AcNorcothunEasttancyAwards2008 Business Echo Sponsored by FOR THE BEST COVERAGE IN THE REGION businessecho.co.uk The Northern Echo TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 NEWS IN BRIEF Work starts on US firm Rolls-Royce wins Virgin contract drilling rigs

WORK will begin this week on two drilling rigs – with the possibility of a third to follow, finalises at the Haverton Hill shipyard on Teesside. The £300m-plus contracts were awarded to the Tees Alliance Group by SeaDragon Offshore last year. The hulls for the platforms are being built in Russia and will be Filtronic transported to Teesside where the Tees Alliance Group, whose members include Cleveland Bridge, McGill Services and K- Home Engineering, will build the topsides. The project will purchase create about 800 skilled jobs. JOBS SECURED: Staff at a plastic packaging firm that had A MAJOR US company put ex- By Owen McAteer gone into administration have a pansion plans in its own country Business Editor more certain future after the on hold because it was so im- business was sold as a going pressed with the technical abili- [email protected] concern. Jaycare Ltd, based in ty of County Durham workers. North Tyneside, has been sold US-based RF Micro Devices but we have a good supply of in- to Portsmouth competitor Cope (RFMD) has concluded the £12.5m dividuals to expand. Allman Plastic Packaging. The purchase of the microchip pro- “We expect to have the people 200 workers will transfer to the ducer Filtronic’s plant, in New- there ready trained and ready to new owner and production will ton Aycliffe. go with the minimum amount of continue on North Tyneside. RFMD, a global leader in wire- initial training.” less technology and components Mr Neal said the fact that the MOTOR DEAL: Vertu Motors, for mobile phones, with clients factory was close to several uni- the UK’s tenth largest group of including Nokia, Samsung and versities turning out trained and motor dealers, has partnered Motorola, has bought parts man- skilled people was also an impor- fish4cars.co.uk. From this week, ufactured in the Newton Aycliffe tant factor. all Vertu Motors’ stock will be factory for two years. The parts that are manufac- advertised on the fish4cars And after discovering the tech- tured at the factory will be network of 220 local, regional nical expertise available in the shipped all over the world, with and national newspaper and region, the company decided to the company’s largest consumer magazine websites. buy the plant and put a $100m base being in Asia. CRODA NEWS: Chemical group manufacturing facility in Greens- The purchase of the plant was Croda yesterday announced the boro, North Carolina, on hold. announced in December, but only completed on Friday. sale of its 46.5 per cent interest The new factory is not being The microchip plant is based in in Baxenden Chemicals Ltd to scrapped, but is unlikely to open the former Fujitsu factory, where Chemtura Corporation, the this year as planned. 570 jobs were lost when the Jap- majority shareholder, for a cash RF Micro Devices executive vice-president Jerry Neal said anese company pulled out in 1999. consideration of £13m. The Filtronic took over in 2000, pro- proceeds will be used to reduce that it fully expected to add to the 200 strong workforce in Newton ducing mobile phone transmit- group borrowings for Croda, Aycliffe, whose jobs were safe- ters and chips for handsets. which employs 300 people at its guarded by the purchase. But in the past two years, it has Uniqema operation on Teesside. Mr Neal, speaking from North been dogged by troubles with fi- WORLD IMPACT: The world’s Carolina, said: “We fully expect nancial losses rising from £5.1m biggest food and drink group to add to that workforce. We don’t in 2006, to £29m for the year end- Nestle, which employs more have any detail on timings of ing May 31, last year. than 1,000 people in York, that, but the main thing for us is Last summer, the company cut yesterday published details of that the jobs there are safe and 131 jobs in Newton Aycliffe after the impact its business activities we are looking to expand. its biggest customer cancelled a have on the environment. “We were having several of our supply deal. Only weeks earlier, products manufactured there for a further 31 posts were cut. EUROPE SPIRIT: Independent a little over two years and when Mr Neal was confident that the fireplace specialist Spirit Fires, Filtronic decided to sell the fac- purchase of the factory was a of Newton Aycliffe, County tory, since we were already hav- good deal, even in the present Durham, has begun trading in ing parts made there and we were economic climate. BIG DEAL: The Trent 1000 is the launch engine for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner Europe, eight months after in the middle of an expansion in He said: “Economic conditions launching. Greensboro, this was so attractive around the world are uncertain ROLLS-ROYCEhas been The engine will also power “Rolls-Royce engines will we placed our expansion on hold.” just now. We are very pleased awarded a £1.3bn order to the 28 further 787s on which help us cut emissions per The ability of workers in the with this acquisition and feel this supply engines for the new Virgin has options and flight by nearly 30 per cent as Inside area was a bonus Mr Neal said. will help us weather the storm.” Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft purchaser rights. we pursue our goal to become He said: “That was one of the RF Micro Devices opened in being delivered to Sir Richard Virgin Atlantic president Sir the most sustainable airline in Business News...... 2 attractive features – the avail- 1999 as a small design shop. Branson’s airline Virgin Richard announced the order the world. Small Business ...... 3 ability of trained talent that we In a statement in December, Atlantic. in New York yesterday. Virgin is also forming an Law...... 4 can bring in because we were Filtronic said it planned to move The Rolls Trent 1000 He said: “We have chosen environmental partnership Rural Affairs...... 5 aware of the history of the area away from the semiconductor engines will power the 15 the cleanest possible engines with Rolls-Royce and both Commercial Prop...... 8 and the high level of training, but market, concentrating on its core Dreamliners that make up for our more fuel-efficient companies will work to lower Personal Finance...... 10 the jobs had moved away. That is profit-making divisions instead. Virgin’s order. future with the 787 Dreamliner. fuel burn and emissions. Market Report...... 11 a very positive factor for us, not No one from the company that the people are out of work, could be contacted for comment.

AcNocorthEunasttancyAwards2008 Count yourself in... Nominations arenow open Enter online at www.accountancyawards.co.uk Sponsored by June 5 th 2008 Hilton Newcastle Gateshead 2 BUSINESS ECHO businessecho.co.uk TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 MP visits award-winning kids club Business James network Ramsbotham for women by women

TWO leading businesswomen Grab our US have launched a networking group aimed at helping woman business cousins to start and develop businesses in the region. Swans North-East will provide by the hand businesswomen with support, advice and mentoring. OW many times have you It has been launched by Lesley wished that there were a few Hunter, of Mynx Business Devel- more hours in the day, or even opment, and Mica MacInnes, of an extra day in the week? So, Chrysalis Learning and Develop- H what did you do last Friday? Did ment Solutions. you take advantage of the leap year to catch It is hoped that members of the up on a task you’ve intended to do for ages networking group will be able to but you can never find the time to complete? share their knowledge and expe- I chose to visit some members who I had riences to help each other. been promising to see for some time. I want- The aim is for the women to de- ed to discuss opportunities in the US and velop their business skills as well they gave me some great feedback as to what as their business. we could do better. They also gave me the Although it is predominantly reassurance that the economy is not that aimed at women, it is also open bad, as some of the press would have us be- to men who want to support and lieve. Future order books are healthy and encourage the advancement of they have positive plans for the future. women in the workplace. The prompt to do this fact-finding came WINNING WAYS: MP Alan Milburn at the Planet Sports Club Picture: DOUG JACKSON Networking events and social when I visited Washington DC at the end of gatherings will be held. A SINGLE mother who set The idea came about “We cater for all children to do a nine-to-five job, last month. Every time I visit the US, I en- Ms MacInnes said: “In every- up an after-school sports after Miss Jackson’s ten- and all abilities and are which she gave up when counter higher levels of customer service day life, women take responsibil- business two years ago year-old son, Harry, wanted affordable,” said Miss her business took off. and it challenges me to raise my own stan- ity for 70 per cent of all domestic had a visit from Darlington to learn a new sport, but Jackson. She said Mr Milburn dards. tasks, so we feel it is vital that all MP Alan Milburn to help not football. “Most children only get became aware of the My trip to the US was both fruitful and in- of our service offerings are held celebrate winning a major She said: “I had a look the chance to play football business when she won a formative and it proved to me that, despite at times which fit in with our award. around and there weren’t – they often don’t even get national Avanta award last recent negative press, businesses in the US members’ other commitments.” Di Jackson, who runs any after-school activities the chance to play tennis in year. are thriving. It also reminded me that the Ms Hunter said: “Swans will Planet Sport Kids Club, affordable and fun. So, I schools. He visited one of Miss special relationship between the US and UK link people together, as well as won her second award last talked to Business Link and “Our sporting activities Jackson’s holiday clubs for is of great value to both parties. providing useful training and month at the Best New started up Planet Sport are also all fun-orientated, a kickaround with the The friendship agreement signed between master classes on relevant busi- Business Awards in the Kids Club.” so we don’t do full-on children. Washington DC and Sunderland (our Wash- ness skills such as public rela- Tees Valley. Planet Sport hosts after- matches or compete in a For more information ington) in June last year, is a mark of the tions, leadership skills, finance The business organises school clubs in the serious way.” about the club’s activities, close connection between the world’s most and sales.” after-school and holiday Darlington area and around Miss Jackson is also able email Di Jackson on economically important capital city and the For further information, call North-East. All of DC’s other twin cities are clubs offering a range of Richmond and Catterick, in to organise her time around planetsport.kidsclub sports. North Yorkshire. her son rather than having @ntlworld.com 0844-884-3105 or email info@ national capitals, but it is clear that our swansnortheast.co.uk American cousins take this partnership more to their hearts than any of the others. On the whole, things are looking reason- Developing ably rosy. In this country, we’re bombarded with news of the US recession and the fact future leaders that it’ll drag us all down with it. But the business people I spoke to on my visit con- Care home group REGIONAL development agency tinue to feel that there are huge opportuni- One NorthEast has invested £1.2m ties and that most businesses are doing well. in a programme designed to de- They also acknowledged that the current velop leadership. dollar exchange rate makes the US a very at- The Leadership Foundation, tractive target for British business. I strong- finalises another deal run by Newcastle-based coaching ly believe that the US should remain near firm P3 Associates, is a 12-month the top of our business agenda. There are op- programme to enhance the skills portunities for North-East companies to do of chief executives, board mem- business and I urge companies to grab these ONLY weeks after the chief By Owen McAteer land Group, which not only built a very successful and bers, business owners, directors with both hands. executive of the UK’s largest Business Editor adds another seven quality, high-quality business over a and senior managers. You may not always gain extra hours or care home provider promised modern care homes to our number of years which proved Improving leadership is seen [email protected] days into every month, but you can gain more acquisitions it yester- portfolio, but also expands to be attractive.” as crucial to achieving the tar- extra business opportunities. What will you day bought out a rival group our care offering to include Chris Welch, partner and gets set out in the Regional Eco- use the extra day for in 2012? in the North-East. ny’s portfolio to 36,823 beds daycare, which I believe will head of Sintons’ company nomic Strategy. ■ James Ramsbotham is chief executive of Darlington-based Southern for the elderly and disabled in become an increasingly impor- and commercial department The agency will invest £1.2m in the North East Chamber of Commerce. Cross Healthcare Group PLC 723 homes across Britain. tant element of elderly care.” who, with solicitor Adrian the programme over the next bought The Portland Group’s Two weeks ago, Southern The transaction was bro- Dye handled the transaction, three years. care homes in the region. Cross chief executive Bill kered by KPMG and Sintons said: “This is another terrific Agency chairwoman Margaret The seven homes, which Colvin said that he was look- Solicitors, in Newcastle. example of North-East entre- Fay said: “Programmes like the have been bought for £42m, ing to expand the company Andrew Scaife, associate di- preneurs creating and grow- Leadership Foundation are al- comprise 368 elderly care beds, through further acquisitions. rector of KPMG’s corporate fi- ing significant businesses ready building the skills and ca- as well as 126 daycare places. He said that business ana- nance team, said: “We led a which attract the attention of pacity of the sort of leaders we The 600 staff who work in lysts should “watch this carefully controlled auction national operators.” want to target, providing invalu- the Portland Groups homes space,” because he intended process, which secured an ex- In 2006, The Portland Group able coaching and expertise to will be retained. to clinch a few smaller deals cellent price for the business bought the Hide Bar & Grill take them to that next level.” It has also bought a care over the next few months. and resulted in an extremely group, which has premises in For more details about the home in Worcester, which in- Yesterday, Mr Colvin said: successful transaction for our Durham City, Newcastle and Leadership Foundation, visit cludes 54 beds. “We are pleased to announce client. Yarm, and said that it want- p3associates.com or call 0191-266- This increases the compa- the acquisition of The Port- “The management team ed to invest further. 4626.

