Blyth Tall Ship appoints new marketing officer to boost attraction

Iain Riddell, who has spent his entire 22-year career working in the voluntary sector, has joined the charity with a passion for marketing, community engagement and the North East.

“I’ve always liked Blyth Tall Ship, and I’ve always thought it was Blyth’s best kept secret,” said Iain.

“When I saw the opportunity to join the charity, I could really see myself doing a lot of good here and helping to take the organisation forward through its communications and marketing.

“There is so much potential. I want to help us do more exciting events, both on the ship and at external venues, really bang the drum for Blyth and celebrate the town’s fantastic maritime heritage.”

Iain began his career at Mencap at the age of 18, working on a pioneering regional fundraising model for the national charity which was subsequently rolled out across the country.

He later joined St Oswald’s Hospice, working in direct marketing on its lottery and regular giving programme, going on to study Marketing and Management at Newcastle University.

Iain subsequently worked for the Community Foundation serving Tyne and Wear and Northumberland as communications officer.

Now he wants to use his experience to raise the profile of the ship, attract new audiences and help create more opportunities for people to experience Blyth’s maritime heritage.

He added: “I’m really excited about being part of the next chapter for Blyth Tall Ship and helping people across the North East discover what is right here on their doorstep.”