Tag: sunderland

Voting Opens For Sunderland Retail And Style Awards

By on 7th January 2016in Local Biz

Sunderland’s booming retail sector and the city’s most stylish individuals and outlets are set to be celebrated, with the combining of two major award ceremonies…

For the first time, Sunderland’s Retail and Style Awards are joining forces to honour businesses, events and people who have helped put the city on the map.

The event is being jointly organised by the Bridges shopping centre and radio station Sun FM, with nominations for the 17 categories open today (January 7th).

Sponsored by Sunderland’s Business Improvement District, the awards will give shops, restaurants, bars, hairdressers and beauty salons the opportunity to be recognised.

Categories in the retail section include awards for large, medium and small retailers, best customer service, employee of the year, manager of the year, up and coming business and the Experience It Here award for the best city centre experience.

In the style section, nominations are being sought for the Most Stylish Mackem, along with sections for top bars, restaurants, salons, and individual awards for top bloggers and the city’s most glamorous mam.

Nominations can be made online at www.sun-fm.com/rsawards2016 and will close at the end of March, with the awards evening taking place at the Bridges on April 23rd.

Attendees at the glitzy ceremony – which will include live music, dinner and a fashion show – will also get the opportunity to come away with an award on the night, with a Red Carpet honour being given out to the best dressed.

“2015 was an excellent year for the retail sector in the city, and we welcomed a number of new businesses with some exciting plans going forward,” said Andy Bradley, Centre Director at the Bridges.

“These awards give retailers of all sizes – from leading high street names to our impressive range of independents – the opportunity to be recognised for the great service they offer.”

Julian Carter, Managing Director of Sun FM, added that the style section of the awards gave both individuals and leisure outlets the opportunity to shine.

“With the current regeneration and positive momentum, there has never been a better time to unite the already successful style awards into an even bigger retail and style event,” said Julian.

“We’ve put together a range of exciting categories which not only gives the city’s leading restaurants, bars and salons a showcase, but also there’s a chance for our most stylish individuals to be publicly acknowledged.”

“This is a great opportunity for us to showcase businesses of all types and sizes, including the city burgeoning restaurant and café scene and to recognise their innovation and hard work,” said Ken Dunbar, Chief Executive of main sponsor, Sunderland BID.

A shortlist for each category will be drawn up by a judging panel, which will then be put to a public vote.

A number of sponsorship opportunities are also available for the night, and further information is available by contacting Harry Collinson at harrycollinson@aol.com.

£5m Investment Helps Warm North East Homes

By on 2nd January 2016in In & Around

Thousands of homes across the North East are enjoying warmer homes thanks to ‘Warm Up North’, a landmark initiative being delivered by British Gas in partnership with nine local authorities…

Warm Up North has delivered £4.9m worth of energy saving measures across 3,690 homes since its launch in 2013.

Warm Up North tackles fuel poverty in the North East by helping to lower energy bills, and make it more affordable for residents to keep warm.

Local residents can benefit from a range of energy efficiency measures, including free A-rated gas boilers, subject to eligibility and survey, as well as cavity wall and loft insulation.

In addition to the cost and energy savings for residents, the programme has created annual carbon savings of nearly 15,000 (14,961.61) tonnes of carbon. To put this into perspective, one tonne of CO2 weighs as much as 10 baby elephants!

Although thousands of residents have already benefitted from new gas boilers and insulation, Warm Up North is urging residents in the North East who haven’t taken part in the scheme to get in touch to find out if they are eligible for help.

Graeme Stephenson, lead partnership development manager at Warm Up North, said: “Warm Up North has helped thousands of households, including homes in Northumberland, Newcastle, Sunderland and Durham, to become more energy efficient.

“As the weather gets increasingly cold, many local residents will be thinking about the costs of heating their homes, and I’d urge them to give us a call to find out if they could join the thousands of people who are already benefitting from our Warm Up North programme.”

For more information about this range of energy efficiency measures, including free A-rated gas boilers for eligible residents with an inefficient boiler, subject to eligibility and survey, and cavity wall and loft insulation, contact Warm Up North on 0800 316 4320 for the gas boiler offer, or 0800 294 8073 for all other energy efficiency measures. Alternatively, visit www.warmupnorth.com.