Concerns over extending full-time rights 
   



A SMALL business organisation has dustry (CBI) that the rules could cost The CBI has said the Temporary voiced concerns about a Bill to ex- thousands of jobs across Britain. and Agency Workers (Equal Treat- tend the rights of full-time employ- Matthew Goodman, the FPB’s pol- ment) Bill threatens 250,000 tempo- ees to temporary workers. icy representative, said if the Bill be- rary jobs across the UK, including The Federation of Private Busi- comes law, then owners of small about 4,500 in the North-East and   ness (FPB) warned the legislation – companies will be less inclined to thousands more in Yorkshire. to give up to 1.4 million temporary employ temporary workers because However, the Private Member’s and agency staff the same pay and of the added red tape and costs. Bill, promoted by Labour MP An- conditions as full-time staff – would “Reducing the flexibility of the drew Miller, received strong support make smaller firms less competitive. labour market in this way could in the Commons recently, when MPs It also echoed the concerns voiced damage small firms and, by exten- voted by 147 to 11 – a margin of 136 – by the Confederation of British In- sion, the UK’s economy,” he said. in its favour. TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 businessecho.co.uk SMALL BUSINESS BUSINESS ECHO 3

Showthe world youmean business Baby, look at you now 0845 600 9006 www.businesslinknortheast.co.uk

Small RECORD YEAR: Mike Charlton celebrates Business By Rachel Moss Charltons Going green can be good celebrates for business

A NEW year, a new way to look at running best year your company. Being eco-aware does not just mean doing your bit to save the planet, it can also convert into business benefits. Far from being a passing fad, corporate and social responsibility (CSR) is making a connection with customers who are increas- on record ingly looking to find the greenest products on the market. The most common demands are for ethi- cally traded or locally sourced goods with REGIONAL estate agent Charl- By Julia Breen minimal packaging, but there are many other tons has just had the best year in Business Correspondent ways to demonstrate that your company is its history after growing by 50 per taking environmental issues seriously. cent – despite difficult market [email protected] Business Link has launched a dedicated conditions. online resource to help businesses, whatev- Charltons, which has offices in past 30 years, but what hasn’t er their size, gain bottom-line benefits by Richmond, Darlington, Catterick changed is the way in which peo- going green. The Environment and Efficien- Garrison and Barnard Castle, ple like to be dealt with, and hav- cy section of businesslinknortheast.co.uk recorded year-on-year growth of ing good relationships with all contains advice on reducing waste, market- 50 per cent in its 30th anniversary our customers has been the basis ing green credentials and understanding year. of our continuing success. your legal obligations. And despite pessimism in the “To be able to report on our This last point is vitally important. Envi- business community about con- best ever results at the start of BABY BONUS: Emma Clark, who has launched a business for new mothers ronmental legislation covers issues such as ditions this year, owner Mike my 30th year in the industry air emissions, waste responsibility, manage- Charlton said he believed there makes it extra-special, and there A SINGLE mother who spent three years was there every step of the way to guide ment of harmful substances and pollution were reasons to be optimistic. are good reasons to believe that on benefits has launched a successful me in the right direction and help me prevention. Charltons employs 20 people in the regional property market will new business for expectant mothers. draw up a business plan and secure If any of these sound like business con- its four offices and specialises in be far healthier than some pre- After having two children, Emma funding. They gave me the confidence to cerns for you, failure to comply could have residential town and country dictions that have been made for Clark, from South Shields, decided that keep going and never lose faith.” serious consequences. Business Link offers properties across County it. there were very few retail outlets that South Tyneside councillor Eddie an email alert service to keep you one step Durham, Cleveland, North York- “In some ways, the region’s catered for new and expectant mothers. McAtominey, lead member for jobs and ahead and fully informed on environmental shire and the Yorkshire Dales, range of undoubted qualities in- With the support and funding of South enterprise, said: “Emma is a shining requirements. while its commercial property sulate us from the rollercoaster Tyneside Means Business, 31-year-old example of someone who is not afraid of A CSR policy can also be used as a moti- operations have also expanded ride that the property sector in Miss Clark opened Baby Butterfly, a rolling up her sleeves and getting stuck vating factor for employees. The sense of in- during the past year. some other parts of the UK en- retail outlet offering baby products into hard work. clusion initiatives such as recycling plans It also provides survey and val- dures, and locations such as Cat- including prams, gifts and lingerie for “She has demonstrated how, with the and volunteer days for local charities pro- uation services for mortgage terick Garrison and the environs pregnant women. right attitude and commitment, you can duces can be morale-boosters for your team, lenders, and private surveys for of Richmond are more in demand The shop is in Stanhope Road, South find an array of support and advice to and a good way to retain staff. buyers. than ever.” Shields. Miss Clark said: “It’s taken a lot set up your own company and bring For most small and medium-sized busi- The company opened a survey In 2006, Charltons announced of hard work and determination to get your idea to life.” nesses of course, the most important factor centre – Charlton Kimmitt Sur- plans to expand part of its busi- where I am today, but it’s a great feeling After researching her market and is how an effective CSR policy can affect your veyors – in Newcastle, last year, ness through a merger with let- seeing it all come together. target audience, Miss Clark used her bottom line. In terms of marketing your busi- to serve the whole of the North- tings agency Ward Horne Resi- “I couldn’t have done it without the background in computer training and ness, going green can be an excellent profile- East. dential Lettings. support and funding I received from word processing to give her the raising exercise and could create positive PR. Mr Charlton said: “The region- Ward Horne moved to premis- South Tyneside Means Business, which grounding to start up on her own. However, as this becomes a more main- al property market has changed es above the Charltons office in stream business practice, the Advertising beyond all recognition over the Richmond. Standards Authority (ASA) has recently warned that care must be taken when mar- keting green credentials. In terms of tangible month-on-month fi- Gifts and accessories business goes online nancial rewards, creating a CSR policy draws attention to where resources are being used, and often wasted, in your business. It is esti- A SMALL retail business that sells fordable gifts. They have stores in Gos- tail environment that offered carefully Ms Gregg said: “The website will also mated that it is possible for most businesses gifts and accessories is launching a forth and Tynemouth. selected gifts to suit all budgets.” allow us to stock products that we to save between ten and 20 per cent on their website this month. Ms Gregg said: “The distinct lack of Mr Holden said the website will in- would love to sell in store but do not energy bills at little or no cost. Eddie Holden and Pip Gregg want to independent, contemporary gift shops clude short films about the products have room for. Business Link’s team of expert brokers op- expand on the success of their two Gaf in Newcastle meant that the only shops Gaf sells. “We’re expecting to be able to sell erate across the region in local access points shops in the region by selling their in existence either offered more tradi- He said: “The site has been designed about 150 products at launch, rising to and on a mobile basis. products at yourgaf.com tional and mainstream gifts or expen- to be simple and effortless to navigate 500 by the end of the year.” For further information, visit businesslink The couple launched the Newcastle- sive designer brands. and understand, whilst still being a fun The couple recently recruited a fash- northeast.co.uk or call 0845-600-9006. based business in 2001 after they spot- “We wanted to provide an alterna- place to visit. We love what we sell and ion graduate to develop a range of own- ted a gap in the market for unique, af- tive, which was to create an exciting re- we want to show it off at its best.” brand clothing. Showthe worldyou mean business 0845 600 9006 www.businesslinknortheast.co.uk 4 BUSINESS ECHO ECHO LAW businessecho.co.uk TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008

IN ASSOCIATION WITH Blackett Hart &Pratt Harrowells Swift service wins award in partnership with business

If youare looking foralawfirm that talks your language, whereyou arethe centreofattention,thenlook no further. goes the

