I Love North Shields.
DECEMBER 2024 COMMUNITY: Two Plastic Geordies MUSIC: Kirsty Hall FEATURED: Marcus Reed BUSINESS: New to North Shields
@Marcus Reed
ISSUE 8
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Hello North Shields Congratulations to everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring this month’s magazine to fruition once again! And what a month it has been! It’s been an absolute pleasure reading your stories and learning so much about the incredible people who call North Shields home. I can’t express enough how inspiring it is to connect with so many of you, a big thank you to Marcus Reed for designing our December front cover! It's a classic and love it! We attended the North Tyneside Business Awards this month, and while we didn’t win, it was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our initiative, in my world we are all winners! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted for us—it’s wonderful to know that our efforts are being recognised and appreciated. This month, the core editorial team gathered to plan the themes for the upcoming issues, and we’re excited to share them with you: January: New Beginnings February: Love Local March: Spring into Action April: Creatives by the Coast May: Catch the Festive Wave As our pilot phase wraps up in May, we remain committed to bringing you these stories and more. We hope this is just the beginning of many more issues to come. As the festive season approaches, I want to wish you all a magical Christmas and a New Year filled with joy, hope, and may all your dreams come true! P.S. We will be setting up stall at the Christmas Event at the Salt Market from 6-9 hrs, December 5, pop by to say hi! Love and Peace
Simmie Harper X
Contributors Founder/Editor-in-Chief Simone Harper ilovenorthshields @outlook.com Front Cover Marcus Reed Authors Bazoox aka Gene Scandall Caroline Oswald Diane Wailes Jake Rusby Mark Tavender Mim Robson Rachel Chapman Suzanne Coulson Contributions Kirsty Hall Olivia Bishop Sarah Graham Illustrator Katie Stewart Art Director Kimberley Rumble kimberleycreative.co.uk @kimberley_creative Graphic Designers Holly Hammell-Purvis @h.llyhp Marianne @drishti.design TikTok Jodhi Mae Rutherford @pinkpalava Photographers Lisa Young Photography Wayne Bordoli Photography Megan Ramsey Photography Yevhen Slabun Linkedin company/ilovenorthshields Facebook @ilovenorthshields TikTok @ilovenorthshields Twitter iluvnorthshields Instagram @ilovenorthshields ilovenorthshields@outlook.co m ilovenorthshields.com
@gpo_visuals
THE SIREN
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News PLASTIC FANTASTIC! This month, North Shields-based podcast Two Plastic Geordies features an interview with none other than the brains behind this magazine – Simmie Harper. Simmie tells adopted Geordies Dave and Jake all about her life in Holland, her travels through Europe in a camper van (including a stint on a hippy colony!) and what brought her, her husband and dog Ruby to the North East. She also takes on the Geordie Phrase Challenge with Max and Zachary, the hosts’ eight-year-old sons, reveals the future plans for I Love North Shields, and her highlights of living in England so far. Simmie’s episode is the second in the duo’s ‘New to the North East’ series, where they speak to fellow adopted Northerners. Epsiode One, an interview with Ukrainian refugee Olya, is also available to stream now. Just search ‘Two Plastic Geordies’ in your podcast app, or scan the QR code to access the podcast’s RSS feed.
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Spotted in North Shields!
Remembrance Service
@waterfrontnorthshields Quote: Sheila and one of our owners Deb had a Little meet and greet with Si king last night such a top class guy! Text and photo by Waterfront
A wonderful turnout for the Remembrance Sunday Service at the war memorial on Hawkey’s Lane, which looked fantastic after the recent renovation work. @northshields_people
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Local Litter Picker
Celebrities in Tynemouth
Spotted! local litter picker Dave Shaw. Stickers printed and donated by local David - Dent Printers, North Shields.
Celebrity-spotting in Tynemouth, with lots of well-known faces involved in filming ‘Night and Day’ by Virginia Woolf. @northshields_people
DFDS share
Project Nile Street
One of our instagram posts was picked up by @dfdsukire and shared thousands of times on their socials!
Community pride in action! Onwards and upwards for Project Nile Street! @northshields_people!
Toast the Admiral A free tot of grog kept everyone warm at the annual ‘Toast the Admiral’ event, remembering the achievements of local hero, Vice Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood. @northshields_people
Mount Toubkal Challenge In October, a group of 16 determined adventurers successfully scaled Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, to raise an impressive £26,602.61 for YMCA North Tyneside's Mobile Community Project. Over the course of five challenging days, the team braved altitude sickness, icy conditions, and physical exhaustion to reach the summit at an incredible 4,167m. Their dedication and hard work will have a lasting impact on the young people supported by the YMCA. YMCA North Tyneside expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who donated and supported the challenge, as well as to Charity Challenge for their guidance throughout the journey. Those interested in future challenges can reach out via events@ymcanorthtyneside.org to get involved.
Behind the Scenes The company working on the new walkway uncovered these finds and thought I would be interested seeing these. They will be donated to @oldlowlight for everyone to see. The Wilkinsons bottles are in mint condition. Wilkinson had the biggest mineral water and beer bottling company in North Tyneside. In 1941. 107 people got killed during an air raid disaster, a single bomb hit the factory where 192 people where hiding in the shelter. It was one of the worst single bomb death tolls during the WW2 in the uk.
A final farewell to Wet ‘n’ Wild as the demolition machines move in to clear the site. It’s been part of the North Shields skyline since 1993. Who can forget the ‘lazy river’, the Abyss, Black Hole, Tornado and Kamikaze!
Spotted New Wall Mural
Spotted Artwork Fish Quay from above
Wet ‘n’ Wild Demolition
SHIELDS FURRY FRIENDS GARY
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL St Columba’s Church Northumberland Square, North Shields Sat 7 Dec (10am-4pm) & Sun 8 Dec (12 noon-3pm). Also refreshments in the church hall and craft stands and a tree of memories to remember those no longer with us.
