GRAHAM Sewell has been appointed as Sedgefield Borough Council's first town centre manager.

He will have responsibility for attracting shoppers to Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor town centres, both of which have major new developments planned.

Mr Sewell is a business development advisor employed by SASDA, the council's development agency.

Mr Sewell said: "I started off in a family retail business, so the shop in the high street has always been of interest to me."

Currently based at the Sedgefield Business Centre in Newton Aycliffe, Mr Sewell will also have facilities in Spennymoor Council Offices.

He said: "Being born and bred in Crook, I know the area and the people. I am fully aware of what is required and will do everything I can to help."