UK event planners wowed by Newcastle tour

A group of conference planners from major UK industrial bodies were wowed by the Kings of Leon recently as part of a tour of Newcastle - showcasing all it has to offer.

Bosses from NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau hosted planners from prestigious organisations such as ASiT (Association of Surgeons in Training), AIMA (Alternative Investment Management Ass), BERA (British Education Research Association), Airmic and the Chartered Institute of Housing.

The tour also took a rooftop walk at the Sage Gateshead; bowling and dining at Lane7; a visit to BALTIC and food at Blackfriars restaurant.

Paul Szomoru, head of business tourism at NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau, said: “We were delighted to welcome these influential event planners during an exciting weekend for Newcastle, which saw St James’ Park host its first music event in almost seven years.

“The destination has a strong reputation for delivering a year-round program of festivals and events – including high profile events such as Rugby World Cup 2015 - meaning there’s always something fresh and interesting happening when delegates descend on the city for major conferences.

“We hope the weekend inspired the planners and showed them that as well as our knowledgeable and supportive Convention Bureau, first-class venues and support services, NewcastleGateshead has a huge amount to offer organisers looking to bring their next big event to North East England.”

Dr Ed Fitzgerald, conference director at ASiT, commented: “What a great idea to invite conference planners to experience NewcastleGateshead outside of the meeting room.

“While it’s clear the place has some fantastic venues for hosting conferences, I was delighted to see some of the equally wonderful activities on offer to delegates, and indeed all visitors, to the city – the particular highlight for me was being part of the electric crowds at St James’ Park.”