A PR firm has celebrated its first anniversary by adding a new member of staff.

32West, which counts The Holker Group, Fine & Country, Cartmell Shepherd and London-based The Access Platform among its clients, has appointed Amee Wightman as social media manager.

Amee joins the business having operated in a similar role for fashion retailer Urban Celebrity and designer brand 11 Degrees.

She said: “I’m looking forward to working for a company which really cares about what they do and achieving the best results for their clients.

“I’m eager to start working with clients and create social media strategies which will aid them in achieving their goals. I am also looking forward to being part of a team full of creative and talented individuals.”

Amee will be supporting some of 32West’s existing customers, while working with the directors to grow the company’s social media operation. Her appointment comes as 32West marks a year in business.

Director James Higgins said: “The first 12 months for 32West have been incredibly fast-paced, as we have built the business from nothing to the point where it provides employment for six people, represents 20-plus businesses and has provided sub-contracted work to the local supply chain with a six-figure value."

32West, which is based in Ulverston, offers services in the areas of public relations, marketing, media buying, social media, creative, photography and videography.

The business was founded by James in May 2018 after he left his role as group editor with the former CN Group.

The remainder of the 32West team comprises director Jonathan Lee, along with senior account managers Caroline Barber and Lesley Stretton.

Jonathan joined the business in May having held the role of managing director of CN Group, and more recently of Newsquest Cumbria.

Jonathan is working with a number of businesses on the launch of a Professional Services Association for Cumbria.

Having previous experience of launching the Choose Cumbria initiative, and the in-Cumbria business magazine and digital platforms, Jonathan will be helping the professional services sector in Cumbria win more business, and reduce the amount of work going out of the county.

A launch event for the Professional Services Association is being planned at the Halston in Carlisle on the morning of Thursday, July 25. Any professional services companies are invited to register their interest with Jonathan.