The News Desk

Diligence Law

2008-08-11T08:50:00.020Z

The Vikings were famous as explorers, warriors, merchants, and pirates, who raided and colonised areas of Europe from the late 8th to the early 11th century. These Norsemen used their famed longships to travel as far east as Constantinople and Russia, and as far west as Iceland, Greenland, and Newfoundland.

The Vikings lived by a set of laws known as Viking laws, which Diligence thinks is just as relevant in today’s business world as they were in Viking times with a few tweaks of course to bring them in line with the modern business environment.

Diligence Law

Be Brave and Aggressive

Be direct
Grab all opportunities
Use varying methods of attack
Be versatille and agile

Attack one target at a time
Don`t plan everything in detail
Use top quality weapons

Be Prepared

Keep weapons in good condition
Keep in shape
Find good battle comrades
Agree on important points
Choose one chief

Be A Good Merchant

Find out what the market needs
Don`t promise what you can`t keep
Don`t demand over payment
Arrange things so that you can return

Keep The Camp In Order

Keep things tidy and organised
Arrange enjoyable activities which strengthen the group
Make sure everybody does useful work
Consult all members of the group for advice

Diligence in Kent move

2008-08-04T16:02:00.010Z

East Sussex based marketing agency Diligence Media and Marketing is expanding its operations by announcing the opening of a satellite office in Maidstone, Kent.

The new office represents a remarkable success for Diligence which was established in November 2007, as a result of a merger between two long established companies – Nice Work and Pixel Puppet.

Since its launch Diligence has built a formidable reputation and boasts an impressive client list which includes Legal & General, Kent Air Ambulance, Sea Space, KPMG and Orbital Marketing to name but a few.

“Our new Maidstone office represents an important part of our continued expansion plans” said Martin Burke, Marketing Director.

“Although our roots lie firmly in East Sussex, we now have a large number of Kent based clients and the new office will allow us to better service them."

For more information on Diligence visit www.diligencegroup.co.uk.
Alternatively call us on 01424 447858 or
e-mail martin@diligencegroup.co.uk

Pixel Puppet Launch

2008-06-13T09:47:00.008Z

Diligence Media and Marketing launch a new service designed to help small businesses and start up companies gain a foothold on the internet. The new service also sees the reappearance of the Pixel Puppet brand.

Speaking about the launch Marketing Director of Diligence Martin Burke said: “We have worked with many start up businesses and small businesses over the years and understand that budget is important. That’s why we have developed a range of cost effective websites which are perfect for those looking to get online for the first time".

"In time these companies can look to expand their online presence and incorporate more sophisticated features like an online shop”.

"The launch of the new service is designed to complement the existing range of Diligence design services, including website design, traditional advertising and brochure design".

The Pixel Puppet range includes a choice of three web design packages, with price starting at just £149.99 + VAT or £14.99 month for 12 months.

For more information, please visit www.pixelpuppet.co.uk.

Alternatively, call 01424 447858 or e-mail martin@diligencegroup.co.uk for more details.

Online marketing soars

2008-06-10T13:31:00.005Z

The online marketing industry grew by almost 40% in 2007 according to new figures from the Advertising Association. With companies increasingly releasing the benefits of cost affective e-marketing.

With any winner there’s always a loser and in this case its direct marketing. The industry saw a drop in year-on-year growth of 6.5%.

The Advertising Statistics Yearbook 2008 confirmed that digital marketing has now overtaken direct marketing as the third largest channel by market share. Digital expenditure represents 15.6% of advertising expenditure while direct marketing now accounts for only 11.2%.

The direct marketing industry was worth £2.17bn in 2007. Press advertising was still the biggest channel with expenditure of £7.71bn, and a 39% share of the market. This was followed by TV at £4.6bn and a 24% share.

The UK advertising industry grew by 4.2%in 2007 to a total of £19.4bn.

We have a wealth of experience in e-marketing and offer a complete e-marketing service from website design to HTML e-mail campaigns. Talk to one of Diligences experienced professionals today on 01424 447858 or visit www.diligencegroup.co.uk and let us get your business moving in the right direction.

Where will you take your customers in 2008?

2008-05-28T14:22:00.004Z

Looking for somewhere suitable to take your staff, your colleagues or your customers?

One of our favourite events is Glorious Goodwood - one of the highlights of the social summer scene. Indeed, King Edward VII once described Glorious Goodwood as ‘a garden party with racing tacked on’.

The meeting not only offers the very best in top-class racing - ‘Glorious Goodwood’ is a real English summer institution, where racing, socialising and fashion go hand in hand.

Goodwood is reckoned to be one of the world’s most beautiful racecourses. Set high on the South Downs with the most beautiful of views, it really is the perfect place to enjoy summer’s day. The Thursday of the Goodwood Festival is traditionally ‘Ladies’ Day’ and the feature race of the day, the Goodwood Cup, is Goodwood’s oldest race.

Our sister company, Nice Work, has been organising trips to Goodwood for some years now and are now taking reservations for a Glorious Goodwood VIP Package.

For more information, contact martin@diligencegroup.co.uk

Pedal power for Sierra Leone

2008-05-27T13:09:00.003Z

Half-a-dozen brave souls returned to Hastings on Monday afternoon after cycling to Boulogne and back to raise funds for the Hastings Sierra Leone Friendship Link.

The group were welcomed back from their 200 kilometre plus trek by a band of supporters and sponsors including Councillor Jeremy Birch.

The six cyclists - Roger Mitchell, Steve Frost, Bill Evans, Mike Cooper, Einar Einarsson and Jansen van Rensburg - were waved off on their challenge on Saturday morning from Hastings Pier by the Mayor Councillor Maureen Charlesworth and members of the Hastings-Sierra Leone Friendship Link. From there the group made their way to Dover and across the channel for a 2 night stay in Calais. Sunday saw them cycling to the port of Boulogne and back – a journey of around 50 miles – in blazing sunshine.

The Pedal for Sierra Leone was arranged by Diligence sister company Nice Work. Money raised from the event will help funding for the Community Resource Building in Hastings Village in Sierra Leone.

More new business wins for Diligence

2008-03-03T09:21:00.007Z

Diligence Media and Marketing has confirmed its growing status as one of the fastest growing design and communications companies in East Sussex with more new business wins.