Echo extra mile Law By Stephen Greenway in buyout Plan ahead to avoid the worst LAWfirm Harrowells has se- By Kate Stanley cured a multi-million pound deal [email protected] for one of the largest salvage from fall-out businesses in the region. York-based Simpson Bros Auto pletely revamped ready to be re- WHENstarting a business for the first time Salvage, which has a turnover of launched by July. it is easy for the individuals involved to be- £11.5m, is being acquired by US A team of lawyers specialising lieve that the initial goodwill will endure be- company Copart Inc for an undis- in company and commercial law yond the honeymoon, and that there is no closed sum. and commercial property has need to contemplate what would happen California-based Copart, which been involved in negotiating the when relationships between the founders operates ten similar facilities deal from the start. break down. As this article is written by a across the UK and 138 worldwide, Philip Lewis Ogden, of Har- lawyer, you can probably guess what’s com- plans to double business at the rowells, said: “This has been a ing . . . Simpson Bros site. great team effort and we really Commercial pressures, changes in person- Harrowells, based in York, is had to go the extra mile as we had AWARD WINNING: Back row, Andy Smith, Radhika Kumar, Andrea Hammond, Adelle al circumstances and differing personal acting on behalf of Simpson to work to a very tight deadline Hall and Lee Johnson. Front row, Geoff Hall and Louise Ottaway Bros, which employs 55 staff at and overcome an eight-hour time agendas all lead to tensions within a business A COUNTY Durham law The Easier2Move to have won the Solicitor its 42-acre site on the Full Sutton difference between York and the and, often, there is no simple way to resolve firm won a Solicitor of the Solicitor of the Month of the Month Award. a deadlock. Industrial Estate and handles west coast of the US where the about 20,000 cars a year. Month award from an Award automatically “The conveyancing Most trading businesses today operate buyer is based.” online conveyancer. enters all solicitors on team works exceptionally through the medium of a limited company, An agreement for the sale of Simpson Bros, which started the family-run business has been Gordon Brown E2M’s panel. hard at providing a and this article looks briefly at one means of trading in 1973 out of a small Associates, based in The winner is selected smooth and efficient protection against the risks of shareholder reached and the acquisition will country garage, with one mem- be completed by early next month. Chester-le-Street, on various attributes, service for Easier2Move’s differences. ber of staff, at Warthill, near clinched the award from such as turnaround times, clients, so it’s very Shareholders in a company are bound to- Once Simpson Bros is handed York, has been owned for the over to Copart, the site will be Easier2Move. customer service and rewarding to have our gether by a contract with the company past 35 years by the Simp- The firm is part of the dedication. hard work recognised. through its articles – they agree with the closed for 90 days, staff will be re- son brothers Brian, Bernard trained and the facility com- conveyancing site’s panel Geoff Hall, “We look forward to company that they will conduct themselves and Bruce, together with their of solicitors and was conveyancing manager at continuing our in certain ways and grant rights to the other wives Christine, Barbara and recognised for its swift Gordon Brown, said: “We relationship with them for shareholders. Usually, companies are formed Jane. service. are absolutely delighted many years to come.” using only the basic model constitution pre- ‘ Nineteen years ago, they were scribed by the Companies Act. joined by nephew Tim Simpson, Shareholders can, however, make a legal- While I would have who is expected to become site ly enforceable contract between them that loved to see the manager under the new owner- sets out how certain other matters relating ship. to the company will be dealt with. This will Simpson name over Bruce Simpson said: “While I not always be needed. would have loved to see the Simp- Firm wins contact with association But if one party has invested in a compa- the door for years to son name over the door for years ny, they may want a degree of commercial in- come, all the staff are to come, all the staff are expect- LAW firm Dickinson Dees has signed a deal Limited, among others. Russell Hall, associ- fluence that the number of shares their in- ed to be retained under the new to provide legal services to the Three Rivers ate at Dickinson Dees, said: “Maintaining ex- vestment bought them does not auto- expected to be ownership and with Copart’s Housing Association. cellent buildings and management stan- matically deliver. retained. .6 plans to double the volume of A 20-strong team will provide advice to the dards for customers is any housing Or if a company has members with similar business at the Full Sutton site, North-East housing association, which has authority’s key priority. levels of shareholdings, but some of them are .Harrowells have we are confident that the busi- about 3,000 properties in urban and rural “The association ensures its customers re- more closely involved with the business than ness will continue to go from areas around the region. ceive best service through excellent stan- others, then they may want to secure protec- been fantastic strength to strength. The firm will provide comprehensive legal dards management.” tion from the business they are working to throughout the sale “Harrowells have been fantas- advice in relation to the association’s devel- “Dickinson Dees is not just a major player grow being seen as a simple investment and tic throughout the sale process opment programme and housing matters. in the North-East, but also has an excellent potentially sold out from under them. Bruce Simpson and have provided us with in- Dickinson Dees acts on behalf of Places for reputation for social housing expertise,” said A shareholders’ agreement can be simple valuable advice and professional People Group, Tees Valley Housing Group, Janette Longstaff, head of finance at the as- or complex, and will bind some or all of the support every step of the way.” Isos Housing Group and Erimus Housing sociation. shareholders together. Most shareholders’ agreements will cover matters such as how the business will be run, how shares are to be sold, who needs to con- sent to certain key decisions, what the poli- Law firm invests in talent through bursaries cy on paying dividends will be, what will hap- pen if an offer to buy the company is made and how any disputes will be resolved. LAW firm Ward Hadaway is continuing its type in the region – was first intro- Neil Cobb, director of prizes and bur- firm to play a part in helping to develop Sometimes business partners cannot rec- to invest in the North-East’s next gen- duced in 2002 and is open to all students saries and a lecturer in law at Durham that talent. This programme is really oncile their differences and shareholders will eration of legal talent through its from the North-East who apply to read University, said: “Staff and students important as it gives us the opportuni- leave the company. unique bursary scheme. law at Durham University. continue to take great pride in our re- ty to put something back into the com- Although there is no chance of anticipat- The Newcastle-based firm awards This year, first year undergraduates lationship with Ward Hadaway.” munity and helps to strengthen our re- ing every possible eventuality, with some pre- bursaries of £1,750 each to six Durham Luke Goulding, from Sunderland, and In September last year, Louise Gra- lationship with Durham University. liminary thought and action while the future University law students for every year Scott Gardiner, from Washington, were ham from Darlington – one of the first “Nurturing and promoting the re- all seems bright, the worst of the breakdown of their three-year courses. selected as bursary students. recipients of a bursary – joined the gion’s rising talent – and retaining it fall-out may be avoidable. The recipients, who are all from the They joined other recipients Philip Ward Hadaway’s two-year trainee solic- within the North-East – is the best way ■ Stephen Greenway is a partner in the busi- North-East, also get a month’s paid Boyle, a second year undergraduate itor programme. of ensuring its continuing prosperity ness and commercial law team at Blackett work experience at Ward Hadaway and from Ushaw Moor, Durham, and third Jamie Martin, the law firm’s manag- and this programme hopefully demon- Hart & Pratt LLP. Contact him on the chance to progress further in the year undergraduates Laura Bailey from ing partner, said: “We have some excel- strates to students that the North-East [email protected] or on 01325-376431. firm once their studies are finished. Houghton-le-Spring and James Turn- lent young legal talent here in the can offer a stimulating and rewarding The bursary scheme – the only one of bull from Burradon. North-East and it is very pleasing as a career in the law.”

business & employment & Acting with flexibility &commercial foresight, we canassist you company law business disputes BlackettHart &Pratt LLP Solicitors whether you are looking to invest, protect your assets, set up a BHP Commercial newventure, sell or growyourbusiness, develop propertyand land, enforce yourrights or if you are engaged in adispute. commercialproperty planning &design For advice &guidance and to find out more about our commercial services call us on 01325 466794 or visit our website at www.b-h-p.com. Westgate House, Faverdale, Darlington, DL3 0PZ. OfficesinNewcastle, Durham, Darlington &Newton Aycliffe. Regulated by the Law Society.Authorised and regulatedbythe Financial Services Authority. TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 businessecho.co.uk RURAL AFFAIRS BUSINESS ECHO 5 Grainfarmers ‘Farmers must join forces making hay THE Grainfarmers Group made a pre-tax operating profit of £2.1m, on a turnover of £371m, for the year ending July 2007. The marketing arm of the busi- to combat spiralling costs’ ness reported a £2.6m profit. The group, which has an office in Wetherby, North Yorkshire, is one of the UK’s largest arable THE region’s farmers have been By Mike Bridgen By working together, and spe- working with other farmers and shared labour and machinery. input and grain businesses. urged to collaborate to overcome Rural Affairs Editor cialising in their own skills, they businesses in the supply chain. He said: “This initiative is try- The company sources more spiralling costs and depressed [email protected] produce exactly what their target James Severn, of Andersons ing to put some of this back into than a million hectares of crops prices. market requires. Farm Business Consultants’ what we do on our farms. from 5,000 farmers each year. The English Food and Farming impact of the foot-and-mouth re- They also have group power Thirsk office, has worked on joint “If you ask anyone working in The results represent a turn- Partnership (EFFP) believes they strictions on movements and when negotiating and are achiev- ventures for 20 years. a joint venture, they will say it is around in performance following could become more efficient, markets. ing better prices. He said: “I am very passionate much more fun, and it is quite restructuring. save money, and find new oppor- Sue Scott, EFFP North-East re- Ms Scott said: “So far, there is about this, the more I have got common to see labour and ma- Tim Davies, group managing tunities by working together. gional manager, believes there is quite a bit of collaboration in into it the more excited I am chinery costs halved. director, said winning a contract English Beef and Lamb Exec- huge scope for collaboration, par- dairying, cereals and cropping, about it.” “Farming can be a very lonely, to supply wheat to Sainsbury’s utive figures for November last ticularly in the livestock sector. but little in the livestock sector, Farmers in other countries isolated, business and a joint ven- was an indication that end-users year showed the average upland She highlighted Borders Qual- which is why we are keen to get have collaborated for many ture overcomes this straight were seeking security and conti- suckler producer was losing £357 ity Beef, which is a co-operative it going.” years, largely because they are away.” nuity in a volatile market. per animal and upland sheep pro- set up by a group of producers The EFFP is holding a series of much smaller than in the UK. For more information, call Ms He said: “We believe that ducers £36 per ewe. after the 2001 foot-and-mouth cri- meetings to explain the help it In days gone by, UK farmers Scott on 01388-835948 or visit Grainfarmers is uniquely placed The figures did not include the sis. can give to those interested in often worked together and effp.com to meet this demand.”

