You know the name, now get to know the person. Tommy Newton, production manager at Screenworks, hums along to Oasis, talks about his talent for fixing things and hankers after a shot at surfing Hawaii’s big waves

How long have you been working in the industry?

I’ve been working at Screenworks for 25 years! I started here in the 2000s and haven’t looked back since.

What’s your most over-used word or phrase?

I’d have to say… “Yeah, no problem”. People come to me when they have questions, and boy do they have questions! I get so many requests on the daily, but that’s what happens when you’ve got 25 years of experience behind you!

Which tune can’t you get out of your head at the moment?

Ooof, I’ve got way too many. I’d have to say “Morning Glory” by Oasis. I went to see them for their reunion in September, it was such a great concert! I won’t soon forget it…

What’s your favourite sports team?

I’m not really a sports fanatic, but I do watch boxing. My favourite boxer’s Tyson Fury, obviously! Can’t wait for his comeback in 2026.

Oasis gig

Tommy saw Oasis on their reunion tour this summer – a gig he won’t forget in a hurry!

Tommy Newton avatar

Tommy’s AI-generated super-hero alter-ego – the problem-solving, multi-tasking T-Unit!

Tomato ketchup or brown sauce?

Ketchup for sure. Brown sauce… depends on the food.

What’s your most prized possession? 

I’m not a very materialistic person, so I’d have to say my phone, because it goes with me everywhere… It’s the most practical item, what can I say.

If you were to do another job, what would it be?

I reckon I’d make a great forensic detective! I just love working things out and solving problems.

If you could be anywhere on Earth right now, where would you be?

Hawaii – I’ve always wanted to go there. What’s not to like? The sun… the sea… As a surfer, I’d love to ride the big waves just once. Plus, it’s a bit chilly over here!

surfer on a big wave

As a keen surfer, Tommy would love to have a crack at the big waves off Hawaii [Photo: ©Jess Loiterton]

Cigarettes

Tommy’s guilty pleasure? Ciggies.

Which gadget or app couldn’t you live without?

Spotify all the way. I just love music; I couldn’t live without it. I don’t know about you, but music makes me feel happy. Don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have music playing in the background. At work we alternate between playlists – it’s great to keep things varied.

What’s your hidden talent?

Fixing things, anything really. Plumbing, electricals, car servicing,… I do a bit of everything.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Smoking. I know it’s not the popular choice, but I don’t drink and this is my main outlet. Also, chocolate. Doesn’t matter what brand it is, I’ll take it!