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10 February 2010: Falklands Oil Success Could Boost UK Energy Firms

With a new drilling campaign about to kick off in the Falkland Islands, a leading lawyer believes a major oil find will bring fresh business opportunities for Scotland’s oil and gas sector.

Gavin Farquhar said the arrival of the Ocean Guardian drilling rig, due to arrive in the South Atlantic fresh from the Cromarty Firth on Valentine’s Day, could herald the beginning of a new love affair between the UK and the Falklands.

Mr Farquhar, a partner in McGrigors’ energy and infrastructure team, has been conducting business in Port Stanley since the late 1980s and his team recently provided legal advice to Byron McKay Port Services, the Falklands company which is running the supply base which will support the exploration companies.

He said: “They may be situated some 8000 miles away from the Square Mile but the Falkland Islands are generating a fair bit of excitement in the City of London as the drilling campaign draws close.

“The oil price is kicking around at about $70 a barrel but if oil is found it’s believed extraction could be viable as low as $25 a barrel. The Falkland Islands government has set corporation tax at 26% on profits plus a 9% royalty on production, making it one of the most favourable fiscal regimes in the world for exploration.”

Desire Petroleum is first up to drill in the shallow water North Falkland Basin and Rockhopper Exploration is next in line with two drilling slots allocated. Falklands Oil and Gas, in association with BHP Billiton, has a third option on the Ocean Guardian for its shallow water acreage in the East (its license extends to the Southern Basin also), while Borders & Southern is expected to line up its own rig to explore its deep water acreage in the South Falklands basin.

The North Falklands Basin is not unchartered territory and in the 1990s six wells were drilled but the finds were deemed not commercially viable. Against a backdrop of a low oil price, interest from exploration companies soon waned.

Mr Farquhar added: “Back in ’98 the Southern Basins were left completely unexplored but 12 years down the line things have moved on and we have relatively steady oil price, technology has improved and there is a new found momentum to explore in the region.

“Since then, there has been a great deal of seismic work done which has given the explorers a lot more confidence about where to drill and how to drill. Another contributing factor which has bolstered this new drilling campaign is that rig rates have come down in recent times and it is apparent Desire has felt confident enough to contract a rig at a price they are comfortable with.”

With well costs estimated to be in the region of $25-30 million in the north basin and $30-$35 million in the south, all four companies have successfully raised finance in the City to complete the first exploration drilling campaign.

So what might this all mean for the UK oil and gas sector if results point toward decent reserves which merit a full-on extraction phase?

“If it all comes good it will be some years before exploration ends and production starts but it’s safe to say a large number of Aberdeen based service companies have products, skills and experience which are easily transferrable to the South Atlantic. Many north east companies which have evolved as the UKCS has matured will be in a good position to expand their business in the South Atlantic region. There is of course the sheer logistics of getting back and forth to Stanley but the rewards may outweigh that particular obstacle.”

Already AGR, who have been contracted by Desire to run the imminent drilling campaign, have Aberdeen personnel in-situ and other north-east companies have deployed staff in support operations.

Mr Farquhar said: “It’s only a trickle at the moment but as knowledge of the province, its challenges and opportunities, filter back to Aberdeen, I am sure we will hear more Doric mingling with the local Stanley accents.

“As someone who has been travelling to and from Stanley on business since the late ‘80s, I share the cautious optimism of the islanders that the arrival of the Ocean Guardian could herald the start of a sea change for the Falklands economy. If the drilling campaign goes well the oil industry will open up the islands to an influx of investment, job creation and with increased commercial flights, even spin-offs for its small but vibrant tourist industry.”

Gavin Farquhar is a partner in McGrigors’ Energy & Infrastructure team. McGrigors is the only UK law firm to have a presence in the Falkland Islands.

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Note to Editors

McGrigors LLP is a leading law firm with offices in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Aberdeen, Manchester.

With 98 partners and a total of more than 360 lawyers across the UK and overseas, McGrigors is well placed to advise clients, including national and multinational organisations in the private and public sectors, on a wide variety of commercial issues.

McGrigors is one of the UK's top 50 legal firms.

For further information, please visit www.mcgrigors.com

Issued on behalf of McGrigors LLP by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

8 February 2010: EnerMech Completes Crane Project For Technip in Brazil

Mechanical services specialist, EnerMech Ltd, has completed its first project in Brazil on behalf of Technip.

Aberdeen-based EnerMech performed a maintenance and inspection programme on three pedestal cranes onboard Technip’s Sunrise 2000 flexible pipe-lay vessel while it was docked in Rio de Janeiro.

The Sunrise 2000 is a sophisticated deepwater pipe-lay vessel with the ability to lay flexible flowlines and umbilicals simultaneously in water depths of up to 2000 metres. The vessel is on long term charter, working offshore Brazil.

The contract, which was worth a six figure sum, represents a breakthrough in the South American cranes and maintenance market for EnerMech.

Graeme Massie, EnerMech’s cranes & lifting manager, said: “Working closely with a local contractor in Brazil we were able to demonstrate the flexible and professional approach we employ in all our crane maintenance work. The cranes were crucial to the completion of a wider overhaul and was a critical path item in the project.

“It is the first time we have worked with Technip in this part of the world and we hope it signals the start of an ongoing business relationship in South America and other regional hubs.”

Technip is a world leader in the fields of project management, engineering and construction or the oil and gas industry.

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Note to Editors

EnerMech Ltd was formed in April 2008 and offers a safer, more customer-focused, responsive service with lower costs in the mechanical services sector within the energy industry, while delivering a much greater level of engineering and technical support than competitors can offer.

The company specialises in the supply, maintenance and engineering of cranes, lifting and hydraulic equipment, rental of hand tools and zoned equipment and provision of training and specialist personnel to the energy industry.

With the acquisition of Specialist Maintenance Services Ltd and A1 Safety Training Consultants Ltd, EnerMech is now a leading international provider of offshore crane and lifting operations, crane personnel and safety training. EnerMech also has a significant presence in Norway following the acquisition of Bjørge ASA’s crane division in October 2008.

In April 2009 EnerMech extended its presence in the Middle East with the acquisition of UAE free zone companies Pavitt Energy Limited and Scotia Oilfield Trading FZE which has since been integrated in to the EnerMech group. Investment totaling £5.1 million ($7.5M) has been made in equipment stock rental, a new base in Ras al-Khaimah and existing facilities in Jebel Ali and Doha.

EnerMech employs 350 staff at its Aberdeen headquarters and bases in Great Yarmouth, Stavanger, Dubai, Qatar, Ras al-Khaimah, Singapore, Indonesia, China and Perth, Australia.

EnerMech’s five director-owners are backed by private equity firm Lime Rock Partners and together have in place a £30 million plus funding package to support organic growth and further acquisitions.

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

3 February 2010: EnerMech Secure £10 Million Marathon Oil Crane Contract

EnerMech Ltd has won a contract worth an estimated £10 million ($16.5M) to provide crane operations and maintenance for Marathon Oil UK Ltd.

The contract covers Marathon’s North Sea platforms, Brae Alpha and Bravo and East Brae, and runs for five years with an additional five year option.

The Aberdeen-based mechanical services company will also provide Marathon with crane maintenance, mechanic and operator crews, supply and store crane spare parts and lifting equipment inspection services.

The workscope also includes the supply of lifting equipment, engineering and technical support and provision of onshore support staff.

EnerMech managing director, Doug Duguid, said the company’s vision and the multi-million pound investment in developing a single site facility in Aberdeen, was beginning to pay dividends.

Mr Duguid said: “This is the first significant crane services award we have secured in the UK from a new customer since we established the EnerMech group, although we have had a number of renewals of important contracts we inherited with the acquisition of SMS.”

EnerMech say they will create an additional 10 jobs as a result of the Marathon contract win which starts with immediate effect.

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Note to Editors

EnerMech employs 350 staff at its Aberdeen headquarters and bases in Great Yarmouth, Stavanger, Dubai, Qatar, Ras al-Khaimah, Singapore, Indonesia, China and Perth, Australia.

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

28 January 2010: Scotland's Largest Insurance Broker Pulls In To Glasgow Central

Central Insurance Services Ltd has consolidated its position as Scotland’s largest independent insurance broker with the opening of a new office in Glasgow.

The ambitious Aberdeen-based broker has been keen to establish a Central Belt presence for some time and the £1.2 million investment in premises and staff gives the company a strong platform to continue its growth strategy.

Central Insurance’s managing director, Iain Henry, said acquisitions by large insurance consolidators had led to a decline in the number of independent brokers in the Glasgow insurance market, giving Central an opportunity to extend its operations.

In addition, the national and global brokers are increasingly shifting focus away from the SME mid-market segment, whilst removing traditional broker services such as claims handling and open-market broking in return for shareholder value. This strategy doesn’t suit the majority of Scottish businesses which is why Central believes it’s the right time to expand in the Central Belt.

Mr Henry said: “We have been considering this development for some time with a view to buying smaller brokers but have been hindered due to inflated valuations by owners, combined with a lack of quality opportunities.

“We decided that the best approach was to hand-select a team of key individuals from the Scottish insurance market and we are delighted to have recruited a number of highly regarded broking experts who will drive this initiative forward.”

Central has caused quite a stir in the insurance market by recruiting experienced staff from leading insurance brokers. The Glasgow operation will be led by former Aon regional sales manager, Tom Aldridge, who has been appointed regional director. Scott Campbell, formerly of Axa, has been appointed and will be responsible for the management and development of commercial business, while Ian Docherty, former broking director of Willis, has joined the team to manage insurer relations and support the group’s broking strategy.

Additional support staff and broking and claims personnel have joined the team at newly acquired offices at 140 West George Street in the centre of Glasgow.

Mr Henry added: “A ready-made experienced insurance team is in place and will focus on the Glasgow market and assist our other specialists in Aberdeen. It’s an exciting push in to new territory for Central Insurance but consistent with our policy of expanding the business through careful acquisitions and planned organic growth.”

Tom Aldridge added: “Central Insurance has an impressive track record of consistent growth and our Glasgow team can add to that legacy. We look forward to forging lasting relationships with new clients who will benefit from having Scotland’s largest independent insurance broker on their doorstep.”

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Note to Editors

Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Central Insurance Services is now open for business at 140 West George Street, Glasgow, G2 2HG. Telephone 0141 404 0600.

Central Insurance employs more than 70 staff and offers a range of business and commercial insurance services. Key sectors covered include: Energy and Engineering; Professional Services; Property Owners; Developers and Managers; Construction; Agriculture; Food and Fish Processing; Transport and Distribution; Plant Hire and Civil Engineering; Tourism, Leisure and Entertainment.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 January 2010: EnerMech Sign UNIC Mini Crane Deal For UK Offshore Sector

Mechanical services group, EnerMech Ltd, has been awarded the rights for the exclusive sale and hire of GGR Group’s UNIC mini cranes to the UK offshore market.

GGR Group is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of restricted access lifting equipment and UNIC mini crawler cranes which were originally designed to operate on congested construction sites.

Aberdeen-based EnerMech hope to extend the distributorship arrangement to cover other offshore regions where the company has a presence.

Small and portable, UNIC cranes are self-propelled and can be quickly assembled in a variety of configurations, making them ideal for accessing areas on offshore installations and platforms outwith the coverage of normal crane equipment.

The distributorship also covers GGR’s Airlift series of spider cranes – the world’s first fully ATEX certified compliant compressed-air powered spider cranes, suitable for use in potentially explosive Zone 1 and Zone 2 areas.

EnerMech’s director for cranes and lifting, John Morrison, said: “This is an important development for EnerMech and assures our clients that we can provide the most technologically advanced equipment available on the market.

“UNIC mini cranes are ideal for shutdown work as they negate the need for building load bearing scaffolding and we can see their application during platform decommissioning.

“This agreement gives us sole distributor and dealer rights for GGR’s crane range for the UK offshore and oil and gas market. We are looking forward to working with GGR and are keen to extend the relationship in to other geographic regions.”

GGR’s Airlift series of spider cranes are compact but have the capacity and reach of much larger machines with advanced features, including full safe load indicators, working area limitation and radio remote control with digital feedback.

EnerMech is holding a number of open days in January and February at its Aberdeen headquarters for clients interested in finding out more about the GGR crane range. More details on the GGR range of equipment can be found on their award-winning website www.ggrgroup.co.uk

EnerMech specialises in the supply, maintenance and engineering of cranes, lifting and hydraulic equipment, rental of hand tools and zoned equipment and provision of training and specialist personnel to the energy industry.

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Note to Editors

EnerMech employs 350 staff at its Aberdeen headquarters and bases in Great Yarmouth, Stavanger, Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah, Singapore and Perth, Australia, and has plans to expand its geographic footprint across the eastern hemisphere.

Website: www.enermech.com

Website: www.ggrgroup.co.uk

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email more@surepr.co.uk

14 January 2010: Drum Property Group Banks On Prime Aberdeen Site

Drum Property Group has completed the redevelopment of the former Bank of Scotland at Aberdeen’s Holburn Junction.

Drum acquired the property with the assistance of property consultants FG Burnett after both companies agreed the high profile location at the west end of Union Street would be of interest to occupiers following redevelopment.

The ground and basement floors, including a new rear extension, were pre-let to Tesco for their Tesco Express format on a 15 year FRI lease for an undisclosed rental. The Tesco investment has been sold to a private pension fund, advised by Colliers CRE, for £1.425 million.

The first floor office accommodation has been sold to Frontier UK who intend to refurbish and market the suite for lease while the second floor offices has been sold to well known Aberdeen employment lawyer, Lili Hunter Consulting, who has relocated her practice to the site.

Graeme Bone, managing director of Drum Property Group, said: “The closure of the Bank of Scotland branch was sad news as there had been a bank there for many years but it is always satisfying to regenerate a building and we felt the location and building fitted our development model.”

FG Burnett advised Drum throughout the project. Director David MacLeod said: “This was a classic development deal where Drum acquired a vacant building, attracted occupiers and have sold on the investments.

“It is great news for this section of Union Street and Tesco Express will be a major boost for Holburn Junction. We were always confident that we would secure occupiers for the offices with the location just a stone’s throw from the prime west end office area but also with all the benefits of being right on Union Street.”

Jamie Fergusson, associate director, investment market place, with Colliers CRE added: “There is a strong desire for long let property investments to good covenants and Tesco is top of the list for many private investors. This investment provides safe and secure income on a property which has been recently redeveloped and is in a prominent position on Union Street.”

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Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

FG Burnett provides Scotland-wide coverage for a range of services including sales, lettings and acquisitions; building surveying; development consultancy; investment consultancy; property management; rating consultancy, rent reviews and commercial valuation and compensation.

The majority of FG Burnett’s technical staff are members of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and using state of the art Information Technology, delivers professional expertise and intimate knowledge of the market place.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Website: www.drumpropertygroup.com

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

12 January 2010: Musselburgh Launches New £80,000 totepool Edinbugh Cup and £200,000 Derby Day Event

Musselburgh Racecourse has announced it will stage a new Derby Day race, the totepool Edinburgh Cup, which will be worth at least £80,000.

The totepool Edinburgh Cup will be Scotland’s second richest flat race, after the Ayr Gold Cup, and with race day prize money in excess of £200,000, will attract a high quality field of runners.

Run on Derby Day over the same distance as the famous Epsom classic and for three year old horses rated 0-105, Musselburgh believes the Edinburgh Cup will attract colts and fillies with the potential to progress to Group races.

Musselburgh’s most valuable race day will also feature the £50,000 totescoop6 Scottish Sprint Cup, which is now firmly established as a key five furlong event for the top sprint handicappers.

Other attractions on the June 5 race day include the £30,000 Edinburgh Castle Stakes, a conditions race for two year olds, which will be seen as a preliminary for horses heading to Royal Ascot. The £20,000 Tradesman’s Derby and the £15,000 Tartan Trophy will act as consolation races for the two main events, bringing the total prize pot to more than £200,000.

Musselburgh plan to build the Edinburgh Cup in to a £100,000 race in successive years and Channel 4 has already expressed strong interest with the feature race and two others included on its programming schedule.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said due to the sell-out success of Musselburgh’s Derby Day Fixture in previous years, which also incorporated the venue’s annual Ladies Day, many racing fans were denied the opportunity to experience the track’s biggest and best race day.

Mr Farnsworth said: “Ladies Day has been an outstanding success, beyond all our expectations, but the downside is that because it’s a sell-out we have 2-3000 regular race goers who can’t attend our biggest and best race day.

“This year Ladies Day has been moved to Friday June 18 during Royal Ascot week, with a stronger focus on fashion and social racing and the launch of the Edinburgh Cup Race Day on Derby Day is a strategic move to appeal to the discerning race goer.

“With that in mind we decided to introduce a high value meeting which would appeal to racing fans and would attract top quality horses. We can’t compete with the Derby but we can bring an exciting alternative to Scotland and we are confident Edinburgh Cup day will grow in to one of the country’s top racing fixtures.

“Channel 4 has Derby Day at Musselburgh firmly in its sights and our immediate aim is to develop the Edinburgh Cup into a £100,000, early closing race, which will be a prospect the UK and Ireland’s leading stables hopefully can’t resist.”

Mr Farnsworth said an added attraction of introducing a ‘cup’ event, in the vein of the Doncaster Cup or Goodwood Cup, was that they have a tradition of attracting stayers which develop in to household favourites such as Double Trigger, which won both cups three times.

Mr Farnsworth added: “The aim is to make it an early closing race and the Tote will open a book in advance which will generate a fair bit of pre-race betting interest.”

Jason Brautigam, director of sales and marketing for totepool, said: “The Tote has a longstanding relationship with Musselburgh and we have worked together to help build the Derby Day fixture over the past four years. We are delighted to be involved with this high profile initiative which will really give Scottish Racing another boost. We anticipate a great deal of betting interest in a race of this type and quality, as well as being a fantastic centerpiece for race goers on the day.”

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Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

11 January 2010: Optimism In Aberdeen's Office Market Reports FG Burnett

A high level of activity in the Aberdeen office market with an upsurge in recent office requirements has been reported by commercial property consultants, FG Burnett.

The Albyn Place consultancy say the increased activity points to greater optimism in the business community and signals a potential recovery in the office market at the start of 2010.

FG Burnett has been involved in more than 40 office rental or sale transactions in the last 12 months and surveyor Dan Smith believes the Granite City office sector is holding its own compared to national trends.

In the most part, headline rental levels are being maintained, albeit tenants can now expect to benefit from much more attractive incentive packages than had previously been available. However, the pragmatism of landlords and the ability to realise that there are still deals to do, has led the Aberdeen office market to continue to outperform similar markets in other UK locations.

Offices in the prime West End office district continue to achieve rents in the mid/high £20’s per sq ft and there have been a few deals done at or around £30 per sq ft. Demand also remains for modern out-of-town business park space with Westhill’s Abercrombie Court continuing to generate rents of £17.50 per sq ft and prices in excess of £180 per sq ft.

Dan Smith said: “We have recently witnessed an upsurge in the volume of enquires, particularly for smaller properties and the general consensus is that the outlook for the future is positive. The local office market has so far managed to avoid a reduction in headline rental rates although there has been a notable increase in incentives offered to tenants.

“The flexible and pragmatic approach which has been adopted by the majority of our landlord clients has ensured that deals are still happening and if we can maintain that dynamic it will ensure the revival continues into 2010.”

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Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

8 January 2010: Multiply Behind New Campaign for Huggies

Marketing communication agency Multiply has created a new campaign for Huggies® Super-Dry nappies.

The fully integrated ‘Everyday Discoveries’ campaign, developed in conjunction with Biss Lancaster, Mindshare and Hyper invites parents to upload photographs and video clips of the everyday discoveries their child has experienced.

The entries are featured on an interactive gallery (www.superdrydiscoveries.co.uk) and short listed families are invited to attend exclusive events in Manchester and London, with the final 10 Everyday Discoveries with Huggies® Super-Dry nappieswinning babies featuring in a unique story book penned by Disney artists.

Multiply coordinated marketing activities for a full press campaign, rich media online advertising and a targeted electronic direct marketing campaign to Huggies® Club and Askamum.com members.

To date, the promotional site has received over 15,500 visits. Multiply director, Kate Fenton, said: “Our brief was to transition mums through a product change on Huggies® Super-Dry using exciting communication focused on the benefits of the new product.

“From the age of 3-12 months babies ‘wake up’ as their world comes into focus, objects take on meaning and colours come in to play, as they start making everyday discoveries.

“Our final creative theme communicated the brand as ‘Baby Approved for Everyday Discoveries’, giving babies the freedom to discover the world around them whilst staying comfortable and dry.

“We’ve launched a fully-integrated marketing campaign based around this core insight with targeted bursts of activity running until late January. The campaign stats are very encouraging and it appears to be hitting the mark with the target audience, with impressive participation figures on the core competition.”

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Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of innovative campaigns for clients including Highland Spring, RBS, Standard Life, Huggies, Pilsner Urquell, Highland Park and The Macallan.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 January 2010: EnerMech Attains ISO 9001 Status

Mechanical services company, EnerMech Ltd, has achieved ISO 9001:2008 status for its quality management system.

The international standard covers all operations in Aberdeen, Great Yarmouth and Stavanger and encompasses for the first time all the company’s service lines.

The benchmark award incorporates construction and commissioning, operations, maintenance, inspection, spares management, health care and provision of specialist personnel, covering cranes, lifting gear, winches and life saving equipment.

Other EnerMech business areas covered include rental, sales, service and testing of hand and power tools and equipment, management, sale, maintenance, inspection, manufacture, assembly and testing of hydraulic hoses and associated equipment and provision of training services.

EnerMech QHSE manager, Malcolm Kennedy, said: “Achieving ISO 9001 status confirms to all our clients and suppliers that our quality management system is robust, professional and transparent and meets the standard you would expect from a leading company in the mechanical services and cranes and lifting industry.”

Headquartered in Aberdeen, EnerMech specialises in the supply, maintenance and engineering of cranes, lifting and hydraulic equipment, rental of hand tools and zoned equipment and provision of training and specialist personnel to the energy industry.

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Note to Editors

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email more@surepr.co.uk

29 December 2009: New Year Racing At Musselburgh May Go Ahead After Improved Forecast

Musselburgh Racecourse’s New Year’s Day meeting could go ahead if weather conditions continue to improve.

Initial forecasts offered a slim prospect of the January 1 race day proceeding, but the outlook is changing with day time temperatures predicted to rise to around 3°C or 4°C for the rest of the week.

A course inspection will take place at 8am tomorrow (Wed) when Clerk of the Course, Anthea Morshead, will be better placed to take a decision to race or to abandon the meeting.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “It was a blow to have to abandon today’s meeting (Tues 29) and it seemed the New Year’s Day fixture would go the same way.

“However, the forecast has improved slightly which has given us a little bit more hope that we will be racing on Friday. We will hold a course inspection at 8am on Wednesday and get further feedback from the Met Office before making a decision.”

For further updates visit the Musselburgh Racecourse website www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk or on Twitter http://twitter.com/MusselburghRace

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Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764.

22 December 2009: Musselburgh Sees Out The Old and Brings In New With Double Header Meetings

Racing fans can see out the old and bring in the new with a double header at Musselburgh on Tuesday 29 December and on New Year’s Day.

The New Year Sprint Race Day (Dec 29) features not only jumps racing but the finals of the famous New Year Sprint athletics race which is run in between the horse races. Gates open at 10.30am and first race is 12.05pm.

It’s the first time in some years that Musselburgh has been racing on January 1 and the first of seven races is off at 11.50 with the feature race a £9000 handicap chase over 2m 4f. To help punters celebrate the New Year, hot port and hot roast lunches are available in the track’s bars and restaurants.

Action from Cheltenham’s New Year day programme will be beamed live on large screens and television around the course. A totepool competition will put all bets placed on Cheltenham in to a prize draw with the winner receiving a £100 totepool voucher and two tickets to the Scottish Cheltenham Trial Race Day at Musselburgh on February 7.

Gates open on New Year’s Day at 10.45am. Advance bookings receive a £1.50-£2 discount on the normal admission price. Visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk for details.

All admission tickets for the meeting on December 21, which was cancelled due to frost, will be valid for race meetings held within the next 90 days or race goers can arrange a refund by calling the racecourse ticket office on 0131 665 2859.

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Website:www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

17 December 2009: Taylor Clark Properties Signs Up First Tenant For Key Glasgow Development

Central Insurance Services Ltd has acquired the ground floor 2,469 sq ft office of Taylor Clark Properties’ development at 140 West George Street, Glasgow.

Scotland’s largest independent insurance broker, Central Insurance, has taken a 10 year lease, at an undisclosed rental, with a break at five years.

A listed building, originally designed by James Thomson, 140 West George Street has been extensively redeveloped by Taylor Clark Properties which has carried out similar developments in Glasgow, including Equinox, Citypoint and Citypoint 2.

The letting was concluded by joint letting agents Gee & Co and CB Richard Ellis on behalf of the landlord, while FG Burnett acted on behalf of tenant Central Insurance.

Jon Brand, managing director of Taylor Clark Properties, said: "We are delighted to welcome Central Insurance as the first tenant of 140 West George Street. This is the first office for Central Insurance in Glasgow and we are pleased they have chosen 140 West George Street as their home.

“Despite the difficult market conditions we have a number of other interests we are talking too and we remain confident of securing further tenants shortly.”

Stephen McKenna of Gee & Co, said: "140 West George Street provides Grade A quality office space at a highly competitive rental. Taylor Clark Properties has presented a quality building with detailed finishes throughout. We have taken a pro-active approach to engage with occupiers, providing appropriate packages that suit the needs of their business.”

Gavin Smith of FG Burnett acted for Central Insurance and commented: “Central Insurance was looking for a new high quality presence in Glasgow. The ground floor of 140 West George Street was just what they were looking for and terms were concluded very quickly to meet our tight timescale.”

The lower ground and upper floors remain available, providing suites from 2,094 sq ft to 3,960 sq ft. Alternatively, continuous floors can be secured providing up to 21,222 sq ft.

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Issued on behalf of FG Burnett by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 December 2009: Busy End to 2009 For Musselburgh Racecourse

Musselburgh Racecourse stages its second meeting in a busy four week period on Monday (21 Dec) with the Christmas Lunch Race Day.

Feature race of the £40,000 six card meeting is the £10,000 handicap hurdle over two miles for four year olds and over, with a supporting £8000 handicap chase over the same distance. Gates open on Monday at 10.30am and first race is off at 12.15pm.

Then within the space of four days Musselburgh stages the New Year Sprint Race Day on December 29, which also features the finals of the traditional New Year Sprint athletics race, and then is back racing on New Year’s Day for the first time in many years.

Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said advanced bookings for the New Year back to back meetings was encouraging and pointed toward a healthy end to 2009 and positive start to 2010.

She said: “There seems to be quite a bit of interest in both meetings. The New Year Sprint Race Day is a great opportunity for sports lovers to enjoy that unique mix of athletics and horse racing over the jumps while New Year’s Day meeting is providing an alternative way of bringing in the New Year.

“I would encourage race goers to take advantage of our online booking system which gives them a discount on admission and will also avoid the need to queue on the day.”

Ends

Website:www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 December 2009: Well Enhancer Completes First Well Intervention Job In North Sea For Nexen Petroleum UK

Helix Well Ops UK, a subsidiary of Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc, announced today that the newest addition to its global well intervention fleet, Well Enhancer, has successfully completed her inaugural well intervention project for Nexen Petroleum UK on the Buzzard S2 well in the North Sea, 60 miles east of Aberdeen.

The Subsea Intervention Lubricator, (SIL), a 7-3/8” bore single-trip system designed and built in house by Helix Well Ops UK, was successfully deployed via the vessel’s integrated skidding and handling system.

Working in adverse weather conditions with significant wave heights in excess of five metres and winds of 45 knots, heave at the moonpool rarely exceeded two metres and the vessel’s performance exceeded expectations.

Helix believes that the Well Enhancer, built at the IHC Krimpen shipyard in Rotterdam, is the world’s most advanced well-intervention/diving support vessel in operation.

Steve Nairn, Vice President of Helix Well Ops UK, said: “The Well Enhancer’s moonpool design and skidding system, coupled with our ability to disconnect and reconnect the control umbilicals subsea, enabled us to work safely in weather conditions that would have sidelined other intervention vessels. These features, unique to Well Enhancer, allowed the operation to be completed on schedule in spite of difficult weather.”

Over the course of the ten day operation, Well Enhancer performed production logging, fluid sampling and wireline services, including sand detection and flow profiling on the well.

The S2 water injection well was entered with a combined log/fluid sampling service, with additional sand detection and flow profiling equipment onboard. All on-board systems were utilised successfully.

Mr Nairn added: “It could be said that the Well Enhancer is the only brand new intervention vessel with a 15-year track record. When we first began the design process, we took advantage of the lessons learned from operating our other North Sea intervention vessel, Seawell. That experience led us to include the SIL and skidding system in the new vessel’s design and include provisions for a coiled tubing intervention system as well.”

Nexen Petroleum UK said they were delighted with the results of the well intervention, describing the operation as a “fantastic achievement”.

Ends

Note to Editors

The MSV Well Enhancer is a 10,000+ ton, 132m long vessel, based on a Merwede Type-22 design.

The Well Enhancer features a Huisman Itrec multi-purpose tower for deployment of its subsea intervention tools and equipment. The system operates in water depths to 1000 meters while handling 150 metric tons, and features both active and passive heave compensation.

The vessel includes an 18-man saturation diving system rated to 300 metres, with four decompression chambers and two dedicated diving moonpools.

Well Enhancer is specifically engineered for cost-effective well support, intervention and construction operations in the North Sea. The vessel was built in accordance with Det Norske Veritas rules for ships, UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency Regulations and also meets UK Health and Safety Executive requirements.

Well Enhancer is a full DP3 vessel and can engage in well support, intervention and construction operations around the world.

Helix Well Ops UK is engaged in rig alternative subsea well intervention and drilling.

Website: www.helixesg.com

Issued on behalf of Helix Well Ops UK by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

11 December 2009: Highland Spring Get In Gear With Sir Chris Hoy On-Pack Campaign

Highland Spring is going for gold with Sir Chris Hoy, encouraging consumers to get on their bikes with a new winter on-pack promotion – Get in Gear With Chris Hoy.

Designed by Edinburgh marketing communications agency Multiply, Get in Gear With Chris Hoy features on 10 million bottles of Highland Spring on sale in UK supermarkets and retail outlets.

The promotion supports the brand’s sponsorship of the four times Olympic gold medalist and offers four lucky families the chance to win a money-can’t-buy coaching session with Sir Chris as The Manchester Velodrome and a set of bikes for the whole family.

Secondary prizes include 1000 limited edition Highland Spring cycling kits which each include a reflective bag, cycling computer and refillable water bottle.

Multiply is confident the cycling promotion will be as successful as the summer campaign which featured world tennis ranked number two Andy Murray and which received an unprecedented level of responses to win a VIP day out with the Scots star.

The agency is now working on Highland Spring’s 2010 below-the-line marketing campaigns.

Multiply account director, David Roberts, said: “The Andy Murray promotion served up excellent numbers and we are sure Sir Chris Hoy, with his mass appeal, will prove to be just as popular with Highland Spring customers.”

Multiply received the ISP Seal for the Chris Hoy promotion which showed the campaign exceeded legal requirements of the marketing communications agency and that consumers could take part with confidence that the promotion adhered to the highest standards.

Sally Stanley, marketing director at Highland Spring, said: “Highland Spring is a long standing supporter of British sport and is committed to reinforcing the health benefits of good hydration during sport.

“Sir Chris Hoy is a world class athlete and a truly inspirational role model for British children. Our new on-pack promotion provides the chance for our lucky winners to enjoy a once in a lifetime experience to receive coaching advice from Scotland's most successful Olympian at Britain's foremost cycling venue.”

Highland Spring is official bottled water supplier to Sir Chris Hoy as he competes and trains around the world.

Ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of innovative campaigns for clients including Highland Spring, RBS, Standard Life, Huggies, Pilsner Urquell, Highland Park and The Macallan.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

11 December 2009: Maersk Oil Award EnerMech £1 Million Hose Inspection & Maintenance Contract

EnerMech Ltd has secured a contract with Maersk Oil North Sea UK Limited worth an estimated £1 million ($1.6M).

The Aberdeen mechanical services company will provide flexible hose inspection and maintenance services in addition to supplying hoses and associated equipment to three Maersk Oil assets, the GPIII, Gryphon and Janice.

The contract is for three years with two 1 year options to extend and was won in a competitive tender process.

John Wingfield, EnerMech’s business development director, said: “This is an important contract for our company and we look forward to establishing a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Maersk Oil.

“In addition to being able to offer a competitive and cost efficient package we believe operators welcome the fresh and innovative approach we have introduced to the hose management market.

“Our investment in EnerMech OHM and RFID tagging is representative of how we look to find new ways of improving safety and efficiency while offering better communication between clients and their assets.”

EnerMech OHM is an online hose management software system which allows clients 24-7 information on specification and inspection reporting. RFID (radio frequency identification) tagging gathers accurate maintenance status and location information of Flexible Hose Assemblies and is more efficient and permanent than traditional tagging methods used by competitors.

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

10 December 2009: New Chairman Appointed At Musselburgh Racecourse

Group Captain John Prideaux has been appointed Chairman of Musselburgh Racecourse following the departure of previous chairman, Councillor John Caldwell.

Musselburgh Racecourse is run by the Musselburgh Joint Racing Committee (MJRC) which is a partnership between the Lothian Racing Syndicate Ltd and East Lothian Council.

Councillor Caldwell held both posts of chairman of the racecourse and convener of the MJRC but these roles have now been separated. The four local authority councillors who sit on the MJRC will now decide which of them is to be convener of the MJRC.

Group Captain Prideaux, who is chairman of the Lothian Racing Syndicate Ltd and sits on the MJRC, has lengthy experience as a racecourse steward at Musselburgh, Perth and Hamilton racecourses.

He has over many years, had horses in training with top National Hunt trainer Howard Johnson, and manages a number of horses on behalf of other owners which are trained by Henry Daly, Paul Webber, Emma Lavelle and Ferdy Murphy.

Mr Prideaux said: “We are grateful to Councillor John Caldwell for his contribution to the racecourse in the role of chairman over the last two years. Lothian Racing Syndicate’s sole purpose is to safeguard and promote horseracing at Musselburgh.

“As chairman, I will give general manager Bill Farnsworth and his team as much support as possible to ensure Musselburgh continues to prosper as one of Scotland’s most successful racetracks.”

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

1 December 2009: Multiply Boost Management Team

Marketing communications agency, Multiply, has strengthened its management team with two newly created roles.