Markets roadshow to tour region Charolais big hit at sale A LIVESTOCK markets roadshow is visiting the region. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) roadshow will emphasise the need for vigilance and rapid reporting of animal diseases such as bovine TB and bluetongue. It will cover existing legislation, the new EU welfare and transport regulations, pre-movement ‘STOOD testing and ear-tagging. The OUT’: marts include Barnard Castle, on March 11; Middleton-in- Thrunton Teesdale, on March 18; and Bonjovi, the Hexham, on April 8. top-priced Charolais FREE EVENT: The English Beef bull at Perth and Lamb Executive holds a free event for sheep farmers at A CHAROLAIS breeder took the Mr Stubbs said: “He stood out Busby Stoop abattoir, Thirsk, title at the breed society’s spring from the rest and, more than a year North Yorkshire, on Monday, sale at Perth for the fifth time. on, he continued to impress me between 9.30am and 1.30pm. The Campbell family, of Alnwick, when I saw him in the ring. The event covers handling Northumberland, won with 20- “I was determined to take him animals to assess their month-old Thrunton Bonjovi. home.” readiness for slaughter and how Judge Iain Millar said Bonjovi The Campbells sold ten bulls to to increase returns by reducing had “power, presence, length and average £4,683 – with 17 month-old carcass damage and stress, and good locomotion.” Bullet fetching 9,000gns. They led presenting clean animals for Ian Campbell, who farms with his the female prices with Vixen who slaughter. Places are limited to brother, John, and father, Colin, fetched 4,200gns. eight per session. To book, call said: “Perth is the most difficult Other entries included Piatroon 0870-609-1840. award to win and we are delighted Brigadier, a 20-month-old from to receive it again.” Harold Forster and Sons, of DISEASE SEMINARS: Seminars Later, Bonjovi, who was a Humshaugh, Hexham, which sold on Government plans to make qualifier for Northern Ireland’s Beef for 6,000gns. farmers share the cost of Quality Initiative scheme, was sold Peter Vasey, of Carlisle, sold animal disease outbreaks take for 10,000gns to Harold Stubbs, of Edenhurst Bobby for 6,000gns. place at St William’s College, County Fermanagh. ● Averages: 166 bulls at £4,408.58; York, on Thursday, and He first saw him as a calf during 46 heifers at £1,551.03; eight cows Newcastle Falcons, Kingston a herd visit to Alnwick. and calves at £2,237.81. Park, Newcastle, on Friday, March 14. The seminars are free, but places must be booked. Call 0207-238-5758 or email [email protected] Landowners urged to help MEADOW MANAGEMENT: The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty tenant farmers’profits Partnership will hold two meadow management workshops for new, small-scale LANDOWNERS need to help tenant farmers at the Masonic Hall, farmers become more profitable, ac- Middleton-in-Teesdale, County cording to a business leader. Giveyourbusinessanunfairadvantage Durham, on Monday, at 6.30pm, Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, president of and in Allendale Village Hall, the Country Land and Business Asso- Allendale, next Wednesday, at ciation (CLA), said if tenants were To suceed in businessyou need an edge.And that means staying abreastofthe latesttechnology 10am. The events are free and profitable they could pay higher rents. and sharpening your skills beforeyour competitors. That's wherethe newBusinessLink service no booking is required. He said: “Modern farming requires canhelp. We'reinvesting time, moneyand expertise to assistyou witheverything from streamlining your production processtobuilding strategic partnerships and financing futuregrowth. In short, MART MEETINGS: The investment by both tenant and owner INVESTMENT National Sheep Association will and the cycle of reducing rents and CALL: Henry we canhelp youwith information, analysis and supplier sourcing, either online or face-to-face. hold bluetongue information falling investment does neither party Aubrey-Fletcher meetings on Thursday, March any good in the long run. CALL US TODAYAND KEEP YOURSELF AT THE CUTTING EDGE 20, at Penrith auction mart, at “We need to move the focus away pushed up farm incomes by about nine 1pm, and Hexham mart, at 6pm. from rent increases in isolation and per cent last year. The meetings will explain the look instead at how we can make ten- The CLA says farming lost £1193m facts about the disease, the ant farmers more profitable. during the year. 0845 600 9006 control strategies in place, and “Profitable tenants are able to pay Mr Aubrey–Fletcher said: “We are vaccination. Places can be higher rents –- a win-win situation.” confident that prospects for arable pro- or visit www.businesslinknortheast.co.uk booked on 01684-892-661. For Department for Environment, Food ducers are good and specialist beef pro- more details, email enquiries@ and Rural Affairs figures claimed in- ducers, whose export markets have re- nationalsheep.org.uk creased grain and milk prices had opened, also have a fair outlook.” SHOWTHE WORLD YOU MEAN BUSINESS 6 TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 businessecho.co.uk BUSINESS ECHO businessecho.co.uk TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 9 
   

 Region’s two airports   reaching for the skies

These are potentially exciting times for the region’s airports, but they also face challenges ‘ amid talk of expansion. John Dean asks to the two chief executives how they see the future We are AVE LAWS is realistic Newcastle, predicts that routes to of Emirates and the arrival of FedEx. as this year’s predicted quiet time in always when he predicts the Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Dusseldorf and Airport figures show that last year, global aviation. looking for future of Newcastle Hanover, in Germany, and La Rochelle operators carried six times as much Durham Tees Valley’s main problem D International Airport. and Bordeaux, in France, as well as cargo per month compared to 2006 – is that, as a former Second World War the next While upbeat about the Scandinavian destinations, could 200 tonnes per month, up from 32 air force base, its ageing next few years, he acknowledges that, bring a million more passengers tonnes per month. infrastructure is in need of opportunity. in the short-term, trading conditions through the airport. Emirates alone has added modernising – and that means We would may be more challenging because of Mr Law points to new links with tremendous volume since its arrival in massive investment. problems in the global aviation Dusseldorf as an example of how the September last year, doubling the Indeed, it is only since the Peel like to industry. right operator can benefit the region, amount carried and, on occasion, Group took a controlling interest in establish a He said: “We have to be realistic because the route takes advantage of lifting more cargo per day than was 2003 that the money has started to about what we can deliver and I think the German city’s growing importance previously carried in an entire month flow and Durham Tees Valley has service to this year will be flat because of the as an economic centre. from Newcastle. started to attain the look of a credit crunch and economic He said: “Now business people from Which begs the question: can the significant regional airport. New York. What we need is an uncertainty. the region can get there and back in a airport handle such an increase at its Part of Peel’s approach is to provide operator that is as good going “I think we will be lucky to get three day, rather than having to build in an current size? a wider, strategic vision: the group’s per cent growth but I think the longer- overnight stop. It is the same with Mr Laws believes it can: “We can other assets include John Lennon west as Emirates is going east term prediction is positive for Copenhagen, which used to be three or handle the growth in capacity of the airport, in Liverpool, and the Robin Newcastle International Airport.” four times a week but which is now airport with what we have. The Hood airport, serving Doncaster and Dave Laws, above, chief executive, One of the reasons he is confident is daily. Flybe is a good example of an passenger capacity of the airport is Sheffield, which give the company a Newcastle International Airport the philosophy that drives the airline that has the right advantages about 8.5 million and we have about wider reach than Durham Tees Valley airport’s approach to new carriers: Mr for the airport. 5.8 million at the moment. It is about can manage on its own. Laws is a strong believer in signing up “Emirates is another good example. managing the peaks.” Mr Lang said: “We have the north ‘ only to deals that deliver the right In January, they were flying at 73 per And he remains optimistic that covered. We want people anywhere in The overall trend in passenger service for the wider region. cent capacity and in February it will there are further routes that can be northern England to be able to use a He said: “Our targets have to be be between 78 and 80 per cent. They attracted. Peel airport.” numbers is going up and a lot sustainable. Decisions will be taken, have created a new link between He said: “Companies like the ones However, to help make that vision a based on what we feel is right for the Newcastle and Dubai. People have that that have started operating from reality, Durham Tees Valley needs of the money already invested region. If we start a new route and, 12 link on their doorsteps and, for us, Newcastle have confidence in what we extensive investment if it is to become has gone on months later, it closes then we are they were the right operators. are doing. an airport with a target of four million letting people down. “We also have KLM flying to “We are always looking for the next passengers a year. The figure improving the “This airport contributes £400m a Amsterdam, BA to Heathrow and Air opportunity. For instance, we are currently stands at one million, which year to the regional economy and we France to Paris. What it means is that looking at the west. We would like to is up from 700,000 in 2001. proposals for a freight village near on global warming, but says that of a tough time for aviation, caused infrastructure. have to have the right services that it extends our area: whereas people establish a service to New York, not The size of the increase has been the terminal. There is also a large many of the aircraft using Durham by high oil prices, the credit crunch will benefit not just us but the region might have looked to Glasgow or £13.5m has just to get to the city, but because it down, in a very large part, to the business park planned for the south Tees Valley are new and more and the flattening out of the low-cost as a whole.” Leeds, they can now consider allows onward travel. It could benefit success of low-cost airlines such as already been Asked to cite examples, he points to Newcastle as well so it expands our side of the airport, which has backing environmentally-friendly and that market after several years of companies like Procter and Gamble, Ryanair, Wizz Air and Flyglobespan. from One NorthEast, English the low-cost airlines fly up to 85 per phenomenal growth. spent low-cost operator Flybe, which arrived catchment area.” who operates in the North-East but Indeed, Flyglobespan, which serves at the airport pledging to introduce With the holiday traffic also taken Partnerships and Tees Valley cent full, an efficient use of fuel. Mr Lang said: “We do see this year whose headquarters are in Cincinatti. more destinations than any other from Regeneration, and which promises to He said the airport also has a as soft, but the trend is upwards and Hugh Lang, left, routes to and from German, French into account, the long-term forecast is Flying to New York allows its staff to the airport, recently celebrated its and Scandinavian airports as part of that by 2016, Newcastle could be bring thousands of jobs in sectors strong commitment to reducing noise we are in this for the long-term.” chief executive, travel onwards to their headquarters. 150,000th passenger to fly from including distribution and aviation. from flights in and out of Durham He points to statistics that suggest plans to make Newcastle its fourth key handling 9.5 million passengers a year: “What we need is an operator that is Durham Tees Valley since the carrier Our New On-Line Store is Durham Tees Valley Mr Lang sees such projects as Tees Valley and is involved in other Durham Tees Valley will start to Airport base. it was just three million in 2000. as good going west as Emirates is arrived in November 2006. It operates crucial if the airport is to shed its initiatives to minimise its make even greater inroads into the The airline, which says it will create Also growing is the freight going east.” routes to Tenerife, Lanzarote, Palma, image as small-time former air force environmental impact, including the regional aviation market: they show 120 jobs in the next two years at operation, helped by the introduction Although encouraged by the future Faro, Alicante, Malaga and Jersey. NowOpen @ base. continuous descent approach. that in 2000, Newcastle had 84 per – a £32m hotel is being constructed at But the expansion of routes has not the airport, with an operator yet to be just been down to low-cost airlines and He points to proposals by other Mr Lang also believes that aviation cent and Durham Tees Valley 16 per www.campbellsofleyburn.co.uk named – Mr Laws is conscious that not the airport also has “traditional” companies, including new hotels and is unfairly singled out for criticism, cent but that the airport’s share everyone welcomes expansion. carriers, a number flying to popular business units close to the airport, as saying: “I think aviation does take could grow to 32 per cent by 2030. He realises that environmentalists business destinations. proof of the impact that Durham too high a hit from the Mr Lang believes this will happen Experience the Difference at are concerned about the expansion of Mr Lang said: “We fly to Heathrow Tees Valley is now having. environmentalists.” because Durham Tees Valley, having aviation but points to measures taken and Amsterdam, which are hubs and He said: “All the key elements are Whatever the arguments, one thing lagged behind the rapidly-expanding Campbells with our extensive by the airport to ensure that all allow people to travel onwards. Such there and what we are doing will is certain and that is the growth of Newcastle for decades, will have seen ground vehicles are environmentally- routes are of interest to businesses stimulate other activity in the area the airport in the years to come: the the long-term benefits of investments selection of high quality Fine friendly, and also to measures to based in this area. A chief executive around the airport. target is 1.4m passengers by 2010, being made now. reduce the pollution produced by the looking to invest in this area will look “A number of people still think of three million by 2015 and there is talk And he believes that the region Wines from the top wine producing aircraft that use it. for that. It is about providing a the airport as quaint. We want to of four million by 2030. should welcome the growth of Newcastle International uses rounded product.” move beyond that. It is about freeing Mr Lang believes that the airport’s Durham Tees Valley, pointing out regions in the world! continuous descent approach (CDA), Realising that the airport needs a up the potential.” mix of low-cost and more traditional that each job it creates directly leads which reduces fuel usage of aircraft more modern feel if it is to live up to Mr Lang realises that airlines will help Durham Tees Valley to a further 1.5 in the community. approaching. that aspiration, Peel has started on a environmentalists will not welcome weather short-term problems. He said: “If we do well, there is an or Why NotVisit Our Before the introduction of CDA, planned programme of £60m the expansion because of its impact They include this year’s predictions economic benefit for the region.” aircraft made their descent into investment by 2015. Newcastle in a “stepped” approach, Work already done includes a new First Fine Wine Shop which required the use of the frontage for the terminal – a further Floor aircraft’s engines to thrust forward extension is planned – improved after every stepped drop in altitude. parking and a new access road. The additional power required used Mr Lang said; “The overall trend in Trading formore than 138 yearsCampbells have more fuel and also generated more passenger numbers is going up and a gathered awide selection of high quality fine foods noise. lot of the money already invested has CDA sees the aircraft approach in a gone on improving the infrastructure. and wines from specialist producersaround the smooth and continuous descent, When Peel came in, the airport was world. These are nowcomplemented by our which does not rely as heavily on the out of date and already £13.5m has new range of over 100 varieties of fresh fruit and engines, thereby delivering a been spent.” significant reduction in noise and a Also helping the airport’s image will vegetables from around the world. marked reduction in fuel consumption be the opening of a new access road and carbon emissions. off the A66 at Long Newton, which High quality products As Mr Laws says: “It is about doing will make getting to the airport easier combining superb taste and the right thing for the region.” for passengers and freight carriers and link will in with the A19. excellent value that can really OR Hugh Lang, the biggest Mr Lang said: “We welcome the CLEAR SKIES: makeadifference to your shopping experience. challenge is developing Durham news. Combined with what we are An Emirates F aircraft at Tees Valley Airport to the extent doing, it is about creating a sense of that it can compete on a bigger stage. arrival to the airport.” Newcastle naturally And the chief executive believes There are other initiatives on the International Airport. Campbells there are now signs that the airport is drawing board, including a new Top, the sun sets on the cusp of achieving its aims and taxiway to increase the number of over the airport’s air where local quality matters Commercial SquareLeyburn Te l/Fax: 01969 622169 TOUCH DOWN: A passenger jet landing at Durham Tees Valley Airport Picture: STUART BOULTON can weather short-term problems such flights an hour, a new hotel and traffic control tower 8 BUSINESS ECHO COMMERCIAL PROPERTY businessecho.co.uk TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008

