Pub operator and brewer Jennings Brothers has appointed a new area sales manager to support its freehouses across the North-East and Cumbria.

SANDRA HALL will oversee more than 70 Jennings pubs, focusing on all aspects of running a freehouse, including buying public houses, managing accounts and supporting promotions.

She has always worked in the licenced trade - her previous experience includes work with national companies and running her own pub for 18 months.

She said: "I worked for Jennings some years ago and decided to return to the company having gained experience in running my own pub.

"I shall be working across a very diverse area, taking in a lot of different pubs. I am looking forward to meeting all the customers and I am really excited about being given the opportunity to return to Jennings."