Emma McCaffery has been promoted to Group Account Director and Pete Lugton, who was one of the original staff members when Multiply was formed in 2003, has been promoted to Head of Production.

Both roles will focus on driving best practice across the company, which now employs 40 staff at its base in Edinburgh’s Alva Street and is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing comms agency.

Multiply director, Kate Fenton, said: “As our business has grown in size and in the diversity of projects and services we deliver, we recognised the need to strengthen our management team.

“Emma and Pete are both committed and forward thinking members of staff who have contributed to the success of the business and these promotions acknowledge their individual talent. Each bring skills to the management team which will stand us in good stead as we look to grow the business in 2010 and beyond.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of innovative campaigns for clients including Highland Spring, RBS, Standard Life, Huggies, Pilsner Urquell, Highland Park and The Macallan.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

27 November 2009: EnerMech Joins Flexible Hose Management Steering Group

Aberdeen mechanical services company, EnerMech Ltd, has joined an oil and gas industry steering group which is reviewing guidelines on the use of flexible hose management.

Conducted under the auspices of The Energy Institute, the group comprises of operators such as Talisman, Chevron and Nexen and major suppliers, and will review the current UKOOA* guidelines which were established in 2003.

The Energy Institute is the leading professional body for the energy industries and supports 13,500 professionals internationally.

The guidelines, which are expected to be completed by April 2010, will set a benchmark for the management, technical controls and procedures needed to ensure the integrity of Flexible Hose Assemblies (FHAs) throughout their lifecycle.

Gary McRobb, EnerMech’s business development manager (Hydraulics), said: “We have spent a great deal of time and investment in developing our own hose management programme and our inclusion in this steering group allows us to make a meaningful contribution to any new standards the industry may adopt.”

EnerMech has developed a unique Online Hose Management system (OHM) which allows clients to access all critical information regarding FHA’s via a secure internet link.

The 24-7 software system offers clients hose specification and inspection information and intelligent reporting functions which can be run from any remote international location.

The company also deploys RFID tagging (radio frequency identification) to gather accurate maintenance status and location information of critical service FHAs, ensuring integrity of key systems for clients assets.

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.enermech.com

UKOOA – United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

24 November 2009: FG Burnett Tracks Down Underground Tenants

Commercial property consultants FG Burnett has been commissioned by Strathclyde Passenger Transport secure to new tenants for eight Glasgow subway station kiosks.

FG Burnett is seeking premium brand businesses for the high-visibility kiosks which range in size from 120-1180 sq ft.

The Glasgow Subway is the third oldest underground metro system in the world and carries in excess of 14 million passengers a year.

The kiosks are located at Partick, Hillhead, Cowcaddens, Buchanan Street, St Enoch’s, Shields Road, Ibrox and Govan stations.

FG Burnett director, Gavin Smith, said all kiosks benefited from a prominent position at each station entrance and from significant passing trade.

He said: “This is a unique opportunity for a variety of retailers to secure a prime site and capture trade from some of the Subway’s 14 million annual passengers.

“The Subway is one of the most popular methods of transport in Glasgow, used by commuters, shoppers and students, and we expect a lot of interest from those with an entrepreneurial streak who will recognise a great retailing opportunity.

“With competitive rentals and low overheads, there will be few retail locations which offer such great potential in terms of passing trade.”

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

All enquires with regards to rents, rates and lease terms should be made to Gavin Smith, FG Burnett, Queen’s House, 19 St Vincent Street, Glasgow, G1 2DT, telephone +44 (0)141 285 7980.

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

23 November 2009: North Sea Oil and Gas Survey Reveals Challenges to Labour Market

An independent oil and gas survey reveals a rising confidence in the sector, particularly within the contractor community looking towards opportunities in international markets. It also highlights how the industry is coping with a changing dynamic in the labour market-place as it continues to grapple with price volatility, the global financial downturn, uncertain demand and curtailed or delayed investment.

The 11th Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Oil and Gas Survey, sponsored by McGrigors and conducted by the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde, draws on responses from oil and gas operators and contractors to identify trends including activity levels, skills supply and contractual matters, investment, and new market developments. The findings are used to identify how the performance of this sector might impact on the wider business community in North-east Scotland and the rest of the UK.

The report reflects rising business confidence looking towards 2010 and supports recent Scottish and UK business surveys suggesting a likely re-emergence of economic growth in the third and fourth quarters. Skills shortages, a feature of previous years have eased, although this may well be due to a combination of reduced demand and a number of industry wide initiatives. Nevertheless, shortages in specific skills and recruitment difficulties were again reported, although not to the same extent as in previous surveys.

Robert Collier, Chamber Chief Executive explains: “The change in business confidence is more marked in the international context which may have an up as well as a down side. The export of skills and products is good, but we must ensure that fiscal policy also encourages the industry to remain firmly anchored to the UKCS.

“In many ways, the information about employment trends contained in the report is the most intriguing. Firms continue to recruit in this recession which is in marked contrast to the big dips in recruitment which were reported in the surveys we produced in 1999 and 2004. Whether this is for replacing staff (60%) or for additional staff (40%), the industry appears to have avoided the trap of losing valuable talent this time round. It will be critical that the UKCS retains core skills in the upturn."

Mr Collier concluded: “At this time, it seems to be temporary and contract staff that have borne the brunt of any “right-sizing” by the industry. Operators intend to recruit contract staff going forward, no doubt to improve the flexibility of their industry, and this trend is expected to continue. In terms of pay awards, less than half reported increasing pay in 2009, and the average increase was almost half that reported in 2007, and a number reported pay reductions.”

McGrigors Head of Energy, Bob Ruddiman, said: “The report suggests the industry has tackled the recession better than many other sectors. Whilst employment levels and limited pay awards are indicative of significant belt tightening and a certain lack of optimism, we are not seeing wholescale redundancy programmes.

“The industry appears to have learned lessons from previous downturns and has been mindful of the need to have a skilled workforce to capitalise on future opportunity.

“The UK oil and gas industry offers the economy a dual benefit of maximising our indigenous hydrocarbon potential whilst also being a key exporter. The politicians have a duty to ensure we have a fiscal environment which encourages this and an energy policy which transcends political boundaries and has a vision beyond the next term of Parliament.”

Summary of key survey findings:

The UKCS and the global oil sector are in a period of declining investment, re-assessment of projects and heightened concerns as to costs.

Activity in the UKCS, at least in the short term, has been reduced and business confidence remains frail and, whilst the recent improvement of the oil price has been welcomed, wholesale gas prices have remained depressed.

The proportion of contractors reporting working at or above optimum levels in the UKCS eased to the lowest levels recorded by the survey, although some improvement is anticipated for 2010.

Recruitment activity remained widespread, although this was mainly to replace rather than increase staff.

Skill shortages, a feature of previous years have eased, although this may well be due to a combination of reduced demand and a number of industry-wide initiatives. Nevertheless, skills shortages and recruitment difficulties were again reported, although not to the same extent as in previous years.

The average pay increase in 2009 eased to the levels reported in 2004, and the percentage reporting increasing pay was lower than in previous years. There was evidence of pay freezes and rate reductions, the ending of bonus payments and some reductions in terms and conditions.

The main sources of staff continued to be other oil and related companies in the UKCS.

Over the next three years, the majority of operators expect to reduce staff – in contrast, 50% of contractors expect to increase staff.

ends

Notes to Editors

Full Report: A copy of the full report can be seen on the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce website at: www.agcc.co.uk

Media enquiries to:

Chamber of Commerce:

Kate Yuill, Policy & Communications Manager on +44 (0) 772534 2350; email kate.yuill@agcc.co.uk

Judith Munro, Communications Executive on +44 (0) 7966 596 781; email judith.munro@agcc.co.uk

McGrigors:

Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764; email stephen@surepr.co.uk

22 November 2009: EnerMech Invest £200k In Specialist Engineering Equipment

EnerMech has invested £200,000 on specialist equipment to boost the company’s hydraulics business line.

The CNC machining facility (Computer Numeric Control) allows the Aberdeen-based mechanical services company to manufacture equipment parts which previously had to be sourced through suppliers.

EnerMech can now offer a full engineering design, prototyping and production manufacture in-house, while providing full traceability from original design calculations to materials used on products such as 10,000psi fittings.

The Colchester Tornado twin spindle machine can perform 12 live tooling operations, such as milling and thread rolling, without stopping to change tools and is capable of manufacturing 1400 individual equipment parts per week.

Alan Bailey, EnerMech’s equipment manager, said: “The investment in a CNC machine gives us the ability to design and manufacture high-pressure fittings and a competitive advantage because we are the only mechanical services company in the Aberdeen area which can provide this complete service in-house.

“It means our hydraulics clients will benefit from a super-efficient turnaround on new and replacement machine parts which conform with EnerMech’s highest quality control process.

“This added manufacturing capability is a good example of how our company endeavours to find new, more efficient and cost effective ways of doing business, which ultimately benefits our client base.”

ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.enermech.com

CNC Machine Features:
· 6000rpm, 22kW main spindle and 7.5kW, 6000rpm sub-spindle
· 30 metres-per-minute rapid traverse to all linear axes
· Extra-rigid, unique ‘Duo-Stable’ construction
· Axis torque monitoring as standard
· GE-Fanuc ultra compact, flat screen 18i-TB control system with G-code and full conversational programming
· COLCAM CAD/CAM software to reduce programming times on all models (optional)
· Sauter Star type turret for reliability and ease of operation with 12 driven tool stations

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

21 November 2009: Multiply Do Treble At Marketing Industry Network Awards

Edinburgh marketing communications company, Multiply, notched up a treble triumph at the inaugural Marketing Industry Network Awards in Manchester last night. (Thurs Nov 19)

The awards recognise the best UK media, marketing and communications agencies.

Multiply picked up the Integrated Agency of the Year title, followed that up by winning the Scottish Team of the Year and added icing to the cake by picking up the Grand Prix title as the best overall agency.

Multiply employs 40 staff at its base in Edinburgh’s Alva Street and is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing comms agency.

It works for a variety of blue-chip brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Highland Spring, Standard Life, Deuchars and Maxxium.

In the Integrated Agency category Multiply pipped Cheshire-based big guns IAS, Leicester’s Big Communications and BJL in Manchester and took the Scottish Team title ahead of bigmouthmedia.

Multiply director, Mark Fowlestone, said: “We were up against the cream of the UK marketing industry and are delighted the hard work put in by all our staff in the last year has been recognised at the highest level.

“Winning the Integrated Agency title is a tremendous boost not just for Multiply but for the Scottish marketing industry as it underlines the fact Scottish companies don’t have to look down south for their marketing requirements but have an abundance of talent on their doorstep.

“Two awards is a great achievement in anyone’s book but also receiving the Grand Prix from the judging panel put the seal on the night and made the long train journey through monster flooding especially worthwhile.”

In the past year Multiply has worked or a range of diverse campaigns including an e-learning programme for Standard Life, a Highland Spring consumer competition featuring Andy Murray, promotional materials for Stolichnaya vodka, and the relaunch of Huggies Club, one of the largest parenting websites in Europe.

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

20 November 2009: Musselburgh Jumps In To National Hunt Action

Musselburgh Racecourse kicks off its National Hunt season on Sunday (Nov 22) with the first of 10 jumps meetings between now and February.

At the £53,000 Thrills and Spills Raceday Cumbrian raider Border Tale, beaten by a nose by Presque Perdre at Haydock, can go one better in the £10,000 toteswinger Handicap Hurdle at 12.50.

Rosewell trainer Peter Monteith saddles course specialist Los Nadis in the £12,000 Racing UK Handicap Hurdle (2.00) and despite top weight must go close in the hands of inform Ryan Mania.

Jim Goldie will be fancied to boost his lucrative strike rate at Musselburgh with his versatile Regent’s Secret in the £12,000 toterifecta Chase at 3.10. Richard McGrath’s mount, successful at Perth in September, remains on a winning mark.

With £440,000 in prize money on offer over the winter jumps season at Musselburgh, the seasonal highlights include the New Year Sprint Race Day on December 29 and the John Smith’s Scottish Cheltenham Trials on February 7.

Over the festive period Musselburgh is also racing on Monday December 21 (Christmas Lunch Raceday) and on January 1 with the New Year Race Day.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “Jumps racing brings a real buzz to Musselburgh and we are looking forward to putting on a season of high quality meetings combined with first class hospitality.

“We have had a short break since the end of the flat season, the course is in great condition for National Hunt racing, and we expect a decent crowd on Sunday to set the tone for the rest of the season.”

The first of seven races on Sunday is off at 12.15pm. Gates open at 10.30am and online discounts and free child tickets are available. For more information visit www.mussselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2 November 2009: FG Burnett Secure Blenheim House Contract

FG Burnett has been awarded a property management contract for Esson Properties Ltd’s Blenheim House in Aberdeen.

The 17,000 sq ft Grade A office development in Fountainhall Road was opened in 2006 and is currently let to blue chip financial companies Ernst & Young and Brewin Dolphin.

FG Burnett’s property management division will provide Managing Agent services on behalf of the landlord and also ensure delivery of a full range of day to day support services for both occupying tenants.

The Albyn Place-based commercial property firm is finding property management solutions on behalf of owners and occupiers is a growing market.

Christopher Yannaghas, head of property management for FG Burnett, said: “This is a prestigious Aberdeen office building and we are delighted to be appointed by Esson Properties to manage one of its prime developments.

“Working for both tenants and landlord should allow for better co-ordination and communication and ensure the high standards set at Blenheim House are maintained and enhanced.

“This latest contract award underlines that property management is a valuable and established part of the services that FG Burnett can offer.”

FG Burnett property manager, Simon Smith, who was recently recruited from the Scottish Agricultural College at Craibstone, will be in charge of the day to day management of the property.

ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

26 October 2009: Musselburgh Off To A Flyer With Ladies Day Sales

It may be eight months away but Musselburgh Ladies Day has got off to a flying start with 400 tickets snapped up in the first week on sale.

The East Lothian course has switched Scotland’s premier Ladies Day from its traditional Saturday berth in early June to a Friday afternoon. (June 18)

And the move seems to have gone down well with early birds determined not to miss out on the mini-Ascot race day which has been a capacity sellout in each of the last three years.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “We are sure the move to Friday afternoon will prove a big winner with race goers and early sales figures seem to back that up.

“Next June may seem a long way away but with 400 tickets gone in the first week we are confident we can make it four sell-outs in a row. Anyone wishing to book marquee or restaurant tickets would be advised to do so now.”

All hospitality boxes in the Queen’s Stand have been provisionally booked but Musselburgh say they can cater for other corporate guests in the Epperston Restaurant which overlooks the finishing line.

Other packages, including a Champers and Hamper ticket and marquee hospitality briefs, are also proving popular.

Musselburgh will shortly announce plans to host its richest ever race day on Saturday, June 5 (Derby Day) which will include a top quality handicap which will catch the attention of the UK’s top owners and trainers.

Ends

For details of all Ladies Day 2010 hospitality packages and admission tickets, visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk or telephone 0131 665 2859.

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

16 October 2009: Musselburgh Moves Scotland's Most Successful Race Day To New Date

Scottish horseracing’s most successful event – Musselburgh Ladies Day – is moving to a new Friday afternoon slot.

Ladies Day has traditionally been held on the first Saturday in June but the East Lothian course has announced the 2010 event will take place on Friday June 18.

Ladies Day at Musselburgh has become a “mini Ascot” with fashionable women and men of all ages making it a regular fixture in their social calendar.The race day has built up such a following that this year it was sold out three months in advance of the meeting. Tickets for hospitality packages and general admission for next year’s event go on sale on Monday. (Oct 19)

Racecourse general manger, Bill Farnsworth said: “Ladies Day has proved a success beyond all expectations and the easy thing to do would be to leave things as they are but we are always looking for ways to improve this event and offer true value for money.

“We will invest time, money and enthusiasm in making Musselburgh's Ladies Day experience the best Ladies Day in Scotland and an even better day out for our guests and have some exciting plans in mind to achieve this. It’s been a sell out for the last three years and we fully expect to make it four in a row next year.”

Musselburgh will continue to race on the first Saturday in June (June 5 Derby Day) and plans are underway to launch a top quality race day which will attract the best trainers in the UK. Details of what will be Musselburgh’s richest race meeting ever will be announced shortly.

Mr Farnsworth said the new arrangements was a win-win for the track’s Ladies Day followers and regular racing customers who want to see the country’s best horses and trainers in action.

“It doesn’t get any better than having a full house at Musselburgh and we are confident that Ladies Day will continue to be a fantastic crowd puller but we also want to provide great racing for our regular race goers and the new format will do that.

“The Scottish Sprint Cup which was traditionally run on Ladies Day and was our richest race will remain on June 5 but we have even more exciting plans to make this meeting one of the biggest in Scotland and are sure it will prove a hit with seasoned race fans who love to see the big guns in action at Musselburgh.

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 October 2009: Aberdeen Boutique Shopping Thriving Say Property Experts

Commercial property experts, FG Burnett, is playing its part in maintaining the buzz on one of Aberdeen’s most prestigious shopping areas.

Thistle Street and adjoining Rose Street have long been established as a hot spot for exclusive fashion boutiques, gift shops and galleries and an alternative to the major High Street retail chains.

Local independent operators have stamped their mark on the two thoroughfares and demand for properties remain high with a quick turnaround when any unit become vacant, says FG Burnett surveyor Kevin Jackson.

This was borne out when 30 Thistle Street recently came on the market as ladies fashion specialist Esslemonts 2 relocated a few doors away to number 22 and adjacent to its original menswear shop.

Terroir delicatessen, the previous occupants of 22 Thistle Street, has moved to North Deeside Road in Cults in a deal also managed by FG Burnett.

Mr Jackson, who acted for Esslemonts, said: “The property was on the market for only a short period and attracted so much interest that there was no void between Esslemonts 2 moving out and the new occupier opening for business.

“Both streets offer a superb variety of boutique and specialist outlets and their enduring popularity ensures that the level of demand has remained resilient when other locations have faced more challenging conditions.”

Lifestyle boutique specialist, Parade, is the new face on Thistle Street, opening its fourth north-east outlet in taking over the lease at number 30 until 2011. Owner Angela McCardle has two other Parade units in Alford and one in Stonehaven, supplying home furnishings, gifts and women’s and kid’s fashion clothing.

Mr Jackson added: “Esslemonts fly the flag for quality in Thistle Street and has made a significant capital investment in fitting out their new shop. This underlines their confidence in the location and the addition of Parade further bolsters the area’s reputation as one of the key retail locations in the city.

“There have been a number of relocations lately but that’s an indicator that Aberdeen’s quality retailers remains positive about future trade and so demand for the right locations remains high. We are also experiencing a good level of demand for shops in the commuter towns of Banchory, Inverurie and Stonehaven and we expect to conclude further deals in the weeks ahead.”

ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

12 October 2009: Art Gallery breezes In To House of Fraser Glasgow

Scottish art gallery owner Bob Corsie is bucking the economic downturn with the opening of his fourth outlet and first in Glasgow.

The breeze gallery will be unveiled on Thursday (Oct 15) as part of the iconic retailer House of Fraser’s 160th birthday celebrations.

The fourth floor gallery will feature the best of contemporary Scottish and UK artists with a few twists, including work by popular Russian artist Anna Razumovskaya and the latest offering from one of Australia’s favourite sons, Rolf Harris.

Corsie opened the first breeze gallery in Peebles in 2005 and has recently added prestige outlets in Edinburgh’s famous Jenners department store and at Jenners Loch Lomond Shores.

He says his first foray in to Glasgow is overdue and believes the new gallery will go down a storm with Merchant City art lovers.

Mr Corsie said: “I’ve been keen to open a breeze gallery in Glasgow for years but needed the right location. It doesn’t get any better than a prime site in the grand old dame of Glasgow shopping lore, House of Fraser, and I’m really looking forward to getting to know the city’s art lovers much better.

“Some people might think I’m mad to open a fourth gallery in the face of a recession but that’s not how I see it and the trading figures in our other outlets bear this out.

“We are finding that many people are fed up ploughing their hard earned cash in to risky bank accounts earning low interest rates. People now want more for their investment and if they can enjoy a piece of art while it makes them a return on their money, so much the better.”

Mr Corsie believes the opening of the Glasgow breeze on October 15 will cement his company’s position as the largest independent contemporary art retailer in Scotland and he aims to bring a theatrical feel to the new gallery with live painting by popular artists.

To celebrate opening in House of Fraser in Glasgow, outstanding wildlife artist Paul James will be available on Thursday evening to meet art lovers and collectors and talk about some of his original work which will be on display.

Ends

Note to Editors

“breeze” is lower case b

breeze art gallery, House of Fraser, 45 Buchanan Street, Glasgow, G1 3HR.

Telephone 0141 221 0189

Website: www.breeze-gallery.co.uk

Issued on behalf of breeze art gallery by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 October 2009: Multiply Write New Chapter For Highland Park In Book Festival Push

Multiply is helping Highland Park whisky turn over a new leaf after being appointed below the line agency for the single malt.

The Edinburgh-based marketing communications agency is promoting the brand through a series of experiential events targeting more than 170,000 book lovers.

Working in conjunction with publishing house Canongate, more than 20,000 samples of Highland Park 12 year old single malt will be distributed to audiences at the Cheltenham Literature Festival (9-18 October) Canterbury Festival (17-31 October) and Oxford Literary Festival (20-28 March 2010).

The sampling events also offer festival goers the chance to meet Canongate authors, including Laurence Shorter, Geoff Dyer, Louise Welsh, Chris Killen, Trevor Byrne and Steven Hall, who will discuss their writing styles and literary careers.

Multiply was appointed as below the line agency for the Edrington Group-owned Highland Park after a successful pitch to distributers Maxxium.

Multiply account manager, Scott Kennedy, said: “Research has shown that literature is an important platform for Highland Park as it rates highly as a key interest for malt drinkers.

“The literary festival events we are hosting will tap in to Highland Park’s long established credentials in literature and we are confident the discerning book festival audiences will warm to the charms of a Highland Park dram.

“By partnering the UK Publisher of the Year, Canongate, we can provide consumers with access to talented writers and poets who will give free readings and entertainment based on literary themes.”

Established in Orkney in 1798, Highland Park is one of the most remote Scottish whisky distilleries. It has won a string of prestigious awards across its portfolio which includes 12, 15, 18, 30 and 40 year old single malts, including the Best New Whisky Release of the Year 2009, for its 40-year-old single malt.

Ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, Remy Martin, Black Bottle, and Royal Bank of Scotland.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

23 September 2009: C-SAM Seal New HQ Move With Oil & Gas Contract Success

Specialist software design company C-SAM Ltd has crowned a move to a new HQ with contract wins valued at more than £250,000.

Aker Solutions have commissioned C-SAM to provide a competency and training scheduling system for its Dyce based operation. Bibby Offshore is being supplied with procurement and asset tracking facilities while Triton Group member, Dynamic Positioning Services, will use C-SAM software across its global network for asset tracking of its electric and hydraulic ROV fleet, rental equipment and tracking of personnel movement.

The fourth and largest contract is with Belgian-based GEMS International, a specialist in geotechnical engineering and marine surveys, which has commissioned a full business management system, including asset and people tracking and vessel management.

The Aberdeen-based software developer said the four new contracts would allow further expansion and justifies its decision to invest in larger premises at Graphix House in Altens.

C-SAM is an industry leader and innovator in providing asset management solutions to the oil and gas and construction industries. In recent years the company has made significant inroads in to the subsea and maritime market and anticipates further growth in these sectors.

C-SAM managing director, Theresa Wheeler, said: “It was a big decision to take on larger premises and extra expenditure but we have invested for the future and it is paying off already with these latest contract awards.

“Our focus has been on breaking in to the subsea and maritime sector as we believe our software systems are ideally suited to companies with varied assets spread across the world and this strategy is starting to pay dividends.

“Each of these four new clients is a significant player in their particular field and there is greater potential to work with them in other geographic locations once our systems are integrated and generating efficiencies.

“Our enlarged facilities give us the scope to increase staff numbers as well as onsite training provision for our clients.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

Corporate Software Asset Management (C-SAM Ltd) is based at Graphix House, Wellington Circle, Altens, Aberdeen, AB12 3JG, Scotland.

C-SAM provides software business solutions to a wide range of clients, including Wood Group, FMC, Weatherford, MTM, Ferguson Group, Canyon Offshore, Integrated Subsea Services and Schulte Energy Systems.

C-SAM provides specialist asset management, asset maintenance, people tracking, POB, competency management, project management, ROV management and operational business management software solutions for the international oil & gas, subsea and constructions industries.

Website: www.c-sam.co.uk

Issued on behalf of C-SAM Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

22 September 2009: Musselburgh Racecourse On March For Royal Scots Family Day

Musselburgh Racecourse marches to a military tune this weekend when it stages the annual Royal Scots Family Race Day on Sunday. (Sun 27 Sept)

More than 60 musicians from the combined regimental bands of They Royal Scots will march through the Honest Toun to the racecourse in time for the first of seven races.

An army assault course and various army displays and vehicles will provide plenty of talking points while younger children are catered for with face painting, a bouncy castle and carnival roundabout.

The award winning Golden Lions Freefall Parachute Display team will perform a parachute jump in to the East Lothian course if weather allows.

The Royal Scots Family Day always proves to be a huge hit with families, taking advantage of a range of entertainments which are all free.

With £55,000 prize money on offer, the feature race is the 3.35 EBF Fillies’ Handicap over one mile, with the supporting race a £10,000 handicap over 1 mile 6 furlongs.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “The Royal Scots are old friends to Musselburgh and the race day is always hugely popular with families and regular race goers.

“Good quality racing combined with free entertainment for families of all ages is a winning combination and we hope for a healthy gate on the day.”

Gates open at 11.30am and first race is off at 1.55pm. Children aged 16 and under are admitted free with an adult and online discounts are available.

Ends

www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764.

10 September 2009: Law firm McGrigors Support Grampian Autistic Society

Grampian Autistic Society has welcomed a £3000 donation from leading law firm McGrigors.

The charity’s support workers provide respite and other support for up to 120 families in the Aberdeen and surrounding areas who are affected by autism.

The Rose Street legal practice made the donation as part of its award winning Horizons corporate social responsibility programme.

Through Horizons, McGrigors encourage staff to become involved in local charities and projects by volunteering their time and supporting fund raising initiatives.

Grampian Autistic Society general manager, Brian Walsh, said without contributions from firms like McGrigors the charity would not be able to provide the range of services it currently offers to people with autism.

Mr Walsh said: “Around 10 per cent of our costs are met by sponsorship and donations so the continuing support of McGrigors and other Aberdeen businesses is not only welcome but vital to maintaining our support services.”

Roger Connon, partner with McGrigors, said: “We support a number of local charities through Horizons and when we learned more about the work of the Grampian Autistic Society we decided to make a meaningful contribution which would support its core services.”

The Society is busy preparing for a fundraising ball at the Marcliffe at Pitfodels on 13 November. For more information and to book a table contact Brian Walsh on 01224 277900 or email brian.walsh@classmail.co.uk

ends

Note to Editors

McGrigors LLP is a leading law firm with offices in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Aberdeen, Manchester.

With 80 partners and a total of more than 400 lawyers across the UK and overseas, McGrigors is well placed to advise clients, including national and multinational organisations in the private and public sectors, on a wide variety of commercial issues.

McGrigors is one of the UK's top 50 legal firms.

For further information, please visit www.mcgrigors.com

Issued on behalf of McGrigors LLP by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

9 September 2009: L&N Scotland Win Skarv FPSO Welding Contract

Engineering and fabrication specialist L&N (Scotland) has won a welding contract for key components on one of the world’s largest floating, production, storage and offloading vessels (FPSO) for harsh water.

The contract was awarded by SBM Offshore and is worth in excess of £500,000. Aberdeen-based L&N has invested in additional facilities to fulfill the contract.

The workscope includes the welding and cladding on a giant swivel stack destined for BP Norge’s Skarv FPSO which is being built in South Korea and when commissioned will be the most advanced and largest FPSO deployed in the Norwegian Sea.

Formed in 1996, L&N supply valves and actuators to the oil and gas industry and in recent years has added weld cladding, fabrication and subsea control systems to its portfolio.

L&N operations director, Mike McArtney, said the contract was secured after a rigorous audit and qualification process and is expected to last for six months.

Mr McArtney said: “We have worked with SBM Offshore in the past so they were aware of our credentials but this award has propelled us to a new level.

“The client had to be satisfied of our technical capabilities and our capacity to complete this project in a relatively short time scale and we were able to show that in the audit procedures.

“It is a substantial contract for a company of our size but demonstrates that we can respond to client demands, rise to new challenges and commit the necessary resources to major projects. We are hoping to build on this relationship with SBM Offshore and secure similar contracts as we go forward.”

Mr McArtney said L&N installed two new cladding stations which, with training costs, represented an investment of around £250,000, but he was confident that would be recouped with further contract wins.

Mr McArtney added: “This is the first time we have exhibited at Offshore Europe and we are relishing the opportunity to make ourselves known to a wider audience and to give potential clients an understanding of the complete range of skills and products we can offer.”

ends

Note to Editors

L&N (Scotland) Ltd is an independent engineering company based in Dyce, Aberdeen, Scotland.

The company supply, repair, refurbish and modify valves, actuator and control panel systems used throughout the global oil and gas industry.

Other services include weld cladding, fabrication services, manufacture of subsea control systems and provision of engineering and technical resources, equipment and manpower.

Website: www.lnscotland.com

Head office: L&N (Scotland) Ltd, Walton Road, Kirkhill Industrial Estate, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 0GZ. Telephone: +44(0)1224 722544.

Issued on behalf of L&N (Scotland) Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

7 September 2009: Prime Retail Investment Opportunity In Buckie

Commercial property experts, FG Burnett, has been instructed to sell a prime retail investment in Buckie, Morayshire.

The 9,000 sq ft unit in East Cathcart Street is the former Lidl store which is now on a long term lease until 2023 to national retailer The Factory Shop.

Lidl have recently opened a new 20,000 sq ft store immediately adjacent and a large Somerfield store is located nearby.

FG Burnett director, David MacLeod, said the combination of a long lease to a successful major retailer and a prime retail location should attract a high level of interest from potential investors.

Mr MacLeod said: “The Factory Shop is a national retailer with more than 100 stores in the UK boasts and has excellent trading record. Add that to the central location and close proximity of Lidl and Somerfield and it’s clear the area will draw a large number of local shoppers.

“This is also a confidence booster for Buckie as an important commercial centre in the Moray area. The fact that Lidl have doubled the size of their store and the Factory Shop have committed to a long lease underlines the demand by local shoppers for national retailers in the town.”

FG Burnett is seeking offers over of £685,000 on behalf of the vendor.

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 September 2009: Landowners Warned To Act Now Over Aberdeen Bypass Works

Landowners have been warned they must act now to secure compensation if their property is likely to be affected by the proposed Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR).

An estimated 3700 individual plots of land and between 350 to 400 landowners or householders could be affected by the proposed AWPR route.

Keith Petrie, an expert in compensation rights with leading property consultancy FG Burnett, said property owners should not delay in safeguarding their rights to compensation.

Mr Petrie revealed negotiations are about to start between AWPR officials and land owners with regard to accommodation works - preliminary works on boundary fences, walls, screening and access and service facilities – required in cases of large public works.

The findings of a five month long Public Local Inquiry have been presented to Scottish Ministers and it is anticipated the Government will accept the scheme as put forward by Transport Scotland.

The AWPR will then go to the Scottish Parliament for approval after which Compulsory Purchase Orders will be issued to acquire all lands and buildings needed to complete the bypass scheme.

But Mr Petrie said by acting now and seeking expert advice, landowners could minimise the impact on their property and ensure they are receiving the maximum compensation entitlement.

He said: “The AWPR proposals have been around for so long that some people may be lulled in to a false sense of security and think this is not going to happen and that they need not worry about the impact on their property.

“My view is that approval will be granted largely along the lines of the Transport Scotland proposal and individuals who are likely to be affected can’t afford to wait until this gets the official nod from Government.”

Mr Petrie revealed affected landowners have already received notification from the local AWPR team that negotiations are about to start on regarding the implementation of accommodation works.

He said: “Transport Scotland has already completed a considerable amount of design detail regarding the AWPR and it is very important that landowners and house owners do not delay in entering the negotiation and compensation process.

“The AWPR will have an adverse affect, both physically and visually, on individual properties. Accommodation works are designed to alleviate this effect, however, once they are agreed and go out to tender to a contractor it will be very difficult for landowners to demand any changes.”

Mr Petrie said compensation payable is intended to put each claimant in the same financial position as if their property had not been acquired by compulsory purchase.

Compensation will be paid in three scenarios - when an entire property is acquired; where part of a property is acquired; and where no land is acquired but the AWPR will be very close to the property.

He added: “I would recommend that anyone whose property may be affected by the AWPR should seek immediate professional advice from qualified experts. This will ultimately secure a solution to minimise impact on individual properties and to obtain the best possible compensation package.”

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

For professional advice on the AWPR please contact Keith Petrie on 01224 597535 or Neil Strachan on 01224 597520.

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

1 September 2009: Tineke Goes Dutch To Raise Cancer Charity Funds

Tineke Lilley got her marching orders – and raised £1900 for Scottish cancer charity CLAN.

Tineke, an administrator with Aberdeen commercial property consultancy FG Burnett, walked more than 166km when she took part in the Apeldoorsne Vierdaagse in Holland.

Tineke and her friend Anita Govan joined 4000 other entrants who successfully walked between 20 and 50km a day in the annual four day walking event.

Over the four days Tineke and Anita walked 42km, 43.6km, 40km and 40.5km.

The event was organised by the Dutch Walking Association and has been held in Apeldoorn, the largest city in Gelderland province, since 1954. Tineke received a medal to mark her achievement.

Tineke said: “We had great weather apart from some rain on the last day. It was approximately 25 celsius every day and apart from one blister I managed to survive it without any injuries. The beer at the end was definitely the best I have ever tasted.

“With my friend Anita we have done quite a few charity walks and raised money together and this time we raised £1900 for CLAN.”

CLAN (Cancer Link Aberdeen & North) supports people affected by cancer who live in Aberdeen, the north east of Scotland and Orkney and Shetland.

ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

27 August 2009: EnerMech Gets Lift With Gunnebo Agreement

Mechanical services company, EnerMech Ltd, has secured an important distributorship agreement with leading lifting equipment specialist Gunnebo Industries.

Aberdeen-based EnerMech will have preferential rights to the distribution of all Gunnebo’s lifting products to oil and gas industry companies working in the UK Continental Shelf area.