HELEN Metcalfe has joined Powerful Carver Commercial as the Helen joins Carvers business contines to grow. Helen, who will be PA to director of commercial, Julie Wallin, has ten “We are dedicated and committed to providing years experience in property matters in County first-class property services to our clients alliance Durham and North Yorkshire. throughout the region.” Julie Wallin said: “We are delighted with this Carver Commercial is part of the Carver Group, recent appointment, which adds to the strength which includes residential, building surveyors POWERFUL alliance of regenera- and professionalism of our commercial team. and financial services. tion experts will showcase the North-East’s investment opportu- A nities to leading property develop- ers at the world’s premier real es- tate summit next month. Private sector companies will spearhead the Parkgate North East’s delegation, backed by local au- thorities, an urban regeneration company and One NorthEast at the MIPIM 2008 event in Cannes. offices on The alliance of 17 organisations represents the most concerted effort by the region to lure investment into some of the UK’s most excit- ing regeneration and development projects, in- cluding Stockton Southern Gateway, Sunder- the market land arc and South Shields Riverside. David Taylor, group managing director of construction and property consultants Sum- mers-Inman, said: “We are delighted to be EWCASTLE-BASED property going back to MIPIM, following the success of investment and development our visit last year. The event provides us with company, The Hanro Group, has an unrivalled opportunity to meet fellow prop- N appointed King Sturge and erty professionals and investors from the re- Ashley Smith to market its new gion, the UK and Europe. Parkgate development. “We can achieve more in this concentrated Following the announcement of its ambi- four-day visit than we can in many weeks at tious plans to develop a 100,000 sq ft office home. scheme on the final plot of land at Durham's “One NorthEast is to be congratulated for Belmont Business Park, The Hanro Group providing business opportunities for the dele- has now joined forces with King Sturge and gate companies and, in turn, we are pleased to Ashley Smith to begin marketing its office be a part of this initiative to raise the profile units. of the region and to encourage further inward The five-acre plot named Parkgate, after its investment.” location at the entrance to the business park, includes 18 two-storey and three three-storey buildings, as well as two stand-alone retail units. The properties range in size from 1,500 TALK sq ft to 30,000 sq ft and will be available on To us flexible lease terms or for sale. regarding your Having bought the plot in March this year from the nearby Soccarena’s owner Stewart commercial Dawson, The Hanro Group aims to start property building on site this month, with the first requirements. buildings ready in early summer. Jonathan Sykes, partner at King Sturge, WARM WELCOME: Carver Commercial director Julie Wallin with said: “We bring with us national and interna- her new PA, Helen Metcalfe tional commercial property expertise and View morebusiness @ alongside Ashley Smith and Hanro we aim to LAKEY &CO attract some key figures to the development. BUSINESSAGENTS www.lakeyco.com “Parkgate provides opportunity for signifi- REMAINING cant inward investment from businesses fur- LA ther afield as well as those looking to start or We are so easy to find! ST grow in the North-East.” LICENSED RESTAURANT SANDWICK PRODUCER /SUPPLIER UNIT Stephen Smith, of Ashley Smith, said: £149,950 -Leasehold Ref: 143NE £39,950 -Leasehold Ref: W128NE “Having worked on a range of commercial Great Ayton. High quality business boasting two AA Gateshead based, supplying outlets from Seaham Collectables Retail Park, Portrack Lane, rosettes. Currently taking £4,000 per week. Perfect to Ashington. Low overheads &huge scope for and industrial property schemes across opportunity for chef patron. expansion or diversification. Taking £1,000 per week. Stockton, just offthe A19. Durham in urban areas and out-of-town busi- ness parks, we have a thorough understand- HAIR SALON AND SPA COFFEE SHOP ing of the local market.” £59,950 -Leasehold Ref: HR148NE £495,000 -Freehold Ref: CF117NE Managing director of The Hanro Group, Spennymoor.Busy main road location. Superbly Prime Location -Co. Durham Town Centre. Currently fitted and unique premises with salon, sauna, hot largely staff run, suit owner operator.Takes £5,500 Adam Serfontein, said: “The development tub etc. All recently fitted &equipped. per week. Huge scope. boasts a prime accessible location at the en- trance of an established business park and LICENSED RESTAURANT FISH AND CHIP SHOP we have already had a number of enquiries £399,950 -Freehold Ref: R87NE £189,950 -Freehold Ref: FC116NE from interested parties. Barnard Castle. Fantastic fully equipped licensed Bishop Auckland. Busy main road location in mixed restaurant, coffee shop, tea room in tremendous residential commercial area. Currently taking over “We were keen to instruct suitably strong unique premises on main town car park. £1,000 per week. Twobed accommodation. agency teams and feel the qualities of both King Sturge and Ashley Smith complement each other and will work well together at CALL TODAYIFYOU ARE NO FEES TO PAYIFWE Parkgate.” THINKING OF SELLING! DON’T SELL YOUR BUSINESS!

CAFE LICENSED RESTAURANT £17,950 -Leasehold Ref: CF42NE £99,950 -Leasehold Ref: R93NE Darlington. Main Rd. Turnover £850 per week. South Shields. Fully licensed restaurant in unique auction Priced to sell. Perfect first business. Well eqiupped. premises. Suitable for any cuisine -covers for up to Low overheads and easy to run. 160 on ground and first floor. Wednesday 19th March2008 148lots to include(unless previously sold or withdrawn) GUEST HOUSE COFFEE SHOP £440,000 -Freehold Ref: H108NE £299,950 -Freehold Ref: CF72NE COMMERCIAL INVESTMENTS South Shields. Stunning Georgian Town House. 9 Newbiggin-by-the-Sea. Stunning property with Hartlepool, Mcdonald’s,Marina beds (7 en-suite). Recently refurbished. Jacuzzi 2bed accommodation and fabulous sea views. Way, Hartlepool Marina, Cleveland Room. Award winning business. Business takes £1,500 per week on short hours. Lot 101: Let to McDonald’sRestaurants Ltd at £95,000 until 2027. RESTAURANT with DAYCAFÉ GENERAL STORE £350,000 -Freehold Ref: R104NE £219,000 -Freehold Ref: CTN149NE West Cornforth, Flintlock Inn, Middlesbrough. Well known business with scope Spennymoor.TraditionalGeneralStoretaking£3,500 48 &50HighStreet, Ferryhill for many different cuisines. Substantial premises per week with excellent 2/3 bed accomodation. Lot 57: Vacant public house. with ground floor café and first floor function room. Perfect first business. TO LET 3,000 SQ FT Northallerton, Three HorseShoes LICENSED COFFEE SHOP /BISTRO NEWSAGENTS /OFF LICENSE 2Station Road,Brompton £99,950 -Leasehold Ref: R31NE £25,000 Reduced -Leasehold Ref: CTN127NE Lot 38: Former pub on corner site on attractive Richmond. Prime Location in town centre -character Newcastle City Centre. Situated close to St James’ RETAILUNITS WITH OPEN A1 CONSENT village green. Full vacant possession. premises. Currently taking £2,500 per week with Park. Compact easy to run business currently taking Ferryhill,2/4 Darlington Road huge potential for evening openings. £3,500 per week. Low overheads. Offered on behalf of Barlcays Bank plc HILL Lot 111: Rent £9,970 p.a. A19 NORTH COLLECTABLES ROAD VERTON Forfurther information contact jointagents RETAIL PARK HA Masham, 22 Market Place A66 Offered on behalf of Barlcays Bank plc NO UPFRONT FEES E A N Lot 91: Rent £7,000 p.a. Jonathan Ward K L C R A NO SALE, NO FEE STOCKTON- R T A19 For information contact the Auctioneers P O ON-TEES MIDDLESBROUGH 020 7543 6803 NO SEVERANCE FEES 0845 299 0158 A19 SOUTH www.allsop.co.uk A66 UK’S LARGEST PROPERTY AUCTIONEER TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 businessecho.co.uk COMMERCIAL PROPERTY BUSINESS ECHO 9

