North East designer earns royal approval

A North East designer has earned royal approval after helping mark a landmark anniversary.

Jess Gregorio, a senior creative designer based at Gateshead-headquartered Vertu Motors plc, has designed a new commemorative 50p coin to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust. 

Her winning design was unveiled by The Royal Mint alongside four other special edition coins, with Jess meeting King Charles III at Cyfarthfa Castle in Wales to present her work on his birthday.

A Northumbria University graphic design graduate, Jess was selected from strong competition for a design that places young people at its centre, reflecting the charity’s heritage and future focus. 

Alongside her role at Vertu, Jess also runs a small food business called ‘Take the Cannoli’, which she developed through The King’s Trust enterprise course, highlighting its lasting impact.

Jess’ design features symbolic imagery representing opportunity, optimism and ambition, alongside figures illustrating programmes spanning enterprise, digital skills, health and teamwork.

Jess said: “When I first entered the competition, I never imagined I’d be standing at Cyfarthfa Castle, meeting His Majesty and showing him my design. 

“It’s been an incredible journey – seeing something I created become part of history is beyond words. The King was genuinely interested in the design, and that made the moment even more special.

“I wanted the design to feel hopeful and dynamic, because that’s what The King’s Trust represents. 

“The sun is about optimism, the stream is about continuity and progress, and the figures show the breadth of opportunities – from outdoor challenges to digital skills.

“Every element tells a story of growth and possibility.”

She added: “The enterprise course gave us the confidence and tools to create a strong foundation to launch our business. 

“It’s amazing to think that the same organisation that helped me as an entrepreneur is now celebrating its anniversary with a coin I designed.”

The commemorative release marks five decades of The King’s Trust, which has supported more than one million young people since 1976. 

Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu, added: “This is a remarkable achievement for Jess and a proud moment for everyone at Vertu. 

“Her creativity and attention to detail have produced a design that perfectly captures the spirit of The King’s Trust and its impact on young people. 

“To see one of our colleagues recognised on a national stage like this is truly inspiring.”

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