Gunnebo Industries is a world leader in the manufacture and marketing of lifting technologies and has developed systems for chain and lifting components that can handle weights of up to 125 tonnes.

EnerMech has emerged as a leading player in the cranes and heavy lifting market. The company provides specialist services in the operation, inspection and maintenance of cranes and lifting equipment in addition to design, engineering and management of onshore and offshore crane projects.

EnerMech operations director, Phil Bentley, said: “This agreement will boost turnover by several million pounds each year and gives us access to top quality equipment which is approved by all the major operators and contractors.

“It adds value to our lifting operations and is part of a growth strategy which matches first class products and service with an unwavering approach to maintaining health and safety standards.”

EnerMech has also recruited Martin Dunbar from GTC (Cosalt) where he was client operations manager. He has been appointed UK sales manager with responsibility for rolling out the Gunnebo range to existing and new clients.

Mike Gough, managing director of Gunnebo Industries UK, said: “We already enjoy a healthy presence in the UK offshore market but we see this new deal as a major step forward for us in securing a much higher profile through a highly professional partner. It is clear that EnerMech’s uncompromising stance on quality and safety fits perfectly with our own strategy.”

Ends

Note to Editors

With the acquisition of Specialist Maintenance Services Ltd and A1 Safety Training Consultants Ltd, EnerMech is now one of the UK’s leading providers of offshore crane and lifting operations, crane personnel and safety training. EnerMech also has a significant presence in Norway following the acquisition of Bjørge ASA’s crane division in October 2008.

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email more@surepr.co.uk

26 August 2009: Multiply Wins Stoli Vodka Brief

Multiply has been appointed as below-the-line marketing agency for authentic Russian vodka Stolichnaya.

The Edinburgh-based marketing communications company was selected to work with the famous Stoli brand by drinks distributor giant Maxxium UK.

Multiply have already completed an on-trade kit which will be used in 1000 UK bars and will work on point of sale and signature drink awareness campaigns.

It’s the first time Stoli’s new creative platform – which focuses on a modern and stylish interpretation of Russia – has been used below the line.

Multiply account director, David Roberts, said: “Our agency has a well established track record in working with premium drinks brands and this appealed to Stolichnaya and Maxxium and gave us an advantage over competing agencies.

“Stoli is a world renowned brand and we are delighted to be working with Russia’s authentic vodka to develop even greater trade and consumer knowledge and awareness.”

Andrew Jack, brand manager at Maxxium UK, said: “We’ve known and worked with the team at Multiply for five years now so when Stolichnaya joined the Maxxium portfolio earlier this year we asked them to get involved straight away.

“It’s going to be a really exciting year for the brand so it’s important we work with agencies that understand how we work and how brands like Stoli work.”

With more than 40 staff, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing comms agency with clients including Highland Spring, Huggies, Kleenex, Maxxium and Standard Life.

ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, Remy Martin, Black Bottle, and Royal Bank of Scotland.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

14 August 2009: CALA Appoint FG Burnett To Manage New Development

FG Burnett has been appointed to provide managing agent services for a new development in Inverurie by Cala Homes.

Priory Park in the town’s North Street is a development of 48 high specification one, two and three bedroom apartments.

FG Burnett, Aberdeen’s leading commercial property agents, will manage common services such as cleaning, landscaping maintenance, electrical repairs and maintenance of common parts.

Christopher Yannaghas, head of property management for FG Burnett, said: “We are delighted to be working with CALA Homes in maintaining the very high standards set with their latest development.

“This contract award follows other successes for our property management division which is growing in stature and can offer property developers and other property owners a one-stop shop for all their common services requirements.”

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 August 2009: Multiply Pitches In With Huggies European Digital Projects

Marketing communications agency, Multiply, has completed its biggest digital project to date for client Kimberly-Clark.

The Edinburgh agency redesigned and built Huggies Club - Kimberly-Clark’s most important communications medium for expectant mothers and parents. The project involved a UK site and three customised sites for core regions Italy, Spain and France.

Multiply has a long established relationship with the global health and hygiene company and last year was appointed as K-C’s preferred digital agency for Europe with a remit to provide an ideas, creative build and maintenance service.

This has led to further digital work for several K-C brands, including websites for DryNites and Pull Ups and campaign sites for Huggies and Kleenex. Multiply are now responsible for all Huggies digital products across European key territories, including Italy, France, Spain and emerging markets such as Poland.

The increased portfolio has led to a doubling of Multiply’s K-C agency team which is now 10 strong.

Multiply account director, Stuart Duncan, said: “Winning the Kimberly-Clark digital account was an important piece of business for us and we have since completed three major pan-European projects for their Huggies brand.

“The Huggies Club website has a growing community following and is an extremely important channel of communication between Huggies and consumers. We understood what K-C was looking to achieve in terms of its market position and digital ambitions for Huggies and we are the lead agency working on their UK marketing strategy and have a major role in the development of key initiatives across Europe.

“This is a blue chip client who places a premium on the quality of its digital offering and how that is perceived by consumers and we are delighted to be part of the team and look forward to growing the Huggies and allied campaigns.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, Remy Martin, Black Bottle, and Royal Bank of Scotland.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

5 August 2009: Musselburgh Gets Ready For Soul Weekender

Eight piece soul band, Republic of Soul, will have Musselburgh Racecourse punters on their feet at a special Party Night on Friday. (7 Aug).

The well respected group of musicians proved such a hit at the course’s Ladies Day in June that Musselburgh invited them back to provide the entertainment in a 45 minute set following the last of six flat races.

With the last race at 8.40pm, selected bars throughout the course will stay open while the music plays, before closing at 9.30pm.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “Advance ticket sales are very healthy and it’s shaping up to be a great evening. We hope by putting on quality music acts like Republic of Soul that we are providing race goers with an excellent combination of first class horse racing and popular entertainment.”

With £40,000 on offer in prize money there could be some interesting entries. At Musselburgh’s last meeting a fair sized bet was placed on Zabeel Tower, trained by Dick Allan from Duns, and while unsuccessful the horse is entered in Friday’s second race, the PDM Handicap over 1 mile, and will be looking to do better.

Cumbrian trainer Jimmy Moffat pulled off a stunning win at Musselburgh last week when MasterofCeremonies came from nowhere to slice through the field and his Cayman Fox is entered in both five furlong handicaps (7.35 and 8.10) and Moffat will be looking to repeat that success in whichever race the horse competes.

Gates open at 4pm, first race is off at 6pm and race goers booking online receive a £2 discount on admission. Children aged 16 and under are admitted free with an adult.

For further details visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

3 August 2009: L & N Scotland Set For International Growth

Engineering specialist L&N (Scotland) are in negotiations to expand operations by opening a base in West Africa.

The valve, subsea assembly and specialist welding company has a long track record of working in Angola and is set to capitalise on expertise built up over the years to tap in to the potentially lucrative African oil and gas sector.

A long established supply chain business in Angola has offered to introduce Aberdeen-based L&N’s services to its portfolio as a way of introducing the company to potential clients. Once established, L&N would open a permanent base with repair, refurbishment and manufacturing capabilities.

In another internationalisation initiative, managing director Alastair Chalmers is heading to Malaysia and Australia on a three week fact finding mission after receiving encouraging approaches from Asia-Pacific based companies interested in forming partnerships with L&N.

The international sales push is part of a wider growth strategy which follows on from securing an important UK distributor agreement with global pipe connection and flow control company SMX International.

The agreement represents a £250,000-plus investment by L&N in SMX stock and is part of an ongoing expansion of tools and services.

Originally formed as a supplier of valves and actuators to the oil and gas industry in recent years L&N has added weld cladding, fabrication and subsea control systems to its portfolio.

The SMX deal will include sales, distribution and fitting of the Canadian company’s full product range of clamp connectors, seal rings, valves, hubs and clamps which compliment LN’s fabrication capability.

L&N operations director, Mike McArtney, said: “The SMX range complement our own products and services and dovetail perfectly with our fabrication, engineering and technical support services.

“It also means we can now offer turnkey spool fabrication and this new partnership will bring very real benefits to the oil and gas industry in the North Sea.

“The significant capital investment we have made underlines our view that SMX’s international reputation and product versatility will add value to our business and expand our client base.

“We are not standing still are determined to push out of our traditional markets by exploring new opportunities to grow the business in West Africa, Malaysia and possibly Australia, which will take the company to a new level.”

ends

Note to Editors

L&N (Scotland) Ltd is an independent engineering company and employs 40 staff at its headquarters in Dyce, Aberdeen, Scotland.

The company supply, repair, refurbish and modify valves, actuator and control panel systems used throughout the global oil and gas industry.

Other services include weld cladding, fabrication services, manufacture of subsea control systems and provision of engineering and technical resources, equipment and manpower.

Website: www.lnscotland.com

Head office: L&N (Scotland) Ltd, Walton Road, Kirkhill Industrial Estate, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 0GZ. Telephone: +44(0)1224 722544

SMX International website: www.smx-international.com

SMX International offers high integrity pipe connectors, forged fittings and flow control products for critical applications in the oil and gas industry and wider power and process industry sectors.

Issued on behalf of L&N (Scotland) Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

30 July 2009: EnerMech Lifts Subsea Operations With New Crane Simulator Technology

EnerMech Limited has invested £500,000 ($820,000) on a crane simulator for use in the Australian-Asia Pacific market.

The company is also devising an exclusive programme to extend the simulator’s capabilities to include subsea lifting operations in what will be a world first development for the crane and heavy lifting industry.

EnerMech say this latest investment in new technology provides the company with the only integrated, commercially available, offshore crane training simulator in the region and underlines its determination to significantly expand operations in both Singapore and Perth.

The Crane Simulator will be a containerised unit that will be suitable for being transported between various locations as operational requirements dictate. It is designed to work in extreme weather conditions and cope with the various electrical supplies that exist in different countries.

Rod Leech, EnerMech’s Director of Training, said: “Having operated a crane simulator in support of the UK’s offshore industry for a number of years we are convinced of its value it helping to reduce accidents and incidents in lifting activities. This has been borne out by statistics that have shown that the use of crane simulator training has had a direct effect on reducing the number of accidents.

“The Crane Simulator represents the most innovative and unique concept in both crane operator training and assessment that is available today. It provides a highly effective and comprehensive tool to train and assess personnel in a safe and realistic environment, enabling the operator to experience a wide range of conditions and situations that cannot be replicated at their normal work site.

“These scenarios provide the operator with experience of how to react to various situations that may develop and the actions required to ensure that safe operation is achieved.”

During simulator training the operator will be subject to a series of real time exercises in which malfunction situations that could occur during actual crane operations are introduced.

The ability to train crane operators in the correct ways to handle a dangerous operating situation can only be done through crane simulator training as it is not possible for numerous safety reasons to carry out such training at the worksite.

Mr Leech revealed that using exclusive subsea software, EnerMech had developed a subsea capability to the crane simulator which would assist crane operators engaged in sub-surface and diving operations.

The subsea installation simulator also has the potential to be used for diver communication training and there was significant interest from clients who had seen the prototype version in action.

He added: “This development will provide us with a unique product that will truly be a world first. This will for the first time allow us to train and assess crane operators undertaking subsea lifting operations in the safety and comfort of an onshore controlled environment.”

This subsea extension will provide clients with the opportunity to have the competency of crane operators assessed where, for example, they are going to be involved in diving operations where the crane operator cannot see below the surface and is therefore working “blind”, with the obvious consequential risk.

“We envisage that this subsea training will prove cost effective to our clients as this development will negate the need for trainers/assessors to be sent offshore where the agenda can be delayed through operational and weather constraints.”

The Crane Simulator can also be used as a pre-employment tool to ensure that potential employees have the required level of expertise before offered a position. This ability to check on an individual’s suitability to operate a crane in a safe, simulated environment will help to increase safety standards within the industry.”

ends

Note to Editors

EnerMech’s five director-owners are backed by private equity firm Lime Rock Partners and together have in place a £30 million plus funding package to facilitate organic growth and further acquisitions.

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

28 July 2009: Galloway Giveaway Celebrates 50th Birthday

Scotland’s favourite family cheddar, Galloway®, is to celebrate its 50th birthday with a huge cash giveaway promotion.

Edinburgh marketing communications agency, Multiply, has devised and designed the in-store promotional pack campaign which will offer consumers the chance to win cash prizes valued between £10 and £50.

Shoppers will find out instantly if they are a birthday winner in the promotion which runs between August and October in participating Morrisons, Sainsbury’s , Co-op, Iceland, Waitrose, Nisa and Somerfield stores.

Multiply account director, David Roberts, said: “Galloway® wanted to give something back to their loyal customers for their support over the last 50 years and in the current environment a cash giveaway seemed the perfect birthday present.

“The promotion is sure to catch the eye and will appear on an estimated 90,000 packs of Galloway® cheddar.

“We have enjoyed a long relationship with Lactalis McLelland and the Galloway® brand team and look forward to working with them on other campaigns.”

Galloway® Brand Manager, Carole Leroux, said: “We’re really proud of Galloway’s continued status as the No.1 Scottish Cheddar and are really excited about celebrating the brand’s 50th birthday with this great instant win offer. This type of promotion is totally new to the cheddar shelves. We really hope it captures the consumers’ imagination.

“This promotion is the centrepiece of a number of initiatives planned to celebrate our silver jubilee, including a limited edition pack and other in-store promotions.”

ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, Remy Martin, Black Bottle, Pilnser Urquell, Royal Bank of Scotland and Highland Spring.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Website: www.mclelland.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

27 July 2009: Warning Over Building Insurance Cover

A surveying expert has warned businesses may have wrongly assessed building insurance cover which could have dire financial consequences.

Doug Jolly revealed some companies have in place insurance cover based on the value of its premises on the open market.

But if disaster strikes such a valuation could be substantially lower than the reinstatement costs required if a building has to be demolished and rebuilt from scratch.

Mr Jolly, Head of Building Consultancy (Aberdeen), at leading commercial property firm FG Burnett, said companies which are exposed in this manner would struggle to financially survive a major fire or other catastrophe.

He said: “Some companies are in a precarious position because they have building insurance cover in place which is based on the market value of their property.

“This is wholly inadequate if the worst case scenario was to happen. Insurance cover should be based on the ‘reinstatement value’ which takes in to consideration other costs such as demolition, loss of revenue and professional costs involved in rebuilding a property.”

Mr Jolly cited a recent example where FG Burnett carried out an asset valuation on a client’s property portfolio. The client was shocked to discover it had provided insurers with a much lower sum than would be needed if the premises required to be rebuilt.

FG Burnett advised the reinstatement assessment was actually double the figure which had been given to the insurance company.

Mr Jolly explained: “If this had gone unchecked the insurance company would only have paid out on the basis of ‘applying average’ to the claim. In this instance, the sum insured was half of the true reinstatement cost, therefore the sum paid out would only have been 50 per cent of the eventual claim.

“Such a shortfall in building insurance cover could prove the death knell to any otherwise successful company. On top of the disruption to normal business and temporary relocation, a company in these circumstances could find it impossible to raise the funds to resume business at their original location.”

FG Burnett recommends all companies, regardless of size, should undertake an insurance reinstatement cost assessment at regular intervals to ensure they are fully covered in the event of a major incident taking place.

“We would urge all businesses to examine their buildings insurance cover and if they are in any doubt call in an expert to give a proper assessment which will provide peace of mind and long term security.”

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

22 July 2009: Times They Are A-Changin' As Dylan Art Proves Hit For Scottish Gallery

A new release of Bob Dylan prints could provide a recession-busting investment for art and music fans, claims Scottish art gallery boss Bob Corsie.

Since the first tranche of music legend Dylan’s Drawn Blank Series was launched less than a year ago the collection has shown considerable return on investment potential with one piece almost doubling in value.

Mr Corsie, owner of breeze art gallery in Jenners Edinburgh store, said the next release of limited edition prints on Saturday (25 July) was likely to prove just as collectable for investment purposes.

Mr Corsie revealed: “The 29 pieces in the original Drawn Blank release have all been sound investments for their owners and I expect the new releases to do just as well.

“The bigger, more iconic pieces such as the Train Tracks portfolio, retailed at just under £5000 when first released last June and are now fetching prices of between £8500 and £9000.

“Some people like Dylan’s music, some his poetry and others his art. While it may not be to everyone’s taste it is without doubt proving to be a very good investment.”

The new limited edition collection of the Drawn Blank Series contains eight individually signed prints, a selection of which will be on display in Peebles from this weekend.

With only 295 sets available for sale in Europe, prices will range from £1250 for an individual print to £9250 for a complete boxed set of eight, and it is expected there will be a huge interest from both Dylan fans and investors.

Mr Corsie, who operates two other breeze galleries in Peebles and at Jenners, Loch Lomond Shores, said in a recession more people were turning to art as a source of potentially attractive returns than more orthodox investments.

He added: “In a recession, when people have been let down and are less trusting of traditional investment routes, they are looking at new ways of investing their hard earned cash. Dylan’s art is proving to be a real draw which offers a tangible and enjoyable way of investing while offering a very good return.”

Breeze is holding a special event at all three gallery locations on Saturday to launch the new Dylan prints, starting at 10am to the background of classic Dylan soundtracks.

For more information please visit www.breeze-gallery.co.uk to register your interest or to book your place at the launch event.

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.breeze-gallery.co.uk

breeze art gallery telephone 0845 3752030

Issued on behalf of breeze art gallery by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0) 7980 598764 or email more info@surepr.co.uk

20 July 2009: EnerMech Appoint Human Resources Director

EnerMech Ltd has appointed Shirley Smith as Director of Human Resources.

The Aberdeen mechanical services company said the board appointment reflected the significant growth of the company in the last 12 months and was part of its international expansion strategy.

She will play a key role in integrating new staff into the EnerMech organisation following recent acquisitions in UK, Norway and the Middle East and when further acquisitions take place.

Ms Smith joins EnerMech from drilling contractor Ensco where she was Head of HR for European and African operations. Previously the Napier University graduate spent seven years as HR Manager with Petrofac where she developed the company's competence assurance system and introduced coaching and mentoring programmes.

Ms Smith also has a wide range of experience in supply chain management, marketing and communications.

She said: "I am delighted to be joining EnerMech at a critical stage in its growth. The company has set out clear strategies for domestic and international expansion and recruitment and human resource management will play a crucial role in those plans.

"My focus is on ensuring HR delivers an effective, value adding service to EnerMech's core business and to support key management and departments in meeting their business plan objectives."

EnerMech managing director, Doug Duguid, said: "Our most important asset is the quality and competency of the people who work for EnerMech.

"We identified the need for a strong and forward thinking HR professional who will shape and influence the recruitment and retention of staff and smooth the transition of new employees joining the company as we extend our geographic footprint.

"We have found that and more in Shirley and we are looking forward to benefiting from the experience and knowledge she has gained while working at senior HR levels in the oil and gas sector."

Ends

Note to Editors

With the acquisition of Specialist Maintenance Services Ltd and A1 Safety Training Consultants Ltd, EnerMech is now one of the UK's leading providers of offshore crane and lifting operations, crane personnel and safety training. EnerMech also has a significant presence in Norway following the acquisition of Bjørge ASA's crane division in October 2008.

EnerMech's five director-owners are backed by private equity firm Lime Rock Partners and together have in place a £30 million plus funding package to facilitate organic growth and further acquisitions.

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

16 July 2009: FG Burnett Adds To Glasgow Team

Commercial property consultant, FG Burnett, has appointed Stewart Smith as a graduate surveyor.

Stewart joins FGB’s Glasgow team following his graduation with a 1st class honours degree in Property Management and Valuation.

During his university studies Stewart worked on a part time and full time basis with the company, including a third year placement which contributed to his Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Stewart will assist director Gavin Smith in the Agency Department focusing on all aspects of agency and development work.

Stewart said: “I am delighted to be joining FG Burnett on a permanent basis and am grateful for the company’s ongoing support during my degree course.

“I am looking forward to broadening my experience and to have the opportunity to work on a range of interesting and significant instructions.”

ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

16 July 2009: Aberdeen Lawyer Peaks For PSN Bangladesh Charity

Lawyer Keith Angus gave himself a mountain – or three – to climb when he opted to raise funds for the PSN Bangladesh Appeal.

Keith, a member of McGrigors corporate team in Aberdeen, and three friends completed the demanding challenge of climbing Britain’s three highest peaks in a 24 hour period.

First up was Keith’s ‘local’ mountain Ben Nevis, then he hit the road for Scafell Pike in the Lake District, with Wales’ mighty Mount Snowdon completing the Three Peaks Challenge.

Keith and his party climbed Ben Nevis (4409ft) in five hours, Scafell (2995ft) in four and a half hours and Snowdon (3560ft) in four hours while the 500 mile drive between each climb took 10 hours.

The £500 raised by keen climber Keith has been donated to PSN’s ongoing work in Chittagong in Bangladesh which in the last two years has provided basic education for 600 children from the poorest of families.

Aberdeen-based PSN is a specialist provider of engineering, operations and maintenance services to the owners of energy assets around the world.

PSN have extended the project for another three years and are on the way to raising $200,000 which will provide a multi-purpose building which can be used as a monsoon refuge, school and community centre. The fund will also provide education programmes and the upgrading of existing classrooms.

Keith said: “It was tough going on the climbs and we were up against the clock all the way but it was well worth it.

“Our firm works closely with PSN across all parts of its business and I had become aware of the great work its volunteers are carrying out in Bangladesh. It made sense that when I committed to the Three Peaks Challenge that I should make a modest but meaningful contribution to the PSN Bangladesh Appeal.

“My colleagues at McGrigors will be looking to see what else we can do to support this very worthwhile cause.”

ends

Note to Editors

McGrigors LLP is a leading law firm with offices in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Aberdeen, Manchester.

McGrigors is one of the UK's top 50 legal firms.

For further information, please visit www.mcgrigors.com

PSN is one of the top ten largest private Scottish companies, with turnover of over $1.2billion, an order book worth more than $2.3billion and work secured to 2014.

Charity website: www.psnworld.com/bangladeshappeal

Issued on behalf of McGrigors LLP by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 July 2009: L&N Scotland Gets Message Out With New Website Launch

Engineering company L&N (Scotland) have launched a new website as part of a comprehensive marketing initiative.

The Aberdeen company, which supplies valves and actuators to the oil and gas industry, has invested significant capital to bring its brand up to date.

The revamped website will drive up new business and make it easier for existing clients to access information on the company’s products and services.

The interactive site also contains a Weld Procedure Library which provides information on a range of welding processes, applications and materials, which can be accessed by engineers seeking solutions.

Formed in 1996, L&N has extended its original valve and actuator service to include weld cladding, fabrication services, subsea control systems and engineering and technical site support.

In addition to serving the domestic North Sea market, L&N has built up a strong track record of working on major projects in West Africa.

L&N operations director, Mike McArtney, said: “Like many successful companies we had been so busy building up our business that we often neglected to tell people just what we are capable of and what we can offer them.

“This new website and review of our branding represents a significant investment and was created by one of the UK’s leading award winning marketing agencies.

“We are now at the stage of our development where we have a lot to shout about and we need to communicate clearly with existing and potential new clients. The new website will be important in getting the message out about our evolving products and service lines.”

Visit the new L&N (Scotland) website at www.lnscotland.com

Ends

Note to Editors

L&N (Scotland) Ltd is an independent engineering company based in Dyce, Aberdeen, Scotland.

The company supply, repair, refurbish and modify valves, actuator and control panel systems used throughout the global oil and gas industry.

Other services include weld cladding, fabrication services, manufacture of subsea control systems and provision of engineering and technical resources, equipment and manpower.

Website: www.lnscotland.com

Head office: L&N (Scotland) Ltd, Walton Road, Kirkhill Industrial Estate, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 0GZ. Telephone: +44(0)1224 722544

Issued on behalf of L&N (Scotland) Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 July 2009: FG Burnett Weighs In With Avery Govan Sale

Avery Weigh-Tronix has instructed FG Burnett in the disposal of a 13,500 sq ft workshop/office facility in Helen Street, Govan.

A sale price in excess of £300,000 is being sought for the unit with comprises a 7,700 sq ft single storey workshop, brick built office space totaling 5,800 sq ft and open yard.

The unit is ideally situated for access to Junction 24 of the M8 motorway and Glasgow city centre and FG Burnett anticipate a high level of interest due to the prime location.

Avery Weigh-Tronix, a specialist in industrial weighing systems, is relocating to new premises to the east of Glasgow.

FG Burnett director, Gavin Smith, said: “It is unusual to have this type of property in Govan for sale on the open market and similar properties tend to be offered on a lease basis. Once we gauge the level of interest we will look to set a closing date for the submission of offers.

“Our client is relocating to another site and this property, which is surplus to requirements, represents a rare purchase opportunity for an owner-occupier or investor with an eye to the future.”

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

14 July 2009: Musselburgh Welcomes Harness Racing 'Derby'

Musselburgh Racecourse is demonstrating its versatility and ability to maximize use of its facilities with a double header – of harness racing.

The East Lothian course this weekend (18 and 19 July) plays host to one of the UK’s richest harness racing meetings and the sports most prestigious race, the Famous Musselburgh Pace Cup.

Harness racing is an old friend to Musselburgh and has been run under the auspices of the Musselburgh Fair Day Association since at least 1893. Until this year the meeting was held on a Tuesday and Wednesday to tie in with the original annual “trades holiday” but moving with the times and to appeal to a wider audience the fixture has been moved to the weekend.

Hugely popular in Canada and the USA where standardbreds can cost upwards of £50,000, the sport has an enthusiastic UK following.

With a £60,000 prize fund over the weekend, the Saturday evening meeting includes the six heats and final of the £6000 Hurricane Pace plus a two year old event and a trotting race.

The Sunday afternoon meeting features the heats and final of the £15,000 Famous Musselburgh Pace Cup and three invitational races, the Spitfire Pace for three year olds (£2500); Whirlwind Pace for four year olds (£6000) and Tornado International Pace for four year olds and over (£10,000) which will be televised on Racing UK and in UK and Irish betting shops.

Jim Kemp, president of the Musselburgh Fair Day Association, said: “This is the premier UK harness racing meeting and everyone wants to win at Musselburgh. We will have entries from all over the UK and Ireland vying to get their hands on the Musselburgh Pacer title.

“We hope that working closely with the racecourse and by moving the event to a weekend that we are opening up the sport to new followers. In America the prize money is better than flat racing with $2 million on offer at the big stake races, so we have some way to go.”

Chairman of British Harness Racing Club, Gordon Garnett, said: "Musselburgh is the most important meeting of the year. There are one or two in Wales that might say different, but it's the oldest meeting, it's the most difficult to win, and it's generally the richest and most prestigious to win. The Famous Musselburgh Pacer takes precedence over any other race."

The Sunday meeting also doubles up as the annual Heart of Midlothian FC Family Race Day and it’s expected the appearance of Hearts first team players will swell the crowd.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Musselburgh Fair Trade Association in building up this historic meeting and maintaining its position as the harness racing equivalent of the Derby. It promises to be a cracking weekend for harness racing fans and Hearts supporters alike.”

Adding to the family atmosphere, a range of carnival rides and free attractions will keep kids of all ages occupied, and free entry to all kids aged 16 and under accompanied by an adult will assist the family budget.

Gates open on Saturday at 3.30pm and first race is off at 5.30pm. Gates open on Sunday at 11.30am and first race is at 1.30pm. Admission is £15 or £13 if booked in advance online.

For further information visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

14 July 2009: EnerMech Invest In Youth

Mechanical services company, EnerMech Ltd, is investing in youth with the appointment of two Modern Apprentices.

The Aberdeen company which specialises in the engineering of cranes, lifting and hydraulic equipment, value Modern Apprenticeships as a way of ensuring the right skills are in place as the business expands.

At a time when some firms are making significant cutbacks in their workforce, EnerMech is investing in the future and view Jarvis Ferguson and Steven Dey as the first in a succession of modern apprentices who can earn while they learn.

Jarvis, 16, has been appointed to the cranes and lifting division while Steven, also 16, will join the plant and tool rental division. The pair will undergo four years on-the-job training and study for a range of SVQs, National Certificates and NVQs at Banff & Buchan College to gain the Modern Apprentice qualification.

The company, which has more than 350 staff spread from Aberdeen to Norway, Dubai, Singapore and Australia, also provides tool rental and training and safety services.

Malcolm Kennedy, EnerMech’s QHSE Manager, said: “The plan is to formulate a timetable for an intake of apprentices from various disciplines both for summer and Christmas school leavers, or to take on apprentice from Banff & Buchan College who have completed their first year PEO, with us taking them on as second year apprentices.

“The Modern Apprenticeship reflects the competence at the end of the apprenticeship in the form of a work based certificate unique to our product lines and services. It allows us to fashion the training to our own needs and gives the apprentices the chance to engage in a continuing relationship with the company.

“By training apprentices, EnerMech can plan for future skills requirements, ensuring that the skills critical to our business success are not lost. Apprenticeships enable the company to have the right people, with the right skills, at the right time and we are confident Jarvis and Steven will set the benchmark for others to follow.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email more@surepr.co.uk

8 July 2009: Wheels Come Off For Aberdeen Band On The Run

A promising Aberdeen band may have to shelve tour plans unless they can find a sponsor to support transport to and from gigs.

Cast of the Capital recently played at the Rockness festival and performed their blend of American Indy-inspired music on Radio 1.

The band is also appearing next month at the Wizard Festival in New Deer which is headlined by The Charlatans, Idlewild and the Buzzcocks and will be releasing an EP after securing a deal with a London record label.

But a lack of suitable transport for the four musicians plus their kit could mean plans to tour in England will have to be put on hold.

Guitarist and backing vocalist, Jamie Watt, said: “We are stuck for transport to and from gigs and at the moment are relying on our drummer’s Seat Toledo to get us about.

“It’s a bit of a struggle to squeeze four big blokes, a sound engineer and all our kit in to a car and we are hoping a local business may be able to sponsor us or provide a vehicle to make things easier.

“We will be doing a fair bit of travelling over the next few months and think this is a good way for a company to get involved in the local music scene and to get some recognition for their company as we visit different places.”

Cast of the Capital competed against 7000 other bands to perform at the goNorth festival for music industry professionals which led to their appearance at Rockness.

The band line-up includes surveyor Jamie Watt, Matt Morris, Steve Morris, Alastair Naylor.

Jamie added: “We have an EP coming out at the end of August which coincides with our appearance at the Wizard Festival and things are starting to happen for us now.”

If you can help Cast of the Capital to achieve widespread success with the provision of a vehicle, contact Jamie Watt on 07732 070075 or visit www.myspace.com/castofthecapital for more information on the band.

ends

Issued on behalf of Cast of the Capital by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2 July 2009: Gladman Add To Westhill Success

Gladman Developments have confirmed it has let a further 15,000 sq ft of business park office space at Arnhall Business Park in Aberdeen.

Abermed, Annixter, Kongsberg Maritime and RigNet have all agreed leases at Abercrombie Court in Westhill of between five to 15 years for units ranging from 2200-5250 sq ft. Rents achieved were between £17.50 and £18.50 per sq ft.

The company have also sold Unit 5 – a 5200 sq ft unit leased to NCS Survey - to a private investor for a price of £985,000.

This follows the successful leasing of 10,000 sq ft of office space to three companies and the investment sale of units 17 and 18 at the start of the year.

The recent deals underline the strong demand for Gladman’s high quality office accommodation and means 10 out of 19 units are now occupied while four have been sold to investors or the occupier.

Property consultants FG Burnett and James Barr advised Gladman Developments on the deals.

FG Burnett director, David MacLeod, said: “The quality of the Gladman product speaks for itself and we are continuing to see strong demand from occupiers for office space at Abercrombie Court.

“To have achieved so many deals within a few months of the official opening of Abercrombie Court is no mean feat and we are confident we will achieve full occupancy reasonably soon.

“The sale of a fourth unit to an investor demonstrates that the property is priced correctly and private investors are attracted to Westhill as a premier office location and in particular the Gladman development. There is cash out there for the right opportunities ”

Gladman development manager, Susan Pegg, said: “Abercrombie Court is one of our best performing assets and it is encouraging that the development continues to attract both occupiers and investors.”

Abercrombie Court comprises of 78,500 sq ft of purpose-built, high specification office space in a range of units, including 1027 sq ft, 2212 sq ft and 5203 sq ft, as well as a headquarters building of 25,500 sq ft, ensuring the development can cater for all sizes and types of organisation.

Arnhall Business Park is now firmly established as one of the fastest growing business parks in Scotland and is a successful, well known and accessible office and business location. It is the headquarters for leading oil and gas sector companies Acergy, Subsea 7 and the Abu Dhabi National Energy Corporation (TAQA). Other occupiers include Tesco, Costco, Premier Travel Inn and a new medical centre.

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Gladman Developments is one of the UK’s largest speculative developers of office and industrial accommodation.

Website: www.gladman.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2 July 2009: Multiply Bottles Up Andy Murray VIP Promo For Highland Spring

Edinburgh marketing communication agency, Multiply, is paying close attention to the progress of potential Wimbledon champion Andy Murray.

The Multiply team has just completed its first packaging promotion for the leading UK produced brand of bottles water, Highland Spring.

And with Highland Spring being exclusive beverage sponsor of Andy Murray, the first prize in the on-pack consumer promotion is a VIP day with the world’s number three ranked player.

Multiply devised the promotion and designed all materials for the campaign which has been rolled out on more than 5 million bottles of Highland Spring across the UK.

‘Get Set With Andy’ offers an once-in-a-lifetime prize of a VIP day at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton where, after a tour of the world class facilities, Andy will provide tennis tips and coaching.

Hundreds of weekly prizes feature exclusive Fred Perry Andy Murray kits, including a Fred Perry bag, shorts, cap, sweatbands and t-shirt, signed by Andy, and thousands of Highland Spring sports kits.

Each bottle or multi-pack of Highland Spring gives customers the chance to enter the competition by text or online at www.getsetwithandy.com

Multiply account director, David Roberts, said: “We are all rooting for Andy as he progresses through Wimbledon but let’s say we are taking a closer interest than most tennis fans.

“As an ambassador for Highland Spring it was essential we linked this promotion to his mercurial career and it has really caught the attention of the public with initial reports showing a very high response rate from consumers.

“The promotion runs until August 31 but we will know long before then if our VIP winner will be taking tips from a Wimbledon champion. Since winning the Highland Spring account in January we have been working on a number of projects and are already working on an exciting consumer promotion for autumn which we hope will be as successful as ‘Get Set With Andy’."