Since its launch in November 2007, Diligence has been appointed to oversee major design projects for companies covering a wide range of industry sectors.

JAG Press and Publicity, a PR and press consultancy based in Horsham appointed Diligence to construct its new website. The new site went live last month and is seeking to boost the profile of this long-established company in the highly competitive press and PR marketplace.

International web directory Seascape International has also appointed Diligence to construct a major new web-based shipping directory, whilst Battle restaurant Nobles selected the company to help reinforce its presence in the local community with a revised website and marketing support.

Caseco was established to provide high quality products to the optical market throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. A refreshed web presence plus the launch of a new online shopping facility is being created by Diligence for launch in April.

In addition to other new business wins from companies such as Legal & General, Rootgrow and Aeromet International, the company's Event Division has been appointed to provide conference entertainment for three trade union conferences – Prospect in Torquay and PCS in Brighton – both in May and the Bakers and Food Workers Union in Bridlington in June.

To find out how Diligence can help your business grow, contact our Client Services Director Gareth Jones on 01424 447858.

All set for Lydd Classic

2008-02-27T15:27:00.006Z

Runners from all over the south east – and some from even further afield - will be descending upon Lydd on Sunday March 9th for the return of the Lydd Parish Half Marathon.

The race was once a popular part of the south east road running calendar but has been absent now for a number of years. Race organisers Nice Work, sister company of Diligence Media and marketing, are anticipating around 250 runners of all standards - from novice joggers to seasoned competitors - to line up for the main event. "The return of the race seems to have been well received and we’ve attracted a healthy number of entrants already” says Race Director Martin Burke “But there will still be spaces available for those who want to sign up on the day – and we’re also hoping for a strong entry in both the 2 mile Fun Run and Children’s Race”

The Half Marathon race is over a flat, route along towards Dungeness before joining the Coast Road to Greatstone. The course is proving popular both for those in training for this year’s London Marathon and for those looking for a fast time.

Proceeds from the race are being shared between local good causes allocated by the Mayor of Lydd and to the Kent MS Therapy Centre.

The Half Marathon starts at 10.00 am with the Fun Run at 10.15. Both races will be preceded by a Children’s Race at 9.30.

All finishers will receive a medal and a Goody Bag and there are prizes for the leading runners. Any enquires to Martin Burke 01797 230730 or visit http://www.nice-work.org.uk/

Stroll from Boulogne to Le Touquet for charity

2008-02-17T13:47:00.004Z

Details have been announced of the next overseas sponsored walk for local charities in Deal and Hastings.

The Stroll for St Michaels and Martha – is a three day overseas sponsored walk which raises funds for St Michaels Hospice and Martha Trust.

Boulogne to Le Touquet is the 5th sponsored walk overseas for St Michaels Hospice and 2008 will be the third time that funds have also been raised for Martha Trust. This year the walk takes in some stunning countryside as it wends its way along the coastal footpath between Boulogne and Le Touquet.

The walk will cover some beautiful French countryside and pass many places of historic interest en route. There are also a number of refreshment stops along the route and the overnight base will provide ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine.

The event is perfect for people of all ages and families are welcome to participate. The route is primarily flat and with a longest day mileage of around 15 miles, only a basic minimum level of fitness would be required.

If you can raise the minimum amount in sponsorship, your place on the Stroll is fully funded.
Martin Burke, from Diligence sister company Nice Work, says: “This is now a really popular event and as well as being a great weekend away, it’s a superb opportunity to demonstrate support for both St Michaels Hospice and Martha Trust in a healthy and fun way.”

The Stroll takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend with a coach departure from Hastings and Dover on Saturday morning – returning to the towns on Monday evening.
In addition to the coach, back-up vehicles will also carry basic first aid facilities and refreshments will be available at regular stops along the way. All meals, accommodation and refreshments for the duration of the walk are provided.

For more information, contact organisers Nice Work on 01797 230730; email info@nice-work.org.uk or visit www.nice-work.org.uk

Lydd returns to the road running stage

2008-01-30T08:50:00.001Z

Event management specialists Diligence Media and Marketing has announced plans for the return of the Lydd Half Marathon.

The race was once one of the most popular road running events in the Kent, regularly attracting large numbers of runners from all over the world, until the race ceased in the mid 1990;s.

The event, organised through Diligence sister company and specialist road racing organisers Nice Work takes place on Sunday March 9th. The event is being held in conjunction with Lydd Town Council and will be looking to raise funds for the Mayor of Lydd's designated local charities and good causes.

Nice Work already organises a number of races in Kent and East Sussex as well as organising groups travel to major road racing and marathon events throughout Europe.

Entries are available for the Lydd Half Marathon from organisers Nice Work on 01797 230730; by email at info@nice-work.org.uk or by visiting the Nice Work website www.nice-work.org.uk

Next Holiday for Diligence!

2008-01-29T19:14:00.002Z

Local businesses celebrate the launch of an exciting new website - NextHoliday.co.uk!
BP Travel Marketing is celebrating the launch of Next Holiday, BP's latest online product dedicated to helping consumers find their Next Holiday which has its First Edition live this morning. Next Holiday joins BP's other consumer focused websites TravelOwl.co.uk and Brochurebank.co.uk.

Next Holiday was created by BP's online services manager Phil Taylor working closely with Sussex-based communications company Diligence Media and Marketing, whose design skills were put to the test to create such a simple but effective communication platform. The result is a unique mix of user-generated content (from TravelOwl.co.uk BP's online travel community) and classified advertising from Tour Operators and Travel Agents. Excitingly, Next Holiday takes a number of online and offline forms. Next Holiday (.co.uk) is the main website where visitors link to TravelOwl, Brochurebank and Advertisers' websites. In addition, registered users receive an html email introducing the features of each month's edition plus there is also a printed version which accompanies all brochures dispatched from Brochurebank making this a unique opportunity to target consumers through a variety of media.

The current Next Holiday database is 50,000 consumers who are actively looking to book their Next Holiday and substantial growth is being targeted with numbers estimated to triple over the course of the year.

