For Lizzie Carroll, work is child’s play. Literally. As founder and chief executive of Haus, the Newcastle-based business that works with brands providing youngsters with smiles and stimulation, every day is a fun day. Here Lizzie talks to Colin Young about the firm’s inception, its relaxed culture and its plans for future growth.

Shrouded by scaffolding and preserved by protective sheeting, the iconic Tyne Bridge is undergoing major restoration work led by Bowburn-headquartered Esh Group. Here, Colin Young speaks to Andy Radcliffe, chief executive of the privately-owned construction business.

Slowly but surely, brick by brick, building by building, Jonathan Ruffer’s vision for Bishop Auckland is coming to life. The philanthropist wants the town to thrive. And with the Auckland Project, he’s doing all he can to make that happen. Colin Young meets the project’s new interim chief executive David Land to learn about the latest plans to maintain Bishop Auckland’s resurgence.