TEAM approach by King The £9m office scheme, developed by “The sale of this fully let office building Sturge’s Newcastle office agency Strategic Sites, consists of 17 two-storey of- provides a good investment opportunity in a and investment departments fice buildings ranging from 1,200- 7,700 sq ft. prime location. Teamwork helped property development Paul Barber, managing director of Strate- Wynyard Park’s close proximity to the A19 A gic Sites, said: “We are delighted with the company Strategic Sites in the provides excellent road links to the A66 and letting and subsequent sale of its office build- level of interest we have received in the A1, making it a successful commercial loca- scheme so far. ing at Wynyard Business Park in Teesside. tion. King Sturge acted on behalf of Strategic “The high-quality office units are attract- The 700-acre mixed-use development pro- Sites in the letting of the new two-storey of- ing a range of local businesses looking for fice building to Tilly Bailey & Irvine Solici- brand new, modern office space in a key lo- vides a range of facilities for a wide variety pays off! of businesses. tors on a ten-year lease last autumn, and sub- cation. sequently advised on the sale of the “We have a number of units currently Joint agents for Evolution are King Sturge investment property to Helmsley Securities under offer and a number still available to and Storeys SSP. Limited for £1.266m, a net initial yield of 7.4 lease at £13/sq ft.” per cent. Helmsley was represented by Sav- James Thompson, investment surveyor at ills on the purchase of the property. King Sturge, said: “Evolution has made a Leisure Attractions The 7,665 sq ft office building forms part significant contribution to the office facili- of Evolution, a new, high-specification office ties at Wynyard Park, providing much-need- Scaborough and Filey development at Wynyard Park. ed modern office space in the Teesside area. Peasholm Park: Naval Warfare, boating, motor boat rides, miniature golf and putting -for 2008 season only Beach Chalets: Scarborough South Bay and Filey Royal Parade -10year leases Deck Chairs: Scarborough South Bay & Filey Coble Landing and Royal Parade Themed Golf and Putting: Filey Promenade; Holbeck Putting and Victoria Park Crazy Golf Scarborough Adventure Golf: North Bay Scarborough -2008 season only Closing date -12noon Friday 4April 2008

Further details from: Estates Services, The Town Hall St Nicholas Street, Scarborough, YO11 2HG [email protected] Telephone 01723 232412 or council website www.scarborough.gov.uk/council property

Scarborough Borough Council

LEVEN ROAD, NORTON GABLE TERRACE, WHEATLEY HILL LEASEHOLD CAFE, NEWBOTTLE STREET, TAYLOR STREET,CONSETT MEDOMSLEY ROAD, CONSETT HOUGHTON LE SPRING Starting Price: £280,000 LEVEN/15337/1 Asking: £250,000 WESTH/14723/1 Asking: £325,000 TAYLO/15296/1 Asking: £160,000 TJSCA/15304/1 Asking: £40,000 MIGHT/1536/1 FOR SALE BY AUCTION:Aresidential development FOR SALE.West House, Gable Terrace, Wheatley Hill, County FOR SALE.The subject property is astone built, two storey end of Atwo storey end of terrace cafe /sandwich shop with 1st floor Durham. The subject site adevelopment site possessing The subject is acafe premises occupying aground floor mid terrace terrace structure set within Taylor Street at Consett town centre, opportunity situated at 64/66 Leven Road, off the High unit. The property provides traditional shop window frontage, signage accommodation. The subject property is of traditional planning permission to introduce eight newly constructed County Durham. The property comprises two tenanted elements, a Street, Norton, Stockton-on-Tees. The property,aformer co- over and security shuttering. The internal finishes are appropriate for construction comprising slate covered pitched main roof and apartments and to convert an existing detached structure to the going concern. The subject business located within the main ground floor retail unit occupied by atattooist and Gym to the first op building is the subject of agrant of permission to be brick main walls. Internal provision to the ground floor is finished converted to provide 9apartments over three floors provide two additional flats. Site area approximately 1135m2. shopping district at Newbottle Street, Houghton-le-Spring. Houghton- floor with ground floor reception. The first floor is currently let for a This development is permitted as aresult of planning permission le-Spring is located approximately 7miles north of Durham and 15 term of 15 years starting November 2005 at arent of £15,000 per as atrading cafe /sandwich shop and is provided with traditional including the introduction of anew floor.Planning number: miles south of Newcastle serviced by ahigh level of services and granted. Ref: PLAN/.20005/0903 and PLAN/2005/0922/A. annum exclusive and the retail unit is let at £7,200 per annum shop window frontage with security shutters over.The subject 07/3019/FUL -Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. The site Wheatley Hill is aprimarily residential location around seven facilities together with established transport links, including the A1. exclusive. We are verbally advised by our client that heads of terms is located within an established location provided with an The business will be offered with new lease terms at £12,000 per premises are located on Medomsley Road, Consett and the miles to the East of Durham City off the A181. The location is annum. Forfurther information regarding the proposed lease terms, for the currently vacant elements have been agreed details for aterm excellent level of service and facilities within High Street, provided areasonable level of services and facilities including fixtures/fittings and business performance please contact the of 15 years at arent of £12,000. Youshould clarify this matter prior to premises lie 15 miles south-west of Newcastle upon Tyne and 14 Norton. access to the A1 and A19. Commercial Department on 0191 239 3252. purchase with your legal advisors. miles north-west of Durham City.

AUCTION NOTICE Pattinson Commercial are now taking instructions for the March and April auctions. Significant interest pic 9 is waiting for development opportunities and vacant premises across the North East region.

In light of changes to vacant property rate relief and likely cost implications coming into affect this April, the auction offers an ideal opportunity to dispose of property interests in aswift manner.Our commercial TOWN HALL, FERRYHILL TD WILDE &SON, WILLINGTON MAGIC CARPETS, WILLINGTON HIGH STREET,SPENNYMOOR lots are offered unconditionally which means that a Asking: £225,000 OLDLL/15193 Asking: £160,000 TJSCA/15304/1 Asking: £140,000 TDWIL/15348/1 Starting Bid: £150,000 MAGIC/15356/2 property exchanges on the fall of the gavel and FOR SALE BY AUCTION. Atwo storey retail premises with first floor FOR SALE .67High Street, Spennymoor,County Durham. The subject completion takes place twenty eight days thereafter. Atwo storey end of terrace cafe/sandwich shop with 1st FOR SALE.Anestablished Butchers business located on Commercial storage located on Commercial Street, Willington. Willington is a property is atwo storey end of terrace former Lloyds TSB bank situated on floor accommodation. The subject property is of Street, Willington, County Durham. Willington is apredominantly predominantly residential area located approximately 7miles south one of the main retail streets within the town centre. Spennymoor is an traditional construction comprising slate covered pitched residential area approximately 7miles south west of Durham and 25 west of Durham and 25 miles south of Newcastle serviced by a established location provided with reasonable services and facilities approximately 30 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne and 15 miles from services Formore information on changes to vacant property miles south of Newcastle serviced by areasonable level of services reasonable level of service and facilities together with established main roof and brick main walls. Internal provision to the transport links, including the A1. The subject is an end of terrace two and facilities approximately 30 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne and 14 miles ground floor is finished as atrading cafe/sandwich shop and facilities together with established transport links including the storey property of traditional construction with pitched slate main roof from Darlington as well as providing access to the A1. Accommodation as rate relief,the auction service or any other and is provided with traditional shop window frontage A1. The subject is amid terrace two storey property of traditional currently trading as Magic Carpets. Internal provision to the ground existing includes main customer counter and clerk’s office area, managers with security shutters over.The subject premises are construction with pitched slate main roof.Internal provision to the floor includes main retail area 55m2 (591ft2 ), rear store 40m2 ) office and interview rooms, staff facilities including wc and kitchen provision commercial matter,please contact James Barlow on (5430ft2 ), office 7m2 (75ft2 ), kitchen, toilet WC and garage 31m2 and two safes. First floor accommodation is currently split into three elements located on Medomsley Road, Consett and the premises ground floor includes main retail area 30m2 (322ft2 ), rear prep area (333ft2 ). The first floor was previously laid out as atwo bedroom flat that include provision for offices, staff room and stores. External areas include lie 15 miles south-west of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and 14 25m2 (27ft2 )and store 17m2 (183ft2 ). To the first floor the living but is currently used for storage: store 150m2 (541ft2 ), store 22 19m2 asignificant car park area at the rear of the property.The property will be of 0191 239 3252. miles north-west of Durham City. accommodation includes two bedrooms, lounge and bathroom/wc. (204ft2 and office 6m2 (64ft2 ). interest as aretail premises but may also offer adevelopment opportunity. 10 BUSINESS ECHO PERSONAL FINANCE businessecho.co.uk TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 Tax-free ISA deadline looms

