PETER Barratt's Garden Centres has appointed a new manager for its Stockton branch.

He is STEVE HARDY, from Hartlepool, who brings 20 years of retail experience with him from supermarket chain Safeway.

In his new role he will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the Stockton centre and the development of its staff.

He said: "Team training is essential to ensure the succ-essful operation of our store and to continue in maintaining our high level of customer service.

"As well as maintaining a high standard of service to customers, I will be looking toward developing our exten-sive range of products, along with offering advice on all aspects of shopping for the garden."

* Specialist medical equipment suppliers Peacocks has strengthened its Newcastle operation with the appointment of ROGER SOMERVILLE to head its Posturecare service. The new division is dedicated to the research and development of specialist seating, including wheelchair services, harnesses and sleeping systems.

* BIB Underwriters, of Valley Street, Darlington, has set up a new support team to assist its specialist underwriters. IAN WALLACE, 26, who previously worked for BIB's claims department, will head the unit. He has been joined by LAURA WAKEFIELD, who has worked for BIB for two years and who is currently an underwriter, together with MARGARET FRANCE, who has been with BIB for five years. Also joining the support unit are SUSAN BROWN, ELIZABETH ROBINSON and SIMON DAVIES.

* Paramount Hotels has appointed VINCE JOHNSON, 36, as general manager of the Redworth Hall Hotel. Mr Johnson spent three years in a similar position at Hall Garth Golf and Country Club.

Joining his team is CLAIRE BOSTON-SMITHSON, 35, as sales manager. She previously worked in a similar position at the Thistle Hotel, in Middlesbrough.

* Law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed LISA TANSEY as a solicitor in the family law group.

Her role will include developing relationships with existing clients. Lisa qualified as a solicitor four years ago and has since specialised in family law, previously working for Cohens, in Stockton, and Canter Levin and Berg in Liverpool.

* Darlington public relations business Recognition Marketing has taken on NICK CHAYTOR as a consultant.

He has moved to public relations from a career in teaching, having taught for a year in Newton Aycliffe.

Before then, he taught English in Moscow.