Sunderland Shopping Centre Celebrates Year Of Investment

By on 31st December 2015in Local Biz

Sunderland’s shopping centre is celebrating a year of investment in the Bridges, with new retailers and a number of stores undergoing renovation…

December saw telecoms giant Virgin Media sign up to the Bridges, with plans for a branch which should open in early 2016.

The new announcement follows hot on the heels of the arrival of the Danish chain, Tiger, which offers fun and practical homeware items, in November.

Earlier in the year, the Bridges enhanced its offering when two national clothing brands took up residency at the centre – Pep and Co and Yours.

The fashion ranges available at the Bridges was also increased, thanks to the launch of designer wear store Van Mildert, with a prime space also occupied by gadget shop, Menkind.

Existing shops have undergone refits this year, including JD Sports, Esquires and Schuh.

“There is a great deal of investment taking place in Sunderland, and that is reflected by the retailers interested in coming to the city,” said Andy Bradley, Centre Director.

“We are delighted to have welcomed some really important brands to ensure that shoppers can get everything they want in Sunderland, and not have to travel outside of the area.

“The fact that we now have a well-established, late night shopping evening is also helping to attract people to the city centre, and gives them the opportunity to enjoy everything that we have to offer.”

Christmas Coming Twice For Seasonal Workers

By on 23rd December 2015in In & Around

Winter workers from across the North East are being given a second chance to celebrate the festive season…

On Saturday January 9th, 1879 Events Management will host a Post-Christmas Party at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light.

The event, starting at 7pm, is designed specifically for those who were too busy working or had other commitments in the run up to Christmas, offering them a second chance to celebrate with family, colleagues or friends.

Guests will enjoy a live performance by The Wolcott Band, covering hits by artists such as David Bowie, Bruno Mars, Michael Jackson and Take That, as well as a mouthwatering four course meal.

This includes traditional Northumberland broth, roasted turkey paupiette with all the trimmings, cranberry and white chocolate cheesecake and coffee with sweet mince pies.

David Moses, General Manager at 1879 Events Management, said: “There are so many people who are unable to celebrate Christmas during December, from care workers and the emergency services, to those who are based away from home.

“This year we wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to mark the season in style, and hope that our event on January 9th will offer those missing out this month a much-needed opportunity to get together with their loved ones.”

The Post-Christmas Party night at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light will run until 1am, with every guest receiving a complimentary half bottle of wine.  Places, priced at £24.95 each, can be booked by calling 0871 9111555.

Sunderland Ice Rink To Remain In Place Until New Year’s Eve

By on 22nd December 2015in In & Around

Christmas fun in Sunderland is set to continue, with plans for the city’s Frost Village to remain open…

The ice rink at Keel Square was due to close on Christmas Eve, but the attraction has been such a success that it will now stay in place until New Year’s Eve.

The rink will close at 4pm on Christmas Eve, as originally planned, but will reopen until 8pm each day from December 27th to December 30th, and until 10pm on December 31st.

This means visitors attending the city’s firework display on New Year’s Eve will also be able to enjoy early evening entertainment.

More than 5000 people have already visited the ice rink, which has also brought a huge economic boost to the city, with traders reporting an increase in sales.

“We’re delighted to be able to keep the ice rink open until New Year’s Eve,” said Ken Dunbar of Sunderland BID, which organised the Frost Village.

“The ice rink has been particularly successful, and even the bad weather didn’t put people off from coming along and enjoying the city’s first ever Frost Village.

“Our special characters, The Frostlings, have also proven really popular with families, and have brought their own special magic to the attractions.

“We’ve also had some very positive feedback from retailers in the city who have seen a real upsurge in trade.”

The BID’s social media campaign around the Frost Village has raised awareness to around 400,000 people across Facebook and Twitter.

“The Christmas programme has been a great success, and we’re thrilled that the fun is able to continue for another week,” said Ken.

Sunderland Family Win A Christmas VIP Experience

By on 19th December 2015in In & Around

Christmas has come early for one lucky family in Sunderland, who will be getting the VIP treatment throughout the festive season…

As part of their summer events programme, WEAR All Bonkers Here, Sunderland BID ran a special competition for the city’s visitors, which gave families the chance to win a package of festive treats and experiences.

Father of two, Keith Lawler – who lives with his family in Monkwearmouth, Sunderland – won the VIP Christmas Experience. He said, “We’re so excited to have won this prize. It’s given the kids plenty to look forward to during the holidays, and it will help us to make this Christmas absolutely amazing for them.”