SHIELDSY CRIMBO A new Facebook group called SHIELDSY CRIMBO - a brilliant group of people from North Shields who want to share Christmas Day with people whose home is on the street. They’ll be providing a warm, safe space to enjoy Christmas Day for people who would otherwise miss out.
CHRISTMAS MARKET North Shields Baptist Church, Howard Street, Annual Christmas Market Saturday, 7th December, 10.00am to 3.00pm. Stalls including Christmas gifts and decorations, Homemade cakes (large and small), traybakes etc., Chocolate raffle, and a variety of charity stalls, including The Fishermen's Mission, selling Christmas cards and goodies. Cafe serving good homemade food, savoury and sweet, soup and a bun to eat in or takeaway & hot and cold drinks
They’re looking for donations of the following: Thermal Hats Thermal Socks Thermal Gloves Men and Women's toiletries (no aerosols, please).
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Please drop any donations off at the li'l community hub + sound bites C.I.C 1a Bedford Terrace, North Shields, NE290AW Monday to Thursday 11am-2pm If you think you can help in any other way, contact SHIELDSY CRIMBO on Facebook or Tel: 07732320108
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OVERCOOKED! By Olivia Bishop Fun, stress, and chaos; if you’ve ever played a good board game with the family, you’ll know these words signal a true household classic, with each intensely entertaining round usually followed by “oh, go on then - one more time.” If you’re looking for something like this to play with family and friends on cosy winter evenings, why not try “Overcooked!”.
OLD LOW LIGHT SCHOOL VISIT By Caroline Oswald What better way to mark Trafalgar Day, the celebration of the Royal Navy’s victory over the French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar, than for the children of Collingwood Primary School to visit the monument dedicated to their namesake, Lord Collingwood. Cuthbert Collingwood was Horatio Nelson’s second in command at the Battle of Trafalgar and he led the British fleet to safety after Nelson was killed. The visit to Collingwood’s monument was just one part of a memorable school trip to North Shields Fish Quay, during which the children attended three fantastic educational sessions at the Old Low Light heritage centre. The year 4 pupils were fascinated to learn all about navigation today and in the past and to look round the RNLI station. During ‘The Tudor Tyne’ session, children looked at the Tyne from the 16th Century, hearing about the founding of the High and Low Lights, having a go at calligraphy with quills and ink and exploring everyday objects from the time including games, money and clothing. Perhaps the most captivating session was led by a ‘Red Coat’ soldier from the 18th Century, who provided insights into what it was like to defend Clifford's Fort at that time. He taught the children some army drill commands, showing them how to stand and march in formation. The pupils were in awe when the soldier demonstrated how to load and fire his musket, taking on the challenge to fire three rounds in 20 seconds - what a noise! Visit the website to find more about the educational and interactive visits on offer at the Old Low Light: www.oldlowlight.co.uk/schools/
Despite being a co-operative game, in which up to four players can work together as chefs in a restaurant kitchen, Overcooked! will gleefully put your teamwork to the test as you frantically chop, fry, bake and plate your way to victory. As a couch co-op game (as in, your teammates will be right beside you on the sofa), be prepared to passionately debate your roles in preparing orders after quite literally bumping heads with your fellow chefs. Dashing around and shouting will be vital skills, much like in a real kitchen. Unlike a real kitchen, however, you might find the oven flying over to the other side of the room midway through an order - one of many mechanics Overcooked! will use to thwart your victory. You’ll yell, laugh and celebrate as the hours fly by in attempts to finally attain three stars on each level, and when you finally think you’ve all gotten into a good rhythm, Overcooked! always has a new spanner to throw in the works to keep you on your toes. Overcooked! is available on all modern platforms - Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S and even PC. For some extra Christmas themed levels, go for Overcooked! The Holiday Bundle, which features the Festive Seasonings DLC.
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as m t s i r h C g shoppin WITCHY WOMAN WAX Emily’s gorgeous, eco-conscious wax melts and candles are handmade with love, accessible, grounded, and veganfriendly. Witchy Woman Wax speaks to a community of fragrance lovers who value luxury without the hefty price tag and who care deeply about earth-friendly practices. When you buy from this small business, it’s like having a warm conversation with a friend who shares your love for all things beautiful and sustainable. Witchy Woman Wax is more than a home fragrance brand—it’s a community of like-minded souls who believe in making the world a better place. @witchywomanwax
LIMITED EDITION PREFAB PRINT Own a piece of art history with this Limited Edition 50cm x 50cm 8Colour Screen Print on heavyweight art paper. Hand-finished with a deckled edge, embossed with the iconic Prefab mark, and signed by the artist, this is a true collector’s gem. Hurry! Only a few left! The standard edition is the final release before this stunning print sells out forever. They also have the last two prints of the exclusive gold paper edition—a rarity not to miss! Available to view at: Thompsons Art, Tynemouth Road and Baba Yagga’s, North Shields Price: £150 – an absolute bargain for a Prefab77 masterpiece! To order: Contact Stuart Fearn via message/WhatsApp or call 07973 725570
All proceeds will go towards supporting the North Shields 800th Anniversary and the Elevation Walls Mural Festival—a gift that gives back to the community!
MUST HAVE BOOK: SATURDAY'S KIDS Saturday s Kids is a visual history book tracking and defining UK subcultures rendered by and according to, minimalist illustrator Marcus Reed. It offers a roadmap through the UK s subcultures from the early eighties through the turn of the century to today. Taking off with the Modernists born in the fifties we touch back down to present day with contemporary hipster culture, (as well as offering a hint as to what s next). Available: Amazon
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as Christm ing shopp HUSCROFTS DECORATIVE SALVAGE Struggling to find the perfect present for that quirky friend who’s impossible to shop for? A gift card from Huscrofts Decorative Salvage might just be the answer! Based in North Shields, this treasure trove is packed with vintage finds, antiques, retro gems, industrial pieces, decorative treasures, and salvaged surprises. It’s a dream come true for anyone who loves unique, oneof-a-kind items with character and history. Whether they’re into quirky home décor, old maps, or industrial chic, this gift card lets them pick out something they’ll truly adore. Click the link to purchase and give the gift of discovery: Huscrofts Gift Card.
