A NORTH-EAST firm that has battled the London “brain-drain”

has been awarded Investors in People’s highest honour.

IT consultancy Waterstons, based in Belmont, near Durham City, has achieved gold on its first attempt and is now one of only 35 companies in the North-East to be awarded the top standard.

Waterstons was commended for its commitment to recruiting and developing graduates from North-East universities, reducing the “brain drain” of talent leaving the region to work in London.

HR manager Amy Campbell said: “The gold IIP standard will demonstrate to potential candidates that we have been recognised by an external body for our unique people development policies.”