THE SEFTON Group Award for ‘Marketing and PR Effectiveness’ at the Isle of Man Newspapers Awards for Excellence will be announced at this evening’s annual event at the Villa Marina.

Kate Hegarty of Sure, Ian Longworth of Public Transport Division and Deana Douglas of Conister Bank are the three nominees for the award.

Sure is now acknowledged as a vibrant telecoms provider with a unique proposition designed to support the brand values.

The finalists of this year’s Sure Apprentice between them raised almost £3,000 for local charities with the winner achieving a coveted apprenticeship with Sure.

New products have included the launch of ‘Sure Indie’, giving Island residents call and text bundles without contract - with a series of innovative products in the market.

The Public Transport Division has introduced a series of new ideas in the past year to encourage new customers onto the transport system.

These have included sell-out night time visits to the top of Snaefell for stargazing where the Isle of Man Astronomical Society took guests and served supper, an idea which will be repeated in the future.

Also popular have been Thomas the Tank Engine days for younger travellers whilst sunset dinners and driver experience days have also been very successful. Further ideas are in the pipeline for the future.

Conister Bank launched a major campaign to relaunch its brand during 2010, reaping rewards for the company.

The company gained a new look to reflect its focus on the financial needs and aspirations of the Manx community. Conister has since seen new business increase by 22% under its ‘Generations of Trust’ banner.

A range of initiatives have been launched, including sponsorship of a scheme to encourage children to visit the Island’s heritage sites.

The Sefton Group Award will be presented by director Mark Lewin.

The Isle of Man Newspapers annual Awards for Excellence can be seen this evening online at:- www2.iomtoday.co.uk/AFE/AFE_2010/index.html 

Then click on live stream.