INVESTMENT firm Brewin Dolphin has announced a key appointment to its North-East operation.

JOHN DUNS has joined the investment management firm as its first business development and marketing director. He arrives from solicitor Watson Burton where he was involved with the significant growth and development of the Newcastle law firm over the past six years.

Charles May, head of office with Brewin Dolphin, said: "We are absolutely thrilled that John has agreed to join us at this highly exciting time for our business.

"He will be responsible for raising our profile in the region and developing a greater awareness of the breadth and depth of our investment services to new and existing clients."

His arrival coincides with the firm's move to offices at the Time Central development, in Newcastle.

Mr May said that a number of other appointments will follow.

"Our plans for growth mean that we expect to make a series of announcements concerning new staff across all divisions of the business over the course of the next few months," he said.