MIDDLESBROUGH property developers and managers Python Properties has appointed ex-Merchant Navy officer MARK OATES as general manager.

He was a chief communications officer under Python partner Martin Johnson, who was Captain of MV Minerva, part of the Swan Hellenic operation of P&O Cruises.

Mr Johnson said: "His appointment will enable Peter Broome and I to devote more time to the key task of identifying new development opportunities for the company."

Since leaving the Merchant Navy, Mr Oates has been working for a marine engineering company based in North Shields, North Tyneside, where he was responsible for managing the company's global repair and servicing operations.

Also joining Python is Sam Perry, who will be assistant general manager, after recently completing a masters degree in mechanical engineering at Newcastle University.