In brief: Zeus PR celebrates first birthday; Danbro takes part in race for life; and more…

CHESHIRE-based Zeus PR has celebrated its first birthday and achievements to date, including a portfolio of 15 PR accounts.

Anthea Fosti, former group head of communications at Focus DIY and Wickes, set up the business in 2008. Since then the consultancy has obtained accounts including Central Manchester’s Abbey College, Blue Bell BMW and MINI dealership and digital agency, Fudge.

This year also saw the firm’s appointment onto the Creative Partnerships government scheme.

Ms Fosti, managing director at Zeus PR, said: “The range of clients that Zeus PR now has is across the board, including consumer, b2b and public sector. We are growing every month and we pride ourselves on delivering a transparent service, which always go above and beyond the required brief.”

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EMPLOYEES from Danbro Accounting showed their support to colleagues taking part in the Cancer Research UK ‘Race for Life’ earlier this month.

13 runners from the Blackpool-based accounting firm took part in the race, which brings together women each year to walk, jog or run five kilometres and raise money for cancer research.

Danbro’s Zoe Irvine, said: “It was uplifting to see such a positive turn out. We managed to raise £400, which was a great feeling of triumph. I’m sure we will turn up next year to show our support and hope to earn double the amount.”

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BENTLEY Motors’ apprenticeship programme has been recognised at the National Apprentice Employer of the Year Awards for 2009.

The company, which participated in the large business category, was highly commended for its commitment to developing its workforce through apprenticeships.

The Learning and Skills Council commended the breadth of the company’s scheme which includes all areas of the business, such as logistics, engineering and sales and marketing. Apprentices are also given the opportunity to spend a period of time living and working abroad within the Volkswagen Group.

Christine Gaskell, member of the board for personnel and apprenticeship ambassador,said:“We are exceptionally proud of this award. Being recognised at not only a regional, but a national level, is a great testament to everyone involved in the scheme. “

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CHESTER and Manchester-based solicitors, Aaron & Partners, have won the Arts, Business and Brand Identity award for their work with Clwyd Theatr Cymru at the Arts & Business Cymru awards.

Simon Carter, senior partner at Aaron & Partners, attended the awards ceremony in Cardiff and received the prize from the national poet of Wales, Gillian Clarke.

Aaron & Partners have been involved in a number of projects at Clwyd Theatr Cymru over the last 16 years.

Most recently the firm sponsored the classical music season, education workshops and the North Wales Art Open.

In addition Simon Carter, senior partner at Aaron & Partners, was appointed to Board of Governors of Clwyd Theatr Cymru earlier this year for his support and commitment to the theatre.

Terry Hands, director at Clwyd Theatr Cymru, said: ” I am delighted that Simon has been recognised in this way. Thanks to him we have sell-out classical music seasons and an ongoing young musicians training programme. Recently he joined our Board of Governors where his experience and knowledge have already proved invaluable.”

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SALFORD Software has been given access to the NHS’s Virtual Private Network, after undergoing a rigorous compliance procedure.

Called N3, the NHS’ VPN provides a centrally funded network connection for every NHS site in England – linking them together.

Salford Software began working towards N3 access in October 2008 by looking at criteria such as security; business continuity plans and the review of all third party contracts to check for compliance.

James Doggart, managing director of Salford Software, said:”Being granted access is a big step in being accepted as a trusted technology provider to the NHS, and we’re very pleased to have satisfied all of the criteria set out.”