HE mass exodus of By Jeremy Gates ing societies are upping their small investors from [email protected] game as the new tax year ap- shares during Janu- proaches.” ary suggests many The best buy list is headed by T one reason why many people use people won’t bother to Barclays Tax Haven – paying 6.50 use their tax-free ISA allowances, them to “top up” pension savings, per cent on minimum £1 deposits, which expire on April 5. is that the income and capital with one per cent of that a bonus Research from Lloyds TSB gains which they earn are free of lasting 12 months. shows more than nine out of ten tax as long as the ISA tax shelter With the mini cash ISA limit UK adults fail to use their full tax- stays in place. rising to £3,600 for the tax year free ISA (individual savings ac- In later life, ISA funds also 2008-9, a Barclays saver could count) allowance to invest in high- avoid the tight rules controlling swiftly stash away £6,500 to earn interest accounts and shares. pensions. When you need the interest tax-free by investing the In the tax year until April 5, money, you simply take it out. maximum permitted either side they can put up to £3,000 in a mini That’s why 17 million adults of the April 5 deadline. But the cash ISA, or £4,000 in a mini hold ISAs. Given the likelihood of Barclays account won’t take shares ISA – or £7,000 in a maxi rising taxes as the Government transfers from previous ISA ac- shares ISA. struggles to balance its books, the counts. ISAs are not only for affluent case for keeping savings beyond Moneyfacts says National Sav- ALL ADDS UP: ISAs can be a tax-free way of building up money for trips abroad folk with thousands to put away. the taxman’s grasp grows ings has been a good ISA per- Many can be opened with £1. stronger by the week. former over the past 18 months or comparison site moneysuper- ISAs accounts, it is important to saw their funds plunge in value. Lloyds TSB savings and invest- Graham Barber, head of finan- so: it promises to pay interest at market.com, says ISA rates will check out the current rate they This may be a year when equi- ments director Liz Hogbin warns cial planning at wealth manager 0.30 per cent above Bank base rate hot up during March. are earning, and to move them ty ISAs are best left to those that regular ISA savers miss out Rensburg Sheppards says: “ISAs – effectively 5.55 per cent – until He said: “The top paying cash into better accounts,” he said. savers holding sizeable portfolios by failing to switch their ac- are one of the most commonplace April 5, 2009, on minimum £1,000 ISA of a year ago wouldn’t even So far as equities are con- assembled to reduce risk. counts from previous years to savings vehicles. deposits. make today’s top ten. cerned, ISA prospects are much The best bets could be in riski- providers paying higher rates. “Cash ISAs are particularly M&S Money guarantees its “When savers find a tax-free harder to gauge. Shares on either er sectors, like Latin America, “The average interest rate on suited to building up ‘rainy day’ variable rate Cash ISA will match rate above six per cent, they side of the Atlantic could still India, Russia or even Africa – all an ISA balance of £9,000 is 5.36 savings and can be dipped into.” Bank of England base rate until should grab it.” head south if credit crunch prob- high-risk plays for savings vehi- per cent,” she said. “By switching When cash ISAs offer such at- January 1, 2010. It also offers one, But Mr Mountford urges regu- lems worsen. cles targeted at cautious, long- to an account paying 6.5 per cent tractive rates, savers with cash two and three year fixed rate lar ISA savers to find high-paying Tony Ahearne, at online fund term savers. you could earn over 20 per cent they can set aside are mad to ig- products, with guaranteed rates accounts ready to accept trans- performance analyst Moneyspi- Next week, we’ll see where the more interest tax free, for very lit- nore them. up to 5.70 per cent on accounts, in- fers of cash mini ISAs from pre- der.com, says thousands of in- experts would put their equity tle effort.” Says Rachel Thrussell at mon side or outside an ISA wrapper. vious years. vestors in some of the UK’s ISAs at a time of high tension in The big attraction of ISAs, and eyfacts.co.uk: “Banks and build- Kevin Mountford, head of price “If you have a portfolio of cash biggest and most popular fund the money markets. MONEYFACTS SAVERS SELECTION MONEYFACTS MORTGAGE &CARDS SELECTION TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008 northernecho.co.uk SHARES BUSINESS ECHO 11 HSBC boss vows to stand by troubled US division Energy suppliers