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Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, Remy Martin, Black Bottle, Pilnser Urquell, Royal Bank of Scotland and Highland Spring.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Website: www.getsetwithandy.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

1 July 2009: Free Racing at Musselburgh

Musselburgh Racecourse is treating punters to free entry at its next meeting on Monday 6 July.

Sponsors Blue Square and the racecourse’s oncourse bookies are sharing the cost of the free entry, which saves race goers the standard £13 ticket price.

The afternoon meeting will also promote the works of and raise funds for local charity, the Muirfield Racing for Disabled Association.

To add to the family affair, Muirfield RDA is staging a variety of free attractions. Former Scottish rugby star Doddie Weir will host a special RDA Parade Ring and eight Muirfield ponies will take part in the Muirfield RDA Pony Race along the final furlong. Panto horses will circulate the racecourse handing out info on the charity and collecting donations.

And in a tribute to the late bookmaker, Freddie “Fearless Freddie” Williams, who died last June and was a regular at Musselburgh, the first race will be named in his honour.

The Blue Square Supports Muirfield RDA FREE Charity Raceday has a total prize fund of just under £40,000. Gates open at noon and the first of seven races is off at 2.15pm.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “This is a way to raise the profile of one of East Lothian’s most deserving charities and at the same time give something back to our regular race goers by offering free entry.

“We are grateful for the support from Blue Square and our own oncourse bookmakers whose contribution has made this free race day possible. With all the added attractions and the start of the school holidays we should have a bumper crowd at Musselburgh on Monday.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

24 June 2009: Hearts Harness Race Day Gathers Pace at Musselburgh

Heart of Midlothian striker Jamie Mole was put through his paces at Musselburgh Racecourse yesterday. (wed 24 June)

The Tynecastle player was at the East Lothian track to launch the Heart of Midlothian FC Race Day and a weekend festival of harness racing on 18 and 19 July.

Jamie was pictured with driver John Kemp and his 10 year old pacer, Young Holmes, pulling a traditional harness racing trap known as a Sulky.

The Hearts themed day has attracted more than 15,000 supporters in the last three years and this year will dovetail with one of the richest harness race meeting ever held in the UK.

With a £60,000 prize fund over the weekend, nine qualifying heats will be held at the Saturday party night meeting.(18th) while on the Sunday, (19th) the HoMFC Race day features the £10,000 Famous Musselburgh Pace Cup, which attracts the best pacers in the UK and Ireland.

Hearts commercial manager Ross Easton, said: “Hearts is absolutely delighted to be working in partnership with Musselburgh Racecourse and this will be another great day for families, corporate partners and sponsors.

“We’ve shaken things up this year in that we’re getting involved in harness racing for the first time. It’s a fantastically exciting form of the sport and Musselburgh is a key venue in the UK harness racing calendar.”

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, added: “This is a double helping of mid summer sport and should appeal to both football and racing fans alike. We are always happy to welcome the Hearts support to Musselburgh and this year they will also be treated to the best harness racing anywhere in the UK.

“It’s a child friendly event with lots of free attractions for families of all ages and we are sure the new format will be a great success.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Gates open on Saturday 18 July at 3.30pm and first race is at 5pm. Gates open on Sunday 19 July at 11.30am, first race is 1pm.

Tickets are priced £15 on both days but only £13 if booked in advance online. Groups discounts are available.

For further information and to book tickets visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or mail moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

22 June 2009: Legal Group Formed To Assist Helicopter Tragedy Families

Three leading legal firms have formed an advisory group to assist the families of the 16 victims of the North Sea Super Puma helicopter crash.

The group has been set up to manage legal procedures arising from the crash on behalf of families of the bereaved.

Balfour + Manson and Raeburn Christie Clark & Wallace in Aberdeen and Digby Brown in Edinburgh say the group will ensure a co-ordinated approach to forthcoming proceedings and minimise the stress experienced by families of the victims.

Fourteen oil rig workers and two aircraft pilots died when the Super Puma crashed in to the North Sea off Peterhead on 1 April on a flight from the BP Miller oil and gas field.

Investigations in to the cause of the disaster are ongoing but an initial report by the Air Accidents Investigations Branch found the aircraft had suffered a “catastrophic failure” of the main rotor gearbox.

Lisa Gregory, partner with Balfour + Manson in Aberdeen, said: “The families will never come to terms with the loss of their loved ones but unfortunately they still have to negotiate a way through what could be lengthy legal proceedings.

“By bringing together our three firms, we can work together on a common approach when dealing with the investigatory authorities and insurers, to minimise stress or all parties and bring a speedier conclusion to the legal matters.”

Mrs Gregory confirmed the three firms are acting for a number of parties who have been affected by the tragedy but for reasons of confidentiality could not go in to detail.

She added: “It is premature to speculate who will bear ultimate responsibility for this tragic incident and we must await the findings of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch. No formal legal proceedings have been lodged but by forming the advisory group, we hope to smooth the legal process for those affected.”

ends

Note to Editors

For further information on the Super Puma Legal Advisory Group contact Lisa Gregory, Balfour + Manson, Aberdeen, on telephone 01224 329139.

Website: www.balfour-manson.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Balfour + Manson LLP by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

11 June 2009: Record Race Crowds Boost Musselburgh Economy

Musselburgh Racecourse’s Ladies Day created a modern day attendance record with 8800 people visiting the East Lothian track.

Changes in the layout of public areas and increased picnic facilities allowed the racecourse to increase capacity from the previous 7500 limit.

The record crowd was matched by record prize money on offer at Ladies Day with a £140,000 prize fund making it Musselburgh’s richest race day and attracting some of the UK’s leading horses and trainers.

Ladies Day at Musselburgh has evolved to be the most successful event of its type in Scotland and was sold out more than two months in advance of the meeting for the third successive year. The Ladies Day success follows other substantial crowd pulling events at the racecourse which have attracted more than 25,000 visitors and had a substantial knock-on effect for businesses in the Honest Toun.

A Friday evening party night race meeting on 29 May brought in a respectable 4400 crowd while more than 20,000 runners and spectators packed in to the racecourse for the finale of the Albert Bartlett Edinburgh Marathon on 31 May.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said Ladies Day was a success, despite a dip in temperatures and showery weather. He said: “The popularity of Ladies Day just keeps growing, and if we had the capacity we could accommodate a much larger crowd, but we are delighted with what we have achieved in the past six years.

“It was the first year that we have suffered from adverse weather at Ladies Day and that presented some challenges but overall the day was a great success. We have learned lessons on how to improve the event and come rain or shine we will be ready next year to welcome another massive crowd.

“Musselburgh Racecourse is playing an important part in the local community, not just through staging our own core race days but by hosting other major sporting events such as the Edinburgh Marathon.

“In the last month we have played host to more than 33,000 visitors who all in some way contribute to the local economy. On big race days and events like the marathon there is a real buzz about the town which filters through to a range of businesses from taxi firms, restaurants and bars to guest houses and High Street shops.

“We are always looking at ways of improving the facilities at Musselburgh and as a non-profit making organisation we will continue to reinvest surplus revenues to maintain our position as Scotland’s leading quality racecourse.”

Fashion winners at Ladies Day included Musselburgh man Graham Henderson, who was crowned King of Style as best dressed man and presented with a £250 Linea suit, while Most Stylish Hat wearer was Nicola MacDonald, who won £250 worth of Armani beauty products, both courtesy of sponsors Jenners.

The Queen of Style top prize was won by PR executive Lisa Nicholson of Barnehurst, Kent, who drove off with a limited edition MINI Graphite, courtesy of Peter Vardy (Edinburgh) Ltd.

Lisa said: “Ladies Day was such a wonderful event, the atmosphere was superb, the crowds were in such great spirits, and the fact that it was raining didn’t seem to put a damper on the day. My friends and I were having a bit of a reunion and winning the Queen of Style and the MINI was the icing on the cake.”

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Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email stephen@surepr.co.uk

11 June 2009: EnerMech in £3 Million Asia Pacific Expansion

Mechanical services company, EnerMech Ltd, has announced major expansion plans and senior appointments in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Aberdeen-based company is to invest a total £3 million ($4.8M) opening new bases in Perth, Australia, and Singapore and in the latest crane simulator technology and allied equipment.

Ben Finlay has been appointed Regional Director for EnerMech’s Asia-Pacific division and will be based in Singapore, while in Australia Iain McKenzie has been appointed General Manager (Cranes) and Grant Paterson takes up the role of Cranes and Lifting Superintendent.

The company will shortly move in to a new 8000 sq ft facility in Perth which includes workshops, storage yard and offices and it is expected staff numbers will exceed 20 by the end of the year.

A new mobile £500,000 ($800,000) crane simulator will based in the Asia Pacific region and initially operate between Singapore and Perth, depending on client demand. This will strengthen EnerMech’s credentials as a major provider of training, assessment and competency services to the crane, lifting and construction industries.

The company has got off to a flying start by winning a number of workscopes in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei and are looking to make inroads to other important markets including India, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and New Zealand.

Ben Finlay joins from Icon Engineering where he was Group Business Development Manager based in Singapore. He was also a regional manager with Toll Energy in Australia and over a seven year period set up and established Sparrows Offshore’s operations in Australia and Asia.

With more than 16 years experience working in the Middle East and Asia Pacific, Mr Finlay has a wide ranging knowledge of the mechanical services sector and will roll out EnerMech’s ambitious expansion plans for the region.

Iain McKenzie was previously Project Manager for Icon Engineering and worked for Sparrows Offshore as Engineering Manager in Australia. He has an extensive track record of working on major North Sea crane and lifting projects and spent 11 years with SMS, which is now part of EnerMech.

Grant Paterson has worked on major international crane and lifting equipment projects and is expert in training and assessment provision and safe working practices. He also has considerable experience in the manufacture, inspection, repair and refurbishment of construction and offshore cranes.

EnerMech managing director, Doug Duguid, said: “The investment in new facilities in Australia and in the latest equipment, combined with the appointment of three very experienced and well respected crane specialists, underlines the importance we place on the Asia Pacific market to our business.

“I am delighted to welcome on board Ben, Iain and Grant who will form the backbone of our Asia Pacific team and whose joint experience and complementary skills will give us a competitive advantage.

“The feedback from major industry players on the range of services we will provide has been very encouraging and we believe there is enormous potential to grow EnerMech in to the leading provider of mechanical services in the Asia Pacific region.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email stephen@surepr.co.uk

5 June 2009: Multiply Raise Diversity Awareness Standards

Marketing communications specialists, Multiply, has completed a project which improves diversity awareness amongst Standard Life staff.

The Edinburgh-based company developed an e-Learning diversity awareness programme for the leading asset management business’ Human Resource department and it will be rolled out to all UK staff.

The computer-based learning programme can be accessed on PCs and is an effective way of encouraging and supporting learning.

Working with Standard Life, Multiply supported end-to-end development and delivery of the e-Learning solution, including devising programme content, writing scripts, creative design, building a prototype, programming and testing.

E-learning is a more cost and time affective way of tutoring staff and can be a more flexible and engaging alternative to reading literature or attending a training course.

Multiply account director, Kirsteen Campbell, said: “We have a lot of experience in developing effective e-Learning programmes, from identification of the learning opportunity, through to delivery of the solution, and we use interactions and real life examples to inspire interest and to engage the end-user.

“Every member of Standard Life’s UK-based staff will be able to access the Diversity Awareness programme via a standard PC. This is a cost-effective, flexible alternative to traditional paper-based learning methods, giving people more opportunities to engage in the learning process.

“Using new technology to deliver training, combined with our creative marketing communication skills, we can produce highly inventive and distinctive eLearning solutions.”

Multiply have been engaged by other blue chip companies to provide eLearning products, including RBS and NHS Scotland.

Ends

Note to Editors

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland’s largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

The agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, ABSOLUT, Remy Martin, Black Bottle, Pilnser Urquell and Royal Bank of Scotland.

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Issued on behalf of Multiply by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email stephen@surepr.co.uk

5 June 2009: Hats Off To Musselburgh Ladies Day Success

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager Bill Farnsworth can be allowed a wry smile of satisfaction this weekend as he gets ready to welcome 8500 punters for a third successive sell out Ladies Day. (Sat 6 Jun)

The East Lothian course can easily claim second billing on the UK’s Saturday race meeting list, behind only the Epsom Derby in terms of quality and prize money on offer.

With just a touch under £140,000 up for grabs in Musselburgh’s seven race card, it’s little wonder some of the UK’s best sprint trainers are heading north from Yorkshire and Newmarket.

Top of the bill is the five furlong £40,000 toteswinger Scottish Sprint Cup which promises a pulsating contest with last year’s winner Masta Plasta, trained by sprint king Dandy Nicholls, going head to head with Tim Easterby’s Hamish McGonagall, which netted the valuable York Sprint Cup at Musselburgh in October.

Musselburgh’s own version of the Derby, the £40,000 Totescoop6 Tradesman’s Derby Handicap, also boasts a very strong field with Sir Michael Stoute sending up Holyrood while the UK’s largest stable values the race highly enough for Mark Johnston to have entered nine horses with four making the final 12 starters.

Also featuring n the Tradesman’s Derby, Richard Fahey will be hoping Cosmic Sun will show the same character as the colt’s mother, Cosmic Case, a seven time winner at Musselburgh and a huge favourite with punters before she went out to stud.

And the £25,000 totepool Edinburgh Castle Condition Stakes - one of three races televised by C4 – features a number of fine horses which will be Royal Ascot bound after their outing at Musselburgh.

Bill Farnsworth said: “It doesn’t get much better than top quality fields, serious prize money and a capacity crowd for Saturday racing at Musselburgh.

“We have worked hard over the last few years to build this meeting in to the success story it is and Musselburgh Ladies Day is up there on its merits as one of Scotland’s premier race days.

“The stage is set for a fantastic days racing and our aim is to gradually build up this meeting until it is a £230,000 plus race day.

“Personally, I am looking forward to seeing Cosmic Sun in action for the first time at Musselburgh. It’s the first offspring from Cosmic Case, which was such a favourite here that the colt is assured a very warm welcome.”

Ends

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

3 June 2009: North East Commercial Property Market Holding Its Own

The commercial property market in north east Scotland has bottomed out, according to leading surveyors and property consultants FG Burnett.

FG Burnett managing director Angus MacCuish believes the local market is proving to be more resilient than other regions in Scotland and the UK.

Demand for offices, both from a leasing and purchase perspective, is still at a healthy level with headline rental levels being maintained and it’s a similar story with industrial property, with rents also holding up.

Landlords however, are having to more flexible in negotiation with tenants than was the case 12 months ago, with tenants securing greater concessions on ‘softer’ elements of deals such as rent free periods, contribution to fit-out, break options and shorter leases.

FG Burnett say there is mounting evidence that well-established food discount retail chains are being very aggressive in expansion terms – the current economic climate favours this particular business model - and this will generate further activity.

Mr MacCuish said: “Demand for secondary retail is also encouraging and we have personal experience of this with a significant number of deals being concluded recently in Aberdeen and surrounding towns.

“On the development front it is changed days from this time last year with very limited interest. On the plus side, however, there are signs that developers are starting to put their heads above the parapet again, although limitations on funding going forward will mean they will be more selective in their pursuit of sites, which has a consequential impact on prices.

“There is some limited activity in the investment sector with cash rich individuals and companies still trying to decide if the market is at the bottom or not. For what it’s worth, I think the market has bottomed out, although the cost and availability of debt finance means that the market is not functioning properly.”

Mr MacCuish said many clients are willing to buy shorter leases for higher income yields and that reflects their confidence in the local economy. It is possible to acquire modern office buildings in Aberdeen at yields of circa 8.75 - 9.0% on five year leases. The West End area of Aberdeen remains the favoured location for many office investors – its enduring appeal means that supply is very limited and as a consequence prices have remained strong.

Mr MacCuish added: “My view is that compared to what investors can earn on cash, commercial property remains a good bet and when UK plc starts to believe things are getting better, some of the current property investment opportunities are going to look very cheap indeed.”

Ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email stephen@surepr.co.uk

2 June 2009: Beauty Queen Slips In To Musselburgh MINI

Radio presenter Grant Stott got an eyeful when glamorous former Miss Scotland, Stephanie Willemse, slipped in to a MINI at Musselburgh Racecourse.

The MINI in question is a special edition MINI Graphite, supplied by Peter Vardy (Edinburgh) Ltd, as the big prize at Musselburgh’s sell-out Ladies Day race meeting on Saturday. (6 June)

More than 8000 fashion conscious race goers will attend Musselburgh’s richest race day of the year which features the £40,000 toteswinger Scottish Sprint Cup.

The best dressed lady – Queen of Style - will be presented with the iconic car to drive for one year. Other Fashion in the Field competition prizes include £250 worth of Armani beauty products for Best Hat, a £250 Linea suit for the King of Style and champagne and goodie bags, all supplied by sponsors Jenners.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “This is our third successive year we have sold out Ladies Day which is now recognised as Scotland’s most successful fashion-horseracing event.

“The excellent Fashion in the Field prizes we have put together with the help of our sponsors Jenners and Peter Vardy reflect the quality of Ladies Day and what stylish lady would not want to be seen driving around town in a racy little number such as the MINI Graphite?

“We are ready to put on another magnificent day and if our serious race goers can see past all the wonderful hats they will witness some top quality racing with almost £140,000 prize money on offer.”

Fashion in the Field spotters will be out in force to invite stylish race goers to take to the catwalk for the fashion competitions which will be compered by Radio Forth presenter Grant and former Scottish and British Lions rugby legend Scott Hastings.

Gates open at 11.30am on Saturday and first race is off at 2.20pm with the last race at 5.45pm

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Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

21 May 2009: EnerMech Lifted By £6 Million Apache Crane Win

EnerMech Ltd have secured a major contract with Apache North Sea Ltd to provide crane and maintenance services.

The Aberdeen-based mechanical services company have been awarded a three year contract worth an estimated £6 million.

The work scope covers all of Apache’s assets in the Forties Field and will result in the creation of at least six jobs.

EnerMech have an existing relationship with Apache in the UKCS and hope the new contract will lead to further opportunities to work with the independent operator on international projects.

EnerMech managing director for cranes and lifting, John Morrison, said: “This is one of our largest crane contracts to date and we are looking forward to working closely with Apache over the next three years.

“Over the last two years we have provide the same services to the majority of Apache’s Forties assets but this latest agreement means all the core-crew crane operation and maintenance staff throughout the Forties field will be provided exclusively by EnerMech.

“We hope that as our relationship develops there will be opportunities to work with Apache on projects out with the UK. With our recent acquisitions in the UAE and further international expansion planned in Asia, we are well placed to provide our whole range of mechanical services to operators such as Apache, wherever they are working.”

Ends

Note to Editors

EnerMech employs 300 staff at its Aberdeen headquarters and bases in Great Yarmouth, Stavanger, Dubai and Ras al-Khaimah, and has plans to expand its geographic footprint across the eastern hemisphere.

Website: www.enermech.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44(0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

21 May 2009: Winner Takes It All At Musselburgh ABBA Race Night

Musselburgh Racecourse are expecting a big turn out on Friday night (29 May) when the East Lothian course puts on live music for the first time.

More than 2000 advance tickets have been sold as race goers opt to Take A Chance on the ABBA Party Night and with warm sunny weather predicted for the weekend the race track are expecting a large crowd on the night.

The introduction of live acts to the East Lothian course is aimed at providing more value for money for racing fans at no extra cost to the admission price.

Top tribute band, The ABBA Experience, will entertain race goers following completion of the seven race card and Musselburgh will repeat the live music experience at another Friday evening meeting on 7 August when Republic of Soul are the main act.

Gates open at 4pm and first race is at 6.20pm. Online discounts are available and further savings of up to £5 each are on offer for group bookings. For further information visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

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Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surep.co.uk

12 May 2009: Musselburgh Racecourse Upgrade Fit For A Queen

Musselburgh Racecourse has completed a £120,000 upgrade of its Queen’s Stand pavilion.

The East Lothian course has refurbished the corporate hospitality suites and improved the decoration and furnishings in the stand which was opened 14 years ago by HM Queen Elizabeth.

Each of the five first floor suites can now be opened up by utilising adjoining glass doors, giving more flexibility to cater for larger groups.

The changes also allow Musselburgh to use the first floor as an additional restaurant when not booked by corporate hospitality guests or race sponsors.

General manager Bill Farnsworth said the refurbishment was part of Musselburgh’s ongoing development plan to keep the racecourse up-to-date and to maintain its VisitScotland five star tourism attraction status.

Mr Farnsworth said by offering great flexibility in the Queen’s Stand the course was adapting to changing spending habits.

He said: “The upgrade of the Queen’s Stand is part of an ongoing programme of works designed to maintain Musselburgh’s position as one of the smartest and well presented race tracks in the UK.

“Like many other courses we are experiencing an adjustment in the levels of corporate sponsorship that is available which means we have to be more flexible in what we can offer to race goers.

“Encouragingly our restaurant bookings are doing very well and opening up the private boxes for occasional use as an extra restaurant allows us to accommodate more lunch and dinner guests according to demand.

“The standard of work is extremely high and anyone returning to the Queen’s Stand or visiting for the first time will enjoy a very special experience.”

ends

Note to Editors

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email stephen@surepr.co.uk

6 May 2009: Musselburgh First Past The Post on Twitter

Musselburgh Racecourse has become the first Scottish racetrack to join the social networking site Twitter.

The East Lothian course will be updating followers on race meetings, ticket sales, special offers and promotional packages.

Twitter allows users to send and read each others’ updates, known as tweets, which must be no longer than 140 characters in length. Celebrity users of Twitter include Barack Obama, Stephen Fry, Britney Spears, Oprah Winfrey and Russell Brand.

The free micro-blogging service will be used to provide instant updates on events at Musselburgh and to share information with race goers and other interested parties who sign up to receive tweets.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “Using Twitter is another way of informing potential visitors of what is on offer at Musselburgh and if it encourages just a handful of people to come racing then it is well worth it.

“We see it as a valuable marketing tool and it’s also a great and instant way of getting out our latest news. We will be tweeting on everything from our Seasonal Highlight feature meetings to development work at the course, weather conditions and information on the trainers, horses and jockeys racing at Musselburgh.

“It will also come in to its own on keeping people up to date on ticket sales for our big race days such as Easter Sunday, Ladies Day and the New Year Sprint.”

Follow Musselburgh Racecourse tweets by signing up to http://twitter.com/MusselburghRace

Ends

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email stephen@surepr.co.uk

6 May 2009: FG Burnett Appoint Two Senior Surveyors

FG Burnett Ltd has promoted Dan Smith and Neil Strachan to the post of senior surveyors.

The double promotion is in recognition of the pair’s contribution to the ongoing success of one of Scotland’s largest independent commercial property consultancies.

Dan Smith joined FG Burnett in 2005 as a graduate surveyor after completing an MSc in Property at Aberdeen University and is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS). He works in the company’s Agency department and advises on the sale, letting and acquisition of a wide range of office projects.

Neil Strachan, also MRICS, is an honours graduate in Land Economy from Aberdeen University and joined FG Burnett in November 2007. He works in the firm’s Commercial Valuation & Compensation team, providing expert valuation advice to lenders and owners of property assets.

FG Burnett managing director, Angus MacCuish, said: “Our business is only as good as the people we have working with us and we have a strong company ethos on rewarding hard work and commitment.

“Both Dan and Neil have developed their skills and demonstrated a desire to progress within the business and these promotions are fully deserved. They will have increased responsibilities in developing client relationships and strengthening the service we provide and I am confident both are up to the challenge.”

ends

Note to Editors

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

5 May 2009: Lawyer Joins Elite Band of Aberdeen Solicitor Advocates

Lawyer Malcolm Mackay has been appointed Solicitor Advocate and joins an elite group of only seven civil Solicitor Advocates practicing in Aberdeen.

Mr Mackay, a partner in legal firm Balfour + Manson LLP, will be one of the only Solicitor Advocates in the Aberdeen area specialising in representing claimants in the personal injury/compensation field.

As Solicitor Advocate Mr Mackay is permitted to appear for clients not only in the Sheriff Courts but also in complex, high value, or appeal cases in the Court of Session in Edinburgh and ultimately in the House of Lords, without instructing external counsel.

He was admitted as a Solicitor Advocate in a ceremony at the Court of Session in Edinburgh led by the head of Scotland’s judiciary, the Lord President, Lord Hamilton.

Mr Mackay said: “I am delighted to be admitted as Solicitor Advocate which brings several benefits to our clients in the north east of Scotland.

“The main advantages are that Balfour + Manson will be able to offer our clients a more streamlined service which should speed up settlement of our client’s claims.

“Often the best option for a client is to litigate in the Supreme Courts such as the Court of Session which usually involves instructing an Advocate in Edinburgh. However many injured clients find it painful and difficult to travel to Edinburgh and this qualification gives our clients the option to instruct me locally in Aberdeen as an alternative to instructing an Advocate in Edinburgh.”

To gain Solicitor Advocate status, solicitors have to demonstrate to the Law Society of Scotland that they are of sound reputation and competency and to pass examinations in court procedures.

A graduate of the University of Aberdeen, Mr Mackay is a part time tutor for the post graduate Diploma in Legal Practice at the university and is also accredited as a Litigator by the Association of Person Injury Lawyers (APIL).

Ends

Notes to Editors

Balfour + Manson LLP is a leading pursuer litigation firm based in Edinburgh and Aberdeen. The firm has particular expertise in personal injury work and has one of the largest litigation teams in Scotland.

Balfour + Manson, 23 Rubislaw Den North, Aberdeen, AB15 4AL. Telephone 01224 329130

Website: www.balfour-manson.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Balfour + Manson LLP by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

20 October 2008: Musselburgh Ladies Day 2009 Tickets Go on Sale

Tickets for Musselburgh Racecourse’s record breaking Ladies Day will go on sale tomorrow. (Tuesday Oct 21).

The popular race day will be held on Saturday 6 June next year and the East Lothian course is hoping to repeat the success of the last two years when the event sold out.

The demand for tickets for the last Ladies Day was so high that the East Lothian course reached its capacity one month before the event and around 1000 disappointed race goers had applications turned down.

Website and phone sales open tomorrow (Tuesday) at 9am for Ladies Day and all of Musselburgh’s 24 other meetings in 2009.

It’s expected premium packages for the exclusive Epperston Restaurant and corporate entertaining in the Queen’s Stand private suites, which have panoramic views over the racecourse and finishing post, will sell out within weeks.

To cater for different group sizes and budgets, Musselburgh have introduced a number of new categories such as the Picnic Party package for groups of 4-8 which includes wine and a picnic served at a reserved picnic table. Groups of 5 can opt for Champers packages on the Queen’s Stand Lawn or Champagne Lawn while there is also a marquee package which includes a buffet lunch.

The standard admission price remains the same at £25.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, expects the restaurant and hospitality packages to be quickly snapped up.

She said: “Our Ladies Day has become a must-do for many people who relish the chance to dress up for a day at the races. It is still seven months away but we have already been fielding inquiries about next year and we thought by getting the details out as early as possible it gives everyone plenty of time to plan ahead.

“The standard entry price remains the same and we feel we are offering price points and packages to suit every pocket, from couples and groups of friends, to businesses who want to entertain key clients at one of Scotland’s most glamorous sporting events of the year.”

Full details of all available packages for Ladies Day and other race meetings at Musselburgh are available on www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk or by calling 0131 665 2859.

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

8 October 2008: FG Burnett Finds More Space and Time Online

Property consultant FG Burnett have relaunched their website, introducing a modern, user-friendly site which reflects their recent corporate rebranding.

The website features four dimensions based on the strength of the company’s people, experience, expertise and property portfolio.

Echoing FG Burnett’s ethos of offering clients a highly personal and professional service, the website uses strong colours and photography to underline the promise of “more space and time for you”.

A search feature, which can be filtered in to property sectors and geographic locations, makes it easy for clients to quickly identify properties which fit their requirements and a regularly updated new section highlights recently completed deals and articles which offer wide ranging property advice.

FG Burnett director, Graeme Watt, said: “Following our very successful corporate rebranding earlier this year it was a natural move to revamp our website to reflect those changes.

“The website is easy on the eye, simple to negotiate and offers a mix of useful information and news with a user friendly search facility for clients seeking out specific locations or properties.

“As one of Scotland’s leading property and building consultants, our website needs to be instantly recognisable and fit with our overall business objectives of offering professional expertise with intimate knowledge of the local marketplace and we are delighted with the results.”

The rebranding campaign was conducted by consultants, The Big Picture, whose creative director Neil Urquhart, said: “FG Burnett’s new identity is dynamic and contemporary and is supported by the tagline – more space and time for you.

“It’s this line and the visual identity that have provided the creative impetus to take the company’s website in an exciting new direction. A strong visual representation of the new brand, by combining its bold design and off-beat personality with ease of use, the new site offers a refreshing perspective on the world of commercial property.”

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Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

The majority of FG Burnett’s technical staff is members of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and using state of the art Information Technology, delivers professional expertise and intimate knowledge of the market place.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

7 October 2008: Former PSL Energy Bosses Launch EnerMech With Double Acquisition

A new start-up company by the former directors of PSL Energy Services has marked its entry in to the mechanical services market with a double acquisition.

EnerMech Ltd have snapped up the UK’s second largest independent crane and lifting contractor, Specialist Maintenance Services Ltd (SMS) in Aberdeen, and Great Yarmouth based training provider, A1 Safety Training Consultants Ltd.

EnerMech was set up by former PSL owners Doug Duguid, Michael Buchan, Derek Grant and Phil Bentley with a combined capital investment of more than £30 million by the four shareholders and private equity firm Lime Rock Partners.

Duguid and his three colleagues were part of the original MBO team which rescued Aberdeen based PSL from receivership in 2003 and transformed it in to an eastern hemisphere company with a £110 million turnover and 1200 staff, before selling to Halliburton four years later in a deal worth more than £120 million

Initially set up to target the North Sea equipment rental market, EnerMech has moved quickly to expand in to the cranes and lifting sector and training market.

Formed in 1988 in Aberdeen, SMS has 130 staff working in the UK, Norway, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Malaysia and Singapore. The company specialise in offshore crane and lifting operations ranging from the design and implementation of large lifting and crane projects, to providing crane personnel and designing special purpose lifting equipment.

SMS joint managing directors, Bert Middleton and John Morrison and all senior management will remain with the new company, trading under the name EnerMech SMS. The company expects to expand their staff numbers considerably over the next few years and there will be no job reductions in any area of the business as a result of the acquisition.

A1 Safety Training Consultants was established in 1995, has 35 staff and provides safety training for crane and lifting operations. The company has purpose built training facilities in both Great Yarmouth and Aberdeen where they also have a state-of-the-art crane simulator. There will be no job losses and senior staff, including managing director Rod Leech and general manager Phil Caton, will remain with the new company trading under the name EnerMech-A1.

The acquisitions, the value of which are not being disclosed, brings EnerMech’s payroll up to 200 and the company is currently in negotiations to purchase an overseas company.

EnerMech managing director, Doug Duguid, said: “These two deals are very good news for the staff and customers of both SMS and A1. Our management team have a strong record in dynamic but managed growth and we are looking forward to bringing all that experience to bear in growing these new additions to the EnerMech stable.

“With more than £30 million at our disposal we have the resources to substantially grow these businesses through a combination of capital investment, rolling out new services and further acquisitions.

“The market segments we are targeting are quite fragmented and we have identified gaps where we think we can offer a lower cost and more responsive service than is currently being provided. We plan to deliver a much greater level of engineering and technical support than our competitors can offer.”

John Morrison, new managing director of EnerMech SMS, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for SMS to work with a management team who have a proven track record in service delivery and who have the contacts and experience to take our business to a new level. It’s a great fit for our management and staff who will benefit from new opportunities offered by working for such an ambitious, well resourced company.”

Rod Leech, who will be managing director of EnerMech-A1: said: “We were impressed with the vision put forward by the EnerMech team and their plans for creating a new force in specialist training services. The deal creates many opportunities for everyone working at A1 and we are looking forward to being part of a forward thinking organisation with great plans to make a significant impact in international markets.”

Ends

Note to Editors: The value of both deals has not been disclosed. The entire shareholding of both Specialist Maintenance Services Ltd and A1 Safety Training Consultants Ltd has been purchased by EnerMech Ltd.

Doug Duguid is managing director of EnerMech Ltd; Michael Buchan, finance director; Derek Grant, commercial director; Phil Bentley, operations director.

EnerMech Ltd is a company registered in Scotland and based at Waterton Grange, Stoneywood, Aberdeen, AB21 9HX. Telephone: +44 (0) 1224 723300

Website: www.enermech.com

Founded in 1998, Lime Rock Partners is a creative, value-adding, and long-term investor of growth capital in global energy companies in the exploration and production, energy service, and oil service technology sectors, and has $3Bn under management.

Website: www.lrpartners.com

Issued on behalf of EnerMech Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 October 2008: asplanned In Tune With Avian's Organ

Office design and installation company, asplanned, had to dance to a different tune when a client decided to incorporate a 140 year old organ in to their new headquarters.

Dundee integrated marketing agency, Avian Communications, called in asplanned to space plan and manage their move to the former Congregational Church in Broughty Ferry.

Avian originally planned to remove the 30ft high organ in the centre of the building but when they couldn’t find a suitable home for the ecclesiastical instrument opted to use it as a feature in their studio space.

Avian’s managing director, George Gall, explained: “We think the organ dates back to when the church was built in 1864 so it’s more than 140 years old. Originally the space planning didn’t include keeping the structure but when we couldn’t find a suitable home for it, we warmed to the idea of retaining it as a feature, minus the keyboards.

“asplanned had to adapt their plans and find a way of organising a modern design studio around this historical instrument, but it has all worked extremely well and we are very pleased with the end result.”

Asplanned’s design director, Stewart Culross, added: “It was one of our more unusual challenges when it came to space planning. We had to take in to account the varied needs of a client working at the forefront of digital and marketing design with their desire to preserve and showcase the organ.

“We were delighted to put our creative minds to the challenge and the organ provides a big talking point for visitors to Avian’s excellent new headquarters.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee and Aberdeen, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Avian, the Dundee integrated marketing agency, has grown rapidly over the last few years, with turnover increased to £2.4m last year and the digital division saw revenues grow by 53%.

New client wins combined with a high number of new personnel necessitated a move to their new home in the old Congregational Church in Brook Street, Broughty Ferry which first opened its doors in 1864.

For more information please visit www.avian.co.uk or telephone 01382 427000.

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

8 September 2008: Big Mouth Leach To Judge Direct Marketing Young Sparks

One of the biggest mouths in media is to cast his critical eye over the brightest young talent in the direct marketing industry.

