag: small business

Tarmac Sending Trainees To Sim Academy Simulation Training Event

By on 3rd October 2016in Local Biz

Tarmac, the UK’s leading building materials supplier, will join forces with Sim Academy to send two of its trainees to an innovative simulated training scheme…

The organisation, which currently employs 6,000 people at over 400 locations across the UK, is working with the Academy to road test the new scheme before an official launch later in the year.

Sim Academy is offering simulated training exercises using its state-of-the-art machinery to achieve realistic and engaging experiences across the agriculture, construction and mining sectors.

The scheme negates the need for on-the-job training in dangerous industries, meaning that employees and machinery can remain in operation while new recruits are trained off-site.

The equipment can be adapted to simulate a range of industry machinery such as track excavators, wheel loaders, tower cranes and articulated hauliers, delivering a safe and environmentally-friendly alternative to on-the-job training where one-on-one vehicle time can be limited.

Simulation training is already used in industries such as air travel and medicine.

Speaking of the new training scheme, Mr X, a spokesperson for Tarmac UK, said: “Bringing simulation into the construction industry is a really interesting concept, and we’re excited to be sending two of our trainees to experience the simulators first hand.

“Training new recruits on-site can be demanding – not only for our employees who have to take time out of their schedules, but for our existing fleet which has to be taken out of operation during training exercises.

“A simulated, off-site alternative is a great idea, and we’re excited about what this means for the future of training at Tarmac”.

Mick Gray, who is an experienced educational facilitator, will head the Sim Academy project.

With decades of experience working with organisations such as Caterpillar, UK Coal and managing his own training solutions firm, Competency Training Solutions, Mick will be able to offer his skills and expertise to trainees looking to meet the industry’s competency requirements.

Speaking of his new venture, Mick said: “I’ve always been interested in finding new ways to improve the safety and efficiency of training employees in using machinery, so simulation makes sense.

“It’s great to see businesses such as Tarmac take an interest in our brand new simulation training. We’ve already had a lot of enquiries regarding our open days, but we still have spaces available if you want to see what Sim Academy can do.”

Sim Academy is holding open days between 10th and the 14th of October to showcase its innovative training solutions. To find out more or to book a place, visit simacademy.co.uk.

Lord Lieutenant Commends Newly Qualified F. Jones Apprentices

By on 7th July 2016in Local Biz

Apprentices at Teesside’s award winning specialist work surface manufacturers, F Jones Cleveland, received distinguished approval for their hard work, when they were awarded their vocational certificates by the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire…

The Lord Lieutenant, Mr. Barry Dodd CBE, Her Majesty’s representative in the County and charged with upholding the dignity of the Crown, visited the Middlesbrough based company to present 16 members of staff with their Intermediate Level Apprenticeship qualifications.

Mr. Dodd CBE, who is also Chairman of GSM Group Ltd, spoke highly of the accomplishments of the young F Jones apprentices.

“You should all be incredibly proud of yourselves”. He said: “It takes great determination to go out there, find a job and then push yourselves to study and do further training. Your achievements here clearly illustrate the practical value of learning and I’m sure this experience will be of enormous help in ensuring you have the right tools to go on to even greater success in your chosen careers”.

In the three decades since its foundation in 1982, the Company has developed into the largest and most successful of its kind in the UK; a genuine market leader, pioneering many of the logistical and fabrication techniques that are now considered industry standard.

Chairman, Mr. Fred Jones, credits much of this success to the highly skilled and motivated workforce and the company’s close links with local government learning organisations. “Our aim is to give young people access to a pathway to employment through training”, he said. “F. Jones Cleveland has been running successful training courses since 2007 with all but two of our current team having come through an apprenticeship or training to work schemes”.

The Company prides itself on creating and maintaining strong community links, working with local organisations and people to build its workforce and goes the extra mile for apprentices by supporting and providing literacy, numeracy and IT training, private healthcare, banking, and in-house financial support schemes to ensure young people have the best possible opportunity for success.

