Smart and Cook Insurance Brokers, in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, has appointed DON GUNNING at its Newcastle offices.

Mr Gunning, formerly of HSBC Insurance Brokers, is an account executive. Denis James, director of Smart and Cook's Newcastle offices, said: "Don joins us with over 27 years' experience in the insurance industry.

"His role will be to specifically manage existing clients but also to generate new business opportunities within our region. "His extensive experience and industry knowledge will prove valuable to our team of brokers."