Steve Leach, co-founder of Bigmouthmedia, will chair a panel of judges who will select the winner of the DMA Young Spark Award.

Set up in memory of direct marketing champion and former WAVV Rapp Collins boss, John Young, the Direct Marketing Association Scotland (DMA) run event promotes the hottest emerging talent in the sector.

Leach, a winner of International Entrepreneur of the Year and CEO of the world’s largest digital agency, will be joined on the judging panel by Dave Mullen, co-founder and creative director of Story, Peter Wilde, of Experian Integrated Marketing, and Clara Avery, Macmillan Cancer Charity’s head of direct marketing and sales.

In addition to the prestige of being named DMA Young Spark, the winner will receive a £1000 cash prize and also receive mentoring from an industry guru specialising in the winner’s chosen field.

DMA believe the award, sponsored by Experian, is important for promoting future industry leaders, rewarding talented young practitioners and as a recruitment tool for people thinking of a career in direct marketing.

DMA Scotland manager, Jo Scobie, said: “John Young died tragically young at 38 but he was a great champion of young talent and a born winner with brilliant people skills who knew how to get the best out of his people.

“The Young Spark Award gives others a chance to follow in John’s footsteps and recognises those gifted employees who have the passion and determination to make the most of their talent.”

Judging panel chairman Steve Leach added: “The theme for this years award is ‘Watch Your Back’ and we should all be both nervous and excited that the wealth of talent coming through means we could soon find our own positions under threat.

“The judges want to identify the whippersnappers who have the passion, ambition and attitude that makes them stand out and who have the kind of spark which will put them in our seats one day.”

The competition is open to nominations from agency, supplier or client companies and entrants can work in digital, direct, interactive or mobile marketing.

The closing date for entries is 1 October. For full details of the DMA Young Spark Award visit http://www.youngsparkaward.co.uk

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Note to Editors:

Website: http://www.dmascotland.org.uk

Issued on behalf of DMA Scotland by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

3 September 2008: Central Insurance Appoints New Risk Manager

Leading insurance broker, Central Insurance Services, have appointed Martin Gray as Risk Manager.

Aberdeen based Central Insurance are the only Scottish broker which offer a specialist in-house risk management service.

Mr Gray joins from London risk management and insurance consultancy, Longdown Associates, where he specialised in all aspects of global energy operations.

A graduate of Glasgow Caledonian University, Mr Gray has a strong track record in managing risk and insurance strategies, claims management and assessing and reviewing risk exposures. Before completing his Honours Degree in Risk Management, Mr Gray worked for Cranna Construction and was employed for six years as a quantity surveyor with McAlpine Infrastructure Services.

Central Insurance Managing Director, Iain Henry, said: “We believe effective risk management is critical to any successful management strategy and that is why we differentiate ourselves from other brokers by offering a specialist risk management service to our UK, European and global clients.

“Martin’s previous experience working with energy sector clients was a perfect match with our client portfolio. His team will work closely with our clients to identify and analyse their risk profile and design and implement effective risk management practices.”

Martin Gray added: “Central Insurance is a forward thinking company and I hope to make a valuable contribution to their already successful team. I am looking forward to using my experience of working in London with leading global energy clients to deliver cost effective risk management solutions for Central Insurance’s clients.”

ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Central Insurance offers a range of business and commercial insurance services. Key sectors covered include: Energy and Engineering; Professional Services; Property Owners; Developers and Managers; Construction; Agriculture; Food and Fish Processing; Transport and Distribution; Plant Hire and Civil Engineering; Tourism, Leisure and Entertainment.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

1 September 2008: Five Starts For Musselburgh Racecourse

Musselburgh Racecourse has retained its five star VisitScotland tourism rating, maintaining its status as Scotland’s only five star accredited racecourse.

And the East Lothian track even managed to improve its overall rating, up from 88 per cent to 89 per cent on its last VisitScotland inspection, totalling an impressive 321 out of the 360 marks available.

Judges awarded marks for a range of facilities including décor, signage, car parking, bar and restaurant facilities, washrooms, promotional literature and the welcome they received from staff.

The highest mark of 10, which is classified as “outstanding”, was given for the appearance of the grounds, signage and internal signing.

In 28 categories Musselburgh was given a rating of nine - excellent - in subjects ranging from cleanliness and staff efficiency to food content and ambience and atmosphere of the catering outlets.

The judges noted: “The grounds were immaculate, with seasonal new planting, colourful areas of flowers and grass well cut in the growing season. The staff appearance on arrival was overall excellent, and a pro-active, friendly and efficient attitude was observed throughout my visit.”

In the catering category, in which Musselburgh scored 88 per cent, the panel added: “A wide range of eating options with excellent availability to suit most tastes and budgets. This year The Old Weighing Room Bistro was sampled and the content and service was excellent.

“Dizzy’s and Rockavon bars looked particularly smart and the Champagne Bar appears to have been recently refurbished. The buildings and grounds are immaculately maintained.”

The report concluded: “Once again, with many improvements and action taken on the highlighted areas of previous reports from VisitScotland, Musselburgh Racecourse has achieved a well deserved 5 star award on this occasion.”

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said the second five star award underlined the track’s commitment to maintaining high standards and providing value for money for regular punter, families and tourist who flock to the course.

Mr Farnsworth said: “We are delighted to maintain our position as Scotland’s only five star race course and the VisitScotland seal of approval means a lot to the hard working staff who put all their effort in to ensuring customers enjoy their visits to Musselburgh.

“We are always looking at ways to improve the facilities and to provide excellent value for money and that’s why we have recently opened the new Pommery Champagne Bar and will be making a number of changes to our existing bar facilities.

“Already an action plan has been put in place to address some of the issues raised in the report and to ensure we do even better at the next inspection and achieve an overall rating of more than 90 per cent. Only by striving to reach those standards can we continue to attract thousands of race goers each year to Musselburgh.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

29 August 2008: Musselburgh Welcomes Boys And Their Toys

Boys and their toys are to the fore at Musselburgh’s next race meeting on Sunday. (31 Aug)

The Dads and Lads Race Day is a family race meeting with appeal for parents and children of all ages.

The free attractions include a racing car simulator, archery, gladiator jousting, a display of exotic insects, a bouncy castle and face painters.

And with seven flat races, including the £14, 000 feature race, the Daily Record Garry Owen Handicap over five furlongs, there is plenty of action on and off the turf to keep even the most demanding lad – and dad – fully occupied.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, stressed the race day would also appeal to mum and daughters and there was no sex bias at the East Lothian course.

She said: “This is one of our regular family days but we thought it would be fun to put on a number of attractions which would keep the boys interested and so are holding our first Dads and Lads Race Day.

“There is something for everyone and we hope by putting on this mix of serious horseracing and entertainment that we will appeal to a new generation of racing fans.

“That’s not to say mums and daughters are not welcome too and we hope the fairer sex will come along on Sunday in equal numbers. We all know that women are better drivers than men so I am confident they will have the upper hand on our racing car simulator and other attractions, all of which are free.”

A parade of retired racehorses will take place in the Parade Ring at 1.00pm courtesy of The Scottish and Northern ex Racehorse Club. The parade is aimed at promoting the lives of racehorses once they retire from racing, with many being retrained and used for a variety of riding activities.

With more than £40,000 prize money on offer, including two £6,000 handicap races, Musselburgh are hoping for a bumper crowd. Gates open at first race is at 2.20pm. All children aged 16 and under are admitted free with an adult and discounts are available when booking in advance online.

Meanwhile Musselburgh Racecourse are preparing for an invasion of thousands of ‘Golden Oldie’ rugby players and fans.

The 17th Air New Zealand Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival – for players aged 35 and above - is being held in Edinburgh with more than 121 teams from 18 countries taking part. As part of the festival a Highland Day Out will be held at the racecourse featuring Highland Game demos, stalls featuring Scottish produce and three camel races.

Sarah Montgomery added: “We are delighted to welcome the rugby Golden Oldies to Musselburgh. The facilities we can offer at the racecourse are perfect for this type of festival and our objective is to open up the course to maximise its potential to a variety of users.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

26 August 2008: Multiply's ABSOLUT PEARS Campaign Bears Fruit

Edinburgh based agency Multiply have completed an in-bar marketing campaign which tempted stylish drinkers to sample ABSOLUTE PEARS vodka.

Multiply created a ‘Garden of Eden’ style pear orchard to promote the latest addition to ABSOLUT’s iconic vodka range.

The 25 sq metre orchard – designed to reflect PEARS’ 100 per cent natural contents – stopped at 20 of the UK’s trendiest venues in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle and London.

Bar customers were asked to pick a pear from the orchard, which when opened, revealed an ABSOLUT PEARS miniature which could then be added to lemonade or their favourite mixer at the bar.

David Roberts, Multiply Account Director, said: “The Garden of Eden approach fitted perfectly with the purity and fresh natural contents of ABSOLUT PEARS.

“The campaign proved a great hit in the bars and we are confident it has tempted drinkers in to trying ABSOLUT PEARS on a more regular basis. The orchard was a bold, innovative and fun way to place ABSOLUT PEARS in front of discerning drinkers with high disposable incomes.”

Linda Phillips, ABSOLUT Brand Manager, (Maxxium), said: “Multiply was the natural choice when it came to us devising a sophisticated but fresh in-bar experience to promote ABSOLUT PEARS.

“We work closely with Multiply to achieve consistently high standards in marketing and sales promotions of the ABSOLUT brand and this latest campaign maintains that tradition.”

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Note to Editors:

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland's largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

Issued on behalf of Multiply UK by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

25 August 2008: Green Tea At DMA Scotland Breakfast Seminar

Direct Marketing Association (DMA) Scotland is kicking off a series of breakfast seminars on Tuesday (26 Aug) with a talk from ethical marketing and advertising expert Chris Arnold.

Arnold started his career at McCann-Erickson, is a former Integrated Creative Director at Saatchi and Saatchi, founded the FEEL agency in 2002 and has more than 20 years experience in producing award winning creative campaigns for leading brands from Coca Cola to Ford, Kodak and AOL.

He will discuss if it’s possible to be ethical and produce award winning creative and whether you can improve your ROI while ticking all the green boxes.

Alex Walsh of the DMA UK will discuss the main environmental issues affecting the direct marketing industry and likely outcomes.

The DMA is Europe’s largest trade association in the marketing and communications sector and promotes development of the direct marketing industry.

The seminar, ‘Pushing the Envelope Without Pulling Down the Forest” takes place at The Melting Pot, 5 Rose Street, Edinburgh, on Tuesday from 8.15-9.45am. Non DMA members are welcome, to book tickets contact Jo Scobie on 0131 315 4422 or email jo.scobie@dma.org.uk

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Note to Editors:

Website: http://www.dmascotland.org.uk/content/home.asp

Issued on behalf of DMA Scotland by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on 07980 598764 or email info@surepr.co.uk

7 August 2008: FG Burnett Expand Glasgow Office and Staff

Property consultant FG Burnett has relocated to larger new premises in Glasgow as part of a drive to grow the business.

The move to Queens House in St Vincent Place, demonstrates the commercial property experts commitment to serving existing customers and securing new business in the Central Belt.

The company say the office move and the appointment of surveyor Paul Sinclair to their Building Consultancy team underlines their confidence in the commercial property sector.

Angus MacCuish, FG Burnett managing director, said his company were focussed on building up their client base in central Scotland to mirror the strong position the firm enjoys in the north of Scotland.

Mr MacCuish said: “We are adding to our very experienced team in Glasgow and have secured these larger new premises because we believe there is a genuine need in the property services market for our highly personal service.

“This investment has a dual purpose and will benefit not only potential customers in and around Glasgow but also existing clients in Aberdeen and the north.

“If a company based in the north is considering opening for business for the first time in the Central Belt or possibly expanding their current operations it will be comforting that they can depend on a well established and respected consultancy to assist with their property requirements.

“The appointment of surveyor Paul Sinclair to assist director Bob Scott extends the capabilities of our Building Consultancy team and is part of our overall strategy of investing in youth and building for the future.”

The Queens House sixth floor office suite extends to 1400 sq ft and the lease is for a 10 year term with a current passing rent of £16,800 per annum.

Founded in 1960, FG Burnett is now the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen. Working with their five strong Glasgow based team, the company provides Scotland-wide coverage on a range of services including sales, lettings and acquisitions, building surveying, property management, rent reviews and commercial valuation and compensation.

Mr MacCuish added: “Expanding our services and adding to our staff in Glasgow positions us for growth and reinforces our board’s commitment to the future of the business by extending our presence in the Central Belt.”

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Note to Editors: The majority of FG Burnett’s technical staff are members of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and using state of the art Information Technology, delivers professional expertise and intimate knowledge of the market place.

FG Burnett’s new Glasgow office is located at: 6th Floor, Queens House, 19 St Vincent Place, Glasgow, G1 2DT. Telephone: 0141 285 7980.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

1 August 2008: Office MOTs Could Avoid Compensation Pay Outs

Office design specialist, asplanned, is offering employers a free “Office MOT” to ensure staff are fully protected against possible injury in the workplace.

The Dundee and Aberdeen based company will perform a free health check to identify potential office hot spots which could lead to staff becoming ill or injured.

Asplanned has introduced the service in support of businesses which are committed to promoting health in the workplace.

Andy Stewart, asplanned managing director, said a failure to pinpoint problem areas in the office environment and take immediate action could prove costly, both in terms of potential legal fees and worker compensation.

Mr Stewart cited a recent case in which a Scottish council was ordered to pay £10,000 compensation to an employee who injured her neck while stretching to use a computer.

Mr Stewart said: “This initiative supports employers who are committed to good practice in the work place and protecting the health of their staff.

“Our free ‘asplanned Office MOT’ service will thoroughly assess existing office working conditions and offer advice on preventative action which could avoid health issues for staff and prevent costly compensation actions against employers.

“Our long experience in designing and installing a wide range of offices and knowledge of ergonomics can add a new dimension to occupational health issues which employers increasingly face.
"The ‘asplanned Office MOT’ is free and without obligation and we hope it raises awareness of important health issues which can impact on the welfare of an individual and the wider business.”

In March, Fife Council was ordered to pay social worker Brenda Downie £10,000 damages after admitting they breached guidelines on the setting up of workstations. Mrs Downie was off work for six months and needed physiotherapy after she injured her neck while twisting and turning to reach a computer terminal.

Andy Stewart added: “Taking advantage of this free service should hopefully ensure other employers and employees don’t suffer the same fate and it gives added reassurance that both parties are fully protected.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee and Aberdeen, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

30 July 2008: New Hearts Boss To Meet Fans At Musselburgh Race Night

New Hearts manager Csaba Laszlo will be introduced to fans for the first time at Musselburgh Racecourse on Thursday. (31 July)

Fresh from a pre-season tour of Germany, the Hearts manager and a number of first team favourites will be in attendance at the third annual Heart of Midlothian Family Race Night.

Thousands of Hearts fans are expected to attend the seven race meeting at Musselburgh and will use the opportunity to welcome the Hungarian manager as he prepares for the new SPL season.

Other attractions at the seven race meeting include the Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League Mascot Race featuring larger than life mascots from many of the SPL clubs, a Beat the Goalie competition and the chance to meet some of the players.

A Hearts spokesman said: “The manager and a number of the first team squad plan to be at our annual family race meeting at Musselburgh and are looking forward to meeting some of the fans.

“There has been a very positive response from the fans following Csaba’s appointment and we are sure that will be reflected in the large number of Hearts supporters who will turn out on Thursday.”

The Clydesdale Bank SPL Trophy will also be on show at the race meeting and fans will have an opportunity to have their photographs taken with the famous silverware and get autographs at the Hearts Signing Tent.

Doors open at 4pm, first race is at 6.10pm and tickets are priced at £13 if booked online (£15 at the door) with children aged 16 and under admitted free with a paying adult.

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

29 July 2008: FG Burnett Add To Glasgow Team

Property consultant FG Burnett have added to their Glasgow based team of property experts serving Central Belt clients.

Paul Sinclair has joined the company and will assist Director, Robert Scott, in strengthening the Building Consultancy department.

Paul is a First Class Honours graduate in Building Surveying, has extensive experience as an Architectural Technician and has worked both in the private and public sector, including a recent spell in Australia.

FG Burnett Director, Robert Scott, said: “Paul has demonstrated a high level of motivation and commitment in obtaining his First Class degree while in full employment.

“He will be an asset to FG Burnett in adding a new dimension to the services we can offer and this appointment underlines our commitment to maintaining FG Burnett’s position as a provider of high quality commercial property services in Glasgow and the wider Central Belt region.”

FG Burnett’s Building Consultancy division provide a wide range of services including building survey inspections; schedules of condition; schedule of dilapidations on behalf of both landlord and tenant; maintenance & maintenance planning; fire insurance assessments and alterations and refurbishments.

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Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Working in tandem with the company’s Glasgow based team FG Burnett provides Scotland-wide coverage for a range of services including sales, lettings and acquisitions; building surveying; development consultancy; investment consultancy; property management; rating consultancy, rent reviews and commercial valuation and compensation.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

25 July 2008: Former PSL Energy Services Director Spreads His Wings With Production Experts Caltec Limited

A founding director of PSL Energy Services has taken up a senior role with oil and gas production enhancement specialist, Caltec Limited.

John Wingfield, one of the original directors who guided PSL from receivership in 2003 through to its £128 million sale to Halliburton, has joined Caltec as Business Development Director.

Based in Aberdeen, Mr Wingfield’s focus will be to roll out Caltec’s innovative production enhancement and compact separation technology to major operators and contractor companies in the UK and Norwegian North Sea and internationally.

Caltec’s unique technologies increase both production and recoverable reserves as well as extend the life of oil and gas assets.

Backed by Norwegian investors, Energy Ventures, the Cranfield based company specialise in gas and multi-phase production boosting by using a locally available high pressure source and its patented Wellcom boost jet pump system.

Caltec already have collaboration agreements with Statoil and Petrofac and Mr Wingfield will use his extensive international business development expertise to build new relationships in the oil and gas sector.

Mr Wingfield, who has taken an equity shareholding in Caltec, said: “The quality and innovativeness of Caltec’s solutions was the major factor in deciding to join the company.

“Many major producers have benefited from Caltec technologies both in the UK and overseas and it is now time to increase our international presence. I firmly believe the company’s technology has major competitive advantages to anything else in the market and this will play an increasingly important role in maximising production on assets in diverse and challenging environments across the globe.

“I am looking forward to using the experience gained while leading PSL’s internationalisation and growth strategy to the benefit of Caltec and promoting the company as best-in-class to potential clients.”

Caltec Chief Executive Officer, Dave Turley, said Mr Wingfield’s appointment marked the start of a managed expansion programme which would showcase the company’s technology in new markets and tap in to unlimited growth opportunities.

Mr Turley said: “This is a key appointment for Caltec and John Wingfield’s career to date and the success he achieved with PSL and other companies speaks for itself.

“We are delighted he is taking up the baton for Caltec and this signals the start of a very exciting new development phase for our company which has an abundance of talent and technical expertise to offer the energy sector.”

Caltec have opened a new office in Golden Square, Aberdeen, and plan to take on additional staff.

Ends

Note to Editors:

Caltec designs, develops and supplies equipment for improving productin from oil and gas wells. The company's patented and proven technology can significantly increase the volume of commercially extractable reserves from oil and gas fiels and reduce the environmental impact of such production.

Caltec have 38 international patents registered and has successfully implemented a large number of installations around the world on projects in countries including Oman, Kazakhstan, Iran, Thailand, Brazil, GoM, Nigeria, Alaska, UK and Norway.

Website: www.caltec.com

In 2003 John Wingfield was part of a four man MNO team what acquired the PSL business. Following rebranding and reorganisation, PSL Energy Services revenue increased from £18M to £74M in three years. In 2007 Halliburton acquired PSL and John became the UK Country Manager for Production Enhancement.

Issued on behalf of Caltec Limited by Sure Public Relations. For further information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

24 July 2008: Multiply Win Coeur de Cognac Promotional Campaign

Marketing communications agency Multiply have strengthened their relationship with Maxxium UK with the award of a below-the-line promotional campaign for Remy Martin’s Coeur de Cognac brand.

The Edinburgh based agency will create the 2008 campaign specifically targeting the luxury on and off trade.

The award is recognition of the work Multiply performed in 2007 for Maxxium when Coeur de Cognac was launched in the UK.

Emma McCaffery, Account Director at Multiply, said: “We first worked on the launch campaign for Coeur de Cognac and we are delighted to be offered the chance to work again with this premier brand.

“Our proposals were well received and this award extends our relationship with the Remy Martin brand team. The activity we have planned will be carefully targeted at the right people, in the right places, at the right time.”

Coeur de Cognac is an exciting new addition to the Remy Martin portfolio. It challenges tastes and perceptions and with its unique light and fruity taste it appeals to consumers who previous have not included cognac in their drinks repertoire.

ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland's largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

Issued on behalf of Multiply UK by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

10 July 2008: Multiply Heads For Hill As New Design Chief

Marketing communications agency, Multiply, have appointed Steve Hill as Head of Design as part of an expansion drive.

The Scottish agency, which counts ABSOLUT Vodka, Huggies nappies and Royal Bank of Scotland as clients, said the appointment was on the back of recent new business wins.

Hill joins Multiply from Glasgow agency Voltage where he was Creative Director. Prior to that he was with Barkers for four years as Senior Art Director, spent three years in London with Progression and started his career as a graphic designer with Cope & Glory in Kingston upon Thames.

An award winning designer, Hill has worked on national campaigns including BT Swimathon, the Rugby League World Cup and Nike ‘Run London’.

As Multiply’s Head of Design, Hill will have responsibility for moving the creative department forward and ensuring that its full potential is delivered.

Multiply director, Mark Fowlestone, said: “Appointing a head of design is key to focussing our creative talents and achieving the business targets we set out at the start of our financial year.

“At Multiply we work on huge range of creative campaigns, from classic design to sales promotions to web activities and Steve’s role will be to orchestrate that crucial creative process across all business lines.

“Steve is a first class design professional and I am sure he will make a big difference to our operation and further boost Multiply’s reputation as Scotland’s largest independent marketing comms agency.”

Steve Hill added: “It’s a great opportunity to work on such a varied roster of clients across so many sectors. The team at Multiply really know their stuff and this is an exciting time to join the business.”

ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Founded in 2003, Multiply is Scotland's largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

Issued on behalf of Multiply UK by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

7 July 2008: Paul Advances Insurance Career With Diploma

Insurance account handler, Paul Robertson, has gained an Advanced Diploma from the Chartered Insurance Institute.

Paul, 26, was supported by employers Central Insurance Services of Aberdeen in his four years studying for the qualification, which is recognised as the professional standard for insurance staff with aspirations of reaching a senior position within the industry.

The Advanced Diploma provides an enhanced understanding of insurance practice, both in terms of technical subject matter and overall management skills and entitles holders to use ACII following their name.

Paul joined Central Insurance four years ago after graduating with Honours in Law and Management from the Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, and began his CII studies, sitting exams at six monthly intervals.

He said: “I am delighted to achieve ACII status and gaining the Advanced Diploma will give me a platform to further my career in the insurance profession.”

Iain Henry, managing director of Central Insurance, said: “Paul has shown great determination and commitment to gain the Advanced Diploma and should be congratulated on reaching this important stage in his career.

“By supporting young insurance professionals like Paul in furthering their knowledge of the industry, we are securing the future of Central Insurance and ensuring our clients continue to benefit from the best professional advice the industry has to offer.”

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Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

4 July 2008: FG Burnett Clan Raise £3k For Cancer Charity

A 10-strong clan of property consultants raised more than £3000 for north of Scotland cancer charity CLAN.

The tenacious ten from FG Burnett in Aberdeen raised the funds in the recent Baker Hughes 10k Run held in the oil capital.

First home in a time of 49.28 minutes was Richard Noble, followed closely by fellow director David MacLeod on 50.36 minutes. Other team members were Carla Belli, Christopher Yannaghas, Jamie Watt, Kevin Jackson, Neil Strachan, Scott Strachan, Tineke Lilley and Donna Chapman.

Independent charity CLAN (Cancer Link Aberdeen & North) work with people affected by cancer in Aberdeen and across Grampian, Orkney and Shetland. Director Richard Noble said: “In the past some of the team had run as individuals in the race but this time we banded together for what turned out to be a great team effort.

“We all know someone or have a family member who has been affected by cancer at some time in their life so it’s very appropriate that we are supporting such a worthy charity as CLAN, which does tremendous work in the north of Scotland and beyond.”

CLAN Fundraising Coordinator, Duncan Charles, accepted a cheque for £3065 from the FG Burnett team when he visited their Aberdeen HQ. He said: “We are only able to continue the work we do with people affected by cancer through the support we receive from companies like FG Burnett and are grateful to each of the ten for their fund raising efforts.”

Ends

Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2 July: Musselburgh Racecourse Goes By The Bookies With Free Entry

Musselburgh Racecourse is allowing all punters free admission to their next meeting thanks to the generosity of bookies and caterers who work at the track.

The Free Family Day Race Meeting on Monday 7 July should attract a bumper crowd with the normal £13 entrance fee waived.

Bookies who attend Musselburgh and catering franchise holders have again underwritten the afternoon meeting following a trial last year which pulled in a crowd of more than 5000.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, said: “We are grateful again to the bookmakers and caterers who are funding this initiative which is a great way of attracting more people to come racing and of introducing people who have never gone racing before to Musselburgh.

“Last year surpassed all our expectations and we had more than 5000 adults and children making full use of the free entry. We are delighted the bookies and caterers are again supporting the meeting and we are grateful for their generosity which will hopefully result in another healthy gate on Monday. (7 July).

Andrew Collins, Betting Ring Manager at Musselburgh, said the 40 bookmakers who regularly work the course were happy to support the event and this reflected their good relationship with the East Lothian course’s management.

Mr Collins said: “It’s a generous gesture by the bookmakers and it reflects how they feel about the course and what the management are trying to achieve in improving gates.

“It’s a great deal for punters and especially people who have not been racing before that they can turn up at Musselburgh and don’t have the expense of the entrance fee.

“We hope that by supporting this race day it will attract more race goers who can enjoy the competitive betting ring and excellent facilities that are on offer at Musselburgh.”

Gates open at noon and the first race of seven is off at 2.15pm

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Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

24 June: Borders Gallery Extends Sell Out Bob Dylan Exhibition

Limited edition graphics by rock legend Bob Dylan sold out within four days of going on sale at Borders art gallery breeze. (correct spelling)

The breeze gallery in Peebles was one of only two Scottish galleries awarded the rights to showcase Dylan’s much anticipated The Drawn Blank series, which was limited to only 295 editions worldwide.

And due to the huge interest in the collection, gallery owner Bob Corsie has secured permission to extend the exhibition until Sunday 29 June and has sourced a small number of additional selected pieces for sale.

Based on drawings and sketches made by Dylan while on the road from 1989 to 1992, the watercolour and gouache paintings in The Drawn Blank Series were created during 2007 and visually echo the stylistic hallmarks of Dylan’s prose, poetry and music.

Each of the prints is individually signed by the rock hero and range in price from £1000 for a single print to £35,000 for the full set of 29 works.

Bob Corsie said: “The Drawn Blank exhibition created unprecedented interest and the breeze gallery’s allocated collection was a complete sell out with four days.

“We have permission to extend the exhibition until Sunday (29 June) and to support the extended exhibition the breeze buying team have secured a very small additional supply of selected pieces.

“We are aware that many of the visitors to the gallery were disappointed that they had missed out and we hope with this small additional supply will allow some people a second chance to buy an image of their choice.”

While Dylan has been a committed visual artist for more than 40 years, The Drawn Blank Series will cast a vibrant new light on the creativity of one of the world’s most important and influential cultural figures.

ends

Note to Editors: The Drawn Blank Series is at the breeze art gallery, 88 High Street, Peebles, until Sunday 29 June. Limited edition graphics start from £1000. Opening times are Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sunday 11am-4pm.

For more information please telephone 01721 721684, visit www.breeze-gallery.co.uk or www.washingtongreen.co.uk

Issued on behalf of breeze Art Gallery by Sure Public Relations. For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

12 June: C-SAM Reach Scottish Final of British Small Business Champions Awards

Software design experts C-SAM Ltd have reached the Scottish final of the British Small Business Champions (BSBC) Awards.

The Aberdeen firm will battle it out next week for a place in the national finals in London and if successful will join five other UK area champions to contest the £10,000 first prize.

The British Small Business Champions Awards was launched in 2002 by the FSB to celebrate the UK’s 4.3 million small businesses and is the only awards scheme solely for small businesses.

Each business must be established for at least five years, employ fewer than 50 staff, demonstrate professional competency and be held in high regard by customers and staff.

Six area champions will be chosen across the UK and will go forward for national judging with one of them being chosen the BSBC National Champion.

C-SAM Ltd develops innovative operational business management systems which provide clients with increased efficiency and visibility across all operations and can lead to substantial savings

Its area of expertise is in asset tracking with particular emphasis on equipment and people tracking which fully harness plant and manpower resources.

C-SAM’s product range - all developed in-house but capable of full 3rd party integration - can seamlessly manage operations ranging from supply chain management, HR and QHSE to tender and contract costing.

Formed in Aberdeen in 2001 by managing director Theresa Wheeler, C-SAM has built extensive relationships with blue chip clients in the oil, gas and construction industries ranging from Wood Group and Weatherford to Ferguson Group, Canyon Offshore and Integrated Subsea Services.

Managing director, Theresa Wheeler, said: “We are delighted to have reached the Scottish final and its wonderful recognition of how much we have achieved in the last seven years and a huge pat on the back for my hard working staff.”

A spokeswoman for the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “C-SAM offers a unique business service and its MD Theresa Wheeler has very positive plans for the future success of her business.”

C-SAM will find out if they have been successful at an awards dinner at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow next Wednesday (18 June). The National Champion will be announced at a dinner at Claridge’s Hotel in London on 21 November.

ends

Note to Editors: Corporate Software Asset Management (C-SAM Ltd) is based Bridge House, 1-2 Riverside Drive, Aberdeen, AB11 7LH.

C-SAM provides software business solutions to a wide range of clients, including Wood Group, FMC, Weatherford, MTM, Ferguson Group, Canyon Offshore, Integrated Subsea Services and V. People

Website: www.c-sam.co.uk

Issued on behalf of C-SAM Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

12 June: Musselburgh Racecourse Appoint New Commercial Manager

Musselburgh Racecourse has appointed Sarah Montgomery as Commercial Manager.

Sarah has held the same position at Hamilton Park race course since 2004 and takes over at the East Lothian dual purpose track from Claire Sheppard who was recently appointed Chief Executive at Plumpton Racecourse.

Sarah will be looking to build on Musselburgh’s successful positioning as one of the UK’s most stylish race courses and to add to the success of sell out race days such as last week’s Ladies Day which attracted an 8500 capacity crowd.

In her time at Hamilton recently married Sarah, (nee Johnson), grew sponsorship income by more than 70 per cent, maximised hospitality revenue streams and developed new website and email campaigns which resulted in online sales of more than 30 per cent.

The former Kilgraston School pupil and Edinburgh University social anthropology graduate previously worked for the Racecourse Association for four years.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “The commercial manager is a pivotal role at Musselburgh and is key to the future success of the course in building up revenue streams and maintaining our consistently high visitor standards.

“We are delighted to secure a racing professional like Sarah whose experience at Hamilton Park will be essential in ensuring Musselburgh retains and builds on its position as one the UK’s best race courses.”

Sarah Montgomery added: “This is an excellent career move for me and I am really looking forward to being part of Musselburgh’s successful team. While the role is similar to my position at Hamilton there are added responsibilities and being a dual purpose course I will gain experience in National Hunt racing to add to my flat racing credentials.”

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Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

11 June 2008: Office Experts asplanned Secure Fifth Digital Contract

Office design and installation company, asplanned, have secured their fifth project at Dundee’s digital media hub.

Scottish Television is the latest company to commission asplanned to manage their move to new offices at Seabraes House, which is recognised as Tayside’s digital media and creative industries centre.

The contract with Scottish Television follows on from four other projects for companies which have relocated to Seabraes and include thermal imaging experts, IRT Surveys, and game development studios Tag Games, Cohort Studios and Proper Games.

The value of the contracts exceeds six figures and strengthens asplanned’s position as one of the leading office design and move management company’s in Scotland.

Andy Stewart, asplanned managing director, said: “Seabraes House is a an important development in the continuing renewal of Dundee’s economic sector and we are delighted to be working with these five company’s as they establish themselves in new homes at Dundee’s excellent digital media centre.

“Our wide range of experience in office design and move management can be adapted to suit the needs of young cutting edge companies such as Tag Games, Proper Games and Cohort Studios, right through to established mainstream broadcasters such as Scottish Television.

“These recent successes are recognition of the value and expertise we bring to companies involved in the often fraught operations of uprooting and moving to new premises and lays the foundations for further expansion for asplanned throughout Scotland.”

A design-led agency, asplanned specialises in office design, refurbishment, relocation and move management and clients include a wide range of UK blue chip companies.

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Note to Editors: asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee and Aberdeen, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

10 June: Borders Art Gallery First to Showcase New Bob Dylan Collection

A Borders art gallery is one of only two Scottish galleries which has been awarded the rights to showcase the much anticipated first ever collection of limited edition graphics by rock icon Bob Dylan.

breeze (correct spelling) gallery in Peebles will present Dylan’s prestigious works from Saturday 14 June when the collection, entitled The Drawn Blank Series, will be unveiled for the first time.

Limited to editions of only 295 worldwide, these stunning graphics are set to take the art world by storm on release and breeze gallery owner Bob Corsie has pulled off something of a coup for his small emerging gallery in the Scottish border town.

Each of the prints is individually signed by the rock hero and range in price from £1000 for a single print to £35,000 for the full set of 29 works.

Samantha Jackson, marketing director of Washington Greene Fine Art Publishing, said: “This is an incredible and unique opportunity to view and acquire a limited edition graphic from the critically acclaimed body of work by Bob Dylan.

“For those people lucky enough to buy one of his graphics, they will not only own a magnificent piece of art but also a little piece of history. The art not only gives us an insight into the soul and imagination of Dylan the artist, but also Dylan the man.”

Bob Corsie, of breeze gallery, said: “This launch of Bob Dylan’s graphics collection will create massive interest and attract a whole new generation of art lover so I am particularly pleased to have secured the rights to showcase his work in Peebles.

“Since we opened the gallery three years ago we have been on a mission to make art more accessible to people who live in the Borders and as one of only two Scottish galleries who have the rights to present Dylan’s work we are well down the road to achieving that aim.”