Speaking about the event which took place at F. Jones Cleveland’s state-of-the-art, 60,000 square ft factory in Riverside, Mr. Fred Jones said: “It was a privilege to have the Lord Lieutenant visit and join us in support of the young apprentices here at F Jones Cleveland.  The presence of the Lord Lieutenant gave emphasis to the value of their achievements and made the occasion even more significant and memorable for us all. Everyone has worked incredibly hard for these qualifications, and what better recognition than to have our honoured guest present their certificates to them.”

To find out more about F. Jones visit www.fjonesltd.com/.

Findley Academy Looks To Build Roof Over Skills Gap

By on 1st June 2016in Local Biz

A leading North East roofing specialist is launching its own academy to help invest in the region’s youngsters…

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Washington-based Findley Roofing, will take on four to six apprentices at the Findley Academy over the coming months, where they will be trained to acquire the skills needed to become the best in the business.

Each student will be put through an apprenticeship, while at the same time benefitting from hands-on training from the Company, which has over 30 years’ experience in the industry.

The scheme, which will run from centres in Washington and South Tyneside, will include one to one training, regular appraisals and the opportunity for apprentices who are excelling to earn more, through an accelerated programme.

A short supply of skilled tradesmen is the catalyst behind the idea and the Company hopes resolving this issue, will help them become the roofing powerhouse in the North East.

General Manager Chris Dodds said: “There is a skills gap emerging and we need to help close it by investing in young people.

“It’s not easy to find hardworking, loyal people but we believe young people are the future and this is why we are keen to invest our time, money and effort into helping them.

“As there is currently a short supply of tradesmen, now is the perfect time for young people to get into a trade, as they will have the opportunity of a strong career.”

Findley Roofing is a family run company covering the whole of the North East, from Alnwick to North Yorkshire.

Having experienced huge success over the last 12 months, which has seen the team double in size to 38 and a huge increase in turnover, the company is looking towards the future as it plans to maintain this same level of growth over the next five years.

Chris continued: “We want to be ‘first for roofing’, just as it says on our strapline and truly believe the Findley Academy is the way to achieve this.

“We’re looking for young people who are keen, hardworking, have character and want to learn, as there will be opportunities for them to become team leaders in the future.

“We’re also looking for team players, as the dedicated, professional team we currently have, is one of the reasons for our success.”

Ian Wright, from Hebburn, knows just how important the Findley Academy will be to young people across the region and the difference it could make to them. The 25-year-old has been working for Findley Roofing for 18 months and having excelled in his training, will soon be leading a team of roofers.

“The knowledge and confidence I have gained since being taken on by Findley and working alongside my mentor, Mick, is huge,” said Ian.

“I know I wouldn’t be half the person I am today if they hadn’t given me a chance and I would tell any future apprentices to stick at it, as it’s the only way they will learn.

“A lot of young people give up too easily and if they’re not happy just leave, but if you put your faith in the Company and work for them, you will reap the benefits.”

Findley Roofing is one of the only roofing companies to be backed by Barclays Bank, meaning it can offer finance deals to its customers. The Company prides itself on the quality of the service and products it provides, guaranteeing roofing services for 10 years.

To find out more about Findley Roofing and the Findley Academy, visit: http://www.findleyroofing.co.uk/

Twitter: @Findley_Roofing

North East Lettings Agency Lobbying For Change

By on 26th May 2016in Have Your Say

A North East-based lettings agency has launched a national pledge to help challenge the unethical practices that go on in parts of the industry…

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The Ethical Lettings Pledge is the creation of Carla Keegans, who supports the Government’s proposals to tackle rogue criminal agents, but believes much more needs to be done in the wider industry.

With more than two million private landlords currently operating and over 12 million tenants living in the private rented sector, many people turn to lettings agents for help, but are increasingly let down or excluded.

Carla, who in July 2015 set up The Ethical Lettings Agency in Redcar, has been working on the pledge since December, seeking advice and feedback from trusted individuals around her.

She said: “It’s only right landlords expect agents to be properly qualified and experienced to help navigate round the increasingly complex legislation and issues that are now common in the sector.

