A COMMERCIAL vehicle hire firm based in the North-East has sacked its finance chief after he was convicted of assault.

Northgate, which has its headquarters in Darlington, hires out its fleet to the likes of construction, wholesale and distribution businesses.

A market announcement from the company’s board, said: “Paddy Gallagher, chief finance officer, has been summarily dismissed due to his conviction for the summary offence of common assault.

“Whilst the conviction relates to Mr Gallagher’s personal life, solely as a result of this conviction, the board considers Mr Gallagher’s position is untenable.”

Mr Gallagher was re-elected to the board of directors earlier this month, receiving support from 99 per cent of shareholders, but it is unclear whether he was handed the conviction after the annual general meeting took place on September 19.

No further information on the conviction or dismissal was provided.

Northgate started life as Noble Self Drive in 1981 when Alan Noble set up business from his Darlington home.

It has scores of branches across the UK, including depots in Darlington, Stockton and Blaydon, near Gateshead.

David Tilston has been appointed as interim chief financial officer, having previously served as interim finance chief for Consort Medical for the five months to April 2017.