Corsie’s gallery are holding a VIP champagne reception on Friday 13 June and in moves befitting the latest release of a world rock star, the collection will only be hung earlier that day but kept under wraps, with the gallery remaining closed all day until the nationwide release time of 6pm.

Bob Dylan is one of the world’s most popular and acclaimed songwriters, musicians and performers, having sold more than 110 million albums and performed around the world in a career spanning five decades.

Over the last 46 tears he has released 44 albums and written over 500 songs, including Blowin’ in the Wind, The Times They Are A-Changin, Like a Rolling Stone, Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door and Make You Feel My Love.

His songs have been recorded more than 3000 times by artists ranging from Duke Ellington to the Rolling Stones and from Bob Marley to Rod Stewart.

In 2001 he received a Golden Globe and Academy Award for best song from a motion picture for Things Have Changed, from the movie Wonder Boys and in April (08) he was awarded a special Pulitzer Prize for “his profound impact on popular music and American culture, marked by lyrical compositions of extraordinary poetic power."

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Note to Editors: The Drawn Blank Series premieres in breeze art gallery, 88 High Street, Peebles, on Saturday 14 June. Limited edition graphics start from £1000. Opening times are Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sunday 11am-4pm.

For more information please telephone 01721 721684, visit www.breeze-gallery.co.uk or www.washingtongreen.co.uk

Issued on behalf of breeze Art Gallery by Sure Public Relations. For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0)7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

9 June 2008: Key Appointment Is Music To Multiply's Ears

Music marketing expert Stuart Duncan has waved goodbye to radio to work with one of the world’s leading global brands.

The former head of marketing at radio station Xfm in Scotland has been appointed account director with Scotland’s leading independent marketing communications agency, Multiply UK.

One of his main responsibilities will be championing the marketing activities of global health and hygiene leader Kimberly-Clark and their disposable nappy brand Huggies.

During a 10 year music industry career Stuart was responsible for building Capital Radio’s Beat 106 into a brand leader and continued with the renamed Xfm under GCap Media ownership

The new role is a huge change of direction for a man more used to hob-knobbing with the Kaiser Chiefs but Stuart is looking forward to the challenge.

He said: “I’ve shifted from working with the biggest radio brand in UK to one of world’s biggest FMCG brands. I will be working across the UK and Europe, supporting Kimberly-Clark’s marketing teams in developing brand positioning and marketing strategies for key products like Huggies.

“I saw this as a great opportunity to work with one of the UK’s smartest marketing agencies and when I met the people behind Multiply I knew I could learn a lot of new skills while thriving on working in a new sector.”

Multiply UK company director, Mark Fowlestone, said: “It’s absolute result that Stuart has joined us and he adds strength to our senior level of management.

“Not only does he bring with him a wealth of experience in marketing comms which our clients expect, but also expertise in media, sponsorship and PR which I have no doubt will have a broader benefit to Multiply. He joins as an account director and if all else fails he’s a bloody good DJ, so the Xmas parties won’t go wanting.”

Founded in 2003, Multiply employs 30 staff and are currently on a recruitment drive as part of a progressive growth strategy. The Edinburgh based agency work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, ABSOLUT, Remy Martin and Royal Bank of Scotland.

ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Founded in 2003, Multiply UK is Scotland's largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

Issued on behalf of Multiply UK by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

9 June 2008: Queen Jill Drives Off With Stylish Suzuki Swift At Musselburgh Ladies Day

A 14-1 winner at Musselburgh Racecourse’s Ladies Day landed lucky Jill Sinclair of Langside, Glasgow, an £8500 Suzuki Swift super mini car.

Jill was one of 14 gorgeous ladies who made it to the final of Ladies Day’s Queen of Style competition which is the crowing glory of the course’s sell out race day.

Each of the fashionista finalists were asked to pick a horse from the 14 entries in the 5 furlong Lothian DAF Handicap sprint, and the lady who backed the winner also picked up the keys to the Suzuki Swift supplied by Belmont Suzuki.

The East Lothian track has built up Ladies Day in to one of the summer season’s most anticipated events and 8500 punters packed the course to capacity for the second successive year.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Claire Sheppard, said: “It’s been another outstanding success and the popularity of Ladies Day at Musselburgh just grows each year.

“We sold out weeks ago but could easily have sold another few thousand tickets if we had the capacity. A beautiful setting, top quality racing and first class prizes like the Suzuki Swift for our Queen of Style is a winning combination and we look forward to repeating this next year.”

Bill Oliver, General Manager at Belmont Suzuki, said: “The Suzuki Swift was the obvious choice of car to provide as a prize for the Queen of Style, as it’s fun, desirable and stylish. Ladies Day is always a memorable event and I am sure Jill will remember it for a long time to come.”

Leading department store, John Lewis, also sponsored three Fashion in the Field events – Black Bottle King of Style, Most Stylish Hat and Style Icons – providing shopping vouchers and Pommery Champagne as prizes.

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Note to Editors: Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

This year the Queen of Style was sponsored by local Suzuki dealership, Belmont Suzuki, front runners in offering great deals and savings on new and used Suzukis in Edinburgh.

Other Fashion in the Field winners: King of Style, Alan Lawrie of Musselburgh; Best Hat, Joan Davidson of Grangemouth; Style Icons, Elspeth Fleming and friends, Musselburgh.

Website: http://www.jmgroup.co.uk/belmont/suzuki.htm

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

5 June 2008: Owner Occupiers Add Heat To Aberdeen Commercial Property Market

Owner occupiers are slugging it out with investors as commercial property prices in Aberdeen continue to rise despite the credit crunch doom and gloom.

Property consultants FG Burnett report that owner occupiers are now willing to pay more for a vacant building than investors are for similar buildings with an income stream.

FG Burnett director, David MacLeod, said that Aberdeen’s status as a global energy hub shelters the city from most economic storms and the commercial property market is enjoying a level of demand on a par with any period in the city’s history.

Mr MacLeod said: “While it would be ridiculous to suggest Aberdeen is immune from the effects of the credit crunch, economic activity in the North East remains at a very high level.

“We are seeing an interesting divergence in the market between investment properties and those that are available with vacant possession and of interest to owner occupiers.

“Owner occupiers are willing to pay more for a vacant building than investors are for similar buildings with income streams. This appears to fly in the face of conventional valuation logic – the vacant possession value of a building is usually the lower value and when a tenant is secured and an income stream created this would usually create a higher value. “

FG Burnett have recently been involved in the sale of two small west end office suites which are an excellent example of this issue. The first sale was subject to a lease with three years to expiry, so the purchaser was an investor and was successful after a closing date against eight other offers. When a similar suite was sold with the benefit of vacant possession 15 offers were received and the successful owner occupier paid a price per sq ft which was 45% higher than the property sold subject to a lease.

Mr MacLeod added: “These figures are staggering and while not representative of the average “premium” between investment and vacant possession properties, they do clearly show that owner occupiers are willing to be very competitive to secure property.”

FG Burnett report that tenant and owner occupier demand for office and industrial space in north east Scotland remains high – the limited supply of both land and buildings has seen rents and capital values rising quickly over the last 24 months. Business land values have more than doubled in that time and, for example, prime West End office rentals have risen from circa £20 sq ft to circa £30 sq ft.

Although local occupier demand is still very strong, the commercial investment market has had a very quick correction since the summer of 2007 and investment values have fallen across the board.

“It’s fair to say that the investment market had started to fall before the start of the credit crunch, however the difficulty in securing debt and the price of securing that debt has undoubtedly accelerated the correction in the market

“What is fascinating about the Aberdeen market is that the demand from the owner occupier market seems to be as strong as ever. Prices continue to increase and it will be interesting to see whether the level of demand from this sector is affected by the tightening in the credit markets.”

Although some owner occupiers are cash buyers, the majority are debt buyers and it is reasonable to assume that they will now be paying more for their debt. All things being equal, that may lead to prices hitting a plateau, however rents in some areas of Aberdeen are rising quickly and that has a bearing on what owner/occupiers are willing to pay.

Mr MacLeod concluded: “Owner/occupiers tend to be locally based companies rather than national/international corporates and a high level of demand is an expression of the confidence that these companies have in the local economy and their desire to own rather than lease property.

“Given the long terms prospects for Aberdeen we expect to see owner occupiers becoming even more formidable players in the local property market.”

ends

Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

5 June 2008: Express Buses Laid On For Sell Out Musselburgh Ladies Day

Musselburgh Racecourse is putting on an express bus service from Edinburgh’s Waverley Station to the East Lothian course for race goers attending the sell out Ladies Day on Saturday. (7 June).

Buses leave at 12.15pm prompt and return to the city centre when the race course bars close at 7pm. Return fare is priced at £7 and tickets must be booked online in advance with bookings accepted up to midnight on Friday.

An 8300 capacity crowd will attend Musselburgh’s biggest race day of the year but Ladies Day’s best dressed lady won’t need a seat on the bus as she will drive off with an £8500 Suzuki Swift mini car provided by Belmont Suzuki as first prize in the Queen of Style competition.

Visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk to reserve a seat on the express bus.

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

28 May 2008: Multiply Dances Off With ISP Awards For ABSOLUT Disco Campaign

A Scottish marketing communication agency has pulled off a hat trick of wins at the Institute of Sales Promotions Awards (ISP).

Edinburgh based Multiply UK won three Silver Awards for their work on promoting drink giant Maxxium’s ABSOLUT Disco vodka brand.

Multiply devised a brand experience campaign, Dance Like No One’s Watching, which targeted aspirational drinkers in upmarket UK style bars who fitted the ABSOLUT consumer profile.

Inspired by ABSOLUT’s platform ‘In An ABSOLUT World’, the campaign was based on the premise that in an ABSOLUT world people would express themselves freely and dance like no one was watching.

Individual drinkers were invited in to a disco pod booth where they could dance in their own unique style for 30 seconds while their efforts were beamed on to plasma screens for other customers to enjoy. Stylish dancers were rewarded with an ABSOLUT Disco cocktail.

As a result the campaign produced a major buzz and greater recognition of the brand in the run up to the strategically important Christmas party season.

Multiply, the largest independently owned Scottish marketing agency, received the most ISP nominations outside of London based agencies.

The ISP Awards, which this year received 320 entries, is recognised as the sales promotion industry’s Oscars and Multiply managing director, Mark Fowlestone, picked up the awards at a ceremony at London’s InterContinental Hotel Park Lane.

Mr Fowlestone said: “It’s great for a Scottish agency like ours to get this sort of national recognition. It just goes to show what you can achieve when a great client, a great brand and great creative come together.”

Linda Phillips, ABSOLUT Brand Manager (Maxxium) said: “Multiply really delivered for us with this promotion. Since they joined our agency roster last year they’ve added real value to our brand communication strategy.”

Employing 30 staff and currently on a recruitment drive, Multiply work on a wide range of brand innovating campaigns for clients including Maxxium, Huggies, Kleenex, ABSOLUT, Remy Martin and Royal Bank of Scotland.

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.multiplyuk.com

Multiply won ISP Silver Awards in three categories - Alcoholic Drinks, Experiential Marketing and Trial and Awareness.

Founded in 2003, Multiply UK is Scotland's largest independently owned marketing communications agency and is based at 23 Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PS.

Issued on behalf of Multiply UK by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.u

28 May 2008: Rob Saddles Up For Ops Role At Musselburgh Racecourse

Musselburgh Racecourse has appointed Robert Hogarth as Operations Executive, tasked with improving customer service at the East Lothian track.

Robert is a well known horse trials and racecourse commentator and radio presenter and worked recently at Radio Borders and was previously with Radio Forth and Beat 106.

He joins the commercial department team at Musselburgh and will be responsible for managing the racecourse’s online and e-ticketing systems, managing customer race day services, liaising with caterers and project managing the track’s Green Tourism scheme and travel plan.

Bill Farnsworth, general manager of Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Robert is an important addition to our commercial team and will drive forward our ongoing improvement plans to ensure customers enjoy the experience of going racing at Musselburgh.

“Working with our committed staff, he will aim to maintain our VisitScotland five star visitor attraction status, and reputation for providing value for money and always putting the customer first.”

Robert said of his appointment: “With a lifelong interest in all things equestrian, this is the ideal job for me and I am delighted to be joining such a forward thinking race course.

“I hope to add to Musselburgh’s growing reputation for a first class visitor experience and to drive more business to Scotland’s most stylish race track.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 May 2008: Surveyors FG Burnett Warn Short Term Leases Can Lead To Costly Repairs Bill

Businesses signing up for five or ten year property leases could be hit with substantial end-of-term bills unless they take sound professional advice.

Chartered building surveyor, Robert Scott, issued the warning after it emerged one major Scottish company was faced with dilapidation costs of more than £150,000 at the termination of a five year lease of an industrial unit.

The situation has come to the fore as more companies opt for shorter lease terms which contain maintenance and repair clauses more aligned to the traditional 25 year leases of the past.

Mr Scott, a director with property consultants FG Burnett, said it was imperative that companies seek advice from a chartered surveyor and solicitor at the start of their lease term to avoid unnecessary financial burdens.

Mr Scott explained: “There has been a big shift from the standard commercial 25 year lease to shorter durations with break options which suit the short term occupier. But what hasn’t changed in many cases is the wording in the lease which covers dilapidations and repairs and many tenants are not fully aware of the implications of potentially disastrous financial liabilities which are often incurred at the lease end.

“If a tenant occupies a building for 25 years it is reasonable that they should be expected to put right things like windows, roofs, lifts, heating systems, boilers and the like, often making financial provision for these during their long term lease period. But such all encompassing clauses in a five or ten year lease can be oppressive and potentially very damaging to small businesses.

“Unless the tenant is particularly careful and takes professional advice they can find themselves having to pay out huge sums on dilapidations which may have existed prior to the start of occupation.”

According to Mr Scott, new tenants should take the joint advice of a lawyer and chartered building surveyor who will advise on the most appropriate means to mitigate the financial ‘hit’ at lease end. This could include a full survey to highlight the possible repairs which may be required during the lease, or it may be preparation of a detailed ‘record of condition’ document which can be appended to the lease at the outset. Careful examination of the repair and decoration clauses by a commercially aware solicitor can also be of considerable value.

He added: “Many businesses just want in to a building and to start trading as soon as possible. Their view is they will worry about dilapidations later, which are five or ten years down the line, but that short term view can prove very costly in the long run.

“A chartered building surveyor can advise businesses how to mitigate against this situation by properly surveying and recording the condition of the building at the start of the lease and with advice on what is likely to need repair during the term of the lease.”

In one recent case a Scottish company coming to the end of a lease period was facing repair and dilapidation costs of more than £150,000, but FG Burnett were able to refer to a schedule of condition prepared at the start of the lease and negotiated the landlord’s bill down to a figure nearer £40,000.

In another case in which FG Burnett were acting for the landlord, a business owner was so enraged at being faced with hefty repair charges that he offered to settle the matter with fists rather than finance.

Mr Scott added: “In the first case the property had changed ownership during the lease and the new landlord was not aware our client had a schedule of condition prepared at the start of the lease which protected them against excessive repair costs. We were able to refer to the schedule and save our client more than £100,000.

“This clearly demonstrates why it is important for all businesses to consult with a chartered building surveyor before they sign a property lease.”

Ends

Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd and Atholls by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

15 May 2008: Sold Out At Musselburgh Ladies Day For Second Year

Musselburgh Racecourse’s Ladies Day has put the Sold Out signs up for the second year in a row.

Staff at the East Lothian course are still being inundated with booking inquiries but there are no tickets available for the Saturday 7 June race meeting.

The last of the 8200 tickets were snapped up by the Tuesday deadline (13 May) set when it became apparent the meeting was heading towards a sell out.

The annual Ladies Day meeting has become such a success that Musselburgh has replicated the record set last year when it became the first ever Scottish race course to sell out a meeting in advance.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Claire Sheppard, said: “We are truly sorry to have to disappoint people who wanted to be at Ladies Day but there is not a ticket to be had in any section of the course.

“We have done our best to alert people to the fact it was going to be a sell out and that they must secure their tickets. We’re still getting dozens of daily phone calls from race goers wanting to attend but unfortunately there is nothing we can do.

“We are staging a number of other attractive race meetings in the coming weeks, including our Forth One Party Night on Friday 30 May, and many people who can’t get in to Ladies Day are opting to attend this meeting.

“To sell out Ladies Day for the second year in a row is a wonderful achievement and we are looking forward to another great day’s racing at Musselburgh on 7 June.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

14 May 2008: Former VetcoGray Base Sold In £3 Million Deal By FG Burnett

General Electric has sold their offices in Broadfold Road, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, to integrated environmental services specialist TWMA in a £3million deal.

Property consultants FG Burnett acted on behalf of the vendor while Atholls Chartered Surveyors represented the buyer.

Underlining the strength of the Aberdeen commercial property market, the 27,000 sq ft former VetcoGray building, was sold prior to the launch of a marketing campaign.

In a joint statement, FG Burnett director, Graeme Watt and Atholls partner Gordon Fettes, said: “Using our insight and knowledge of the Aberdeen property market we were both able to facilitate the sale and purchase before the property was placed on the open market.

“The buoyancy of the north east commercial property sector has seen demand outstripping supply and the high level of interest in this type of property means many will be snapped up before the start of formal marketing campaigns.

“Using the services of a respected and knowledgeable property consultancy ensures that vendors and prospective purchasers can be efficiently matched and for clients seeking to move or expand it may prove to be a telling factor in securing the preferred premises to grow their business.”

TWMA plans to relocate most of its staff from its base at East Tullos to the new HQ in September.

ends

Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Atholls were founded in July 2005 and since then has seen rapid expansion with the opening of offices in Aberdeen, Dundee and Inverurie. Through their network of offices, Atholls can provide a wide range of professional commercial services which include commercial valuations, sales, lettings and acquisitions of all types of property as well as all other aspects of commercial work.

Atholls are a multi-disciplinary surveying practice and can also provide all aspects of residential work, property management, project and contract management to both commercial and residential property throughout Scotland.

Website: www.atholls.com

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd and Atholls by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

9 May 2008: Musselburgh Ladies Day Swiftly Heads For Second Sell Out

Musselburgh Racecourse is moving swiftly to another Ladies Day record sell out.

At the official launch of Musselburgh Ladies Day, the East Lothian course revealed they have only 800 tickets left for the hugely popular race day on Saturday 7 June.

This is despite increasing the capacity for race goers by 1000 to 8200 and with still four weeks to go it’s expected Musselburgh will be putting up the ‘Sold Out’ signs for the second year in a row.

Forth One radio presenter and television sports host Grant Stott, who will compere Ladies Day, and model Rachel Mazzuchin were first to try out an £8000 Suzuki Swift super mini, provided by Belmont Suzuki as the first prize for the Queen of Style competition for the best dressed lady at Ladies Day.

Now in its sixth year, Musselburgh Ladies Day has increased attendance year on year and the race course is on track to repeat last year’s record of being the first Scottish racing event to sell out in advance.

Grant Stott said: “Musselburgh leads the field when it comes to putting on stylish events and Ladies Day is now a must-do date on a lot of people’s social calendar. It’s not only heading for another sell out on 7 June but they are going one better by offering this cracking Suzuki Swift as first prize to the best dressed lady on the day.”

Bill Oliver, General Manager at Belmont Suzuki, said: “The Suzuki Swift was the obvious choice of car to provide as a prize for the Queen of Style, as it’s fun, desirable and stylish. Ladies Day is always a memorable event, but for whoever wins this great prize, it’s definitely going to be a day to remember.”

Claire Sheppard, commercial manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “We’ve upped the public sale from 6000 to 7000 (1200 are allocated to owners/trainers and corporate sales) and it’s still not enough because we fully expect to sell our remaining tickets this week.

“We are genuinely blown away by the success of Ladies Day but on the other hand its testimony to all the hard work put in by our team over the years to build this event in to the extremely popular race day it has become.

“While we are driving toward another record race day, one lucky lady will be driving off with a stylish Suzuki Swift thanks to our sponsors Belmont Suzuki. It’s all heading towards another fantastic day’s racing at Musselburgh”.

Leading department store, John Lewis, is sponsoring three Fashion in the Field events – Black Bottle King of Style, Most Stylish Hat and Style Icons – with shopping vouchers and Pommery Champagne as prizes.

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 May 2008: C-SAM Tick All Software Boxes

Software design specialist C-SAM Ltd has ticked all the boxes by gaining ISO 9001 and TickIT accreditation for their quality assurance and software development procedures.

Aberdeen-based C-SAM is one of only 1400 companies worldwide which have been awarded TickIT status by DNV. C-SAM designs software solutions to the oil and gas industry and recently won more than £500,000 in contracts in the subsea sector working for TS Marine, Canyon Offshore and Subsea Integrated Services.

ISO 9001 is the internationally recognised standard for companies which consistently provide products which meet customer and regulatory standards, while TickIT is an industry hallmark for software development and supply companies.

TickIT is a quality management system which is recognised by all UK Government departments and purchasers and is aimed at improving the quality of software development and its application in industry.

It signifies that C-SAM is a software development company which have followed TickIT guidance and certification procedures and have implemented a quality system which covers all business processes in the product life cycle.

C-SAM managing director, Theresa Wheeler, said: “Attaining ISO 9001 status demonstrates the maturity of our company and underlines our commitment to constantly providing excellent customer service.

“Some software companies are simply resellers of software packages but all our products are devised and developed in-house. As a genuine developer of our own suite of software products we thought it was important to gain TickIT accreditation.

“Securing TickIT approval means our customers can have confidence that our products and procedures have benefited from stringent quality management controls from inception to final delivery and this minimises risk and improves all round efficiency of our products.

“It also means our growing client base can be assured that we are serious about quality and management control and are working to the highest industry standards.”

Ends

Note to Editors: Corporate Software Asset Management (C-SAM Ltd) is based Bridge House, 1-2 Riverside Drive, Aberdeen, AB11 7LH.

C-SAM provides software business solutions to a wide range of clients, including Wood Group, FMC, Weatherford, MTM, Ferguson Group, Canyon Offshore, Integrated Subsea Services and V. People

Website: www.c-sam.co.uk

Issued on behalf of C-SAM Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

5 May 2008: Musselburgh Racecourse Adds Fizz With Pommery Champagne Bar

Musselburgh Racecourse has added some extra fizz for race goers with the opening of a new Pommery Champagne Bar.

Forth One breakfast show presenters Boogie and Jill McLaren were first to sample some of the prestige bubbly and cocktails on offer and performed the official opening of the bar at Scotland’s most stylish race course.

The dedicated champagne bar, opened in conjunction with race course hospitality providers Heritage Portfolio, is one of a number of new initiatives planned to improve customer facilities at the East Lothian track.

A five star VisitScotland tourism attraction, Musselburgh has a reputation for providing a first class visitor experience and other improvements to bar and food outlets is scheduled throughout the year.

Claire Sheppard, Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, said: “Until now we have had a dedicated champagne marquee in the grounds and that has proved so popular that we recognised the Pommery Champagne Bar should become a permanent venue at the racecourse.

“Working with Heritage Portfolio we have refurbished an existing building to provide a stylish addition to the existing bar facilities where race goers can enjoy a wide range of Pommery champagnes and champagne based cocktails.”

The champagne bar, located in the former totesport shop, is elegantly furnished, has multiple plasma television screens and its own tote betting facility.

Mark Miller, executive director of Heritage Portfolio, added: “As a venue the racecourse is constantly looking for ways to change and improve their services and we realised a champagne bar was a natural extension of the facilities we currently provide. The new champagne bar will be a great addition to the racecourse facilities and there are more new initiatives in the pipeline which will ensure Musselburgh stays at the front of the field.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

30 April 2008: Imaging Specialist R2S Snaps Up Bibby Offshore Contract

R2S Technologies have signed a six figure contract with Bibby Offshore and Integrated Subsea Services to provide a revolutionary visual asset management system for Bibby’s fleet of vessels.

Aberdeen based R2S deploys a range of specialised photography and specialist software to visually capture key assets using 360° spherical images.

The images can be populated with seamless interlinked scenes and multiple data formats and can feature hotspot links to plans, photographs, documents, video, audio and most digital file types.

Work has already begun on the diving support vessels Bibby Sapphire and Bibby Topaz and will be rolled out to other key assets in the Bibby fleet. The high-definition system will provide navigation walk-through and real life access to all areas of their vessels.

Through the unique combination of 360° photography and purpose-designed software, R2S allows end users to execute a wide range of asset management strategies and can be used to plan and record safety plans, train and induct staff and rehearse emergency scenarios.

As an intuitive asset management system, R2S can be fully integrated across the Bibby business portfolio. Informed decisions will be made easier and quicker, irrespective of location or time zone, as all decision makers have the ability to quickly familiarise themselves in the asset. Information is easily stored, accessed and distributed, simplifying change control and aiding improved management of projects.

Deploying R2S will help Bibby to increase operational efficiency and encourage and support the promotion of collaboration, communication and teamwork. The system also assists Bibby in training and familiarising staff prior to boarding vessels which maximises resources and reduces costs.

Managing Director of R2S Technologies, Brian Dillon, said: “This contract is one of three awarded to R2S in recent months by energy sector clients worth a total of more than £250,000.

“It is a key contract award and strengthens our position as a provider of unique technological solutions to the oil and gas sector as well as cementing our relationship with Bibby Offshore and creating a platform for both companies to develop a strategic partnership.

“These contract awards will see R2S expand their UK operations and result in a requirement for additional staff.”

Howard Woodcock, Chief Executive of Bibby Offshore, said: “Bibby Offshore is keen to use innovative technologies wherever possible and we see the value in working with R2S on this type of offshore application.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

R2S products revolutionise the way data recorded on location is collated, shared and managed, allowing secure, remote, multi-user, visual access to all location data as it is collected or updated. This improves team collaboration, reduces duplication of effort, negates location visits/revisits and drastically reduces the time and effort required to familiarise and orientate team members.

R2S is part of the R2S Technologies Group of companies which include Max and Co and R2S Crime. R2S has offices in Aberdeen and London.

Website: www.R2S.co.uk

Bibby Offshore is part of Bibby Line Group Limited, one of the oldest privately owned shipping companies in the world. Based in Aberdeen, Bibby Offshore delivers offshore and subsea services to the global oil and gas industry.

Website: www.bibbyoffshore.com

Issued on behald of R2S Technologies by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764.

28 April 2008: Champion Technologies Pass Acid Test With New Blending Plant

Oilfield speciality chemical company, Champion Technologies, has invested £120,000 in a new acid blending plant and acetic acid bulk storage facility at their European headquarters in Aberdeen.

The capital expenditure is part of an ongoing modernisation programme at Champion’s Altens base and is designed to strengthen the company’s position as one of the major providers of chemicals to the North Sea oil and gas industry.

Future plans include the building of a £3 million state of the art laboratory and technical centre to serve the company’s North Sea and eastern hemisphere operations.

The 55,000 litre acid blending plant with gas scrubber unit is COMAH* approved and exceeds the latest health and safety regulations. Additionally the installation of a bulk acetic acid storage tank allows Champion to improve health and safety procedures by minimising manual handling.

Typically operators and contractors use hydrochloric blends for descaling procedures on pipelines and subsea structures. The only north of Scotland based company which provides a full range of acid blending services to the oil and gas industry, Champion also supplies a full range of oilfield production chemicals from its Aberdeen facility.

Champion Technologies Plant Manager, Les Alves, said: “This latest investment continues to demonstrate the level of commitment Champion Technologies has to maintaining its excellent safety record and its focus to continue to provide a unique service to its customer base.

“We can now blend larger quantities of hydrochloric acid which can be stored in vessel ready containers, ready to be transported offshore. As the only major acid blender in the north of Scotland we are perfectly positioned to extend the range of services we can offer to oil and gas sector clients.

“This investment also reflects the importance we place on the safety of our staff who are engaged in specialist operations. The new acetic acid bulk storage facility drastically cuts down on the need to manoeuvre IBCs* in to position at the start and end of the blending process and also saves time and minimises risk.”

ends

Note to Editors:

Orignally started in West Texas, USA, over 50 years ago, Champion (a Permian Mud Service company) has become the second largest global oilfield production chemical company with staffed operations of about 2000 people.

In more than 30 countries, Champion has significant presence in the major oilfield areas of the world and resources include worldwide manufacturing, blending and distribution capablities.

Champion Technologies (UK) Ltd, is based a W.Sam White Building, Peterseat Drive, Altens, Aberdeen, AB12 3HT.

*COMAH - Control of Major Accident Hazards - which regulates storage facilities for companies working in the chemicals industry.

*IBC - intermediate bulk container.

Website: www.champ-tech.com

Issued on behalf of Champion Technologies (UK) Ltd by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

24 April 2008: Musselburgh's Sheppard Plumps For Chief Executive Role

Musselburgh Racecourse is parting company with their highly respected Commercial Manager, Claire Sheppard, who has been appointed Chief Executive of Plumpton Racecourse in Sussex.

In a five year period Claire Sheppard, 35, has been played a leading role in building up Musselburgh’s reputation as one of the UK’s most stylish and forward thinking race courses.

Under her watch Musselburgh has won a clutch of awards for their innovative race days and she has overseen the steady growth of the annual Ladies Day event until last year when the event became the first Scottish race day to sell out in advance.

Claire has played a pivotal role in driving up attendances and market share at Musselburgh during increasingly competitive times in the racing industry. She joins Plumpton on 14 July and her last race day at Musselburgh will be the Macmillan Cancer Support Race Night on 30 June.

Musselburgh general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “We are very sorry to lose Claire who had done a fantastic job and made a huge impact at Musselburgh during her time here. She certainly deserves the opportunity to run a race course and from a competitive point of view we are just pleased it’s Sussex she is moving to and not nearer to Musselburgh.”

Claire Sheppard said: “My five years at Musselburgh have been the happiest and most rewarding of my professional life and I will greatly miss the whole team involved. There have been many highlights including modern day record attendances for the racecourse, the first advance sell out of Ladies Day in Scottish racing history, gaining five star Visit Scotland accreditation, and winning a Thistle Award for marketing.

“I wish Musselburgh Racecourse all the very best for the future and it is well placed to continue to go from strength to strength with a new catering structure in place and a modern stable development imminent.”

Plumpton Racecourse Chairman, Peter Savill, said: “We are delighted to welcome Claire on board and are confident she has all the credentials to take Plumpton to the next level and build on the growth and improvements that have taken place over the past ten years.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

23 April 2008: Peebles Tourism Push Nets £690,000 New Business For Town

Peebles Traders Association has succeeded in driving up business and pulling in an extra 17,400 visitors to the Borders town in 2007.

Research on a number of year-long marketing campaigns show visitor numbers were up by 15% and that local retailers, hotels, restaurants and inns benefited to the tune of an estimated £692,000.

During 2007 Peebles Traders Association (PTA) undertook a number of marketing initiatives which included a high quality Peebles Town Guide, a new look website, a bus poster advertising drive, promotional postcards and a PR campaign in local and national media.

All played a part in showcasing the attraction of Peebles as a shopping and tourist destination and brought in new business to the historic town and surrounding businesses.

An evaluation report showed:

Peebles attracted an additional 17,400 visitors (total 133,400) in 2007 compared to 2006.
13,920 were day trippers while 3480 were overnight visitors.
Day trippers spent an estimated extra £92,600 locally.
Overnight visitors boosted the local economy by an estimated extra £599,200.

The report revealed 35% were first time visitors to Peebles while the top activities when in the town was shopping, dining, walking and visiting a visitor attraction.

Visitors said they liked independent shopping on offer, the relaxed and friendly atmosphere; location and scenery; the River Tweed walkway and small town/quaint atmosphere.

Peebles Traders Association is supported by 50 local businesses and has received funding from Scottish Borders Council, the Peebles Common Good and VisitScotland’s Challenge Fund.

Bob Corsie, chairman of the Peebles Traders Association, said: “This report confirms that our ongoing campaign to firmly establish Peebles as a unique visitor destination both locally and nationally is paying off in real, measurable terms.

“The increase in visitors and in spending in the local economy is extremely encouraging but we can’t afford to stand still and this is only a fraction of what can be achieved if the town’s retailers, visitor attractions, civic authorities and politicians work together.

“The PTA is currently trying to secure the funding needed to drive our marketing campaigns and other initiatives to a higher level in 2008 and we are positive they will bring real tangible benefits to the town’s businesses and residents.”

Councillor Catriona Bhatia, who represents Tweeddale West on Borders Council, said: “In the face of increasingly difficult and competitive trading conditions the Peebles Traders Association has done a fantastic job to promote the town and to encourage more visitors to Peebles. Every visitor cannot fail to be impressed by the variety of shops, and the friendly service which is offered throughout the town.

“I will certainly continue to support the efforts of the PTA and encourage the Council to work to improve the High Street to complement all of the traders, and to keep attracting visitors throughout the year.”

Local MP David Mundell, who represents Tweeddale, called on councillors and businesses to continue backing the PTA in their campaign to put Peebles on the map.

Mr Mundell said: “I believe that a vibrant High Street is vital to a vibrant community and that’s what has been achieved here in Peebles and I am delighted to give my support to the work of the Peebles Traders Association.

“They are a go-ahead organisation, always striving to improve what Peebles has to offer to visitors and locals alike. Rather than rest on its laurels as having a unique range of shops and services, Peebles continues to work on attracting new visitors from Glasgow and Edinburgh and indeed other parts of the Borders and the PTA are in the vanguard of that effort.”

Sandi Hellowell, regional manager for VisitScotland said: “This is excellent news for the Peebles Traders Association and highlights a major boost for tourism in the Borders.

“The VisitScotland Challenge fund, now called the VisitScotland Growth Fund, is designed to encourage partnership working within the tourism industry and I’m delighted to see a great example of this occurring in the Borders. I am sure the PTA can continue to build on their success and cement Peebles as a top visitor destination.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.peebles.info

Issued on behalf of Peebles Traders Association by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

18 April 2008: Caterers Saddle Up With New Musselburgh Racecourse Contracts

The race to win lucrative catering and bar contracts at Musselburgh Racecourse has ended in a three way photo-finish.

The £1 million plus contracts covers corporate hospitality, fine dining, seven bars, a bistro and fast food outlets at the East Lothian course.

Heritage Portfolio has retained the corporate hospitality and fine dining concessions and as part of the deal will provide capital to open and run a designated Pommery Champagne Bar adjacent to the existing champagne lawn area. Heritage will also take over the running of Freddie’s Bar and there are plans to introduce food in the grandstand located bar for the first time.