“Unfortunately, many agents are not and there are numerous examples, backed up by national research, which indicate many landlords feel ripped off by agents.

“This pledge will show landlords and tenants that agents operate to some clear ethical standards, and if agents signed-up to the pledge fail to deliver, then landlords and tenants can challenge them on this.”

Landlords, tenants, and members of the public can also sign a formal petition to lobby for national legislative change, which will shortly be accessible via The Ethical Lettings website.

As a community interest company (CIC), The Ethical Lettings Agency fully understands the impact letting agents can have on local communities too, which will benefit as much from the pledge as tenants and landlords.

The Agency has already created two new jobs in Redcar, a town which has suffered from 1000s of recent job losses; perhaps a reason why the Agency was recently invited to meet Prince Charles.

Political figures have already shown support for the pledge, including Cabinet Member for Housing at RCBC, Cllr Lynn Pallister.

She said: “This social enterprise delivers ethical services and investment into our community and we are proud to support it for the benefit of our residents.”

Saltburn-born Carla, spent several years working in a senior housing role within the City of London Corporation, before returning home to start The Ethical Lettings Agency. Her time spent in the capital inspired her to create the pledge, which she hopes will attract as many signatures as possible, to help create national change.

Carla, a long-standing Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Housing, added: “My experience working for various housing and public sector organisations had already convinced me there was a need in the market for an agency that provides a better service to landlords and tenants, which is why I set up The Ethical Lettings Agency.

“The Ethical Lettings Pledge is simply an extension of my vision and the company’s ethos, which is to shake up an industry which is letting people down time and time again, by making the system fairer.”

The Ethical Lettings Agency is open to all landlords and tenants in the Redcar and Teesside private rented sector. In particular, the Agency works with landlords to help manage their rental properties as a business, to reduce rental risks and save money.

To show your support for the pledge, visit http://theethicallettingspledge.co.uk/ or for more information about The Ethical Lettings Agency, visit http://www.ethicallettingsagency.co.uk/.

Twitter: @EthicalLets

Employability Project Is ‘Best In Show For Young Entrepreneurs

By on 4th May 2016in Local Biz

A new canine company has become the latest business start-up to get help from Durham County Council’s partnership approach…

Following a period of unemployment due to ill-health, Caniquest UK founder Matt Greensmith, was finding it difficult to get back into work. However with help from the council’s Employability Project and Generation NE Youth Employment Initiative – as well as the South Durham Enterprise Agency (SDEA) and plenty of determination – Matt now has a thriving new business and career.

An enthusiastic dog agility competitor and former worker in the agricultural sector Matt was inspired to start Caniquest UK which offers a wide range of canine supplies.

After being referred by the job centre, the employability team, SDEA and Generation NE worked together with Matt to provide support and advice for his new business as well as helping him access funding to help get started.

Matt said: “The time I spent unemployed was very frustrating so it’s amazing to be able to say that I’m now the proud owner of my own new business. I have a tremendous amount of gratitude towards everyone who helped me get Caniquest UK off the ground.”

Matt’s isn’t the only success story however as his website was designed by Infranautics, a website and software developing business was also launched thanks the partnership’s work.

Cllr Neil Foster, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “Caniquest UK is a brilliant example of both the support the council provides and how we work in partnership with other organisations to help people like Matt not just get back into work but create entirely new businesses.”

As well as mentoring and careers advice to help people get back into work, the council’s Employability Project encourages people to start their own business, helping them develop their ideas and help them create their own career. For more information contact 03000 262 383.

Generation NE is a collaboration between five local authorities, including Newcastle, Durham, Gateshead, North Tyneside and Northumberland, and the North East LEP.

It aims to support over 2,000 young people aged between 17 and 24 years into work over the next three years. For more information call Generation NE on 0191 230 0491 or visit www.generationne.co.uk.

North East Restaurant Brings Unique Twist To Piri Piri

By on 29th April 2016in Lifestyle

A new Piri Piri restaurant that brings a unique twist to the popular Portuguese cuisine, has opened on Middlesbrough’s bustling Linthorpe Road…

Frango’s, which specialises in Piri Piri dishes with an African and Portuguese twist, held an exclusive launch event on Sunday (24 April) to announce its long-awaited arrival in Teesside.