Phil Taylor, BP's product manager, Online Services, commented: "This is a hugely exciting product, combining traveller's experiences from TravelOwl with some excellent holiday offers to tempt people into booking their Next Holiday." He added: "This month we've got first time cruisers, amazing photos from Churchill in Canada of the polar bears, ski reviews from Panorama in British Columbia and video from the Maldives. It's so exciting to be able to share people's experiences in such a unique way."

James Marchant, Creative Director at Diligence Media and Marketing said: “The growth in the use of technology and emarketing offers an excellent opportunity for BP Travel Marketing, which has a strong reputation for developing high quality travel marketing products, to build its brand and expand its market.”

He added: “BP Travel Marketing is an important account for Diligence. Alongside our recent work for some of the region’s leading companies, it is a step forward in our strategy to increase our presence in the south east business community.”

Ends

Note to Editors (1):

Diligence Media and Marketing is a traditional marketing, design and communications agency with two offices in Hastings and Rye. Amongst the services we offer are:

- Traditional branding, design and print
- Website design and build
- Internet marketing and net optimisation, including a low-cost Blogging service
- eMail, database and direct mail marketing
- Marketing services and support
- Event management

Contact details:

James Marchant
Diligence Media and Marketing
20 Wellington Square,
Hastings,
East Sussex,
TN34 1PB

Tel: 01424 447858
James@diligencegroup.co.uk

From Calais to Boulogne - on foot!

2008-01-24T07:30:00.002Z

Diligence sister company Nice Work has announced plans for another of its popular overseas walks with a three day walk between the two French ports of Calais and Boulogne.

The walk, which enables participants to raise money for their own favourite charity, will take place between April 18th and 20th.

The towns of Calais and Boulogne are around 25 or so miles apart by road - but a comfortable but more interesting walk of two to two and a half days separates them. They are linked together by a coastal footpath which provides for a breathtaking walk with views over the surrounding countryside and, of course, across the English Channel. In addition to walking, there's time for sightseeing incorporated into the programme as the route passes many places of historic interest and there are a number of museums en route.

There are also a number of refreshment stops along the way and the two overnight stops will provide ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine. The event is perfect for people of all ages and we would encourage families to participate. The route is undulating and with a longest day mileage of around 15 miles, only a basic minimum level of fitness would be required.

The cost of just £145 per person includes:

Transport to and from France
Accommodation, meals plus drinks and refreshments en route
Back- up transport throughout the duration of the stroll
Celebratory lunch in Boulogne
The services of a back-up crew and guides
A daily goody bag plus a commemorative tee shirt

Organiser Martin Burke says “The Calais to Boulogne route has always been our most popular overseas walk and those who join us can expect some stunning scenery, some good company and a great social experience. The walk has already attracted a number of particpants, including one group of younger walkers loooking to raise funds for a once in a lifetime exchange visit to Beijing."

Nice Work has organised the annual three day sponsored walks over the August Bank Holiday Weekend in France and Belgium for both St Michaels Hospice and Martha Trust. This year sees the 5th Stroll for St Michaels which will be from Boulogne to Le Touquet.

The Calais to Boulogne walk takes place from Friday 18th April to Sunday 20th April, with a coach departure from both Hastings and Dover on Friday morning – returning to the towns on Monday evening.

For more information, contact organisers Nice Work on 01797 230730; email info@nice-work.org.uk or visit the Nice Work website

Air Ambulance site passes the test!

2008-01-18T10:17:00.000Z

The new website designed and built for Kent Air Ambulance by Diligence Media and Marketing has been put through its paces by influential trade mag Third Sector.

Third Sector is the UK’s leading publication for the voluntary and not-for-profit sector. Many of its 80,000 readers are chief executives, trustees and senior managers in charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises. Others are parliamentarians, lawyers, finance professionals and private sector executives concerned with corporate responsibility.

Each issue features a new website which is 'road tested' for navigation, accessibility, content and innovation. The new site was awarded a glowing testimony and a 16/20 score "There's an impressive level of content here" says the reviewer.

"Considering I have only ever seen one at 18/20 and most national charities get 16. I think we’ve done very well. I’m pleased and our Chief Executive is really chuffed." said Kate Duddell , Media Coordinator, Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance.

To see the full review, click here.

All set to Pedal to Dieppe

2008-01-11T10:25:00.000Z

Details have been announced of a three day sponsored cycle ride to the French port of Dieppe to raise funds for the Hastings Sierra Leone Friendship Link.

Pedal for Sierra Leone will cover some beautiful countryside on both sides of the Channel and take in many places of historic interest en route. There are also a number of refreshment stops along the route making the event suitable for cyclists of all abilities. The overnight base in Dieppe will also provide ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine.

The event is perfect for people of all ages and families are welcome to participate. The route allows for relatively easy cycling, with most of the route in France using a purpose-built cycle roadway.

If you can raise the minimum amount in sponsorship, your place on the Pedal is fully funded.
Organiser Martin Burke from event managers Nice Work, a Diligence sister company, says “This should prove a really popular event and as well as being a great weekend away, is a superb opportunity to demonstrate support for the Hastings Sierra Leone Friendship Link.”

The Pedal for Sierra Leone takes place over the second May Bank Holiday weekend with a departure from Hastings Pier on Saturday May 24th – returning to the town by the Monday evening.

Back-up vehicles will carry basic first aid and cycle repair resources and refreshments will be available at regular stops along the way. Your ferry crossing, all meals, accommodation and refreshments for the duration of the cycle are provided.

For more information, contact organisers Nice Work on 01797 230730; email info@nice-work.org.uk or visit http://www.nice-work.org.uk/

We're movin' up!!

2008-01-07T14:31:00.000Z

Diligence Media and Marketing is gearing up for further expansion with a move to larger premises in Wellington Square, Hastings. Since the launch of Diligence in late 2007, business levels have been such that the new company requires additional staff and larger premises.

However, the company isn't moving far - the new offices are just next door and up one floor! The move from 18 to 20 Wellington Square, in Hastings, means the company is now able ato accomodate additional staff and resources, whilst maintaining its convenient town centre location.

Since the new company - formed, following the merger of two long-established local companies, Nice Work and Pixel Puppet - was launched, it has experienced rapid expansion. Recent growth has come from both new clients and increased business from existing customers.

The new new offices are located at 20, Wellington Square, Hastings – in the centre of Hastings, close to the central station and with parking facilities nearby.