Rosie Cully has had her contract to run the Old Weighing Room Bistro renewed and will take on the added responsibility of operating the Owners and Members Bar. And Countryside Refreshments will take over the running of several bars, including the Rockavon Bar, Dizzy’s Bar and the Pinkie Bar and will continue to provide the fast food mobile units dotted around the course.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth, said: “We put our catering and bar contracts out to tender for the first time in six years but it was never just about increasing revenue and always about providing better facilities for our customers.

“We have changed from four to three operators and believe we now have an excellent team who compliment each other’s strengths. As part of the new contract Heritage Portfolio are financing improvements to certain facilities around the course including the opening of a new Pommery Champagne Bar which will be very popular on race days.

“Recent market research pinpointed that we had to make changes to ensure we maintained our excellent record for customer service and we are confident race goers will benefit from a slicker, more stream lined service in all our bars restaurants and hospitality areas.

“The racing and leisure industry is extremely competitive and only by constantly refining and improving our services will we stay ahead of the field and protect our position as one of the UK’s leading race courses.”

In addition to staging 25 flat and jump race days a year the East Lothian track hosts an additional 100 events each year which bring in an estimated 90,000 visitors.

Mark Miller, executive director of Heritage Portfolio, added: "We have been working with Musselburgh Racecourse for over six years now and we’re delighted to be able to extend that relationship.

“As a venue the racecourse is very innovative and constantly looking for ways to change and improve their services - we thrive in this type of environment and indeed encourage it. The new champagne bar will be a great addition to the racecourse facilities and there are more new initiatives in the pipeline which will ensure Musselburgh stays at the front of the field.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

17 April 2008: Life's A Beach For Borders Art Gallery breeze

An art gallery is bringing the beach to the Borders as part of an exhibition featuring artists specialising in seascapes.

breeze art gallery in Peebles will be transformed with a carpet of sand, seashells and beach flotsam as part of their Beyond the Waves exhibition which runs for two weeks from Saturday. (19 April).

The exhibition features four leading artists and the theme of each collection of works will be connected to the sea, coastline or water.

Breeze will be showcasing two new artists for the first time – former catwalk model and actress Julie Ann Scott and Napier University lecturer and community art worker David Graham.

Rob Ford and Wendy Corbett, both from the Washington Green stable, make up the quartet and both take inspiration for their work from the coastal areas of Essex and Devon where they live, respectively.

breeze gallery owner Bob Corsie, said: “We are really excited about this new exhibition and are getting in to the spirit by dressing up the gallery with a beach theme to fit with the subject matter.

“We are delighted to welcome back Rob Ford who exhibited last year at breeze and to have the chance to show the works of his Washington Green colleague Wendy Corbett.

“But we are especially pleased to be able to embrace two artists who are new to breeze and I am sure Julie Ann Scott and David Graham will prove very popular with our regular collectors and first time visitors to the gallery.”

Edinburgh College of Art trained David Graham is a newcomer to breeze and will be featuring some of his work showing the rugged Scottish coastline. A qualified art teacher, David works with a number of outreach community art projects in Edinburgh and West Lothian assisting promising artists.

Bob Corsie added: “David Graham spends his professional life encouraging others to express their talents through art but we are delighted to throw the spotlight on him for a change and showcase his very individual and powerfully emotional work.”

Ends

Note to Editors: To attend a private viewing of Beyond the Waves, contact the gallery on 01721 721684 or email gallery@breeze-home.co.uk

breeze Art Gallery was founded by Mandy and Bob Corsie in October 2005 and is located at 88 High Street, Peebles, EH45 8AN.

breeze represents around 80 artists and has access to approximately 3500 pieces at any given time.

For further information on Breeze Art Gallery visit:www.breeze-gallery.co.uk

Issued on behalf of breeze Art Gallery by Sure Public Relations. For more information please contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2 April 2008: Musselburgh Racecourse In Marketing Mix For Top Award

Musselburgh Racecourse has been short listed in the prestigious Marketing Excellence Awards Scotland organised by the Marketing Society.

The East Lothian course has been nominated in the Event Excellence category for its promotional work on the annual Ladies Day event.

Now in its sixth year, Musselburgh’s Ladies Day has become one of the most popular events in the Scottish racing calendar and last year broke records when the event became the first Scottish race day to sell out in advance.

Musselburgh is competing against the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (Go Forth and Give Blood); Platinum One (FC Barcelona Training Stage 2007) and Tesco (Enjoy the Taste of Scotland).

Commercial manager Claire Sheppard and her team will learn if Musselburgh has been successful at an awards dinner at the Edinburgh Sheraton Hotel in May.

Claire Sheppard said: “We are delighted just to be nominated but are up against some stiff competition. We have worked extremely hard over the years to promote our Musselburgh Ladies Day and get it to the stage where it now sells out and it would be fantastic if our team’s efforts are recognised.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

27 March 2008: Braefoot Cox Snap Up Aberdeen's Altec Cente in £4 million Deal

Private property investment company Braefoot Cox Limited has purchased the Altec Centre in Altens, Aberdeen, from Kenmore Capital Portfolio Limited, for £4.1 million, reflecting a net initial yield of 8.1%.

The Fife based company viewed the 29,000 sq ft office building as an attractive investment because it is one of the few developments able to accommodate smaller space requirements to the south of Aberdeen.

David MacLeod, director of property consultants FG Burnett, who acted for Braefoot Cox, said the purchase represents a good opportunity to manage the multi-let asset and increase income streams.

Mr MacLeod said: “A great deal of office accommodation in Altens is owner occupied or single let but smaller office suites of 1-3,000 sq ft are thin on the ground.

“Demand for these types of units is strong but they are in short supply and developers of new office buildings are unlikely to offer suites of this size.

“We think that the Altec Centre fills a gap in the market. Braefoot Cox are a company who see good value in this market and it is encouraging to see them investing in Aberdeen’s buoyant economy.”

John McColl, managing director of Braefoot Cox, said: “Altec Centre was an attractive proposition because it is a multi-let office building in an area which is dominated by larger office developments. There is good potential to improve the income stream through rent reviews, lease renewals, carrying out refurbishment and by active asset management.

“Aberdeen is benefiting from a fast paced, thriving economy and we are very positive about the future of the Altec Centre as a provider of first class accommodation to emerging and established businesses.”

Ryden advised the vendor, Kenmore Capital Portfolio Limited, in the sale and during their period of ownership.

Alistair Kay of Kenmore said: “When we acquired the property in 2005 it was approximately 50% let and in the subsequent years we worked hard with Ryden to increase the occupancy to 90%. At the same time we successfully increased headline rents from £11.50 per sq ft to almost £13.75 per sq ft. Altogether the property performed well for us and we would expect it to continue to do so in the future.”

ends

Note to Editors: FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

24 March 2008: Scots Can Laugh Off Dour Image With Fun Workplaces Says Design Boss

Office interior design boss Andy Stewart is on a mission to put more fun in to Scottish workplaces.

He reckons companies considering updating or refurbishing their premises should put more emphasis on injecting a slice of humour in to the office environment.

Andy, managing director of Aberdeen and Dundee firm asplanned, spoke out after Scots were portrayed as “dour” and a people who prefer being miserable than happy, according to an international expert on happiness.

A recent Newsweek article highlighted a visit to Scotland by University of Illinois psychologist Ed Diener, who has studied happiness for a quarter century.

Dr Diener spoke to politicians and business leaders about the value of augmenting traditional measures of a country's wealth with a national index of happiness. This index would measure policies known to increase people's sense of well-being, such as democratic freedoms, access to health care and the rule of law.

According to Dr Diener we Scots appreciated all these things but not because they make us happier. The happiness expert said: “They (the Scots) said too much happiness might not be such a good thing. They like being dour, and didn't appreciate being told they should be happier.”

But upbeat asplanned boss Andy said Scottish firms could have the last laugh and prove the learned professor wrong by giving more thought on how to the equip their offices and workplaces.

Andy said: “Perhaps Professor Diener just visited the Parliament on an off day because the Scots are a friendly, happy people who are always up for a laugh.

“However employers could be doing so much more to make people happy at their work. Work is the place we spend most of our waking hours so why shouldn’t we inject a bit more fun in to the office, call centre or reception area.

“Every study you care to look at will tell you that a happy workforce is more productive, loyal and responsive so it’s good business sense to make the workplace as fun and happy as possible.

“We would encourage all clients to go a step further than simply considering the functional requirements when fitting out their premises. We would be delighted, in fact ecstatic, to provide advice on how employers can brighten up their working environment to ensure their staff happy, contented and will look forward to coming in to work.”

Ends

Note to Editors: The Newsweek article Happiness: Enough Already can be viewed here http://www.newsweek.com/id/107569

asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee and Aberdeen, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

20 March 2008: Employers Risk Getting It In The Neck Over Compensation Claims

Sloppy attention to office working conditions could cost employers thousand of pounds in compensation, an office interior design agency have warned.

Dundee and Aberdeen design experts, asplanned, issued the warning as Fife Council were ordered to pay Brenda Downie £10,000 damages after she injured her neck while stretching to use a computer.

Social worker Mrs Downie developed a pain in her neck so severe that she was off work for more than six months and had to undergo physiotherapy.

The Court of Session heard how desk-based Mrs Downie developed problems because she did not have her own computer and had to turn, stretch and twist to reach a nearby terminal.

The 40-year-old claimed Fife Council had breached legal guidelines requiring workstations to be suitably set up and Lord Carloway awarded £9720 damages against the local authority which admitted liability.

Andy Stewart, asplanned managing director, said: “Companies and local authorities who fail to take seriously the office working conditions of their staff will end up paying dearly in the long run.

“This is a perfect example of why employers should seek professional advice when it comes to office planning and when they are moving or refurbishing offices.

“A failure to put proper measures in place and to consult with office design specialists will lead to more of these types of compensation claims and will damage their reputation as a responsible employer.”

Note to Editors: asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee and Aberdeen, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

20 March 2008: Run On Accountants SME Budget Booklet

Chartered accountants Danzig & Co have launched a 16 page post Budget advice booklet aimed at SMEs.

The free booklet has proved so popular with existing clients that a second 500 print run has been ordered and it’s available online.

The easy-to-follow guide covers personal tax, corporate and business tax, employment issues, capital taxes, VAT and rates and allowances.

Senior partner John Danzig said: “When all the Budget headlines have died down we find a lot of SMEs are looking for straight forward, no nonsense advice on how the Chancellor’s actions will affect their businesses.

“Our guide is in plain language and quickly summarises the Budget changes, with Comment sections which highlight areas we feel are particularly relevant to SMEs. The guide has proved so popular that we are now on our second print run.”

To get a copy of the guide visit www.danzig.co.uk or email mail@danzig.co.uk

Ends

Note to Editors: Danzig & Co are Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers based at 8-12 Torphichen Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8JQ.

The company offer a highly personalised, proactive service with annual fees fixed in advance, are client driven and focus on improved profitability and tax mitigation.

Website: www.danzig.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Danzig & Co by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

17 March 2008: C-SAM Aim To Double Sales With New Appointment

Software design experts, C-SAM Ltd, have appointed Donna McLarty as Sales and Marketing Manager with the objective of doubling sales within a year.

Aberdeen-based C-SAM is an industry leader and innovator in providing asset management solutions to the oil and gas, subsea and construction industries.

A management graduate from Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, and with a Masters in International Marketing from Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University, Donna will focus on extending C-SAM’s client base in the UK home market in addition to boosting the company’s international sales.

In the past 12 months C-SAM have completed successful projects for blue chip clients in the United States, Singapore and Dubai and Donna will use this experience to develop the C-SAM brand internationally. The company have also recently won a hat-trick of subsea industry contracts with TSMarine, Canyon Offhshore and Integrated Subsea Services valued at £500,000.

C-SAM’s unique delivery approach uses a proven accelerated development methodology which minimises business disruption and achieves a faster return on investment on all client projects.

C-SAM Ltd managing director, Theresa Wheeler, said: “We’ve just enjoyed our most successful year to date, working in new industry sectors and in new territories, and we are keen to build on that experience.

“We recognise to be successful and to support our innovative software designs that we need a pro-active and professional approach to sales and marketing and Donna has all the right credentials to make a significant contribution to our future success.

“Our aim is to double sales within the next year and Donna and the rest of our professional team all have an important role to play in achieving that target.”

Donna McLarty added: “C-SAM is a company that is going places and I was delighted to take the chance to be part of an exciting, go-ahead enterprise which rewards success.”

Ends

Note to Editors: Corporate Software Asset Management (C-SAM Ltd) is based Bridge House, 1-2 Riverside Drive, Aberdeen, AB11 7LH.

C-SAM provides software business solutions to a wide range of clients, including Wood Group, FMC, Weatherford, MTM, Ferguson Group, Canyon Offshore, Integrated Subsea Services and V. People

Website: www.c-sam.co.uk

Issued on behalf of C-SAM Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

13 March 2008: New North Scotland Risk Management Group Off To Flying Start

More than 20 north east companies attended the inaugural meeting of the Institute of Risk Management’s North Scotland branch.

The Institute of Risk Management is risk management’s professional education body and the branch has been set up to promote risk management issues and best practice in the Aberdeen and Inverness areas.

Representatives from a diverse range of business sectors took part including insurance broking, fund management, offshore training and services, life sciences, NHS, oil and gas, accountancy, haulage and transport.

Mark White, risk manager of Central Insurance Services was elected chairman of the group and Doug Smith of Marsh Ltd was elected secretary.

Delegates discussed many different areas of interest, including enterprise risk management, crisis risk management/business continuation management, slow disasters/emerging risks, environmental risks and risk reporting.

The group plan to invite Steve Fowler, chief executive of the IRM, to attend a future meeting to discuss wider activities of IRM and its initiatives.

Mark White said: “I am delighted with the response we’ve had from a variety of businesses across the north east of Scotland and it confirmed there is a genuine need for this type of forum which will share risk management knowledge.

“The group will provide great networking opportunities for people from a multitude of backgrounds and together we can look at problems from different perspectives and encourage best practice in the risk management profession.

“The very encouraging signs are that this branch will flourish from this initial meeting and its members will play an important role in the IRM in Scotland and the UK.”

The next meeting has been set for Thursday 1 May at Central Insurance Services, Westhill, Aberdeen, when the main topic for discussion will be the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act.

For more information on IRM or to take part in the next meeting, contact Mark White at mark.white@central-group.com

Ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

12 March 2008: Dundee United Boss Craig Levein Gets CIS Cup Final Hotseat

Dundee United boss Craig Levein has been given a boost in the run up to Sunday’s CIS Cup Final showdown with Rangers at Hampden.

The recently appointed Director of Football at Tannadice has been gifted a director’s chair in the striking tangerine and black colours of the Tayside club.

The stylish chair was presented to the Arabs boss by office interior design and refurbishment company, asplanned, to mark his appointment to the club’s board of directors.

asplanned managing director, Andy Stewart, said: “We support Dundee United in a number of ways and we thought it was important that Craig is fully supported with office furniture that befits his new role as a director.

“This is a huge week in the club’s history with all eyes focussed on Hampden and if everything goes as planned I hope to see Craig sitting in this chair next Monday firmly grasping the CIS League Cup.”

Craig Levein added: “When a team reaches a cup final you fully appreciate what that means to the fans and we are delighted that more than 17,000 supporters will be cheering us on at Hampden.

“We have been overwhelmed with goodwill messages from ordinary fans and sponsors such as asplanned and we will be doing our best to bring back the silverware to Tannadice.”

Dundee United spokesman Keith Haggart said just over 16,500 cup final tickets had been sold and fans planning to make the trip to Hampden should act fast to secure their briefs.

Ends

Note to Editors:

asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee and Aberdeen, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 March 2008: Record Industrial Rents May Force Businesses Out Of Aberdeen

Aberdeen’s booming energy sector is driving up demand for industrial accommodation but in the long term could prove costly to the city’s economy if businesses are forced to locate elsewhere.

Industrial property expert Graeme Watt said rental and capital values for both new and second hand buildings are being pushed to record levels because of a limited supply of suitable accommodation.

And while this is good news for landowners and developers, in the long term it could constrain business activity to the extent that companies may have to look at more viable geographic locations to grow their enterprises.

Mr Watt, director of property consultants FG Burnett, said: “The buoyant energy sector in Aberdeen is driving demand for industrial accommodation not just in the city but across the north east. Due to the limitation of supply, rents for both new and second hand buildings are being pushed up across the spectrum, arguably unrealistically in terms of some older poorer quality second hand buildings.”

FG Burnett report that good quality new builds, which included both spec builds and bespoke packages at Peterseat Park, have all been let, although there is more land available for further development at the Altens site.

And at Ocean Trade Centre, also in Altens, three units of each of around 3000 sq ft, have recently been let at record rents in excess of £7.00 per sq ft.

Mr Watt said: “The activity at Peterseat Park and Ocean Trade Centre illustrate just how competitive the industrial letting market is at the moment and whilst there is land around the city which is zoned for industrial use and could alleviate the peak in demand, a lot of it lacks the infrastructure to make it deliverable by potential developers for the benefit of end users.

“Until significant industrial zoned land is brought forward and made suitable for development, Aberdeen businesses will continue to face spiralling rental costs in the industrial sector.”

Compounded by the well documented labour recruitment difficulties many Aberdeen businesses are facing, Mr Watt argues the long term result could be that business activity will be limited and that companies with their roots in the north east and multinationals firmly established in Aberdeen will be forced to look further south for cheaper options.

Mr Watt added: “The shortage of options has increased demand for accommodation in satellite towns such as Ellon, Inverurie, Banchory and Stonehaven and locating to these areas may offer some short term respite. However, if it reaches the stage where businesses are being seriously curtailed in their expansion plans then it may be they will strike out further afield and in to the Central Belt or beyond which would be to Aberdeen’s detriment.

“Paradoxically however, the fact remains that while, for the greater good of the local economy there is an identifiable need for space to balance the industrial space demand/supply equation in Aberdeen, strong demand and a limited supply creates high values and high values are sweet music to the ears of property owners, developers, property investors, landlords (and some Financial Directors and banks). Consequently, efforts to ease this supply problem, which in the bigger picture would be welcome by most, could reduce values and be of considerable concern to those with contrary vested interests."

Ends

Note to Editors:

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

5 March 2008: Musselbugh Racecourse Go Eggstra Mile For Easter Sunday

Musselburgh Racecourse are rolling out a fun filled Easter Sunday family programme at Scotland’s first flat meeting of the season.

The totesport Easter Sunday Family Race Day on March 23 had developed in to East Lothian’s largest Easter event with many families attracted by the free entertainment and free entry for children aged under 16.

More than 5000 families are expected at the race day with Musselburgh putting on a spring bonanza including funfair rides, face painting, bouncy castle, street entertainers, a bungee run and Easter Egg treasure hunt.

A Behind the Scenes tour will give youngsters an insight in to how a racecourse operates on big race days, the Scottish SPCA Dog Agility Team will be put through their paces and the day will be topped off with an appearance by the Easter Bunny.

And while the kids are enjoying themselves, parents can let off some steam with a flutter on seven top quality races, including the £20,000 feature race, the Musselburgh Gold Cup.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Claire Sheppard, said: “We’ve worked hard over the last few years to build up our Easter Sunday meeting to offer something for families of all ages and it’s now recognised as the largest Easter Sunday event of its kind in East Lothian.

“With so many things going on to keep the children happy there can’t be a better place to spend time on Easter Sunday and we are expecting another bumper crowd similar to last year.

“While there is plenty to do for children, we haven’t neglected the grown ups and the Musselburgh Gold Cup and six other quality races will get our flat season off to a flying start.”

Gates open at noon, the first race is off at 2.20pm and the last race is at 5.20pm. Children aged 16 and under are admitted free when accompanied with an adult.

* Tickets booked online receive a £2 discount. Groups of 12 or more receive a £5 discount per ticket when booking online. Ticket office 0131 665 2859.

ends

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

19 February 2008: New Era For Central Insurance As First Minister Alex Salmond Opens HQ

First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond, performed the official opening of Central Insurance Service’s new £3 million headquarter in Aberdeen.

The opening ceremony of Crown House marked the start of a new era for Central Insurance which is Scotland’s leading independent insurance broker and Aberdeen’s largest broker.

The First Minister’s visit follows a management buy out (MBO) which concluded last month (Jan) and secured the future independence of CIS at a time when many medium sized brokers are being swallowed up by larger predatory operators.

The move to a new HQ in Westhill from the city centre location where the company first opened for business 30 years ago, allied to the MBO, is part of a long term strategy aimed at ensuring Central Insurance continues to grow while remaining in local ownership.

The company, which employs 70 staff, predicts significant growth, both organically and by strategic acquisition, with an ambition to double the company’s income in the next five years.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "I am delighted to open this £3 million development - a sure testament to Central Insurance Service’s confidence and future in Scotland. These impressive new headquarters provide a great working environment for the 70 members of staff working for CIS.

"My Government has been clear that its overarching purpose to increase sustainable economic growth in Scotland.

"The financial services industry is vital to our plans to build a Celtic lion economy in Scotland and we are committed to providing the industry, and growing independent companies like CIS, with the support needed to flourish."

Central Insurance managing director, Iain Henry, said the company were committed to retaining its independent status in the face of increased consolidation in the insurance broking industry which last month saw another Aberdeen broker being taken over by Towergate Partnership.

Mr Henry said: "While other companies in our sector are fast disappearing through takeover and acquisition we are here for the long haul and are more focussed than ever in making sure Central Insurance will be independently owned for at least the next 30 years of our history.

"The MBO and the move to a modern headquarters heralds the start of a very exciting period in the development of CIS. We have set out our stall and have ambitious targets to reach with regards to increasing our client base and taking revenue to record levels which will consolidate our position as Scotland’s leading independent broker.

"I am delighted the First Minister, Alex Salmond, has been able to join us today to perform the official opening of Crown House and we are pleased he is taking a close interest in the development of our company and the insurance broking industry in Scotland."

Crown House was named after the Aberdeen street where the business was based when it was established in 1973 and Central Insurance is the first company to open for business in Phase 2 of the Arnhall Business Park development at Westhill.

ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

18 February 2008: Gadgie Artist Alexander Millar Fired Up For Return To Peebles

The art world’s equivalent of The Apprentice television show star, Alan Sugar, is returning to Peebles.

Best selling artist Alexander Millar, whose “Gadgie” paintings are highly sought after, will give his only Scottish live painting demonstration of 2008 at the town’s breeze art gallery on Saturday 8 March.

Millar recently completed filming of a television series which searched for an “apprentice” artist who would spend three months in Millar’s studio being taught the styles and techniques which would transform them in to a commercial artist.

The successful apprentice on the BBC’s Look North programme was also offered a publishing deal with fine art publishers Washington Green.

The artist, whose work is so popular that there is a three year waiting list for original works, had decided he was too busy to do any live painting in the coming year.

But his visit to Peebles last March was so successful and enjoyable that he has altered his schedule to make a one off appearance which will be his only live gallery painting demo in Scotland.

breeze gallery owner, Bob Corsie, said: “This is a great coup for us and for all art lovers in the Borders as Alex is not painting live anywhere else north of the border this year.

“The popularity of his work is going through the roof and his recent television appearances in which he searched for an apprentice has put even greater pressure on his schedule.

“When Alex last appeared here, the warm welcome and genuine appreciation for his work shone through and he’s now repaying Borders art lovers by making this special appearance.”

Celebrity collectors of Millar’s flat-capped “gadgies” include Sting and former Led Zeppelin front man Robert Plant. Art critics rate Millar as a better painter than fellow Scot Jack Vettriano and with some originals fetching upwards of £25,000 his work is in great demand.

Bob Corsie added: “We will have a great selection of originals, pencil sketches and a wide range of Alex’s latest limited edition prints. We know art lovers in Peebles and the Borders are very interested in his work and we expect a big turnout over the weekend of 8 March.”

Ends

Note to Editors: breeze Art Gallery was founded by Mandy and Bob Corsie in October 2005 and is located at 88 High Street, Peebles, EH45 8AN.

breeze represents around 80 artists and has access to approximately 3500 pieces at any given time.

For further information on Breeze Art Gallery visit: www.breeze-gallery.co.uk

Telephone 01721 721684 or email gallery@breeze-home.co.uk

Issued on behalf of breeze Gallery by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

18 February 2008: C-SAM Tap In To Scottish Subsea Success Story With Hat-Trick of Contract Wins

Specialist software design company, C-SAM Ltd, have won contracts valued at approximately £500,000 with a trio of subsea companies.

C-SAM say the hat-trick of wins gives the company a platform to make further inroads in to the subsea market which has grown by 90 per cent over the last five years.

Aberdeen based C-SAM are to design and install a complete business management system for marine and subsea operations services company, TSMarine (Contracting) Ltd.

The system will seamlessly manage data in operations ranging from supply chain management, human resources and QHSE, to tender and contract costing. It will also utilise C-SAM’s People Tracking software to fully harness manpower resources, while an asset tracking function will log and control all asset movements involving TSMarine’s fleet of Remotely Operate Vessels (ROVs).

Canyon Offshore, a Helix subsidiary, have recently implemented C-SAM’s global software solution for use in their Aberdeen, Houston and Singapore divisions. The system, which is capable of synchronising operations at each location with the company’s extensive ROV fleet, will control areas ranging from asset tracking to maintenance scheduling and material requisitions.

The third contract is with diving and ROV services company, Integrated Subsea Services (ISS). C-SAM have provided an asset and people tracking system which will allow ISS to track data from the tender stage, through the lifetime of the project, and to track people and equipment movement on each contract from initial start up right through to the final invoice.

Theresa Wheeler, C-SAM’s managing director, said the three contract wins signaled a breakthrough for her company in to the subsea market.

Ms Wheeler said: “The Subsea Market Report published at Subsea 08 shows Scotland is leading the world in subsea technology and the market will continue to expand on top of 90 per cent growth in the last five years. This sector will prove vitally important to the growth of C-SAM and many companies like us.

“These three wins are a significant achievement for our company and marks our largest contract wins to date. It will allow us to strengthen our core operation and to look at recruiting more staff for a planned expansion.

“We would have been delighted to have worked with any of these companies but to win all three contracts is a tremendous boost for C-SAM and provides a strong platform to make further inroads in to the subsea market.

“While each client naturally had different requirements and objectives, we have been able to show each of them that we understand the subsea market and the needs of different operators. We have been able to demonstrate that we can design specific software solutions which increase efficiency and visibility across all operations and can lead to substantial savings.

“We are looking forward to using the experience gained on these contracts to work with other companies in the subsea sector.”

Alasdair Cowie, Managing Director of TSMarine, which specialises in rigless subsea well intervention, said: “We are pleased to be working with C-SAM on our new, integrated business management system. This will improve the way we operate and streamline all our data handling, so all the information we hold will feed into one system, which will help us to offer an enhanced service to our customers.”

Ends

Note to Editors: Corporate Software Asset Management (C-SAM Ltd) is based Bridge House, 1-2 Riverside Drive, Aberdeen, AB11 7LH.

C-SAM provides software business solutions to a wide range of clients, including Wood Group, FMC, Weatherford, MTM, Ferguson Group, Canyon Offshore, Integrated Subsea Services and V. People

Website: www.c-sam.co.uk

Issued on behalf of C-SAM Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

16 February 2008: North of Scotland Risk Management Group First Meeting

The inaugural meeting of the Institute of Risk Management’s North Scotland branch will take place at Central Insurance’s headquarters, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, on Thursday 28 February at noon.

More than 30 businesses have expressed an interest in joining the IRM group which will promote risk management issues and best practice in the Aberdeen and Inverness areas.

The Institute of Risk Management is risk management’s professional education body and is governed by risk professionals.

Delegates from the legal profession, accountancy, oil and gas sector, surveying, construction, transport, education, atomic energy, haulage, local authorities and NHS have indicated they will join the group.

To find out more about IRM or to attend the 28 February meeting, contact Mark White at mark.white@central-group.com

ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

14 February 2008: FG Burnett Boosts Expansion With Bold Redesign

Property consultants FG Burnett are challenging their industry’s traditional image with a dynamic rebranding project.

The new identity will provide a platform to further expand the company’s reach in central Scotland and boost new business development in Glasgow where FG Burnett opened an office five years ago.

One of the largest surveying consultancies in the north of Scotland and with an increasing client portfolio in the Central Belt, the firm has undergone a bold redesign, described as “revolutionary” by a design expert.

The company’s traditional agency boards have been ditched in favour of a new vibrant colourful image and a modern logo with the strap line “more space and time for you” will bring the consultancy bang up to date.

The campaign, which has been devised over a six month period and represents a five figure investment, is seen as a vital business improvement tool which will help strengthen FG Burnett’s existing customer base and give a competitive advantage over rival firms.

FG Burnett managing director, Angus MacCuish, admitted chartered surveying had a reputation for playing safe but said his company’s decision to update its image would help increase the company’s bottom line.

Mr MacCuish said: “A great deal of planning and research has gone in to this campaign and it is not a case of change for the sake of change. We are a dynamic, enterprising and people focussed company and we wanted our branding and marketing to reflect the energy we put in to every aspect of our business.

“It is a bold initiative but we are confident it will pay dividends by creating greater affinity with our products and services and increase our share of the market. Our strength is in our personal relationships with clients and we want to build on that to facilitate growth.”

Mr MacCuish said the company’s business had grown by 35 per cent over the last three years and the significant investment in improving the FG Burnett brand would further boost both turnover and profitability in the current financial year.

The central Scotland drive follows the recent appointment of chartered surveyor, Robert Scott, as a director, based in the company’s Glasgow office. With 20 years experience of the property sector, Mr Scott’s remit is to establish and deliver building and project consultancy services in Glasgow and to strengthen FG Burnett’s national presence.

Mr MacCuish added: “Our focus is on building up our market position in Glasgow by continuing to offer high level property consultancy advice to a large number of blue chip clients. The recent addition of Bob Scott to our team gives us the pedigree and expertise to provide a wide range of commercial property consultancy services.”

Derek Stewart, managing director of The Big Picture creative agency which developed the campaign, said: “FG Burnett have bravely decided to stand out from the crowd. Other companies in the same line of business tend to be boring and incredibly bland in the way they communicate with clients so this new design is quite revolutionary for their sector.”

Ends

Note to Editors:

FG Burnett Ltd was founded in 1960 and the practice has now grown to become the largest firm of chartered surveyors and property consultants based in Aberdeen.

Website: www.fgburnett.co.uk

Issued on behalf of FG Burnett Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

6 February 2008: Designs On Aberdeen Expansion Going asplanned

Office design and installation company, asplanned, are set to expand operations in to Aberdeen as part of an ambitious growth strategy.

The company views Aberdeen’s vibrant economy as key to expanding out of their Tayside base and are seeking office and showroom accommodation in the oil capital.

The design-led agency specialises in office design, refurbishment, relocation and move management. Clients include a wide range of UK blue chips and asplanned were recently commissioned to manage large projects in South Africa and Denmark.

asplanned also recently completed the office fit-out for Aberdeen freight forwarding company, Seletar Shipping, when they moved to a new 12,000 sq ft premises at Steadfast House in East Tullos.

Design director Stewart Culross has relocated to Aberdeen to lead the expansion project which the company believe is vital to realise a growth target of £2 million turnover in the next two years.

asplanned managing director, Andy Stewart, said: “We have enjoyed great success working for high profile clients in Dundee and Tayside and now the time is right to push in to new markets such as Aberdeen.

“Our reputation has been built on providing good, honest and professional advice and as we are design-led as opposed to a commission-based sales operation, this goes down very well with business owners.

“Our other strong point is that we keep on top of market developments across the world and seek out designs and products from emerging markets. This is more cost effective for the client and gives us greater flexibility and choice in that we don’t have to refer to the same suppliers common to our industry.”

Stewart Culross added: “I’m looking forward to introducing new clients in Aberdeen to our holistic approach to office design and relocation which looks at the situation as a whole rather than in isolation.

“The initial response has been very encouraging and I will be sourcing an appropriate office and showroom location to provide the base for rapid expansion.”

ends

Note to Editors:

asplanned are a professional, dynamic company which offers a fresh, interesting and innovative approach to office interior design and refurbishment.

Based in Dundee, asplanned is headed up by Andy Stewart, managing director, and Stewart Culross, design director, who have more than 30 years industry experience.

Telephone: Dundee 01382 669174; Aberdeen 01224 676396

Website: www.asplanned.co.uk

Issued on behalf of asplanned Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

31st January 2008: Chelthenham Quality On Show At Musselburgh's Richest Jumps Meeting

Musselburgh Racecourse stages one of Scotland’s richest jump meetings on Sunday (3 Feb) when it hosts the John Smith’s Scottish County Hurdle Raceday.

With the feature race offering £30,000 prize money and the main supporting race £20,000, the East Lothian course are confident of attracting a high quality field and that is reflected in the number of top flight English and Irish horses entered.

Musselburgh Racecourse general manager Bill Farnsworth and his team have succeeded in building this fixture in to a pre-Cheltenham trial which attracts some of the country’s best trainers.

And with recent weather playing havoc with fixtures and leading to multiple cancellations, Musselburgh’s meeting takes on greater significance for stables anxious to be as fully prepared as possible for the four day Cheltenham Festival which kicks off on 11 March.

Bill Farnsworth said: “If people want to see some really top quality horses that are going to compete at the Cheltenham and Aintree festivals in the Spring then this is the place to be on Sunday.

“Our meeting is up there with the Scottish Grand National and the Perth Festival in terms of the quality of trainer and horse it attracts and it is fast becoming one of the main features in the Scottish jump season. There is a strong Irish contingent making the trip over and that is always a good sign so we are looking forward to an excellent day’s racing.”

Musselburgh has just concluded a three year deal with John Smith’s, making the brewer the preferred suppliers of beer at Musselburgh and allied sponsorship will give the course a boost to its ambitions in building the Scottish County Hurdle in to a £50,000 race by 2010.

Feature race is the £30,000 John Smith’s Scottish County Hurdle at 3.30pm which is for four year olds and upwards and run over 2 miles 1 furlong. The support race in the seven card meeting is the John Smith’s Scottish Triumph Hurdle Trial at 2.30pm and run over the same distance.

Mr Farnsworth added: “Owners, trainers and jockeys have been very supportive since we first staged this meeting as they recognise the value of being able to get their horses fully prepared for Cheltenham and Aintree. When other fixtures are falling victim to the weather Musselburgh comes in to its own at this time of the year as our links location means abandonment is rare.”

Gates open at Musselburgh at 11.30am, first race is at 1.30pm and last race at 4.30pm. Advance online booking receive a £2 admission discount, children aged 16 and under are admitted free with an adult.

Ends

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

21st January 2008: Central Insurance Look To Independent Future With MBO

The future success of one of Scotland’s largest independent insurance brokers, Central Insurance Services Ltd, has been secured following a management buy out (MBO) supported by The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS).