VICTORIA PRINT STUDIO If you’re on the hunt for something truly unique this holiday season, check out Victoria Print Studio. From custom wallpaper and fabric designs to one-of-a-kind decorative pieces, everything Victoria creates has a personal touch. Whether it’s a thoughtful gift for someone you love or a little treat for your own home, these bespoke designs are guaranteed to stand out. Have a peek at her gorgeous work over on Instagram @victoria_print_studio and find that perfect gift that feels extra special!
SAM FENDER ALBUM North Shields’ very own Sam Fender has unveiled details of his third studio album, People Watching, set for release on February 21, 2025, via Polydor. Produced alongside his bandmates and featuring contributions from The War on Drugs' Adam Granduciel, this album promises a collection of "colourful stories and everyday observations," according to a press release. The album cover, photographed by the late Tish Murtha, pays homage to the working-class communities of the North East. The first single, People Watching, offering a deeply personal reflection on loss and resilience. With tracks like Nostalgia’s Lie and Crumbling Empire, this project marks a thoughtful evolution for Fender, emphasizing storytelling over stadium anthems. Pre-orders are now live!
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The Perfect Gift: A Subscription to I Love North Shields Magazine! Looking for a gift that truly connects? Give the gift of community pride, local stories, and North Shields charm with a subscription to I Love North Shields magazine! Every issue brings fresh stories, local history, and creative voices that celebrate our vibrant town, beautifully presented and crafted for all who hold North Shields close to their hearts. Share the love—give the gift that lasts all year and supports the community! Subscription includes December Issue
TWO PLASTIC GEORDIES For friends Jake Rusby and Dave Hemming, a long-standing joke has somehow become a reality. The two North Shields residents have launched a new podcast, ‘Two Plastic Geordies’, the name referencing the duo hailing from the south of England, but now finding themselves firmly rooted in the beautiful North East. Both now in their 40s, Jake and Dave joked for months that once you hit middle-age, the only thing to do is to start a podcast. And now they are. ‘Two Plastic Geordies’ is a celebration of the region’s rich diversity, as the former journalists interview people living across the region, all with a unique story to tell. The episodes will be split into themes, with the first series, New to the North East, featuring stories from people who, like them, are not from the area. The first episode, an interview with Olya, a Ukrainian refugee, is available now on all streaming services and has already exceeded the hosts’ expectations with around 150 downloads (at the time of writing), listeners in all parts of the world, and positive feedback across the board. Episode Two features an interview with none other than this magazine’s editor-in-chief, Simmie Harper. Jake said: “Between us we have interviewed hundreds of people over the years for various newspapers and TV channels – including celebrities, sports stars and politicians. It’s something we’ve both loved doing for work, and now we get to do it for fun! “We both love living in the North East, and are so passionate about the region and the people who live here. We are proud adopted Geordies. “We want to showcase stories from people across the region, all of whom have a unique voice and an inspiring tale to tell. ‘Two Plastic Geordies’ is a celebration of the different people who live in this beautiful area, whether they are ‘adopted’ like us, or were born here. “Hopefully listeners enjoying hearing the shows as much as we have loved producing them.” The duo are even making the podcast a family affair: Their eight-year-old sons, Zachary and Max, will add their own twist to the tales as they pose questions to the podcast interviewees. Dave added: “Like Jake, I am really proud to call the North East home – it’s where my roots are now and both my children were born here so I fully identify as a plastic Geordie! “The podcast has been a real passion project and has forced me to do things slightly outside my comfort zone (I’m more used to being hidden behind a camera in my professional life), but it’s been amazing talking to some brilliant guests and sharing their incredible stories. “We have lots more exciting plans for Two Plastic Geordies – with more fantastic guests, features, and ideas to come, so watch this space!” To find out more about the podcast, follow @twoplasticgeordies on Instagram and Facebook. To get in touch with the podcast, email twoplasticgeordies@hotmail.com.
If the Kids are United Monthly column by Bazoox aka Gene Scandall We gained revenge over our nemesis last season Chelsea, knocking them out of the Carabao Cup 2-0 at St James' Park This was followed up by a tremendous performance and fully deserved 1-0 win against Arsenal only days later. The winning goal by Alexander Isak came early in the 12th minute and really was a thing of beauty. Following a sublime cross by Anthony 'Flash' Gordon, 'Ice Old' Alex rose like a salmon to plant a header plum into the top corner. Remembrance Sunday brought another sweet victory against this seasons surprise package Nottingham Forest. After conceding in the first half United took the game by the scruff of the neck and ran out worthy 3-1 winners. Previous to these three games some questions and doubts had been raised. A 10 home defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion was then followed by a 2-1 deficit to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. As things currently stand I believe Eddie Howe is the best and most capable manager for the NUFC hotseat.
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I'm sad to write that two fine North Shields men and massive Toon fans, Jeff Sharp and John Gibson recently passed away. Jeff was very well known in the local community for his support of North Shields FC, and his outstanding loyalty to local Sunday League side Billy Mill FC. Literally hundreds of people attended Jeff's funeral at Tynemouth Crematorium. Little Gippa was also given a nice send off in his local the Fat Ox in Whitley Bay, everyone decked out in black and white. As most of you will already know we have former United favourites still living in North Shields. Malcolm Macdonald is a Toon legend, and there is also 70's cult hero Paul Cannell, along with the versatile and cultured Irving Nattrass. Supermac is the President of North Shields FC, and six months ago Paul and Irving raised money for the club by doing a talk-in alongside another former United hero, Jinky Jimmy Smith.
