Sometimes work just doesn't feel like work particularly when you're managing a truly groundbreaking event such as this. 'Delivering the New PR - How Blogs, Podcasts and RSS Can Work For You' was my company's first ever event back in November of last year in Sunderland. We've since taken the conference to Manchester in February and now we're all heading south to hold the event in London.

It's because of 'Delivering the New PR' you're now reading my blog 'Eventualities' and everywhere we go the conference seems to leaves a trail of blogging inspiration.

OK, this may seem like a blatant plug for an event we're working on but this is the hottest show in town and we're not going to apologise!

This conference demystifies the opportunities and potential threats of blogs, podcasts and RSS newsfeeds and provides an invaluable insight into new media tools which communications professionals simply can't afford to ignore. It'll probably be the most useful day out of the office you ever spend.

The conference is the brainchild of the University of Sunderland's Philip Young and we'll be flying in an international team of speakers for the day-long conference. These include early adopters and influencers such as Tom Murphy of Microsoft Ireland, Paris-based independent communications consultant Elizabeth Albrycht, Chris Rushton and Philip Young of the University's trailblazing PR & Journalism department, Stuart Bruce of Leeds-based Bruce Marshall Associates and Amsterdam-based podcasting guru Neville Hobson who was interviewed at length in PR Week earlier this month on the impact of blogs and the new communication tools.

Previous events have already attracted delegates from all over the UK and Europe including representatives from such diverse organisations as Astra Zeneca, Docklands Light Railway and Everton Football Club; charities such as Oxfam, Barnardos and YMCA England; Banks, bookmakers, local authorities, universities and the cream of the North's PR agencies.

The conference is taking place on Friday the 12th of May at the London Marriott Hotel, Regents Park. To book your place give me a call on 01706 828855 or visit the Don't Panic website to download a PDF on the event from our news page or to book online.

I was in London earlier this week managing a client's product launch for an invited guest list of TV production companies and media types. The afternoon event took place at the Light Bar, St Martins Lane Hotel, Covent Garden and I felt it would be useful to share some thoughts on the venue.

Set within the Phillipe Starck-designed hotel, the Light Bar is one of the most exclusive and intimate spaces in the capital. Renowned for its extensive cocktail list, fantastic food and Jean Baptiste Mondino photographs which adorn the walls, the bar is also a regular haunt of the capital's glitterati.

If you're looking for impact, this venue certainly delivers but be warned, you'd be hard pushed to accommodate more than 100 guests comfortably.

Private hire is only available prior to 5.30pm when the doors open to residents and the public and although there is no hire charge for the bar it is subject to a minimum spend on food and drink.

As you might expect, the staff were extremely professional and efficient but be aware there is a 15% service charge on your total spend which you'd need to take into account when budgeting your event.

Specific mentions should go to Bar Manager Angelo and hotel Events Manager Helen who were a dream to deal with and were always on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly.

As a venue for small and select gatherings, the Light Bar is sure to impress. For more details visit the St Martins Lane Hotel website.