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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.

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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

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.

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 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.”

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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.”

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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.

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.”

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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 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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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.

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.

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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.

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

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.”

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

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

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

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.”

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

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.

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

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."

Ends

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 Asso

Sure PR, Aberdeen & Edinburgh | Public Relations & Media Handling Consultancy

Media Activity Centre

Our archive of current/recent press releases

20 October 2008: Musselburgh Ladies Day 2009 Tickets Go on Sale

8 October 2008: FG Burnett Finds More Space and Time Online

7 October 2008: Former PSL Energy Bosses Launch EnerMech With Double Acquisition

6 October 2008: asplanned In Tune With Avian's Organ

8 September 2008: Big Mouth Leach To Judge Direct Marketing Young Sparks

3 September 2008: Central Insurance Appoints New Risk Manager

1 September 2008: Five Starts For Musselburgh Racecourse

29 August 2008: Musselburgh Welcomes Boys And Their Toys

26 August 2008: Multiply's ABSOLUT PEARS Campaign Bears Fruit

25 August 2008: Green Tea At DMA Scotland Breakfast Seminar

7 August 2008: FG Burnett Expand Glasgow Office and Staff

1 August 2008: Office MOTs Could Avoid Compensation Pay Outs

30 July 2008: New Hearts Boss To Meet Fans At Musselburgh Race Night

29 July 2008: FG Burnett Add To Glasgow Team

25 July 2008: Former PSL Energy Services Director Spreads His Wings With Production Experts Caltec Limited

24 July 2008: Multiply Win Coeur de Cognac Promotional Campaign

10 July 2008: Multiply Heads For Hill As New Design Chief

7 July 2008: Paul Advances Insurance Career With Diploma

4 July 2008: FG Burnett Clan Raise £3k For Cancer Charity

2 July: Musselburgh Racecourse Goes By The Bookies With Free Entry

24 June: Borders Gallery Extends Sell Out Bob Dylan Exhibition

12 June: C-SAM Reach Scottish Final of British Small Business Champions Awards

12 June: Musselburgh Racecourse Appoint New Commercial Manager

11 June 2008: Office Experts asplanned Secure Fifth Digital Contract

10 June: Borders Art Gallery First to Showcase New Bob Dylan Collection

9 June 2008: Key Appointment Is Music To Multiply's Ears

9 June 2008: Queen Jill Drives Off With Stylish Suzuki Swift At Musselburgh Ladies Day

5 June 2008: Owner Occupiers Add Heat To Aberdeen Commercial Property Market

5 June 2008: Express Buses Laid On For Sell Out Musselburgh Ladies Day

28 May 2008: Multiply Dances Off With ISP Awards For ABSOLUT Disco Campaign

28 May 2008: Rob Saddles Up For Ops Role At Musselburgh Racecourse

15 May 2008: Surveyors FG Burnett Warn Short Term Leases Can Lead To Costly Repairs Bill

15 May 2008: Sold Out At Musselburgh Ladies Day For Second Year

14 May 2008: Former VetcoGray Base Sold In £3 Million Deal By FG Burnett

9 May 2008: Musselburgh Ladies Day Swiftly Heads For Second Sell Out

6 May 2008: C-SAM Tick All Software Boxes

5 May 2008: Musselburgh Racecourse Adds Fizz With Pommery Champagne Bar

30 April 2008: Imaging Specialist R2S Snaps Up Bibby Offshore Contract

28 April 2008: Champion Technologies Pass Acid Test With New Blending Plant

24 April 2008: Musselburgh's Sheppard Plumps For Chief Executive Role

23 April 2008: Peebles Tourism Push Nets £690,000 New Business For Town