Paul is a good mate of mine and canny cràic. Paul and Jimmy can be seen out enjoying a pint now and then and it's good to notice that they haven't been forgotten.
In Response
David Craig was another one of my favourite Toon players from the 1970's who settled in Shields when his football career ended. David became a newsagent and ran a couple of shops in the town. His big mate was our 1960's centre forward Ron 'Have Goals Will Travel' McGarry. David is now living in Northumberland, and Ron is still knocking about in his eighties after working on the taxi's for years. Another ex Toon player I know well is Tony Bell. He is one of my neighbours and I wrote an article on the Mag three years ago about Tony and his experience at Newcastle United in the 1970's. The one thing I got wrong in the article was Tony's age when he made his debut and only appearance at White Hart Lane. Tony was only 19 and not 21 as I had stated(Google 'Tony Bell the Mag' and it should pop up if you're interested). After this latest break in proceedings we have league fixtures coming up against West Ham(h), Crystal Palace(a), Liverpool(h), Brentford(a) and Leicester City(h). These will take us up to our Carabao Cup quarter final against Brentford at St James' Park on the 18th December. Stay safe and United and I'll be back before Christmas with another installment.
Hello Simmie, I was amazed to read in I Love North Shields that your father in law’s dad used to live at 65 Balkwell Avenue. My aunt and uncle lived there from early-mid 1940s until 1951, when they emigrated to New Zealand. My cousin Jack, on a visit here about 30 years ago, went to see his old home and was invited in by the lady who lived there then. She, in turn, had a story to tell him - she’d been walking past no. 65 many years earlier, when my relatives lived there, and sat on the wall outside, weeping because of personal circumstances. My aunt had seen her, and invited her in for tea and sympathy. The lady had never forgotten and was delighted to be living in that same house. Dorothy Brownlee
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HOLIDAY TOTE BAG EVENT NORTH SHIELDS "Pimp My Bag" Workshop: Get Creative, Celebrate North Shields, and Design Your Own Tote! This holiday season, we’re inviting everyone to tap into their creativity and celebrate what makes North Shields so special with our Pimp My Bag workshop! Whether you’re joining us in person or getting crafty at home, this is your chance to design a unique, North Shieldsinspired tote bag that shows off your town pride. What’s in Store? Join us for a fun, hands-on experience where you’ll have the opportunity to create a one-of-akind tote bag. Whether you’re attending the event or designing at home, you’ll have everything you need to make a statement! The event is all about celebrating community, expressing your creativity, and having fun. We will be announcing the winners in the January issue, we have some great prizes! For those who want to attend in person, we’ll provide all the materials—paint, stencils, and brushes—plus inspiration from local artists and makers who will help guide you through the process. Enjoy some festive vibes, music, and refreshments as you unleash your artistic side. Can’t make it to the workshop? No problem! You can still join in the fun from the comfort of your own home. Simply buy a blank bag for just £5, grab your supplies, and get creative! Whether you’re inspired by the coast, local landmarks, or the quirky spirit of North Shields, the possibilities are endless. From seaside scenes to quirky North Shields quotes or abstract patterns inspired by local landmarks, you can make your tote bag as unique as you are. It’s all about expressing your connection to North Shields and having fun while doing it! Event Highlights Design Your Own Tote Bag: Whether you’re at the event or working from home, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to create a stunning design. Inspiration from Local Artists: Meet local makers, get design tips, and let their creativity inspire you. Festive Fun: Enjoy a holiday atmosphere at the event with music, snacks, and a community vibe. If you're doing it from home, put on your favorite playlist and get in the spirit! Ready to Join? It’s easy to get involved! You can register for the event and buy your bag on-site, or grab your blank tote for just £5 and start designing from home. The choice is yours! Book your space here: www.city-park-studio.com
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Sira Studio Photography
NEW TO SHIELDS RACHAEL MEYER By Jake Rusby While funerals are supposed to mark the end of someone’s journey on Earth, for Rachael Meyer they have helped turn the page onto a new chapter of her life. Since 2018, Rachael has been writing and conducting creative funerals and weddings as a humanist celebrant, helping couples celebrate their new beginnings together, and families say goodbye to their loved ones. It was her work with the latter that sparked her decision to make the move to North Shields, a place that, until she relocated, she and husband Simon had barely seen. She says: “Hearing and writing about so many incredible life stories has really made me think about life – it is such a precious, short time we have here and we need to make the most of it. Our daughter Georgia has been living in Newcastle for the last three years, and we came up to visit her from Harrogate and fell in love with the city. “We would often come with our dog and would head over to Tynemouth for the beaches. They blew us away. “One day some friends offered to meet us at the Fish Quay, and we had no idea where that was! “We went down there and instantly knew it was where we wanted to be: The old warehouse buildings, the bars and restaurants; we loved the whole industrial feel of it.
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Amy Katherine Photography
“We wanted a new adventure and this seemed like the perfect place.” Their decision to relocate in July of this year was so spontaneous, they hadn’t even been into North Shields town centre before the move. Now, with their feet now firmly under the table in Tyneside, they are slowly exploring the town and finding more parts of it to fall in love with. And Rachael credits this magazine – along with its social media pages – with helping her and Simon take this momentous step in their life journey together.
“The music, art, hospitality and business opportunities are amazing; the place is steeped in history; and of course, we love the incredible views, sunrises, dog friendly beaches and proximity to the city. “I’m loving meeting couples and local wedding venues in the town, too! We are so happy we made the move and are looking forward to falling even more in love with North Shields.”
