The North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) is proud to announce Heathrow Airport as a key sponsor of its prestigious 200th anniversary gala dinner.
The UK’s busiest airport will be sponsoring the drinks at the event on Palace Green and Durham Cathedral on Thursday 17 September.
Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye is no stranger to the North East and met members at NECC’s President Club lunch earlier this year.
Mr Holland-Kaye said: “It’s been 200 years of leadership that has seen the North East become a symbol of British innovation and industry. That is an astonishing milestone and a testament to the pioneering spirit of the North East and the Chamber. We’re delighted to be a part of this year’s 200th anniversary and look forward to celebrating the Chamber’s success in September.
James Ramsbotham, chief executive, NECC said: “We’re incredibly pleased to have Heathrow Airport supporting our biggest ever event.
“Heathrow Airport is especially important to the North East as it is a key link for Newcastle Airport with approximately 500,000 passengers flying there annually, half of which are on business. It is also critical for the North East’s £4bn tourism economy.
“For a major international transport hub to be supporting NECC and our members at our biggest event during our anniversary year is wonderful news. To be able to celebrate this milestone at an icon of our region, Durham Cathedral, makes this event even more special.”
The prestigious NECC200 Gala Dinner will combine a programme of world firsts – including the largest ever drinks and canapé reception held within the Cloister of Durham Cathedral, a special performance by Durham Cathedral Choir, engaging speakers and some special surprises. There will also be an exciting locally focused menu.
Dean of Durham, the Very Reverend Michael Sadgrove, said: “It is wonderful that the NECC has chosen to stage part of such an important event in its calendar here at Durham Cathedral, one of the North East’s major destinations for tourists, pilgrims and worshippers alike.
“We have a wonderful relationship with the NECC and congratulate it on 200 years of work promoting this region and our businesses. We are sure that our majestic Cloister and the wonderful singing from our Choir will provide a fitting backdrop for this celebration.”
On the night itself, proceedings will begin in Durham Cathedral Cloister followed by speeches in the Cathedral and a four course dinner in a marquee situated on Palace Green, on the Durham World Heritage Site, with celebrations coming to a close at midnight.
The event will not only be the largest ever business dinner in the region’s history, but the highest profile event in the North East’s business calendar in 2015.
With 800 key business people in attendance, this is an event not to be missed. The evening will be a spectacular celebration of North East Business, NECC and its member’s achievements over the last 200 years.