Diligence will continue to maintain its rural office in Peasmarsh.

Ends

Contact details:

Telephone: 0844 544 7278

Diligence in Hastings
20 Wellington Square,
Hastings,
East Sussex,
TN34 1PB
Direct Line: 01424 447858

Diligence in Rye
Unit 4,
Malthouse Business Park,
Peasmarsh,
TN31 6ST
Direct Line: 01797 230730

Click here to visit the Diligence website.

A Happy New Year for Diligence!

2008-01-03T09:20:00.001Z

Hastings-based marketing and communications company Diligence Media and Marketing is celebrating a Happy New Year with news of three important new business wins.

In a lively start to 2008, the company have been appointed to three important new projects.

Caseco, a leading supllier of quality spectacle cases, accessories and eyeware have appointed Diligence to construct a new website and online shop. This is the second time the Kent-based optical company have shown their faith in Diligence staff, with the existing site provided by Pixel Puppet - one of the two companies who joined to form Diligence in November 2007.

JAG Press and Publicity is a PR and media consultancy providing leading organisations with PR, editorial and journalist services. Diligence is constructing a website for the consultancy and has also provided the company with a new corporate identity.

The British Pharmaceutical Nutrition Group (BPNG) have also selected Diligence to provide the membership organisation with a new website plus develop a new series of membership marketing materials, including a new branded exhibition presence.

Martin Burke, Marketing Director of Diligence Media and Marketing said "We believe in value for money and believe too that working better rather than working differently makes us stand out from the crowd. Its because of that philosophy that so many organsiations are now selecting us to help them develop their marketing communications".

For more information on how Dlilgence can help your company to communicate better with its customers, call Gareth Jones today 0n 01424 447858.

Davis in Christmas Cracker triumph

2007-12-19T10:12:00.000Z

James Davis stormed to victory in Sunday’s Kent Christmas Cracker 5 mile race at Fowlmead Country Park on Sunday morning. The Invicta East Kent Runner covered the traffic-free course in 27 minutes and 40 seconds to win by almost two minutes. Essex runner Scott Tilson was second, while Deal Tri's Jason Read was third.

Jill Cliff, from Deal Tri was first lady home in 31.04, with Victoria Talbot-Rosner (Invicta East Kent) second and Lindsey Shing (Sevenoaks AC) third. Deal Tri scooped both the Men’s and Ladies team titles.

Over 130 entries were received for this inaugural event at Fowlmead organised by Diligence sister company, Nice Work. The company has confirmed that the event will return in 2008. The race was organised to raise funds for Martha Trust who provide care for profoundly disabled young adults at two residential homes near Deal.

The Christmas spirit – and Christmas Puds! - were in plentiful supply for runners taking part in both the main race and the Children’s 1 Mile Santa Dash – and there was also a warming glass of punch and mince pie on hand for finishers on a bright, sunny, but bitterly cold morning.

More information from Martin Burke at Nice Work 01797 230730.

All set for a Christmas Cracker

2007-12-12T14:21:00.001Z

Runners from all over the south east – and some from even further afield - will be descending upon Fowlmead Country Park in Sholden, near Deal on Sunday for the second running of the Kent Christmas Cracker.

Advance entries for the charity road running race to raise funds for Martha Trust indicate that around 200 runners of all ages will be descending upon the Park for the event.

The race is organised to raise money for Martha Trust by Diligence Media and Marketing via their specialist road running sister company Nice Work. Race Director Martin Burke is anticipating a good humoured day with festive fun a priority: "In addition to medals for all finishers, each particpant will collect a Christmas Pudding when they finish - and there will be mulled wine and mince pies for everybody too. We’ve attracted a great entry already – but there will still be spaces available for those who want to sign up on the day”

The 5 mile race is over a flat, traffic-free course utlising the purpose-built cycle road in the park. The race starts at 10.30 am with a Children's Race taking place at 10.15.

In addition to the Kent Christmas Cracker, the company is organising the Christmas Pudding Dash on December 22nd, which has already attracted almost 350 runners, the Lydd Half Marathon on March 9th and the Rye Summer Series in the summer of 2008.

Any enquires to Martin Burke 01797 230730 or visit http://www.nice-work.org.uk/

Air Ambulance at the click of a button

2007-12-12T14:00:00.001Z

The three Air Ambulance services in the south east have just re-launched their on-line presence with an exciting new web site.

The three sites, for Kent Air Ambulance, Surrey Air Ambulance and Sussex Air Ambulance were conceived, developed and constructed by Diligence Media and Marketing. The sites are more user friendly and contain new interactive features, information, photographs and videos of the life saving helicopters they use.

New features include ‘real life’ stories from people who have been carried by the Air Ambulance, a virtual tour of the helicopter that allows the public to see the cockpit and cabin and cutaway views of the aircraft. There is also a new flying time map than enables viewers to find out how long it takes the helicopters to fly from their bases to various locations within their respective counties.

James Marchant, Creative Director at Diligence said ‘This is a really exciting development. It has taken us some six months to get it right but we believe that we have come up with a web site which is both informative and fun. It enables the people within Kent, Surrey and Sussex who so generously support the charity to be able to keep up to date with news from their Air Ambulance service.’

Diligence Media and Marketing was formed in November 2007 following the merger of two well known local marketing and design companies, Pixel Puppet and Peasmarsh-based Nice Work.

You can visit the new websites at:

http://www.kentairambulance.co.uk/

http://www.sussexairambulance.co.uk/

http://www.surreyairambulance.co.uk/

Ends

Note to Editors (1):

The Air Ambulance service in Kent, Surrey and Sussex costs around £3 million annually to stay airborne. Receiving no funds from the government or the National Lottery the charity is entirely dependent upon the generosity of the public to support the two helicopters, based at Marden and Dunsfold.

Note to Editors (2):

Diligence Media and Marketing is a traditional marketing, design and communivations agency. Amongst the services we offer are:

· Traditional branding, design and print

· Website design and build

· Internet marketing and net optimisation, including a low-cost Blogging service

· eMail, database and direct mail marketing

· Marketing services and support

· Event management

Contact details:

Telephone: 0844 544 7278

18 Wellington Square,

Hastings,

East Sussex,

TN34 1PB

Click here to visit the Diligence website.