It’s a step she doesn’t regret taking: “My mum died at the end of 2023 and that was our last connection to where we lived in Harrogate. Both of our kids had left home and we wanted a change – this was our chance and we took it. “After we found the house on the Fish Quay I followed the ‘I Love North Shields’ Instagram account and saw all of the amazing stuff that was going on, and that made us want to move here even more. “We wanted a new adventure and this seemed like the perfect place because of its warm and friendly community and energy. Everyone is so welcoming. There is so much positivity and pride in the old and the new.
Andy Griffiths Photography
Your Stories
LOCAL HERO CHARLES MCMANUS By Sarah Storer A North Shields’ teen has raised nearly £7,000 for charity by running the entire length of the Tyne & Wear Metro system in just one day. Charles McManus, 18, ran the 125km, 60 station journey back in September. His journey took him roughly 17 and a half hours which equals the equivalent of three marathons back- to-back. Charles undertook the ultra-marathon to raise money for both The Brain Tumour Charity and St Oswald’s Hospice, in memory of his dad Dave, who sadly died from a brain tumour in 2017. The run began at 3am at South Hylton metro station and finished at 8:30pm at Monument. As he ran on main roads instead of the metro line, he had to run back on himself so ultimately ran longer than the metro line itself! “I decided to run the length of the metro line because I felt it was quite easy to map out,” explained Charles. “It was my first ever ultramarathon. It allowed me to have a good amount of breaks to recover during the run. It was something that no other person had done before, so I felt as though it would catch a few eyes to raise a bit more for charity.” Charles’ mam, Claire McManus, agrees “I thought it was a great idea and amazing way to raise money in memory of his dad. Charles is a natural athlete and he follows an American ultra-runner who has done some epic long races. We didn’t think too much about the distance until we started to properly plan the stops. Then reality hit!”
The run was not without its challenges, as Charles twisted his ankle around 20km in. “I was devastated but I knew I had to push on. When I ran back from the airport it felt as though the weather, distance and my legs were against me. I just kept on pushing through thanks to my mam, my cousin Jonny, my brother Ben and my mate Elliot, who ran with me.” Claire followed Charles the entire way, either in the support car or running parts with him “I had planned where I needed to be based on the approximate times of his arrival. He was taking a picture at each station so I always had a rough idea where he was on the route. The day flew by, it didn’t feel like 17 hours.” Dave McManus also used to push himself with fitness, and had previously taken part in 100-mile bike rides. “I’d hope my dad would be proud of me. I know he would have been glad that I stuck to what he used to tell me, PMA - Positive Mental Attitude,” says Charles.
“He probably would have tried to run it with me. I believe he could have done the whole thing with me. He’s a very stubborn person which I’ve got a bit of.” Charles plans to continue raising money for charity over the next few years. “I’m planning on completing the John O’Groats to Land’s End challenge in two years’ time. I want to beat the course record of nine days and two hours. The year after, I’m going to complete the Comrades Marathon with my mam and my cousin Jonny.” St Oswald’s Hospice has continued to support the family since Dave’s passing. “St Oswald’s is truly a place of angels,” says Claire. “I don’t have the words to fully express my gratitude for the kindness, care and compassion shown to Dave and us. They continued to offer counselling to the children and myself after Dave passed. Seven years on, St Oswald’s are still in touch and reach out with offers of support. A charity that will remain close to my heart forever.” “It feels as though I’ve been able to make a real difference to people’s lives,” agrees Charles, “especially people who may have gone through the same things as me. Knowing that gives me a real sense of accomplishment.” If you feel inspired by this local hero and would like to donate, here’s the link: www.justgiving.com/team/mcmanusmetromaprun
Art @LISAYOUNG
THE ART OF POP CULTURE FUSION MARCUS REED By Mark Tavender | Photography by Lisa Young North Shields is steadily becoming a haven for talented creatives, and Marcus Reed is a prime example. His unique ability to fuse pop culture elements – film, music, fashion, football, and art – into a vibrant style that has been dubbed "New School Modern Art" is unmatched. Reed's work is instantly recognizable and relatable. His bold graphic style, influenced by 1960s Modernism, Swiss Graphic Art, and artists like Paul Rand and Charley Harper, has a distinctive appeal. It's no wonder his prints adorn walls worldwide, including my own. Originally from Cramlington, Reed is based in the bustling One Three One studios in North Shields, a hub for artists and creatives. His artistic journey began in childhood, fuelled by a love for comic books. He honed his skills at Newcastle College, a renowned incubator of artistic talent, before landing a placement at the prestigious Saatchi & Saatchi advertising agency in London. "I was right in the thick of it," Reed recalls, reminiscing about his time working alongside industry giants like Sir John Hegarty, Andy Bird and Bruce Crouch. Despite the allure of the advertising world, the long hours and demanding clients eventually took their toll. "I was burning out, burning out badly," he admits. Seeking another creative outlet, Reed turned to digital illustration, developing the distinctive style that defines his work today. His artistic flair has attracted major brands like Harrods, Samsung, and American Express. However, the path hasn't always been smooth. A collaboration with Adidas ended abruptly with a cease and desist letter, forcing Reed to alter his artwork. "It nearly finished me off," he confesses.
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REED'S CREATIVE PROCESS IS INTRIGUING. "I KEEP MY SKETCHBOOK NEXT TO MY BED," HE SHARES. "ALL THE MAGIC HAPPENS AT NIGHT." Thankfully, he bounced back, collaborating with companies like Gipsy Hill Brewery, where his designs graced their beer cans and pump clips. "It was some of my best work," he reflects, "but I became known as 'the beer can guy,' and I wanted to move on." In 2016, Reed returned to his North East roots, settling in Whitley Bay and working locally. "I love the feel of North Shields," he says. "There's lots going on, and it's improving all the time." Reed has become an integral part of the local community. He designed a commemorative poster for a play honouring Thomas Brown, a local hero, and was surprised to find his artwork featured on the newly renamed Thomas Brown Square plaque. "It was quite an honour," he says. "I guess I'll always be part of Shields now." Reed's humility is striking. Despite international acclaim, with exhibitions at the Tate Modern, Walker Art Gallery, and galleries in Paris and Beijing to name but a few, he finds equal satisfaction in seeing his work displayed locally. His "Saturday's Kids" project, a stunning coffee-table book, celebrates a decade of UK subcultures, from mods and rockers to grime artists. His vibrant illustrations capture the essence of each movement, showcasing their influence on identity and creativity.
