Working in partnership is key to the success of a place, and through an exciting new initiative we are doing just that. 

Businesses, organisations and individuals from across County Durham came together in July for the first Durham Champions event - a county-wide network of people who are passionate about the place and want to see it thrive.  

The event took place on Thursday 25 July at Durham Cricket and was attended by over 50 businesses and individuals who want to work together to promote Durham, and raise its profile as a place to live, work, invest, study and visit. Speaking at the event were:

• Emma Gaudern, CEO, EMG Solicitors,
• David Jackson, Marketing Director, Durham Cricket,
• Rhiannon Hiles,  CEO, Beamish the Living Museum of the North
• Richard Baker, Director Economic Development & Commercialisation Durham University
• Tony Hanson, Corporate Director, Regeneration, Economy and Growth, Durham County Council 

It follows the recent launch of the county’s place brand - ‘The Durham Story’. The project saw engagement with hundreds of stakeholders from across the region, to identify a compelling new proposition for the county which will showcase Durham on a global scale.   

The Durham Story is an extraordinary blend of beauty, enterprise, heritage, culture and ambition, found in all four corners of the county. It shines a light on what makes Durham special, its distinctiveness and character, and the opportunities for the growth and development.  

Spearheaded by Durham County Council, Durham University, Visit County Durham and Business Durham, this new approach will see organisations and individuals join forces and unite behind the brand to build the county’s image, identity and reputation, and harness profile-raising opportunities to reach audiences essential for economic success.  

To find out more about The Durham Story, visit: Durham-UK.com