New design agency launched!

2007-11-19T16:30:00.001Z

Diligence is here!

Hastings-based design studio, Pixel Puppet, and Rye marketing consultancy Nice Work have formally merged to form a new marketing, communications and design agency.

The new company, Diligence Media and Marketing commenced trading on November 1st 2007.

The decision to bring the two companies together follows a successful 12 month collaboration period between the two founding partnerships. Martin Burke, Marketing Director of Diligence, says: "The new company has been formed to help both companies meet the growing needs of their clients. As a result, Diligence can now offer a true one-stop marketing shop with website and traditional design, media and PR, copywriting, marketing services and event management all now available under one roof.

“Our core values are to provide a quality service to our clients and provide value for money. We believe that working better rather than working differently will make us stand out from the crowd – which is why we're as comfortable working with business start-ups as we are with large international companies.

Client Services Director, Gareth Jones says: “Diligence is a results-driven business and with its roots stretching back almost twenty years, we have the experience to address the most pressing website, advertising, design and marketing needs.

“Although we’ve only been working as a team for 12 months, we’re proud of our growing reputation for great service, the quality of our creative work and our competitive prices”
Both the Nice Work and Pixel Puppet brands will be retained. Nice Work will continue to provide event management services, primarily in the entertainment and road running sectors. The Pixel Puppet brand will also be retained for future web-based projects.

Diligence will be based at two East Sussex offices – in Hastings and in Peasmarsh near Rye.
Ends

Note to Editors:

Diligence Media and Marketing is a traditional marketing, design and communivations agency. Amongst the services we offer are:

· Traditional branding, design and print
· Website design and build
· Internet marketing and net optimisation, including a low-cost Blogging service
· eMail, database and direct mail marketing
· Marketing services and support
· Event management

Directors
Creative Director James Marchant
Client Services Director Gareth Jones
Marketing Director Martin Burke
Company Secretary Cathy Burke

Contact details:

Telephone: 0844 544 7278

Diligence in Hastings
18 Wellington Square,
Hastings,
East Sussex,
TN34 1PB
Direct Line: 01424 461827

Diligence in Rye
Unit 4,
Malthouse Business Park,
Peasmarsh,
TN31 6ST
Direct Line: 01797 230730

Click here to visit the Diligence website.

A Double Christmas Cracker!!

2007-11-13T07:01:00.000Z

The Christmas spirit – and Christmas Puds! - will be in plentiful supply for runners taking part in two special Christmas races being organised by specialist event manager Nice Work.

The Christmas Pudding Dash race takes place at Ashburnham Place, near Battle; whilst the Kent Christmas Cracker takes place at Fowlmead Country Park. Runners will be looking to cover the 5 mile courses to raise money for Martha Trust, which has residential homes for the profiundly disabled in both Hastings and Deal. Finishers of both events will receive a Christmas pudding as they cross the finishing line – with a warming glass of punch on hand as well.

The Kent race is set to take place on Sunday 16th December, with the Battle event taking place on the following Saturday (22nd) and anybody over 15 is welcome to take part. In addition to the main 5 mile race there’s also a 2 mile fun run and a Children’s 1 mile race.

Emily Shepherd, of Martha Trust says: “We are really pleased to be holding these races for the second time and we're really grateful for the help and support offered to us by Nice Work and Diligence Media and Marketing. We had tremendous races last year with over 500 runners taking part in the two races. Whilst it is our number one priority to ensure that the runners enjoy themselves I hope we can raise a good amount of money to help Martha Trust continue providing for the profoundly disabled.

Entry forms are available from Martha Trust (01424 757960); from the organisers, Nice Work, on 01797 230730; by email at info@nice-work.org.uk or by visiting www.nice-work.org.uk

More new business wins!

2007-10-24T19:34:00.001Z

The newly formed marketing, communications and design company Diligence has secured more new business to boost it's November debut.

RIB, a financial services company based in Wath-on-Dearne, South Yorkshire has appointed Diligence to construct its new website. The new site will go live in early November and is expected to boost the profile of the long-established company in the highly competitive Yorkshire insurance marketplace.

Ashford company Country Homes France (CHF) has appointed Diligence Group to provide marketing and sales assistance for its internet-based overseas property estate agency business. Initial work for CHF has focused on helping construct a new website as well as developing a HTML email marketing programme.

Calisto is a consultancy providing leading blue-chip companies with change management, Lean Manufacturing and other strategic assistance. Diligence is constructing a website for the consultancy and has also helped develop a new logo and corporate design.

In addition to other new business wins such as local Hastings restaurant Intimo (website), the company have also been appointed to organise the Pedal for Sierra Leone, a sponsored cycle ride to France for the Hastings/Sierra Leone twinning charity plus the Lydd Half Marathon which makes a welcome return to the local running calendar in March 2008.

Diligence set for November debut

2007-10-24T19:16:00.001Z

Hastings-based design studio Pixel Puppet and Marketing/Events company Nice Work have concluded a 12 month co-operation agreement by announcing a formal merger of their marketing and design activities.

A newly formed company - Diligence Group Ltd - will commence operations on November 1st 2007 and will incoporate the two companies existing marketing and design business.

Diligence Media and Marketing begins life with an established portfolio of clients including Legal & General, Orbital Marketing, Kent Air Ambulance and Sea Space, the regeneration agency for Hastings and Bexhill. As well as providing marketing assistance to a range of large clients, the company also has a sharp focus on providing cost-effective marketing help to local and regional companies within their East Sussex/West Kent catchment area. Already Diligence is working with companies such as Wild About Mushrooms (Beckley), Dream Machines Lotus (Heathfield), Thorcraft and Tools by Post (Hastings) and Country Homes France (Ashford).

Marketing Director Martin Burke says "The launch of Diligence is an exciting development for both Nice Work and Pixel Puppet. We are now in a position to provide a comprehensive marketing support service including strategic advice, marketing planning, traditional design, print and copywriting plus, of course, website build and design. More to the point we believe that this range of services places Diligence in a unique position in one of our core markets of Hastings, where the choice for businesses seeking a quality advertising and marketing resource is very limited indeed."

Nice Work events will continue to trade under the Nice Work banner whilst the Pixel Puppet brand will also be retained for future web-based business opportunities.

