Welcome to the 70th edition of Aycliffe Business – an issue that marks this publication ’ s 12th anniversary .
It ’ s hard to believe it was 12 years ago since Martin Walker launched this fantastic tool for Aycliffe Business Park and its residents . As chair of Aycliffe Business Park Community , we ’ re delighted Martin and his team at Resolution Media and Publishing – a sister company to his Aycliffe Business magazine – are delivering the 2025 Make Your Mark Awards , after a fantastic relaunch spectacle earlier this year .
As we look ahead to another brilliant night , I ’ m delighted to reflect on what makes this celebration of achievement , innovation and collaboration such a cornerstone of our community .
Aycliffe Business Park is home to some of the most dynamic and forward-thinking enterprises in the North-East region .
These awards give us the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people and organisations driving progress and inspiring others .
Why should you take part ? Entering the awards is not just about recognition – it ’ s about telling your story .
Whether you ’ re a trailblazer in your industry , a rising star , or part of a team that ’ s made an
AYCLIFFE BUSINESS
Aycliffe Business is Newton Aycliffe ’ s only business publication , which is mailed exclusively to companies on Aycliffe Business Park .
Launched in November 2012 , we provide firms with a unique platform to tell everyone about their services and success stories in our prestigious , high-quality publication .
With an estimated readership of more than 8,000 , copies are mailed direct to every company on our database , and the rest are distributed by hand across the park as well as nearby hotels , restaurants and conference centres .
To book space in future issues of Aycliffe Business , email martin @ aycliffetoday . co . uk .
HELLO
GUEST FOREWORD FROM KERINA CLARK
outstanding impact , this is your chance to showcase what makes your work remarkable . Nominate others to celebrate the unsung heroes who might not step forward themselves . By acknowledging their contributions , you play a vital role in fostering a culture of encouragement and appreciation across our business park .
And if you ’ re considering sponsorship , let me assure you : it ’ s a powerful way to align your brand with excellence and make a meaningful investment in our thriving community .
Sponsors of Make Your Mark gain visibility among the very best Aycliffe has to offer and demonstrate a commitment to supporting local success .
Together , let ’ s ensure that 2025 is a year of recognition and inspiration .
The Make Your Mark Awards are more than a ceremony – they ’ re a celebration of what makes Aycliffe great .
I look forward to seeing your stories come to life .
Find out more at aycliffebusinesspark . co . uk / awards . Kerina Clark Chair , Aycliffe Business Park Community
Aycliffe Business Units 8-9 , Parson ’ s Court , Welbury Way , Aycliffe Business Park , Newton Aycliffe , Co . Durham DL5 6ZE
www . aycliffetoday . co . uk
Published & distributed by Mantis Media Ltd : www . mantis-media . com
Tel : 01325 728024 Email : martin @ aycliffetoday . co . uk Director / editor : Martin Walker .
Contributors to this issue : Kerina Clark , Martin Walker , Jackie Raynolds , Jim Maycock , Dave Robson .
Our photographers : Chris Booth , Tom Banks .
Designed by KINSHIP : Email sarah @ designbykinship . co . uk .
CONTENTS
Included in the 70th issue of Aycliffe Business …
15 BOOTCAMP FOR BOSSES
How an Optimum Skills course brings the best out of new managers
18 INSPIRING SUCCESS
Former apprentice turned Businessperson of the Year is urging his neighbours to enter 2025 Make Your Mark Awards
26 HOW TO GET THAT WINNING FEELING !
Eight key tips on maximising your awards chances
29 POWER OF MAKE YOUR MARK
Award win leads to new contract for NC Group
30 AYCLIFFE NETWORKING
See picture gallery from Aycliffe Business Park Community ’ s November News and Networking meeting
32-34 THAT ’ S A RAP !
Football legend John Barnes performs iconic World Cup ditty during Aycliffe charity fundraiser
The magazine for Aycliffe Business Park | 3