The prize included a free pass to Sunderland’s Frost Village and Winter Fair at Keel Square, tickets for Aladdin – which is this year’s pantomime – at the Sunderland Empire Theatre, a free visit to Santa’s Grotto at the Bridges with free parking, a £50 gift card, a cut and blow dry for a family of four, and £50 worth of beauty treatments at Estrella Hair and Beauty.

The festive package also included a festive afternoon tea at the National Glass Centre, a Marks & Spencer Christmas hamper, and festive afternoon tea at the Sunderland Marriott Hotel on Christmas Eve.

“We’re delighted to be able to give Keith and his family an early Christmas gift,” said Ken Dunbar, chief executive of Sunderland BID.

“And the competition offered us a great opportunity to showcase the amazing programme of festive activities in Sunderland.

“We have some really exciting thing going on throughout December, including our special Frost Village and our fantastic outdoor ice rink.”

“We really hope that everybody will come along and celebrate the festive season with us.”

Both the WEAR All Bonkers Here summer event, which celebrated the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s novel Alice in Wonderland, and the Christmas events in Sunderland are designed to attract families to the city and increase the amount of time people are spending in the area.

For more information about Christmas in Sunderland, visit www.experienceithere.co.uk/christmas.

Stadium Of Light Announce New Year’s Eve Gala Ball Entertainment

By on 19th December 2015in Entertainment, Events

Sunderland’s Stadium of Light are cueing the fireworks for a spectacular New Year’s Eve…

Renowned tribute artist Jamie Tinkler, who became a fan favourite on ITV talent shows Pop Idol and X Factor, will be performing as both Michael Buble and Olly Murs at the New Year’s Eve Gala Ball at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on December 31st.

The event, organised by 1879 Events Management, will also feature a Scottish piper and a fireworks display as the clock strikes midnight, which can be viewed either from inside the function suite or the stadium outside.

Along with all the live entertainment, guests at the event will enjoy a fabulous five course feast created by 1879’s expert chefs.

This includes roasted parsnip and apple soup, warm goats’ cheese, herb roasted fillet of beef, white and dark chocolate minted marbled torte, and a selection of farmhouse cheeses served with assorted biscuits.

Gary Hutchinson, Commercial Director for 1879 Events Management and SAFC, said: “New Year’s Eve is one of the most highly anticipated nights of the year and we’re going all out to make it as memorable as possible.

“Jamie and our Scottish piper will both be on hand to help guests bid farewell to 2015 and look forward to all of the fun and promise that a New Year can bring. It’s going to be a spectacular night at the Stadium of Light.”

Tickets for the New Year’s Eve Gala Ball at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light are priced at £52.95 per person, including a Bucks Fizz reception, bacon rolls at midnight, and coffee and mince pies.

For more information or to book, visit www.safc.com, call 0871 911 1555 or email christmas@safc.com.

Further details about 1879 Events Management can also be found by visiting www.1879events, emailing info@1879events.com or following @1879Events on Twitter.

Sunderland Recruitment Agency Celebrates Growth

By on 11th December 2015in Local Biz

A North East recruitment agency has moved into larger premises to accommodate its growing numbers, following a number of successful contract wins…

 

Sunderland-based Willow Hudson was set up by recruitment specialist Gemma Lonsdale in February, and has now moved into new offices at St Peter’s Gate, Charles Street.

Gemma, 31, made the decision to move into the University of Sunderland-run complex after recognising that her company was growing at an impressive pace.

“Since launching Willow Hudson in February, we’ve had some really significant wins, and we have two new members of staff starting with us in the new year,” she said.

“The business has been growing steadily, and we then decided to move into the offices to ensure we had the space we needed going forward.”

Although the company has been in operation for less than a year, Gemma has more than ten years’ experience in recruitment.

Originally from Northern Ireland, she has worked for a range of well-known companies before deciding to go it alone.

Willow Hudson specialises in sales and marketing recruitment across a range of industries, with their current clients including everything from waste management to engineering, along with recruiting for software companies and the oil and gas industry.

“The company has really got off to a flying start,” said Gemma.

“And we’re looking forward to a really busy year in 2016.”

For further information, visit www.willow-hudson.co.uk.