Will Kylie get Pixel out of her head??

2007-08-14T08:05:00.001Z

Top London Jewellery design house Johnny Rocket has selected Pixel Puppet to design and launch the company's first ever website.

Based in Greenwich, London, Johhny Rocket is most famous for producing bespoke jewellery for showbiz stars such as Kylie Minogue, Jamiroquai and former Darkness front man, Justin Hawkins.

Gareth Jones, Client Services Director at Pixel Puppet, said "We are delighted that John Pearce and Niall Paisley of Johnny Rocket selected us to design and provide them with a boutique web presence to showcase their unique designer jewellery pieces"

The new site is due to launch in September"

Johnny Rocket is at the pinnacle of Britain's creative jewellery industry. Its signature style embraces a spirit of 'adventure and tradition', and is recognised for its fusion of fashion, individual style, and fine craftsmanship.

The new business win is the latest in a series of high profile new accounts captured by Pixel Puppet over the last three months. The company now enters the fourth quarter of the year heading for record billings.

For more information on PixelPuppet, please contact Gareth Jones by visiting www.pixelpuppet.co.uk

To view the new Johnny Rocket site, visit http://www.johnnyrocketltd.co.uk/

Nice Work retains Sea Space account

2007-07-26T12:47:00.000Z

Nice Work has been reappointed for a further year as the marketing, PR and event management provider for two of the Sea Space projects in East Sussex.

Sea Space is the economic development company for Hastings and Bexhill and was set up by the regional development agency and local councils to help create a vibrant, prosperous future for this part of England's south coast.

Nice Work provides marketing, communications, PR, media and event management services to two of the Sea Space projects - The East Sussex Enterprise Hub and The eBiz Centre. The company has worked with The EBiz Centre, formerly The Broadband Centre, for four years now and has helped both to raise its profile and to ensure its workshop programme becomes an established part of the local business scene. Nice Work has responsibility for recruiting delegates to the workshops and has been instrumental in helping to post 'House Full' signs on the majority of events. In addition to delegate recruitment, Nice Work also provides on the day Delegate Management Services.

The company has also been re-appointed to a similar role for The East Sussex Enterprise Hub. The Enterprise Hub Network focuses on entrepreneurial individuals and companies, helping them to bring ideas to market quickly and profitably. It is built around a team of commercial experts, based in Hubs right across the South East. Nice Work will be focusing on assisting the two East Sussex Hub sites in Eastbourne and Hastings.

The contract between Nice Work and Sea Space is for a further year through to 2008 and was secured after a formal tendering process. Martin Burke from Nice Work says "We are delighted to renew our arrangements with both the Hub and the eBiz centre. Our work over the last few years has played its part in raising the profile of both organisations - and we look forward to bringing new and fresh marketing ideas to the relationship".

Blogging for business

2007-07-26T11:54:00.000Z

Blogs have quickly become the latest online marketing tool. They help raise your profile, give you an added presence on all the major search engines – and they can help drive traffic to your website.

The beauty of Blogs is their adaptability, flexibility and ease of use. For instance, the Blog you're reading now can be updated, amended or added to in seconds. The problem, of course, is finding content - and then the resources - to maintain the site so that it stays fresh, attracts regular visitors and continues to help drive traffic to other sites.

Even the experts sometimes suffer from a lack of time, resources and more pressing priorities (slap on wrist for The News Desk!). That's why Nice Work and Pixel Puppet have decided to establish a dedicated blogging service to help organisations establish and maintain blogs for the benefit of their businesses. We research and source new content - and make sure the Blog always contains contemporary and interesting content.

Blogs are also an ideal first step on the Internet if you’re unsure about websites.

One of the big advantages is that they are extremely cost-effective. Nice Work/Pixel Puppet can provide you with a fully functional Blog, together with weekly or two-weekly updates for a very low initial cost - much lower than the cost of a new website). We can also maintain your Blog, keeping it fesh and up to date for a nominal monthly fee.

Why not get in touch and find out more?

In the meantime, check out some of these Blogs we have produced:

http://www.followthatlotus.blogspot.com/
http://www.themushroomman.blogspot.com/
http://www.gardenexpert.blogspot.com/
http://www.ronhillsalterego.blogspot.com/
http://www.waddiesontheweb.blogspot.com/

Pixel database project gets the thumbs up!

2007-06-13T16:39:00.000Z

If you're a membership organisation and looking for an online secure database to look after your members - then why not talk to Pixel Puppet?

For instance, do you need a database that:

Can take membership and registration payments online?

Automatically notifies you when payments have been made or need to be made?

Can be accessed and amended by the user online?

Can be used easily by non technical staff?

Can send out mailings to any geographical or professional group?

These were just some of the key requirements for a new database that has been built for BAPEN - the British Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. As well as providing a central facility, the new database also needs to serve the needs of eight regional organisation within the Association.

Pixel Puppet has been appointed to the project after several consultation meetings with the client in London. James Marchant, Pixel Puppet Creative Director said: "Building this database is a real challenge. There are members that are associated with more than one regional group, so particular attention will be made to stop the duplication of marketing communications - which is a real concern to BAPEN.

We have already started work on the project with a view to completion in time for BAPEN's Annual Conference in November"

Tools by Post

2007-06-13T16:33:00.000Z

Pixel Puppet have announced yet another new business gain.

www.toolsbypost.com is a Hastings-based company selling quality tools, outdoor products and hardware. In addition to a thriving online business, the company has a retail business in the town which has been established for over 45 years.

Pixel Puppet was appointed by www.toolsbypost.com to maintain their large e-commerce store. But, with a move of the parent company to a larger out of town facility imminent, Pixel Puppet has also been asked to help in additional media and brand-building work.

Gareth Jones from Pixel Puppet says: "This is an exciting project for us because it once again demonstrates the range of services we are now able to offer our clients. Website build and maintenance has traditionally been core business for us - but our alliance with Nice Work enables us to offer the media, brand building and event management expertise required by our client"

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Wild about Mushrooms!

2007-06-13T16:22:00.000Z

The humble mushroom is providing another boost to the Nice Work/Pixel Puppet alliance. East Sussex-based Orchidwood Mushrooms is Britain’s only specialist processor of frozen mushrooms to the food manufacturing industry.