Reed's creative process is intriguing. "I keep my sketchbook next to my bed," he shares. "All the magic happens at night." He starts by writing his ideas down in words, allowing them to percolate before bringing them to life visually. His new venture, Almighty Street Gang (ASG), a studio collective of artists and designers co-founded with colleague Sam, takes a unique approach and incorporates his unique styling. They identify and approach companies that align with their style, ensuring creative control over their work. Reed's collaborative spirit thrives in North Shields. He has also teamed up with Geoff Kirkwood (DJ Manpower) to create "Are You Affiliated", promoting old-school club nights, and is potentially involved in "Elevation," a street art project that will transform the town's walls with murals celebrating its history. Marcus Reed's work is a testament to his passion for art and culture. He draws inspiration from the past while embracing contemporary trends, making him an artist to watch and his website, marcusreed.com, a must-visit for those seeking visual and cultural stimulation. Check him and his work out here www.marcusreed.com
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NEW EXHIBITION ALERT BLANK CANVAS Globe Gallery is excited to announce the opening of its second exhibition at its newly refurbished premises: Blank Canvas & Jolly Days – Railway Posters Revisited by Chris Donald. This dynamic exhibition brings together two distinctive worlds of creativity, blending the raw energy of street art with Chris Donald’s satirical take on British culture. Blank Canvas features three celebrated street artists—Mark One87, Toby Heaps, and Cack Handed Kid*—who have transformed the gallery’s walls with their unfiltered creativity. Given complete freedom to reshape the space, these artists bring the vibrant, energetic world of street art into the gallery setting. Signed prints of their works will be available for purchase throughout the exhibition. Jolly Days – Railway Posters Revisited by Chris Donald Chris Donald, creator of the iconic VIZ comic, presents a humorous twist on classic railway posters, reimagining them with his sharp wit and insightful commentary on British culture. His playful reinterpretations of local holiday destinations offer a lighthearted look at nostalgia with a satirical edge. Signed prints will also be available for purchase. This dual exhibition celebrates creativity in its many forms, from the bold, expressive street art of Blank Canvas to the witty and humorous reimagining of British transport posters by Chris Donald. Together, these artists offer a unique perspective on contemporary culture, and visitors will have the opportunity to experience both styles in one exciting event. The opening preview evening promises to be a night of inspiration, with the chance to meet the artists and view their work up close. The event is sure to be a memorable celebration of originality and artistic expression. Gallery Hours Thursday – Saturday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Discover the Stories of North Shields & Tynemouth Take a journey through time with three must-read books by David Scholey Secret North Shields and Tynemouth Delve into the hidden gems and untold stories of these historic areas. A perfect read for history buffs and locals alike. Buy here: https://amzn.eu/d/dvzYUko A Walking History of North Shields & Tynemouth Explore the past as you wander the streets of North Shields and Tynemouth. This guide is packed with fascinating facts and tales for curious explorers. Buy here: https://amzn.eu/d/8HPERO Haswells of North Shields Discover the heartwarming family legacy of the Haswells, one of North Shields’ most iconic families. Buy here: https://amzn.eu/d/ayrx4v6 Perfect for history lovers, gift seekers, or anyone wanting to connect with the stories that shaped our community.
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100 DAYS OF LITTLE STORIES BY MIM ROBSON I’ve been a self-employed artist and creative workshop facilitator for over 10 years. I call myself multi-disciplinary because I like to work in lots of different mediums. I do a bit of textiles, printmaking, ceramics,photography, writing, illustration, and anything else that takes my fancy. In an effort to focus on one thing at a time, and to get some new work made, I have undertaken a project called 100 Days of Little Stories. The idea of a 100 Day Project is that you commit to doing something on a particular theme for 100 days in a row. I started on the 1st of Nov and have been making new little stories of all kinds, and sharing past work too, on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. As I write this now, I am on day 17... just over two weeks into what I have realised is a fourteen week project! It is at times a little overwhelming to come up with new ideas, make them and share them each day, but it is has been great to finally tick things off my ideas list, or finish things that have been on hold for too long. I’ve made new and unexpected work too. It has pushed me do other things I’ve put off for a while too, like finally setting up my shop on my website, and signing up to take my work to some fairs and markets. Having a creative career isn’t always straightforward and much like my art-making, my career has taken on many forms and guises. My degree was in Creative Expressive Therapies, and I have generally pursued working creatively with people in ways that aims to improve or support wellbeing, encourage imagination, play and develop creative expression. This has taken me to work in hospitals, on beaches, in cafes, in woodlands, holiday camps, stately homes, churches, festivals, gardens, in many a community centre, and even on a barge. This work is fulfilling, fascinating and has meant that I have met and worked with many wonderful, inspiring and sometimes brilliantly eccentric people. The downfall of doing lots of this ever-interesting work has been that I have been so absorbed in engaging other people in creativity, I have not always given as much focus to my own projects as I would have liked. So this year, I decided it was time to refocus my on my art-making, and create some new work. It’s easy to lose confidence in your own creative practice, and in your ability to finish things, if you haven’t attended to it very consistently for a while, and I think that is part of the challenge. So I hope that by the end of these 100 days I will finish with a sense of achievement, a load of new work, and a bit of renewed confidence going forwards in my next ventures. If you would like to see more or follow my work, you can follow me on @mimrobsonartist on all the platforms I’ve mentioned - but I use Instagram the most. If you would like occasional updates on new work/events/general arty chat, you can sign up to my mailing list on the contact page of my website. I sell my work on my website too, visit the shop at mimrobson.com - and I will have a stall at the North Shields Creatives Christmas Market at the Salt Market Social on Dec 5th 69pm. It looks it should be a great event, hope to see you there!