The project is the brainchild of former owner of Bahia Bistro, Eddie De Melo, who was convinced he could produce tastier, healthier cuisine at better value than the competition.

As a result, Eddie teamed up with partner, Iffy, to create a 130+ seat restaurant which employs almost 30 members of staff from the local area, and will cater to the growing demand for fresh, authentic food in the North East.

Born in Mozambique, Eddie was brought up in Brazil and then moved to South Africa, where he jointly owned a Mediterranean restaurant. It’s his 20+ years’ experience in the restaurant industry, combined with his heritage, that he believes gives him an edge over other Piri Piri style restaurants.

Eddie said: “Middlesbrough is very multicultural, so it was the perfect place for me to settle. I bring with me a unique insight into Portuguese cuisine and my experience of African atmosphere, which has influenced things such as including a space for customers to put their names on the menus.

“No matter where I have lived throughout my life, I have learned there is nothing more important than the best, traceable ingredients, and that is why we stress the need for the freshest produce, like our British chicken.

“As a concept, Frango’s will deliver great tasting Piri-Piri cuisine, served in a relaxed and informal environment at affordable prices. We have even installed a state of the art kitchen to ensure speed and efficiency for every order.”

Frango’s is the only Piri Piri restaurant in Middlesbrough that uses fresh, 100% British chicken, and also features specials that complement its multi-ethnic heritage.

Partner Iffy said: “There is a gap in the market for fresh, tasty food that isn’t mass produced, and that’s a gap we plan to fill. Unlike the larger chains, we’re not restricted to a particular format and as such, the food we serve at Frango’s will evolve over time.

“Anyone who visited Eddie’s previous venture, Bahia, will know he’s renowned for serving excellent food, so pulling off dishes that he’s grown up with should be a piece of cake!”

Frango’s has worked with local craftsmen AD Property Maintenance, KJS Woodwork, Wainwright Upholstery and artists Alan Morley and Steve Badger, to prepare the restaurant which has had almost £500,000 invested in it.

For more information, visit the Frango’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Frangos-Piri-Piri-524693127710622/

Twitter and Instagram: @FrangosPiri

Canny Beds Celebrate Newly Opened Team Valley Store

By on 27th April 2016in Local Biz

Leading North East furniture supplier Canny Beds are celebrating the opening of their brand new store…

We all know how difficult it can be to find good quality furniture and beds at prices you can afford, which is why Canny Beds & Furniture believe they have brought together the best possible furniture at down to earth prices.

Whether it is the bedroom, dining room or living room you’re looking to add beautiful furniture to, you can rest assured that you’ll find it here for the best price online.

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Canny Beds’ brand new store is now open in Team Valley, which means you can choose between that or the Chester-le-Street store to pop in and find your new furniture. Want to check availability beforehand? Call 0191 410 9994 to chat to one of their staff in advance.

Testimonials:

“Seamless ordering and delivery. Bed of good quality and assembled easily. Great price.”

“Brilliant communication, bought bed for my 3 year old and it is excellent quality and very easy to assemble. All round excellent product for price.”

“Speedy delivery and the cheapest I found the bed anywhere!”

“Brilliant. Lovely comfy mattress. Great price and service.”

Experience Affordable Luxury At Durham Housing Development

By on 25th April 2016in Lifestyle

Local housebuilder, David Wilson Homes, is urging house hunters looking to buy in the Durham area to visit its luxury Mount Oswald development, which features a premium collection of four and five bedroom homes available in 11 beautiful designs. Each house is crafted with the very best materials and finishes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding woodland and open areas.

Buyers visiting Mount Oswald can view a range of quality homes from the 5* housebuilder, including the Blackthorne housetype, a beautiful five bedroom, three-storey home with a generous lounge, family room, dining room and kitchen with a beautiful orangery. Upstairs leads to four bedrooms, one with an en suite, and a family bathroom, whilst the second floor has a den and fifth bedroom with an en suite. The Blackthorne is now available to buy from £599,995.

