The founder of the North East鈥檚 only floating firm says setting sail on a second career has aided his personal success, after marking a decade on the water.

Keith Newman, of Ulgham near Morpeth, launched Highlights PR more than 15 years ago after spending around three decades in the gas industry, but after a few years of trading he knew that standing out was key in the public relations sector. He was then persuaded by his wife to spend a chunk of his gas board pension on a boat 鈥 prompting the launch of his 24 foot long Viking Cruiser, called Highlights, which has been kitted out especially as his floating office.

Moored at Royal Quays Marina in North Shields 鈥 and occasionally close to the Tyne Bridge on Newcastle Quayside 鈥 the boat鈥檚 purchase marked the start of a career change for Mr Newman, whose unconventional office has aided his firm鈥檚 growth by attracting clients and acting as a catalyst for creativity.

He said: 鈥淲hen people step aboard, they鈥檙e not just entering an office; they鈥檙e embarking on a PR journey. It鈥檚 a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively. The gentle lapping of the river Tyne creates a serene backdrop conducive to good writing and ideas generation.鈥

As well as hosting client meetings on board Highlights, he has also been known to organise trips up the Tyne for clients and their friends. And he says it鈥檚 not just about the ambiance; he also leverages his floating office as a unique PR tool.

Crafted by boatbuilders Viking Mouldings in a factory in Herefordshire, the boat is fitted with safety features including lifejackets, throwing lines and firefighting equipment as well as modern GPS navigation aids and radios.

Over the years, Mr Newman has welcomed more than 300 visitors aboard, each immortalised in a photo in a series of coffee table books. Clients include The People鈥檚 Kitchen, Northern Gas Networks, Sunday for Sammy, Blyth Live Music Festival and Healthwatch Newcastle and Healthwatch Gateshead. He has also recently been appointed as PR expert in residence at the Business and IP Centre North East and some of his time is given free to advise local businesses.

He said: 鈥淏ringing clients on board isn鈥檛 just a meeting鈥攊t鈥檚 an experience. Many of my clients come down to the marina and are amazed at how calming being on a boat can be. It鈥檚 a great place to talk and think and many of my biggest stories have started life there.

鈥淚t鈥檚 about forging connections beyond the business, fostering a deeper understanding of our surroundings. In an industry defined by change, staying anchored to my values is what sets Highlights PR apart. I enjoy being at the helm of the business and the boat is a key part of my life and long may it continue.鈥