In addition to providing mushrooms for the food industry, the company also markets a range of wild mushrooms via a dedicated e-commerce website designed, branded and developed by Pixel Puppet.

Now, with continued growth and interest in the wild mushroom market, particularly amongst Britain's home chefs, Pixel Puppet and Nice Work have been appointed to improve brand awareness and increase revenues.

The company was considering a sponsored advertising campaign, using search engines but Martin Burke from Nice Work says: "Before embarking on a PPC (Pay per click) campaign, we need to make sure Wild about Mushrooms enjoys higher brand awareness. We will be undertaking an intensive profile-raising campaign using traditional PR and events, but also incorporating a new Power Site (Blog) and HTML email campaigns"

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Storm rising in East Sussex

2007-06-13T15:51:00.000Z

Pixel Puppet and Nice Work have been appointed to help launch a brand new two seater sports car to the UK market. Heathfield-based Dream Machines, an existing client of Pixel Puppet, have secured exclusive rights to import the San Storm into Europe and the Pixel/Nice Work team are now hard at work developing branding proposals and a comprehensive marketing plan to launch the Storm onto the UK market.

The San Storm is expected to make a huge impact in the highly competitive sports-car market - its green credentials means the Storm is a genuine sporty alternative to the traditional ‘green’ car with a number of exciting attributes highly relevant to today’s consumer including:

• Low emissions - the car qualifies for the low £30 road tax
• Low emissions - the two-seater is a true 'green' car
• Quality engine manufacturer – the car carries a Renault engine, meaning reliability and easy access to spares
• Economical - up to 70 mpg means the Storm is economical to run
• Stylish - a real head turner!
• Low insurance costs
• Competitively priced - the Storm is expected to retail at under £10,000

Creative Director James Marchant says: "This is a great account win for the new team and justifies our decision to combine Pixel Puppet's creative resources with the marketing expertise provided by Nice Work"

Martin Burke from Nice Work was delighted with the new business win: "Our appointment to manage the launch of the Storm reflects the depth of our experience, the quality of our ideas as well as our ability to respond quickly to a client's needs. We were able to offer Dream Machines a combined strategic and creative resource with a real understanding of the brand's - and the client's - needs.”

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Pixel Puppet/Nice Work alliance pays off!

2007-05-29T11:15:00.001Z

The decision by Hastings-based design studio Pixel Puppet and Peasmarsh-based Marketing Services company Nice Work to form a strategic alliance has begun paying dividends with a number of high profile new business gains over the last 2 months.

The two companies have been working closely together for around 12 months and the decision to bring the partnership closer together has been taken with a view to a formal merger later in the year.

In the meantime, the two companies have scored some spectacular new business successes with financial services giant Legal & General, national charity the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign amongst the companies now added to the client list.

Martin Burke, Nice Work partner says: "The addition of a design element and the new business structure means we can better meet the growing needs of our clients. In addition to offering a complete outsourced marketing support service for companies, we are now able to deliver a high quality design service. And our success in attracting organisations such as Legal & General Insurance shows the strategy is working!"

Closer to home Burt Family Butchers, in Bexhill, suppliers of wholesale meats to caterers have appointed Pixel Puppet to produce a new website and undertake an email campaign; and Tools by Post have also appointed Pixel Puppet to redesign their existing website.

Pixel Puppet Creative Director James Marchant says: "I'm really pleased with the way the partnership between our two companies has strengthened our service offering. Our new business progress - particularly amongst the East Sussex SME sector - represents a tremendous start to our new year. Clients such as Burts and Tools by Post are significant because they have major growth potential."

Both Nice Work and Pixel Puppet are keen to look at marketing and/or design projects for companies and organisations of all sizes so why not contact Nice Work or Pixel Puppet today for a no-obligation discussion and a free Marketing Review?

Summer Series entries up for Rye Classic

2007-05-29T11:12:00.000Z

There has been strong early interest for this year’s Rye Summer Classic Series with entries received from runners up on last year.

This year’s series kicks off with a 10K race on Friday July 13th with two 5K races taking place on Friday August 24th and Friday September 14th. The Series, which is supported by 1066 Country Marketing, is staged at the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.

Race Director Martin Burke is hopeful that runners of all standards - from novice joggers to seasoned competitors - will help make this second running of the series another success and confirm the event’s place on the Sussex road running scene. "The distance of the three races means that all are perfect for beginners as well as experienced runners - and the flat course should ensure some good times as well".

All finishers will receive a medal and in addition to race and series prizes, the top performer over all three races wins an all-expenses paid trip to race in France in November.

Proceeds from the series are being shared between the Memorial care Centre in Rye, St Michael's Hospice and the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.

Race entries and enquires to Martin Burke 01797 230730 - or visit the Nice Work website

Strollers rack up a half century!

2007-05-29T09:29:00.000Z

The 4th Stroll for St Michaels – the annual three day sponsored walk to raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice – has attracted its 50th participant!

The walk has raised over £10,000 over the last three years and the organisers, Peasmarsh-based event management company Nice Work are confident that this year’s event will be the biggest – and best – ever.

Organiser Martin Burke says “With our 50th person now signing up, we’re confident that this is going to be a bumper year for Strollers – but we’ve still got a few places left if anybody else cares to join us. This is now a really popular event and as well as being a great weekend away, is a superb opportunity to demonstrate support for St Michaels Hospice in a healthy and fun way. This year is also very special – because its our first time in Belgium with a unique opportunity to sample the sights and sounds of Bruges”

This year the Stroll coincides with the Pageant of the Golden Tree in Bruges’ historic centre. The pageant only takes place every four years and this colourful spectacle, with almost 2,000 participants and floats will parade through the streets of Bruges.

Walkers of all ages – from youngsters to the more mature – will be covering some of the most beautiful Flanders countryside and take in many places of historic interest en route. There are also a number of refreshment stops along the route and the overnight base in the centre of Bruges will provide ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine.

The route is primarily flat and with a longest day mileage of around 15 miles, only a basic minimum level of fitness would be required and if you can raise the minimum amount in sponsorship, your place on the Stroll is fully funded.

The 4th Annual Stroll for St Michaels takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend with a coach departure from Hastings on Saturday morning – returning to the town on Monday evening.

