Over 800 members of the region’s business community attended an event on Thursday evening at Durham Cathedral and Palace Green to celebrate the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) 200th anniversary celebrations.
The Gala Dinner was the culmination of special events held throughout the year to mark the bicentenary of the region’s largest business membership organisation and included a special performance from Durham Cathedral Choristers, a video message from Prime Minister David Cameron and words from guest speaker The Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation & Skills.
NECC President Mike Matthews, said: “I can’t begin to describe what a privilege it was for me – a former apprentice from Darlington – to have stood in front of some of the most innovative, creative and highly respected individuals from the world of business.
“Our members are what make NECC. The pioneers and innovators, manufacturers and creators, and the brightest beacons of business talent who stand alongside us, and recognise that we are stronger, louder and better when we come together as one.
“There remains a vital role for the Chamber to play as the Government embarks on its Northern Powerhouse strategy and considers major devolution deals for the region. If we don’t grasp this opportunity collectively, it’s not just the region that loses out, but the whole country. We must be empowered to deliver more and show what our region is capable of.
“Last night’s event shows that our business community is as vibrant now as it ever has been throughout that 200-year history, and we have more to look forward to than to look back upon.”
In his message to NECC and its members, Mr Cameron said: “It is extraordinary to think what your Chamber has achieved over two centuries. Most recently joining my delegation to South East Asia this summer and helping to secure a £12m investment from Malaysia’s Petra Group that is creating 90 skilled jobs.
“As Prime Minister, I’m determined to do everything I can to support your businesses, rebalance the economy, and generate more jobs and growth for the North East.
“As the authentic voice of business in the North East, your Chamber is an invaluable partner and I look forward to continuing to work together in the months ahead.
Mr Javid, speaking at the event, said: “For two centuries, innovators and entrepreneurs in the North East have consistently helped to shape the world in which we all live. Today NECC represents around 4,000 businesses that, between them, employ a third of the region’s workforce and make a massive contribution to economic growth.
“It’s easy to see why we consider the North East to be a crucial part of the Northern Powerhouse.”
The evening was a spectacular celebration of North East Business, NECC and its members’ achievements over the last 200 years.
Thursday’s event was made possible due to the generous support of event sponsors Heathrow and UK Trade & Investment.
Chief executive officer of Heathrow, John 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.”
NECC is proud to be supported by anniversary patrons Virgin Money, Port of Tyne, Newcastle International Airport, Gateshead College, Northumbrian Water and Sage.