DESPITE shareholder calls to By Echo Staff ditch part of its business, the waste no time in [email protected] boss of banking firm HSBC has vowed to stand by its troubled US consumer business. ing getting rid of it. We think that passing on the Although it wrote offalmost is as unreasonable as it is unre- £6.1bn of bad debts last year, alistic. We have every intention chairman Stephen Green of working through the difficult promised the group would “work conditions – to do anything else pain of high costs through the difficult conditions”. would be irresponsible. This ing market crisis deepened. this was largely due to £115m of HSBC’s problems in the US year, will not be an easy year in Mr Green was speaking after overdraft charge repayments that business. I think that may unveiling a ten per cent increase made last year. stem from its HFC consumer fi- O one likes to see period. At a time when nance arm, which it bought in overlap into next year, but much in total pre-tax profits to £12.2bn But profits from the bank’s UK their bills rise, wholesale gas prices were 2003 when the country’s housing depends on the US economy.” for the bank. commercial banking sector whether that be plummeting as much as 50 per and credit market was booming. Commenting on pressure from The figure, which was buoyed topped £1bn for the first time. shopping bills, the cent, the average price But rising interest rates in re- activist shareholders such as by booming Far Eastern markets, HSBC announced its 2007 divi- N cost of their mort- Knight Vinke, Mr Green said: was in line with City estimates. dend would rise 11 per cent – a reduction in gas and electric cent years have seen record de- gage, car insurance or any other “We wouldn’t do anything be- But the total bad debt and cred- move widely seen as a reassuring bills was only about 16 per fault rates and repossessions as of life’s essentials. cause somebody has requested it provisions hit £8.7bn, higher one for investors amid the credit cent. higher-risk or sub-prime borrow- This is, of course, also true of us to do something. than expected and largely as a re- troubles. Late last year, when oil ers struggled to meet loan repay- energy bills, which have “We won’t bring forward deci- sult of the US deterioration. Shares in the bank were up prices rocketed and wholesale ments. generally risen consistently for sions and we won’t delay them. HSBC’s entire North American nearly four per cent yesterday. gas prices followed, suppliers HSBC figures showed default the past five years. This is “Our job is to manage the busi- operation contributed only $91m, Richard Hunter, head of UK wasted no time in passing on rates for its entire range of con- despite the fact that the UK ness for the long-term benefit of or 0.4 per cent of the total group Equities, at Hargreaves Lans- the pain. During the first five sumer products in the US wors- energy market has changed the shareholders.” pre-tax profits last year as a re- down Stockbrokers, said: “If ever weeks of this year, five of the ened last year. substantially over the past ten The bank has taken action to sult of the write-offs. proofwere needed about the ben- big six energy suppliers The bank’s directors have been years, following deregulation try to stem the US retail losses, The bank’s Hong Kong and efits of diversification, these increased their gas and electric under pressure from activist of the market. including the closure of 400 HFC Asia Pacific arm made £6.7bn of numbers from HSBC fall square- prices, thereby passing on shareholder Knight Vinke to dis- While in the Sixties we were branches and tighter lending cri- pre-tax profits, with Europe ly into that category. rising costs. pose of the HFC business and fortunate enough to be self- teria. The amount of mortgages, adding £4.3bn. “Its performance in the ever- Although last year four concentrate instead on growing sufficient, due to our own loans and credit cards written off In the UK – where the bank has strengthening markets of China, million out of 36 million markets such as Asia. supply of North Sea gas, for in the US leapt by nearly 80 per 1,500 branches – profits from the India and Hong Kong proved a energy account holders But Mr Green believed that the first time in many years, we cent to $11.9bn last year as the high street business were down more than ample buffer against switched suppliers, market would be irresponsible. are now a net importer of gas. He said: “We are not consider- fallout from the country’s hous- 16 per cent to £740m. HSBC said its US sub-prime woes.” research suggests that just This is generally imported under half of consumers will from European markets, where never switch suppliers. gas prices have tended to be It seems, therefore, that Market report Share prices much higher. along with death and taxes, With this new dependence on rising energy bills are another the global gas market, we are guarantee in life. With only a now at the mercy of gas price A TENper cent rise in profits for NORTH AMERICAN Lonmin ...... £33½ +½ few UK energy suppliers still Du Pont...... £23.34 -0.04 Rio Tinto...... £56½ -½ Indicators volatility, influenced by supply the UK’s biggest bank yesterday quoted on the market, the AEROSPACE NONLIFE INSURANCE and demand, as well as the failed to stave off a downbeat be- Chemring ...... £24½ Marsh McL ...... 1270 -12½ energy sector remains a good rising cost of oil. ginning to the week for the Cobham...... 189¾ +7¼ Royal & Sun...... 129¼ -2¾ The FTSE 100 ...... 5818.6 long-term investment. Meggitt ...... 283¼ +3¾ OIL & GAS PRODUCERS Although the UK has FTSE 100 Index. AIM Down...... 65.7 Norsk Hdro ...... 720¼ -5¾ undertaken a number of HSBC’s 2007 profits of API Grp ...... 22½ Premier ...... 1369 -24 Cape ...... 243 -2 R Dutch Shell A.....1768 -40 US dollar ...... 1.9847 measures to ensure that its £12.2bn helped the company Chapelthorpe ...... 30 R Dutch Shell B.....1742 -39 Down...... 0.0016 energy supply continues Dawson Intl ...... 2½ move more than three per cent PHARMACEUTICALS undisrupted, as a net importer, ahead to the top of the FTSE ris- Inveresk ...... 9¼ Astrazeneca ...... 1878 -15 Euro ...... 1.3063 Nichols...... 228 -3 RESULTS: See Market report Axis-Shield...... 258¼ -5½ Down...... 0.0016 it is essential that the price ers’ board, but its progress was Scapa Grp ...... 30 Glaxo ...... 1106 +4 paid for gas in the UK is Youngs...... 570 -2½ REAL ESTATE offset by losses elsewhere in the AUTOMOBILES & PARTS sufficient to attract European Morrison W...... 289¾ -7¾ Fenner ...... 253½ -4¼ Brit Land ...... 929 -22½ sector. GKN...... 285 +20 Sainsbury ...... 348½ -6¾ FKI ...... 73¼ DTZ Hldgs...... 230 -½ Popular shares gas providers. Why sell your Wagon ...... 31½ The London market eventual- Tesco...... 393 -7½ IMI...... 390¾ +2¼ Gt Portland...... 492 -8 BANKS sought-after product to the UK Thorntons ...... 162½ +¾ Man Brnze...... 524 -4 Hamrsn...... 1072 -33 ly closed 65.7 points lower at Alld Irish ...... 1023¾ -16¾ FOOD PRODUCERS Metalrax ...... 29½ Land Secs...... 1567 -13 Alliance & L...... 525½ -38 HSBC HLDGS ...... 790 +24 market, when you can sell it Alliance & L...... 525½ -38 5818.6 – a fall of more than one AB Food...... 825 -23½ Molins...... 140 +5 SUPPORT SERVICES Aviva ...... 584½ -27 Intl Power...... 375½ -4¾ for more to mainland Europe? Barclays...... 462 -15¼ per cent – as US markets contin- Cadbry Sch ...... 556 -7 Renold ...... 80 -2½ AMEC ...... 772 -3 BAE Systems...... 487¾ +5 M&S ...... 397½ -5¼ It is for this reason that the Bk Ireland...... 699 -12½ Carrs Millg...... 525 Senior ...... 99 Bunzl ...... 705 +7½ BG...... 1181 -11 HSBC...... 790 +24 National Grid...... 713½ -20 ued the declines seen at the end Nth Foods ...... 87¾ -2¾ Spirax Srco ...... 936 -4 Capita...... 656 BP...... 540½ -5½ wholesale gas market has been Lloyds TSB ...... 444½ -9 Pennon Grp ...... 638 -4½ of last week on disappointing REA Hldgs...... 705 +20 Weir Grp...... 770 -5 Davis Service...... 501 -½ Brad & Bingley ....204½ -20½ Ryl Scotland .....369¼ -15¾ extremely volatile in historic Tate Lyle ...... 518½ -6½ INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORT De La Rue...... 908 +2½ Sainsbury...... 348½ -6¾ manufacturing figures. Stan Chart...... 1631 -43 Brit Airways...... 251½ -6 Unilever...... 1580 -16 Forth Ports...... 1978 +18 Elctro Com...... 171¼ -5½ Scot & Sthrn Energy 1437 -40 terms, and why UK households BEVERAGES British Energy ...... 559 -6½ HSBC rose 24p to 790p after GENERAL FINANCIAL TDG...... 247¼ +1 Hays...... 107½ -1½ Severn...... 1396 -25 have seen their gas and electric Barr AG...... 1195 +5 BT Grp ...... 222¾ -4¼ 3i Group ...... 796½ -21½ INVESTMENT Johnson Service ...... 26½ -1 strong growth in Asia and Diageo ...... 1033 -1 Centrica ...... 314½ -8½ Tate Lyle...... 518½ -6½ bills rise – yet again – over the Close Bros ...... 636 -23 Alliance Trust ...... 337¼ -4¾ Menzies J...... 551½ +4½ Scot New ...... 786 -3 GlaxoSmithKline...... 1106 +4 Tesco ...... 393 -7½ emerging markets more than Provident Fin...... 788½ -16 Br Assets...... 127¾ -½ Prem Farnell...... 146¼ -3¾ past few months. CHEMICALS HBoS...... 558 -45½ United Utils ...... 669 -24 offset increased bad debt write- Schroders...... 926½ -32 Candover Inv...... £21¼ -½ Rentokil ...... 82½ -¾ The UK’s largest retail gas Croda...... 613½ +7 Schroders NV....831½ -18½ Dunedin Inv...... 224½ -3 downs in the US, where the econ- Delta...... 104¾ +1¼ Travis & P...... 1070 -14 supplier continues to be Avon Rbbr...... 105½ +½ Dunedin Sml ...... 115¼ -2¼ Wolseley ...... 614 -7½ Elementis 98...... 76½ -¼ REXAM ...... 438¼ -3 Edin Invst...... 416 -1½ omy is continuing to deliver TECHNOLOGY British Gas, which trades in Johnsn Mat ...... 1930 -16 Smith DS ...... 164¼ +5¼ Edinburgh USTT.....538½ -3 IBM...... £57½ cause for concern. COMP SERVICES Tomkins...... 167½ -2½ Forgn & C...... 292¼ -1½ Northern shares the market under the name Psion ...... 103½ -1½ Its diverse spread protected it Computacenter...... 187 +7 GENERAL RETAILERS Hend Smllr Cos...252½ -5¼ Centrica. Although the press LogicaCMG...... 89¾ -3½ Ashley L...... 22 Scot Am ...... 229¾ -1¼ Spirent Comms ...... 60 +1½ love to condemn the from the damage inflicted on Misys ...... 144¾ -4¾ HR Owen...... 147½ Witan...... 432½ -3¾ TELECOM (FIXED LINE) Arriva ...... 673¼ -9¾ Northern Recruit ...... 64½ several other banking stocks be- CONSTRUCTION Inchcape...... 392 -¾ LIFE INSURANCE C&W...... 177¼ +½ Barrat Dev ...... 395¼ -14¾ Northern Venture Tst ...... 63½ announcement of large profits Balfour Beatty ...... 441 -5¼ Kingfisher...... 126 -5 Friends Prov...... 127 -6½ Colt Telecom...... 161½ -4¼ Bellway...... 797¼ -1¾ Northgate...... 659½ -5½ at Centrica, in the past few cause of the fears over the hous- Thus Group...... 123¼ +5¼ CRH...... 1801¼ -73½ M & S...... 397½ -5¼ Lgl & Gen ...... 122¾ -1¾ Black & Decker...... £34 -½ Northumb’ Water.352½ +1¾ years this had rarely been at ing market and faltering eco- Costain...... 21½ Next ...... 1251 -38 Old Mutual ...... 121½ -3¾ TELECOM (MOBILE) Chieftain ...... 180½ Opsec Security ...... 51½ -3 Low Bonar ...... 113 -5¼ Signet ...... 58¾ -2½ Prudential...... 601 -9½ Vodafone Group .....160 -2¾ Garner ...... 7¼ Persimmon...... 721¼ -15¾ the expense of the retail nomic confidence in the US. TOBACCO Marshalls...... 264½ -3 WH Smith ...... 381¾ +4½ MEDIA Go-Ahead...... 1802½ +1½ Premier Direct ...... 24 customers. In the first half of Halifax Bank of Scotland Br Am Tob ...... 1895 ELECTRICAL EQUIP HEALTH CARE BSkyB...... 555 -13 Grainger ...... 397¼ -2½ Sage Group ...... 200¼ +2¾ Chloride...... 179½ -¼ Smith Nph...... 651½ -4 Chrysalis...... 128 -1¾ Imperial Tobacco.£23¾ +¼ 2006, British Gas made a loss of was the leading faller – down Greggs ...... £43½ +¼ SCS ...... 50 ¾ -¼ Domino Ptg...... 300 -5 HOUSEHOLD GOODS D Mail Tst...... 465 -3½ TRAVEL & LEISURE £143m selling gas to British 45.5p to 558p, with Royal Bank Helius Energy...... 44 Severfield Rowen ..313¼ +¾ Invensys ...... 251¾ -5½ Reckitt Benckiser...... £27 -¼ Pearson ...... 648½ -17½ Compass Grp....332¼ +5¾ homes, and a loss of £95m in of Scotland off 15.75p to Morgn Cru ...... 211½ +3 Taylor Wimpey ....166½ -5½ Reuters Grp...... 588½ -9 FirstGroup ...... 572 -7 Metnor Group...... 139 Southern Cross...... 396¼ +5 IND ENGINEERING Trinity Mirror .....291¾ +6¾ Northern2VCT...... 80½ Stadium...... 63 +½ the second half of 2005. 369.25p. Ox Instmts ...... 190¾ -¼ Ladbrokes...... 300 -4¼ Volex Grp...... 100 600 Group...... 46½ MINING Rank Org...... 94 +3½ Northern Investors ...... 202½ Vp...... 314¾ -¼ This year, however, Centrica Barclays was down 15.25p to FOOD RETAILERS Charter ...... 829½ +2½ BHP Billiton ...... 1625 -5 Stagecoach...... 246¾ -4¾ has turned this around, Michael Rankin, above 462p despite its move into the making a strong profit in the fast-growing Russian retail Among the firms in positive after it raised its sales guidance board. Shares were off nine per retail gas market. British Gas banking market with a £373m territory, food and catering com- for this year and said full-year cent, or 20.5p, to 204.5p as recent also even managed to increase ■ Michael Rankin is an investment man- deal for Expobank. Alliance & pany Compass was one of the profits next month would be at speculation over possible its customer numbers in the ager in the Teesside office of Brewin Dol- Leicester slipped 38p to 525.5p. leading FTSE risers after being least £1m better than previous- takeover interest from Lloyds phin, and can be contacted on 01642- second half of the year, helped 608855. Views expressed are the FT publisher Pearson also upgraded by brokers at Credit ly thought. Shares lifted 4.75p to TSB also faded. by a large fall in the wholesale author’s own and are not necessarily posted full-year results yester- Suisse on hopes of better than 191p. The FTSE’s four biggest risers gas price. held throughout the Brewin Dolphin day, but shares fell almost three expected US margins. This lifted And Helphire, which pro- were HSBC up 24p to 790p, Com- Although energy customers Group. Brewin Dolphin Securities Ltd is per cent, or 17.5p, to 648.5p as in- Compass 5.75p to 332.25p. vides car rentals for motorists pass up 5.75p to 332.25p, Sage up may have seen their bills fall a member of the London Stock Ex- vestors disregarded chief exec- Rolls-Royce also climbed the involved in accidents, gained 2.75p to 200.25p and Lonmin, slightly over the summer, this change, authorised and regulated by utive Marjorie Scardino’s fore- risers’ table after news of a nearly 15 per cent after directors which closed 45p better off at was insignificant compared to the Financial Services Authority. Prices, $2.6bn (£1.31bn) engines deal bought shares in the wake of 3352p. the fall in the price of values or income may fall against in- casts for “another good year” in vestors’ interests. You should be aware 2008. with Sir Richard Branson’s Vir- last Friday’s post-results sell-off. The four biggest fallers were wholesale gas. This is due to that you may get less back than you in- Despite her upbeat comments, gin Atlantic. Shares rose 5.75p to The stock rose 25.25p to HBOS down 45.5p to 558p, Al- companies’ reluctance to pass vested. Investments may not always be analysts cited concerns about 440.25p. 197.25p. liance & Leicester off 38p to on the benefit of cheaper gas, suitable for all individuals. If you have the impact of any economic Elsewhere, computer games The woes of the banking sec- 525.5p, Friends Provident thereby vastly increasing any doubts, you should consult a pro- slowdown on advertising rev- firm Game rose more than two tor meant Bradford & Bingley down 6.5p to 127p and Aviva off margins and profits for the fessional advisor. enues. per cent in the FTSE 250 Index topped the second-tier fallers 27p to 584.5p. 12 BUSINESS ECHO businessecho.co.uk TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2008

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