CHRISTMAS SOCIAL: 9TH DECEMBER THE EXCHANGE 19 7 PM
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🐟🐟🐟🐟🐟🐟 Fathoms’
‘Three F
pastel on paper, 76 x 56cm, 01/10/2023
'‘My sketching on North Shields Fish Quay was almost done when the title of this painting was fortuitously gifted by a fisherman' He suddenly appeared up the quayside ladder from his unseen, low-tided boat down below. The catch of shellfish was to be hauled up but the required length of rope needed to be decided. ‘I need another three f fathoms’ was shouted down to the fisherman’s mate who was to attach the laden baskets to the hooks on the rope’s end. I was impressed by the use of the rich word ‘fathom’ ..not cold yards nor metres.. as a unit of measurement. The catch was landed and I thanked the fisherman for providing my title. I hope he likes the painting.
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Stephen Gregory stephengregorypaintings.co.uk
@LISAYOUNG
SCARY TALES AT THE TYNEMOUTH LODGE By Carol Davison Halloween week saw another successful run of Little Cat Theatre Company’s ‘Scary Tales,’ with six sold out performances of the show at the Tynemouth Lodge, an 18th century building soaked in history. With its own stories of secret tunnels and unexplained activity, the Lodge is the perfect setting for some spooky story telling. I caught up with Little Cat’s Pete Ross before the dress rehearsal. Pete, one half of popular local music duo ‘Pete and Lou,’ founded the independent theatre company in 2008 and they performed Scary Tales at Tynemouth Priory for eight years before moving to this new venue four years ago. He felt the show had reached its sell by date at the Priory, having already lured their nervous audience to its darkest corners. The Lodge felt like an ideal new location with its dark lane linked to the old Correction House next door and its stone outbuildings. As I stood there chatting to Pete on a pitch-black night at the end of October with bats swooping through the long-limbed trees in Northumberland Park, I could see what had drawn him. Pete writes a fresh set of scary tales each year and 2024 saw three imaginative outdoor sets created at the rear of the Tynemouth Lodge, transforming it into ‘Ye Olde Swan Inn and Forge’. This year the tales were based around a small group of friends who gathered at the inn, and in order to garner another pint of ale from the imperious landlady, they would tell stories of haunted places in which they had previously stayed. I joined the audience on Halloween night. The immersive performance started in the Lodge itself when a couple of boisterous Dickensian characters bounded into the bar and enticed us away from the warmth of the fire with a promise of a night we would not forget. Messrs. Hogman junior and senior were true to their word. Following jump scares in the dark lane, we were led to the outdoor tent which had been dressed as a bawdy Victorian ale house with amazing attention to detail and then on to an outbuilding, transformed into an eerie old bedroom, complete with rickety cast iron bed and candles flickering on a fireplace. Atmospheric lighting and special effects along with quality acting by the cast of eight resulted in some superb story telling. The ghost baby rising from the bed gave me shivers and I got a lump in my throat when her ghost mother appeared through a mist to reclaim her lost child. Countering that was the strong comedic element of the other performances, which, along with a grand fist-thumping sing-along, had me smiling as well as screaming! The talented team that is Little Cat had clearly put their heart and soul into this wholly original production and seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as the audience. When they entered the bar after their final performance, the place erupted with well deserved applause. A fitting finale to an outstanding event. I look forward to more ghostly goings on in 2025! PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING CAST MEMBERS: Edward Collins, Christopher Strain, Louise Ross, Vette Normanly, Jill Raymond, Damian King, Matt Spence, Pete Ross.
Music Press Release
MUSIC HUB GIVES YOUNG PEOPLE A MAJOR PART Young musicians are scoring a range of new opportunities as their Music Hub takes up residence in North Shields Cultural Quarter. North Tyneside Music Education Hub is now based in the Business Centre on Saville Street. It’s in a prime position for exciting collaborations, with neighbours including Helix Arts, the Globe Gallery, the Exchange 1856 and King Street Social Club. Joint projects are already being planned including performances, mentoring, behind-the-scenes music technology training and the chance to shadow professional musicians during gigs at local venues. North Shields Cultural Quarter is part of North Tyneside Council’s ambitious plans for North Shields, enhancing and growing the creative economy. It is supported by the North East Combined Authority. The hub offers a wide range of free musical activities for young musicians of all ages and standards. These include youth choir, orchestra, strings, music theory, jazz and a rock school. The groups meet weekly in term-time at venues across North Tyneside. The young people are given regular opportunities to perform, and can access a vast instrument store. In September 2024, North Tyneside Council became the lead partner for a £3.7 million regional Music Hub consortium covering Darlington, Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland, South Tyneside, and Sunderland. £1 million of the funding is to support the purchase of new instruments. It’s part of a national programme delivered by Arts Council England on behalf of the Department for Education, in partnership with schools, local authorities, community groups, music organisations, industry and more. North Tyneside Music Education Hub lead Julie Dorr said: “Since we relocated into our new offices in the heart of North Shields Cultural Quarter we have had so many inspiring conversations and offers to work together with amazing creative people.