In addition to the coach, back-up vehicles will also carry basic first aid facilities and refreshments will be available at regular stops along the way. All meals, accommodation and refreshments for the duration of the walk are provided.

For more information, contact organisers Nice Work on 01797 230730 or visit the Nice Work website

Strollers in search of Windmills

2007-04-10T09:58:00.000Z

Nearly 40 people have already signed up for this year’s Stroll for St Michaels and Stroll for Martha – the annual three day sponsored walk to raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice and Martha Trust.

The walk has raised over £10,000 over the last three years and this year the Stroll is based in the mediaeval Belgian city of Bruges - with the stay in the ‘Venice of the North’ coinciding with the Pageant of the Golden Tree in Bruges’ historic centre. The pageant only takes place every four years - a colourful spectacle, with almost 2,000 participants and floats parading through the streets of the city.
The Stroll covers some of the beautiful Flanders countryside, taking in many places of historic interest, with a number of museums and places of interest for participants en route. There are also a number of refreshment stops along the route and the overnight base in the centre of Bruges will provide ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine.

The event is perfect for people of all ages and families are welcome to participate. The route is primarily flat and with a longest day mileage of around 15 miles, only a basic minimum level of fitness would be required.

If you can raise the minimum amount in sponsorship, your place on the Stroll is fully funded.

Organiser Martin Burke from Peasmarsh-based event company Nice Work says “This is our 4th Stroll – and it is proving by far our most popular and only a few places now remain. I would urge those who are considering joining us to ensure that their places are reseved. The walk has once again attracted families as well as individuals with our youngest walker aged just 11 years old.”

The 4th Annual Stroll for St Michaels and Martha takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend with a coach departure from both Hastings and Dover on Saturday morning – returning to the towns on Monday evening.

In addition to the coach, back-up vehicles will also carry basic first aid facilities and refreshments will be available at regular stops along the way. All meals, accommodation and refreshments for the duration of the walk are provided.

For more information, contact organisers Nice Work on 01797 230730; email info@nice-work.org.uk or visit the Nice Work website

Pixel Puppet takes on Wellington!

2007-03-30T13:27:00.000Z

Hastings-based design studio Pixel Puppet is gearing up for further expansion with a move to larger premises in Wellington Square in the town. The four year old studio is enjoying its busiest ever year and larger premises are needed to accommodate additional staff and resources.

James Marchant, Creative Director of Pixel Puppet says: “Growth of our local and national client base and the expansion of our support services mean we’ve now outgrown two premises! The move to Wellington Square will also allow us to further grow and expand our service offerings while maintaining our town centre location”

Since its formation, Pixel Puppet has experienced rapid expansion, with recent growth coming from new business activities as well as from existing customers. In addition to the move, the studio has also announced that it is strengthening its strategic alliance with marketing and event consultancy Nice Work. The two organisations have been working closely on a number of projects since 2006 and are anticipating a closer working relationship in the months to come. To mark this alliance, Pixel Puppet has also relaunched its website which you can see by clicking here

In addition to critically acclaimed design work, Pixel Puppet is now able to offer a much broader range of marketing and communications services to its clients including:

· Copywriting, artwork and design services
· Website design and build plus a range of e-marketing services
· Media and PR
· Direct and database marketing, campaign handling, fulfilment and enquiry handling facilities

Pixel Puppet’s new offices are located at 18, Wellington Square, Hastings – right in the town centre and easily accessible for Pixel Puppet’s growing local client base. Telephone and fax numbers, e-mail addresses and website address remain the same.
Pixel Puppet will continue to share a second office in Peasmarsh with Nice Work.

Ends

For more information on the range of services now available, click here:

Or e-mail James Marchant james@pixelpuppet.co.uk

Stroll Number 4 set for the Windmills of Bruges

2007-03-22T08:17:00.000Z

Details have been announced of the 4th Stroll for St Michaels – the annual three day sponsored walk to raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice.

The walk has raised over £10,000 over the last three years and the organisers, Peasmarsh-based event management company Nice Work are looking to add substantially to that figure with this year’s walk.

This year the Stroll is based in the mediaeval Belgian city of Bruges and the stay in the ‘Venice of the North’ also coincides with the Pageant of the Golden Tree in Bruges’ historic centre. The pageant only takes place every four years and this colourful spectacle, with almost 2,000 participants and floats will parade through the streets of Bruges — and you can be there to watch!

The Stroll will cover some beautiful Flanders countryside and take in many places of historic interest, with a number of museums and places of interest for participants en route. There are also a number of refreshment stops along the route and the overnight base in the centre of Bruges will provide ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine.

The event is perfect for people of all ages and families are welcome to participate. The route is primarily flat and with a longest day mileage of around 15 miles, only a basic minimum level of fitness would be required. If you can raise the minimum amount in sponsorship, your place on the Stroll is fully funded.

Organiser Martin Burke says: “This is now a really popular event and as well as being a great weekend away, is a superb opportunity to demonstrate support for St Michaels Hospice in a healthy and fun way. This year is also very special – because its our first time in Belgium with a unique opportunity to take in the Pageant”.

The 4th Annual Stroll for St Michaels takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend with a coach departure from Hastings on Saturday morning – returning to the town on Monday evening. In addition to the coach, back-up vehicles will also carry basic first aid facilities and refreshments will be available at regular stops along the way. All meals, accommodation and refreshments for the duration of the walk are provided.

For more information, contact organisers Nice Work by visiting the Nice Work website.http://www.nice-work.org.uk/event_item.php?item=145

Pixel Puppet strengthens links with Orbital

2007-03-15T13:55:00.000Z

Pixel Puppet is delighted to announce that it has been awarded another major project assignment from specialist marketing communications group Orbital Marketing.

The Orbital Group of companies provides specialist marketing and communication services for specific market sectors such as travel, education, healthcare, publishing, pharmaceutical, tourism and leisure.

James Marchant, Creative Director with Pixel Puppet said: "We're delighted to have secured further work from such a prestigious client. Our creative designs and ability to work to tight deadlines and within budget have encouraged Orbital Group to award a further series of projects to us."

Pixel Puppet has been tasked with producing a series of HTML campaign alerts designed to generate enquiries from the travel trade sector.

If you'd like to see examples of some of our work, please click here to contact us