Sunderland AFC Offer Sports-Themed Party Package For Fans

By on 10th December 2015in Local Biz

Football fans can now bring the action off the pitch and into their party, thanks to one of the North East’s leading event companies…

1879 Events Management, a subsidiary of Sunderland AFC, has just launched a new sports-themed package for private events at the Stadium of Light, as well as its sister sites, National Glass Centre and the Beach House bistro, Roker.

This package offers a range of benefits, including appearances by former SAFC players and Black Cats mascots, along with signed merchandise from the Barclays Premier League team.

Anyone who books the Personal Celebration package, available until March 31st, can also receive a complimentary arrival drink for all their guests, as well as the opportunity to have professional photographs taken pitch side at the Stadium of Light.

As an added incentive, the package can also include discounts and offers for the new Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, which is due to open adjacent to the Stadium in April 2016.

Gary Hutchinson, Commercial Director for SAFC and 1879 Events Management, said:  “We know that people are really passionate about their football, and wanted to offer fans a chance to really get to grips with the game at their next celebration.

“We hope this will prove a popular addition to our wide range of private and corporate packages, and become a regular fixture at birthdays, christenings and even weddings.”

1879 Events Management, which was established in 2012, currently manages catering and events at the Stadium of Light and National Glass Centre, as well as its own stand-alone venue, The Beach House, Roker.

In recent months the company has expanded its off-site operations, assisting at a wide range of gatherings, including leading LGBT festival Newcastle Pride, and its first wedding at a North East garden centre.

The Personal Celebration package, which requires a minimum of between 20 and 100 guests depending on the venue, is one of a number of special offers released by the firm for 2016.

Others include a day delegate rate of £20.16 per person for corporate bookings at the Stadium of Light up to March 31st, and a 10% discount for all off-site events until the end of July.

For more information, or to book, visit www.1879events.com, call 0871 911 1269, email info@1879events.com, or follow @1879Events on Twitter.

Additional specifications for each of 1879’s venues can also be found by visiting www.thestadiumoflight.com and www.nationalglasscentre.com/hire/

Top Festive Tips For Looking After Your Teeth This Christmas

By on 5th December 2015in Lifestyle

A top North East dentist is giving out timely advice for the festive season to ensure that the New Year doesn’t herald problems with teeth…

The inevitable celebrations at this time of year also bring in their wake late nights, too much alcohol and too many caffeine-rich fizzy drinks to help stay awake the following day – which can be hugely detrimental to teeth, according to one of the UK’s leading cosmetic dentists.

Dr Ken Harris, who runs Riveredge Cosmetic Dentistry in Sunderland and Newcastle, believes the round-the-clock party lifestyle that many people indulge in at this time of year can really take its toll on teeth.

And now he is highlighting some useful advice to help people in the run-up to Christmas.

“It’s that time of year when people are constantly out celebrating, with late nights and more alcohol that usual,” said Dr Harris, who has almost 35 years’ experience working in general dental practice.

“This can lead to dehydration and reduce the flow of saliva, which helps protect teeth, putting people at real risk of acid damage.

“Many people then compound the problem by drinking energy drinks to stay awake.  Carbonated drinks like these, even sugar-free versions, contain significant acid in the fizz which soften the enamel on your teeth, and if you then brush softened teeth, they wear down really fast.”

Dr Harris has the following tips for anyone who is planning to party in the next few weeks:-

  • Don’t brush your teeth straight after having carbonated drinks or fruit juice. This could actually damage teeth because tooth enamel would be softened by the acid.
  • Wait four hours after having fizzy drinks before brushing your teeth – giving the enamel time to harden up again.
  • Drink plenty of water, especially if you exercise a lot.
  • If you vomit, do not brush your teeth immediately, but rinse your mouth with water.

“It’s really important not to forget to look after your teeth at this time of year,” said Dr Harris.

“And also if you have any problems with your teeth, ensure you get them looked at before the festive season rather than wait until a time of year when there may only be emergency treatment available.

“Nobody wants Christmas and New Year spoiled by toothache or any other issues which could be avoided.”

For further information visit www.riveredge.co.uk.

Dr Harris is one of the UK’s foremost cosmetic dentists and a multi-award winner. With almost 35 years of experience, he has an MSc in Restorative & Aesthetic Dentistry, and is a Fellow of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

He is a member of the AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) and acts as UK clinical director for California Center for Advanced Dental Studies in San Francisco along with lecturing around the globe.

ADVERTISERS