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Steve Ball, Sales Manager for Mount Oswald, commented: “Mount Oswald is a fantastic development with a great community feel in a beautiful setting, so close to Durham city centre. We have a wide range of properties available and the sales team is always on hand to discuss your buying options. We would advise buyers to come along and truly experience the luxury of the development.”

To find out more about David Wilson Homes in the North East, please visit: www.dwh.co.uk.

Recruitment Tie-Up Triggers Growth At Marmax

By on 22nd April 2016in Local Biz

An award-winning manufacturing business has achieved growth and taken on staff after teaming up with a North East recruitment firm…

Earlier this year Stanley-based Marmax Products, which turns recycled plastic milk cartons into outdoor furniture and play equipment, formed a strategic alliance with Ken Wilson & Associates (KWA) to kick-start the next phase of its expansion.

Under the partnership, Newcastle-based KWA sources suitable staff to fill key vacancies at Marmax Products, which is looking to broaden its sales team following an influx of new business.

The County Durham firm has already made a trio of appointments, hiring Lynda Maddison, Kane Halliday and Lisa Bankhead as sales executives to help grow the business.

Through its work Marmax, which has won several accolades including the Champion Business Award and the coveted Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice, has saved more than 10,000 tonnes of UK milk cartons from going into landfill and turned them into a range of outdoor furniture and play equipment for the education, leisure and tourism markets.

The company is also a supplier of bespoke quirky products, which include an elephant weighing platform for Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire.

Jackie Robshaw, general manager at Marmax, said: “We needed extra sales staff on board to service the additional work and capitalise on new business leads. However, we wanted people of the right calibre and fit for our company, which is why we were seeking a recognised recruitment partner with good credentials in our market.

“Since our alliance with KWA began we’ve welcomed three excellent employees to the team and we expect to make further appointments in line with our growth projections.”

KWA specialises in sourcing IT, training, customer service, finance, procurement and sales professionals for a wide range of companies. Its parent company, Direct Recruitment, places blue-collar workers in companies operating in industries such as healthcare, logistics, catering and hospitality.

Laura Gillespie, operations manager at KWA, said: “We’re happy to be working with an award-winning company that has had such a positive impact on the environment and in the local community.

“Marmax Products has outlined some exciting growth plans as it looks to strengthen its position as a UK market leader in outdoor furniture and play equipment for the education, leisure and tourism industries. We’re proud to be playing a part in the company’s expansion.”

For further information about KWA, call 0191 232 2330, visit http://www.kwa.co.uk/ or e-mail enquiries@kwa.co.uk.

Lumley Castle To Host Swinging Afternoon Tea This May

By on 19th April 2016in Entertainment

Enjoy afternoon tea with a difference at a special event at Lumley Castle Hotel this May…

On Sunday 22nd May, Lumley Castle, Chester-le-Street are hosting a swing afternoon tea in their breath-taking surroundings with live music by singer Alexander Lomas.

Starting at 2.30pm visitors will enjoy the ambience of the castle in their Garter room which oozes elegance and luxury. Combining historic architecture with views from the County Durham landscape the setting is truly a dream come true.

Alexander Lomas has 15 years of experience within the industry and has won many awards including North of England Wedding Awards for entertainment. He encapsulates his audience with classics from greats such as Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Bobby Darin and Tony Bennett.

Not only will guests revel in fabulous music, they will relish in Afternoon Tea designed by our top class restaurant team. Including a selection of finger sandwiches, scones and delicious cakes your taste buds will be tantalised.

“This event has always been a hit at Lumley Castle and we are very excited to be running it again,” said the hotel’s director of sales Tina Lowes, “Alexander Lomas is a great entertainer and makes the experience of our fabulous afternoon tea even more enjoyable.”

“We guarantee that anyone attending will have a fantastic afternoon in one of the castle’s most beautiful rooms, and we already planning more events like this for the future.”

Places for Swing Afternoon Tea at Lumley day cost £20 and can be booked by calling 0191 3895845 or emailing banquets@lumleycastle.com.

www.lumleycastle.com

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