Ownership of Aberdeen’s largest broker has been retained within the company following the decision of majority shareholder and Managing Director, Dave Thomson, to relinquish his controlling stake.

The MBO, for an undisclosed sum, reinforces Central Insurance’s position as one of Scotland’s leading brokers and sends out a strong message to the industry that the company is determined to retain its independent status at a time when the focus has been on consolidation by larger operators.

As part of a structured growth and succession strategy, the MBO strengthens Central Insurance’s standing in the market place and ties in with the company’s recent move from Aberdeen city centre to a new £3 million HQ at Westhill on the outskirts of Europe’s oil capital.

The restructuring of the company and formation of a new holding company has been approved by the regulatory body, the Financial Services Authority.

Dave Thomson will continue to play an important ambassadorial role with key clients for the company he co-founded more than 30 years ago as Corporate and International Development Director while Deputy Managing Director, Iain Henry, who joined Central Insurance 17 years ago, has assumed the role of Managing Director.

Mr Thomson said: “This is an excellent way forward for Central Insurance and underlines the company’s determination to remain an independent but major player in the UK and international insurance broking sector.

“I am supremely confident that I am handing over the reins to a very talented young team who will drive the business onward and upwards and they will lay the foundations for another 30 years and more of success.”

Central Insurance’s Managing Director, Iain Henry, said: “Dave Thomson and the other founding directors have been exemplary custodians of this company over the past three decades and we are grateful for their contributions.

“With our move to a new custom built headquarters there could not be a better time to set out our vision for further growth and the MBO is part of a prudent strategy which guarantees our continued independence in an ever changing market.

“To our clients, major insurers and our hard working staff, there will be no discernable differences and we look forward to providing the same high quality and dependable service that is at the root of all Central Insurance activities.

“In the last few years a number of insurance brokers have been bought over as consolidation within the industry held sway but we were determined to be in control of our own destiny and the MBO allows us to do so with confidence.

“We are delighted that Dave Thomson will continue to contribute to the ongoing success of the company and my fellow directors and I are enthusiastically looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

The Royal Bank of Scotland’s Structured Finance team in Aberdeen provided acquisition funding and working capital facilities to support the new management team. This further extends a banking relationship with RBS’s Aberdeen operation which dates back to the company’s formation in 1974.

Mike Willett, associate director of structured finance at RBS in Aberdeen, said: “We’re pleased to have been able to play a part in what has been a carefully mapped succession plan at Central Insurance Services. The company boasts a very impressive client base and we have every confidence that the new management team will continue to provide those clients with the expertise and sound advice they have come to expect from Central Insurance.”

The new board consists of directors David Binnie, Ian Fraser, Iain Henry, Neil Kerr, Darren James and Steve Thomson while Ken Matheson continues in his role as non-executive chairman.

Ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

14th January 2008: Central Insurance Launch Risk Management Newsletter

Leading Scottish insurance broker, Central Insurance Services Ltd, has launched a newsletter which is targeted at clients and other groups, including risk management specialists, company managers and professional bodies.

“centralrisk” contains news items, advice and insights in to the important discipline of risk management which affects all companies and commercial enterprises regardless of size.

The first issue carries features ranging from road safety to travel risks for employers to consider when sending staff abroad on business, cold weather precautions needed to protect businesses, and legislation updates.

Edited by Central Insurance’s Risk Manager, Mark White, the bulletin will be sent to hundreds of Central Insurance clients and will be available on the company website and at the office receptions of selected businesses in the north east.

Mark White said: “The aim is to make 'centralrisk' informative by incorporating a wide variety of useful articles which highlight the importance for companies to pay particular attention to how they deal with risks which may affect the safety, efficiency and profitability of their business.”

Central Insurance Services Ltd is Aberdeen’ largest independent insurance broker and one of Scotland’s leading companies in the insurance broking sector.

The company offers a range of business and commercial insurance services and specialises in key sectors, including energy and engineering, professional services, property owners, developers and managers, construction, transport and distribution.

To obtain a copy of centralrisk or be added to the mailing list, contact Mark White at mark.white@central-group.com or download a copy at www.central-group.com

Ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on behalf of Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

7th January 2008: Silverstone Energy Get Green Light For First Gas Production

Exploration and production company, Silverstone Energy Limited, today announced the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform has given approval to start a Field Development Programme in the Victoria Field.

The Victoria Field is located in Southern North Sea Block 49/17 and is the first phase of development of the Victoria and Viking B Extension accumulation.

Aberdeen based Silverstone SNS Limited, a subsidiary of Silverstone Energy Limited, holds 50% equity interest in the field and is operator. The remaining equity is held by ConocoPhillips and BP.

Silverstone’s 50% ownership of the Victoria Field was earned through the successful 49/17 -14 discovery well drilled by the company in January 2007.

The Phase 1 Victoria Field recoverable reserves are estimated to be 36 billion cubic feet of gas.* The field will be developed through re-entry of the discovery well and tie back to the Viking BD facility via the Vixen infrastructure operated by ConocoPhillips.

First gas is anticipated in September (2008) and gas will be exported 130km (80 miles) through the Viking Transportation System subsea pipeline to the Theddlethorpe Gas Terminal on the Lincolnshire coast. The Victoria facilities have been set up to enable rapid development of the additional fault blocks which make up the Victoria and Viking B Extension, subject to performance of Phase 1.

Silverstone Chief Executive Officer, Matt Brister, said approval for the company’s first Field Development Programme was a significant milestone in the evolution of Silverstone which was founded three years ago.

He said: ‘’Much work has gone into getting us to this point and we look forward to implementing the project safely and cost effectively and first production in September. We expect to drill at least four more exploration wells in the next 12 months.’’

Silverstone Chief Operating Officer, Steve Horton, said: “I would like to thank the Silverstone team for their good work to date and co-venturers ConocoPhillips and BP for their assistance and support.”

Silverstone has two other discoveries on its books from wells drilled in 2006. The fourth Silverstone exploration well in the ConocoPhillips/BP V Fields and Viking Field area is scheduled for the first half of 2008.

Ends

Note to Editors: Silverstone Energy Limited is a UK based company with its head office in Aberdeen.

Silverstone also operates several other North Sea promote and traditional blocks, in the Southern North Sea and Central North Sea.

* Using conversion rates from the BOS O&G Handbook 6th edition, 36 billion cubic feet of gas is approximately 6 million barrels oil equivalent.

Website: www.silverstoneenergy.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Silverstone Energy Limited by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

27th December: New Year Sprint Bonanza At Musselburgh Racecourse

Horseracing and athletics combines to stage an end of year sporting bonanza at Musselburgh Racecourse.

The last jumps meeting of the year, the Totesport New Year Sprint Race Day, on Saturday 29 December, features seven races, three of which will be televised live by Channel 4, and includes two £20,000 feature races.

But the race day is also host to the semi finals and final of the oldest professional athletics race in the world, the traditional New Year Sprint. The first prize of £4000 makes the Sprint by far the richest race in the professional calendar, reinforcing the event's position as the sport's premier event.

The race has attracted entries from across the world, including runners from Australia, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, England and Argentina. Strongly tipped as one of the favourites to cut through the Sprint field is Hawick’s Iskan Barskanmay.

The kebab shop manager, who won the Morebattle Sprint this year and reached several Border Games finals, has received a start of 9.75 metres for the 110m handicap and has been drawn in heat two against another hot tip Steven Charters (Edinburgh AC), who won his first international vest this year.

The New Year Sprint, formerly known as the "Powderhall", is a unique event in the annals of sporting history, being the last of the old time pedestrian galas. It has been an annual New Year event since 1870, the heyday of pedestrianism (professional footracing), then the sport of the people.

The format remains unchanged and all races are handicapped to ensure close finishes and betting adds to the enjoyment of the spectators. The days of huge betting coups and malpractice are long gone but the tradition, spirit and atmosphere remain and to win the "Big Sprint" remains the dream of all competitors no matter their age or ability.

The qualifying heats take place at the East Lothian racecourse tomorrow (Friday, 28 December) when doors open at 9.30am and the first heat is at 11.00am. Admission is £6 and includes a race programme.

On Saturday 29 December doors open at 10.30am and the first of the seven jumps races is off at 12.15pm. The New Year Sprint Final takes place at 2.19pm. Admission is £20 Adults, £10 Concessions and children 16 and under are admitted free with an adult.

In addition to all the sporting attractions, entertainment includes a pipe band which will launch the Totesport New Year Sprint Race Day .

Anyone booking in advance receives a £2 discount on the admission price. To book in advance visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk or phone 0131 665 2859.

For more information on the New Year Sprint, visit: www.sportingworld.co.uk

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

27th December: New Risk Management Group For North Scotland

A new group of risk management practitioners is being formed in the north of Scotland.

Risk management specialist, Mark White, is seeking to establish a branch of the Institute of Risk Management (IRM) in the Aberdeen and Inverness areas and wants to hear from interested parties.

The objectives of the new group would be to provide a forum for risk and business managers to increase and share their knowledge about current risk management issues and techniques which are important to them and to facilitate networking opportunities.

The Institute of Risk Management is risk management’s professional education body and is governed by risk professionals. Members have backgrounds in many different disciplines, including accountants, project managers, insurers, surveyors, health care professionals, lawyers, bankers, auditors, health and safety professionals and engineers.

Mark White, Risk Manager with Aberdeen’s Central Insurance, said: “IRM’s Scottish Group was formed in 2004 and meets regularly in central Scotland but I felt the time was right to pull together like minded risk managers working in the north of Scotland.

“I would like to hear from anyone who has an interest in risk management either within their particular business or anyone who is simply interested in finding out a bit more about it. This new group will be of interest to many people, ranging from health and safety managers, contingency specialists or even company managers who have been given responsibility for health and safety and risk management within their organisation.”

“The group would bounce new ideas and techniques off each other, share industry knowledge and promote best practice within the risk management industry.”

If there is sufficient interest it is anticipated an inaugural meeting will be held in February or March 2008.

To note your interest in joining the group or to find out more about IRM contact Mark White at mark.white@central-group.com

Ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

16th December: Musselburgh Racecourse Abandons Meeting Due To Severe Frost

Musselburgh Racecourse has abandonded today’s (Sun Dec 16) race meeting because of severe overnight frost.

With -5 frost overnight and daytime temperatures forecast to rise to only +2 by mid-day, the decision was taken to cancel the meeting due to health and safety factors.

Musselburgh Racecourse management are asking racing fans not to start their journey to the East Lothian track.

Clerk of the course Anthea Morshead held a 6.30am inspection and had to call the meeting off with no sign of imminent improvement.

She said: "Unfortunately we've had to abandon the meeting as we've had temperatures of minus five degrees.

"I've spoken to the Met Office forecasters and they tell me it won't get above freezing until around 11 o'clock this morning, before coming to an absolute maximum of three degrees. With the frost that's in the ground, that doesn't give us any chance."

Musselburgh stages its next race meeting, the totesport New Year Sprint, on Saturday December 29.

ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

4th December: Scotland's Leading Independent Insurance Broker Moves To New £3 Million HQ

Aberdeen’s largest insurance brokers, Central Insurance Services Limited, have relocated to a new custom-built headquarters.

After more than 30 successful years operating from the city’s Albert Street, the company’s 70 staff have moved to a state-of-the-art 15,000 sq ft building in Arnhall Business Park in Westhill.

Recognised as Scotland’s leading independent insurance broker, Central Insurance say the move will allow continued growth and offers clients a more streamlined and efficient service.

The two floor £3 million HQ will be known as Crown House, named after the street where the business was based when it was established in 1973. Central Insurance is the first company to open for business in Phase 2 of the Arnhall Business Park development.

While the insurance broking and risk management specialists settle in at Westhill, independent financial advisers, Central Investment Services (Aberdeen) Limited, will remain in business at 9-13 Albert Street, Aberdeen.

Central Insurance managing director, Dave Thomson, said the decision to move to Westhill was necessary to grow the company to its full potential.

Mr Thomson said: “We’re very excited about this major development in the growth of Central Insurance and it will bring several important benefits to clients.

“The building is in a prime location in a newly built business park which offers easy parking for clients and excellent access from all main road networks in Aberdeen and the north east of Scotland.”

As the company has expanded over the last three decades staff have worked from a number of adjoining buildings in Albert Street.

Mr Thomson added: “With modern furnishings and ample meeting rooms, Crown House offers first class facilities for visiting clients. Just as importantly, it means our staff can work together in the one building which will reduce costs and be more environmentally friendly.

“This is a natural evolution in the company’s development, positions us for further growth and strengthens our position as the leading independent insurance broker in Aberdeen and the largest in Scotland.”

Ends

Note to Editors: Central Insurance Services Ltd is located at Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen, AB32 6FE.

All telephone numbers, fax numbers, website and email details will remain the same. Main switchboard number is 01224 656656.

Central Insurance offers a range of business and commercial insurance services. Key sectors covered include: Energy and Engineering; Professional Services; Property Owners; Developers and Managers; Construction Repair and Maintenance; Agriculture; Food and Fish Processing; Transport and Distribution; Plant Hire and Civil Engineering; Tourism, Leisure and Entertainment.

Other areas of expertise include: Offshore Insurance; Personal Insurance and Risk Management.

Website: www.central-group.com

Issued on Central Insurance Services Ltd by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

27th November: First Minister Alex Salmond On St Andrew's Day Winner At Musselburgh Racecourse

First Minister Alex Salmond will be a VIP guest at Musselburgh Racecourse’s St Andrew’s Day celebrations on Friday. (Nov 30).

The First Minister will visit the East Lothian track as part of his whirlwind tour of St Andrew’s Day celebrations taking place around Scotland.

Mr Salmond, a keen racing fan, will present a trophy to the winning owner and jockey of the day’s feature race, the £15,000 St Andrew’s Day Chase.

The East Lothian track will wrap itself in the Saltire’s blue and white colours on Friday as part of the celebrations to mark the national holiday in honour of Scotland’s patron saint.

A host of Scottish themes will also run through the St Andrew’s Race Day which features seven national hunt races. Pipers will launch the race day and later pipe out the jockeys competing in the big race at 2.55pm. Scottish themed menus will be offered in all catering facilities and there will be a Hot Toddy marquee.

Saltire face painters will be on hand to add Braveheart style face art to any racegoer and the race course will be decorated in blue and white bunting, banners, flowers and flags.

As a voluntary public holiday, where employers are expected to give staff a day off in return for another day of their holiday entitlement, Musselburgh are hoping for a large crowd.

Totepool has donated a £100 charity bet for Mr Salmond and he will be hoping he can pick a few winners and boost the coffers of a worthwhile cause.

There are a number of entries which may catch the First Minister’s eye. In the 1.20pm Balfour Kilpatrick Supply Chain Novices’ Handicap, The Saltire Tiger seems an obvious choice. Or New World Order in the 1.50pm Lloyds TSB Corporate Markets Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle might reflect his views on changes which have taken place since his party took power.

Mr Salmond will be hoping St Andrew’s Day is a Day to Remember which runs in the 2.25pm Black Bottle Handicap Hurdle. In the 2.55pm feature race, he has the choice of Guerilla, which it could be said describes some of his political exchanges with Westminster, but being a football fan he could plump for Charlie George, trained locally by Peter Monteith at Rosewell and named after the Arsenal legend who scored 49 goals in 179 games and was part of the famous 1971 Double winning Highbury team.

Claire Sheppard, Musselburgh Racecourse’s commercial manager, said: “St Andrew’s Day is growing in popularity and stature and there are celebrations going on all over the country.

“We wanted to play our part in honouring our patron saint and we’ve come up with a combination of Scottish inspired themes which we hope will get race goers in to the spirit of the day.

“The course will be decked out in our national colours and we are delighted to welcome the First Minister, Alex Salmond, to Musselburgh on this special day when he will present the trophy to the winner owner and jockey of the St Andrew’s Day Chase.

“It seems a lot of people will opt to take the day as a holiday and we would be delighted if they chose to spend it with us racing at Musselburgh.”

Gates open in Friday, November 30, at 10.30am. The first race is off at 12.20pm and the last race is at 3.30pm which will be followed by a disco until 6pm.

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

23rd November: Engineer Al Peaks For Charity Marathon Ski Challenge

A skiing enthusiast is taking on an Everest sized charity endurance challenge by conquering the peaks of Austria.

Project engineer, Al Den-McKay, will ski down 24 peaks in 48 hours to raise money for cerebral palsy foundation Scope.

If anyone thinks downhill skiing is a breeze, Al is quick to point out the distance covered on the 24 runs is equivalent to skiing Mount Everest from summit to valley twice over.

Al, 32, of Alford, near Aberdeen, was taught to ski at the age of seven in the Canadian Rockies but the White Peaks Challenge in Austria next March will push him to the limit.

Al said: “It’s a great physical challenge but also really good way to raise money for a worthwhile cause. A family friend of my wife has been very well supported by Scope so it all seemed such a good idea.

“I ski about three times a year but this will still be a tough one to pull off. It may sound easy because I will be skiing downhill but it’s pretty much non stop skiing from 8.30 to 5.30 on each day and the only time you are resting is on the lifts.”

An ankle injury has curtailed Al’s other sporting interests but he has embarked on a rigorous training schedule in preparation for the White Peaks test, including daily swim sessions to boost his cardiovascular capacity.

He also thinks taking part in the ski-athon will be a life changing experience.

He said: “There is the satisfaction of raising money for a good cause but I will also make good friends with like minded people. I’d never thought about doing something for charity before but it’s said that once you do something like this you tend to go on and do more charity work so that would be very positive.”

Al hopes to raise a minimum of £1500 for Scope and is already one third of the way there following enthusiastic backing of colleagues at specialist engineering company STATS Group based in Dyce, Aberdeen.

He said: “STATS have been very supportive and after details of my challenge were posted on the company website my work colleagues have pledged a fair amount of their hard earned cash. I hope to raise more than the minimum £1500 target I’ve set myself.”

Scope aims to achieve equality and normality for people who live with cerebral palsy. The money raised will assist Scope to run vital services which are designed to support disabled people in every aspect of their lives, from birth and through to adulthood.

To support Al Den McKay’s White Peak Challenge visit http://www.justgiving.com/skistatsboy or contact him at adenmckay@statsgroup.com

ends

Issued on behalf of STATS Group by Sure Public Relations.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

Website: www.statsgroup.com

22nd October: Musselburgh Racecourse Puts £1 Million Catering Contracts To Tender

Award winning Musselburgh Racecourse is to put its bar and catering contracts out to tender.

The East Lothian track operates seven bars, a fine dining restaurant, bistro and premium hospitality boxes on 25 race days a year. Combined with flat and jump racing days an additional 100 events held annually at the course bring in an estimated 90,000 visitors.

The racecourse, recognised as one of the most stylish in the UK, is keen to open up its restaurants and bars out with recognised race days and wants to hear from interested parties who have a first class background in bar and catering operations.

Catering activities generate an estimated £1 million annual turnover at Musselburgh where facilities regularly earn an eight out of ten rating in industry standard audits.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Claire Sheppard, said it was six years since the lucrative contracts had been put out to tender.

She said: “Our existing catering operations are first class and this decision to go out to tender is not a reflection on the current operators but simply good house keeping.

“It is six years since we have tested the market and we are interested to see if the tender process can offer other alternatives. We are particularly interested in proposals to open up the hospitality, restaurant and bar facilities on non race days.

“It’s widely recognised that the millions spent upgrading Musselburgh in recent years has transformed the course in to one of the UK’s best. We believe there would be mutual benefits to the racecourse and catering operators if the facilities were fully utilised on a more regular basis, possibly daily.”

The racecourse is also gearing up to improve revenue streams with a proactive approach to pulling in more event-based business which could prove an added attraction for potential bidders. They have already secured the return of the next Edinburgh Marathon in May following the successful 2007 race which ended at the East Lothian course.

The new contracts will take effect from 1 April 2008. Closing date to register a note of interest is Friday, November 23, and should be sent to Musselburgh Racecourse general manager, Bill Farnsworth.

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure PR.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

15th October: Musselburgh Ladies Day Hospitality Sells Out With 8 Months To Go

Tickets for hospitality packages at Musselburgh Racecourse’s annual Ladies Day have sold out within hours of going on sale.

Ladies Day at the East Lothian track has become so popular that premium tickets have been snapped up eight months before the event.

The 2007 GNER Ladies Day created a new record when Musselburgh became the first Scottish track to sell out in advance of a race meeting and it appears next year’s event on Saturday June 7 is heading the same way.

Hospitality packages for the Queen’s Stand and the Epperston restaurant went on sale last week but sold out within 90 minutes, although the new Champers and Hamper package and marquee packages are available.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Claire Sheppard, said the speed at which the packages had sold indicated the growing popularity of Ladies Day.

She said: “The hard work put in by everyone at Musselburgh over the last three years has created a wonderful racing draw. Each year we have seen Ladies Day evolve in to the success story it now is but we won’t rest on our laurels.

“We are continually working to make sure this special race day meets the highest of standards and exceeds the expectations of everyone who comes through the gates. We are exploring new ways to ensure Ladies Day remains a ‘must’ on the racing calendar and to build on the success we have enjoyed so far.”

And despite the fact there is still eight months until the next Ladies Day, Ms Sheppard urged race goers to consider booking ahead.

She added: “Out with the special packages we have already sold 200 tickets and last year we unfortunately had to turn away more than 1000 people because we had reached our capacity. So while it’s only October and it may sound crazy, we would urge people to consider booking in advance for next Ladies Day to avoid being disappointed.”

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure PR.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

Website: www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

General inquiries and bookings: 0131 665 2859

9th October: STATS Group In The Black With New Geomarket Appointment

Specialist design and engineering company, STATS Group, have appointed Colin Black as Geomarket Development Manager.

He will be responsible for identifying opportunities to introduce STATS specialist asset integrity tools and services to new markets in the UK North Sea, Canada, and Middle East energy sectors.

Aberdeen headquartered STATS Group designs, manufactures and installs a range of process and pipeline integrity solutions. Their extensive client portfolio includes many of the major oil and gas exploration and production companies and main contractors.

Colin’s appointment is part of a growth strategy aimed at reinforcing STATS’ excellent reputation in the UKCS* and extending its global reach in international markets such as Canada where the company’s products are already attracting significant interest.

STATS managing director, Pete Duguid, said: “Colin has a very broad understanding of all elements of business management and development and his appointment strengthens our management team.

“His wealth of experience, from operations through to commercial and business management, will bring a new dimension to STATS as we expand further into the international market place. Colin’s knowledge and analysis of the energy market will support our planned growth and I look forward to working with him to achieve our full potential.”

Colin has a strong track record of supporting various companies’ business growth through effective use of their operations and competence software, internationalisation and technology development.

As Business Development Director for well service equipment technology company Cromar, he was co-inventor of several patented technologies and supported an internationalisation programme which resulted in Cromar equipment being deployed in over 80 worldwide locations.

He was also Operations Manager for Petroleum Engineering Services for 10 years, during which time he supported significant growth of PES’ field operations and rental business prior to its sale to Halliburton in 2000.

A committee member of the Energy Institute and Society of Petroleum Engineers, Colin is involved in a range of energy industry initiatives. He has extensive field operations experience and has worked on major projects in Mexico, United States, Canada, Norway and the Caspian.

Colin Black added: “I have worked with and supported STATS at various stages of their development so to be offered the chance to work directly with the board and management team to deliver their business objectives was an opportunity I could not turn down.

“STATS have developed some excellent products, recruited quality people and are client focussed with an excellent personal development culture. The other thing which appealed to the engineer in me was their first class engineering, design and project management/manufacturing team which offers an excellent model to build and develop on.

“My role will be to source, recommend and secure opportunities, projects and alliances to enable STATS to maximise its potential in appropriate geographical markets.”

Ends

Note to Editors: STATS UK Ltd is a specialist engineering company providing the oil, gas and petrochemical industries with a range of products and services for piping repair, connection, isolation and test.

Based in Aberdeen, Scotland, STATS provide high-quality, fit-for-purpose solutions which ensure pipe work and pipeline infrastructure meets the technical, safety and environmental standards required.

The company specialise in reducing system or plant downtime, extending the life of the facility and enhancing safety and environmental performance.

www.statsgroup.com

* UKCS – United Kingdom Continental Shelf

Issued on behalf of STATS Group by Sure PR.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

3rd October: Leading UK Artist Is Top Draw In Borders School Art Competition

Borders school pupils could win the opportunity for a personal art lesson from one of the UK’s best selling painters.

breeze (correct) art gallery in Peebles are hosting the Borders Schools Art competition to mark an appearance at the gallery by Gillian McDonald.

The competition is open to pupils of all ages studying at any Borders schools. Six finalists, three each from primary and high school, will receive a one hour teaching lesson from the artist and the winner from each age group will win a signed limited edition print.

Acclaimed as one of the countries most popular print selling artists, Gillian is known for her haunting portrayals of the west coast of Scotland and the Highlands and Islands.

She will use her visit to the breeze on Saturday, October 20, to sketch in the historic Borders town and surrounding area and those drawings will form the basis for a new collection for 2008.

Her work is sought by collectors throughout the world and in a Fine Art Trade Guild survey of UK galleries to find the top 10 living artists, she was voted second only to Jack Vettriano in popularity and sales.

Her decision to appear at the breeze gallery and to feature the Scottish Borders in her work is a major coup for gallery owner Bob Corsie.

Mr Corsie said: “It’s a wonderful honour to welcome Gillian to Peebles and we are delighted she is going to feature the area so prominently in her 2008 collection.

“She is extremely popular and renowned for her paintings of the Scottish Highlands and some of the remotest parts of the British Isles. Prior to our exhibition of limited edition prints and some of her originals, she is planning to sketch at a number of locations in and around Peebles and the Borders and some of those sketches will feature in her new water colours collection.”

The Borders Schools Art competition is aimed at encouraging youngsters to think about art and the environment in which they live. Entries from schools and individual pupils should be sent to the gallery by Wednesday October 16. All painting entries can be collected from the gallery following the event.

Bob Corsie added: “Gillian had kindly agreed to judge our schools competition and to give the winners a one hour tutorial. It’s a fantastic prize for any aspiring young artist and we hope local schools and individual pupils will jump at the chance to learn from one of the UK’s most respected artists.”

The judging will take place on Friday October 21 and the winners will be selected the following day in the breeze gallery.

He added: “Gillian does not do many appearances and therefore to attract an artist of her stature to Peebles is a wonderful sign that Scottish art lovers and collectors are being treated seriously. There will be an outstanding collection of limited edition prints and originals on display and we are sure her fans from the Borders and further afield will attend the event.”

Gillian said she was looking forward to adding Borders water colours to her portfolio. She said: “I don’t know why I have never painted the Borders, especially as it’s truly one of the most stunning parts of Scotland. I’ve have only passed through on my way further north but following Bob’s request to visit Peebles it’s going to be a pleasure capturing Borders scenes loved by so many.”

The event takes place on Saturday, October 20. There will be a private breakfast preview from 10am until noon and then the gallery will be open to the public from noon-3pm.

For further details or to reserve a place at the breakfast preview please contact the gallery at www.breeze-gallery.co.uk or 01721 721684.

The breeze gallery is open Mon-Sat 10-5pm and Sun 11-4pm.

Ends

Note to Editors: breeze Art Gallery was founded by Mandy and Bob Corsie in October 2005 and is located at 88 High Street, Peebles, EH45 8AN.

breeze represents around 80 artists and has access to approximately 3500 pieces at any given time.

For further information on Breeze Art Gallery visit: www.breeze-gallery.co.uk

Telephone 01721 721684 or email gallery@breeze-home.co.uk

Issued on behalf of breeze Gallery by Sure PR.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2nd October: Racecourse Puts Out Welcome Mat For 5000 New Musselburgh Residents

Musselburgh Racecourse is throwing open its doors to 5000 new residents of the Honest Toun at its next meeting on Friday. (Oct 5)

As a welcome present to students at the newly opened £100 million Queen Margaret University campus in Musselburgh, the racecourse is offering free entry to all QMU students.

The QMU welcome day ties in with the university’s Fresher’s Week for first year undergraduates and Musselburgh will waive the £15 entry fee on production of appropriate student ID.

The university will also run a shuttle bus service between the Craighall campus and the Linkfield Road track.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Claire Sheppard, said: “The opening of the new university in Musselburgh is good news and a great addition to the life of the town. We wanted to play our part by putting on a warm welcome for the student population and I’m sure a free day at the races will go down well during Fresher’s Week.

“It gives us a chance to introduce the racecourse to newcomers to Musselburgh and hopefully some of those students will become regulars when they discover how entertaining horse racing can be.”

Musselburgh hope the free entry offer will ensure a bumper crowd and follow the success of the Royal Scots Family Day last week (Sunday Sept 30) which attracted a healthy 3500 attendance.

At Sunday’s meeting punters were treated to the rare spectacle of the same jockey winning four of the seven races when Seb Sanders took his total wins this season to 150 and leapfrogged rival Jamie Spencer in the race for the champion jockey title.

Gates open on Friday at noon and the first race on the seven card meeting is off at 2.20pm with the feature race the Edinburgh Evening News Handicap over 1m 4 furlongs.

Ends

Issued on behalf of Musselburgh Racecourse by Sure PR.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

20th Sept : Leading Artist Jeff Rowland Reigns Over Peebles

Leading Borders art gallery, breeze, (correct) is putting Peebles in the spotlight with the latest visit of a leading British artist.

Jeff Rowland's distinctive work is sought after by collectors and he intends using his appearance at breeze on Saturday 22 September to paint a Peebles street scene.

The artist's work usually focuses on atmospheric rain-soaked streets but good weather will not prove a deterrent. Jeff said: "When it rains I feel the need to get out there and sketch and to look at how rain can bounce off the ground and car roofs, the reflection from car lights and street lights."

Potential subjects for the artist include the historic High Street area and the parish church and he is following the advice of comedian Billy Connelly as he prepares to paint live at the gallery.

He said: "As part of the working process, I am always inspired to experience what I am about to paint.

"I remember Billy Connelly saying that he hated songs about Scotland that were written by men in London, men who had never even seen the Highlands. In other words, if you are going to do something creative, get to the very heart of it first."

breeze owner Bob Corsie said he was delighted to maintain the gallery's growing reputation for attracting visiting artists of the highest calibre.

He said: "Jeff is quite famous in the art world and his reputation for producing high quality collectable work is growing at a tremendous rate.

"We're really excited that he is going to paint a Peebles scene live in the gallery. For anyone who lives in Peebles or knows the town well this will prove to be a very powerful draw and we expect a lot of interest."

A private viewing for invited collectors takes place from 10am to noon and Jeff will start painting at 1pm. The gallery will also be displaying a collection of Jeff's limited edition prints and originals and the Peebles painting will go on sale on completion.

Note to Editors: Jeff Rowland will be at breeze Art Gallery on Saturday 22 September. To attend the private viewing contact the gallery on 01721 721684 or email gallery@breeze-home.co.uk
Jeff will be painting live in the gallery from 1pm.

breeze Art Gallery was founded by Mandy and Bob Corsie in October 2005 and is located at 88 High Street, Peebles, EH45 8AN. breeze represents around 80 artists and has access to approximately 3500 pieces at any given time. For further information on Breeze Art Gallery visit: http://www.breeze-gallery.co.uk

6th Sept : Hat Trick Of Contract Wins For Aberdeen's L&N Scotland

Leading valve, subsea assembly and specialist welding company, L&N (Scotland) Limited, have announced a hat-trick of strategic contract wins.

Aberdeen's L&N have signed a frame agreement with VetcoGray to provide welding, assembly and testing services for 36 subsea production trees which will be deployed on a deepwater project offshore Angola. The company have also secured a contract for similar work on 14 production trees destined for another West African deepwater field.

Sub-contracting these projects to L&N allows VetcoGray to substantially cut the time involved in fitting out and testing their production trees which are in high demand in deepwater subsea oil and gas sectors across the world.

In a separate frame agreement L&N will manufacture stab plate control assemblies for VetcoGray Controls for use on various international projects.

The anticipated combined value of the three deals is worth in excess of £2.5 million ($5 million).

In conjunction with the contract wins, L&N are recruiting a further 20 staff, taking their workforce to more than 60. The Dyce-based firm are also embarking on a £250,000 capital investment programme which includes opening an additional fabrication and assembly plant in Ellon and purchasing new equipment to facilitate the growth in their subsea business.

Formed in March 1996 by Alastair Chalmers, L&N (Scotland) Limited is now well established as one of the leading valve, subsea assembly and specialised welding solution providers in the oil and gas market place.

Managing director Mr Chalmers said the contract wins were a result of a strong relationship built up with VetcoGray over the last five years and laid the foundations for further company growth.
Mr Chalmers said: "We won these contracts as a result of our ability to respond quickly and effectively to the changing needs of the client and to offer innovative solutions as different situations and factors arose.

"These contract awards show that VetcoGray are confident that we can continue to provide high quality craftsmanship and, together with our new assembly and testing facility in Ellon, will remain versatile and flexible in the range of services that we can offer."

L&N's operations director, Mike McArtney, said: "These contracts provide a very strong financial base for taking our company forward and for proceeding with our expansion plans.

"We are looking to recruit a further 20 staff and are making a significant capital investment in additional premises and equipment to ensure that we fulfil our existing contracts and have the capacity to take on further work from other subsea operators.

"The subsea sector is extremely buoyant and fast moving and this investment reinforces our company's position as a reliable, safe and cost-efficient provider of welding, assembly and testing services to the subsea industry."

Note to Editors: Formed in March 1996, L&N (Scotland) Limited is now well established as one of the leading valve and specialised welding solution providers in the Oil and Gas market place.

Based at Kirkhill Industrial Estate, Dyce, Aberdeen, the company is a one-stop shop for all valve requirements and provides a full in-house workshop with a wide range of welding, assembly and testing services.
Website: www.lnvalves.co.uk

VetcoGray is a GE - Oil & Gas Business specialising in upstream drilling and production technology for the onshore, offshore and subsea oil & gas industry. GE's Oil & Gas team employ 5000 E&P professionals and has provided advanced technology products & services for production, LNG, pipelines, storage, refinery, and petrochemicals for more than 100 years.

Issued on behalf of L&N (Scotland) Limited by Sure PR.
For further information contact Stephen Rafferty on +44 (0) 7980 598764 or email moreinfo@surepr.co.uk

2nd September 2007

Okay, we're cheating. But we've got a dinky new logo, this brand new website and some very natty business cards to hand out to loads of potential clients at Offshore Europe. So we're just a little excited. Back to real work next week.

Sure PR, Aberdeen & Edinburgh | Public Relations & Media Handling Consultancy

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