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“There’s such a buzz in North Shields at the moment, it’s infectious, and it’s getting passed on to the children and young people. By being in North Shields we’re making stronger links with incredible industry role models like Geoff Kirkwood of Man Power, Bernii Mac of Becoming the Artist and Susan French of Crew Gal. “We already had a great relationship with Helix Arts through the North Tyneside Cultural Education Partnership, but now we share a building we can work together even more closely to offer opportunities to our young people. “North Shields Cultural Quarter project manager Karen Taws has a desk here too, so she’s on hand to give us lots of support and ideas to grow our work. “It’s wonderful to be part of a creative network that our young people can access now, into early adulthood and beyond. “We’ve been working with North Shields Opera Chorus, we have close ties with the Exchange 1856 theatre who welcome us for concerts, performances, and meetings, we have our weekly rock school at Traxx Studios in North Shields, and we are supported by Music Partnership North Newcastle. “Our large freelance workforce love us being here. With 38 freelancers on the team, North Tyneside Business Centre allows space for them to come in and make contact. “Importantly, we take our work out to all parts of North Tyneside, with hundreds of young people attending Saturday morning sessions at the Langdale Centre in Wallsend, mid-week sessions at John Spence High School, and performances at events across the borough such as markets, concerts and festivals, working with North Tyneside Council events team.”
@DIANEWAILES
@DIANEWAILES
Cllr Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor for North Tyneside and cabinet member responsible for Regeneration, Economic Development and Culture said: “The creative economy in North Shields is really taking off, and there’s so much positive news coming out of North Shields Cultural Quarter right now. “This is an exciting time for artists and creative businesses, and it’s fantastic to see North Tyneside’s young musicians being given new opportunities thanks to this tide of creative energy in and around North Shields. “I wish North Tyneside Music Education Hub every success in its new home, and I look forward to seeing what comes of all the collaborations and joint projects being planned.” @DIANEWAILES
Music
KIRSTY HALL Kirsty Hall is a singer/songwriter/pianoplayer based in Howdon, North Tyneside, delivering storytelling, poetic and political lyrics with ethereal sounds tinged with folk and country. Having previously been in various bands and collectives over the years Kirsty found herself at a musical loose end in early 2022. Jumping into a Zoom call, ‘Barriers to Creativity’ she received some encouragement to try out playing and writing for herself, she gave it a go and never looked back. Kirsty released her third single PAS, on all platforms on the 18th Oct 2024. Kirsty often covers the difficult subjects in her music and this single is no exception. PAS stands for “Parental Alienation Syndrome” and the song is a POV piece about one woman’s journey through the family court, after fleeing domestic abuse. PAS is a controversial concept often levelled at women who allege domestic abuse, or the mothers of children who express a wish not to see their fathers. The two previous singles, Lola Says and Eliza Bethel have drawn on themes of dystopia/land/housing/connection, and family history respectively. Lola refers to a Lola Olufemi, a black writer, activist and organizer from London. Kirsty is a big fan, particularly of Olufemi’s books, Feminism Disrupted and Experiments in Imagining Otherwise. See links below for further information about these tracks. The forthcoming EP Beautiful Child, out on 29 Nov, includes a spoken word piece about housing, the song Missing- written around the issues of young people going missing from care, and the title track which explores the barriers placed on mothers trying to love their children in a neoliberal, patriarchal society.
Music Kirsty is also a multi-media artist with a background in academic research. From 20152023 Kirsty was completing a PhD and then subsequent Fellowship at the Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse at Durham University. The main research topics were how children who live with domestic abuse view and understand the idea of home, and broader issues re housing, home, land, inequality and children. In Nov 2023 Kirsty curated her own exhibition called What is Home? at Laurels, Whitley Bay. The exhibition displayed quotes and images contributed by research participants in an artistic way. For example, quotes from participants who had experienced domestic abuse in childhood were placed within the windows of a big house on the wall. The event also included scheduled spoken word followed by a performance of three songs reflecting some of the subject matter. This event is something Kirsty is looking to build on, creating a bigger and better version in 2025.
So, the individual experience of struggling to find home, is contextualized within broader issues regarding land ownership. I’m trying to find more effective ways to share the findings of academic research and place them in bigger contexts that are not always discussed. Kirsty’s EP ‘Beautiful Child’ will be released on 29 Nov 2024 on all platforms, with a launch on the same day at the Klurb, North Shields. Instagram https://open.spotify.com/artist/2rqRcXpu9WDn AQXriZ5ElC?si=nRs615Z8QM-eUdb3LfXlYw
A recent exploration into digital art is one way there will be added value to any event in the future. Kirsty said: I had never done Art before. I started doing it for my own music covers and enjoyed doing them so much that I started to create pieces that had nothing to do with my music. I've now photographed all my research from the exhibition, and I have started to incorporate them into digital art creations. The art has already been displayed in a local exhibition by City Park Studios supported by @northshieldsculturalquarter. Kirsty has secured mentoring from Helix Art to support her development as an artist and identify potential funding for future events and collaborations: I'm hoping to work with someone to write some conversational pieces based on some of my research to bring the scenes to life to create thought provoking live art.
TO VIOLENCE AND ABUSE AT DURHAM UNIVERSITY. THE MAIN RESEARCH TOPICS WERE HOW CHILDREN WHO LIVE WITH DOMESTIC ABUSE VIEW AND UNDERSTAND THE IDEA OF HOME, AND BROADER ISSUES RE HOUSING, HOME, LAND, INEQUALITY AND CHILDREN
Business
STREETDOODLER By Caroline Oswald Have you ever imagined what your local pub, or indeed your house, would look like as a piece of art? Streetdoodler, aka Sarah Sutherland, can make this happen. Her unique portraits of buildings tap into the emotional connections we can have with certain places and Streetdoodler has gone from strength to strength over the past few years. Sarah grew up in Tynemouth and after studying fashion at Newcastle Polytechnic, she became a designer for a Fair Trade company, travelling all over the world to developing countries. When she had her family, Sarah started working on freelance design projects closer to home. Little did she know where one particular request would lead. A friend asked her to do a sketch of her house on Simpson Street, the picturesque row of colourful fishermen’s cottages in Cullercoats. Following this, a steady stream of commissions came in, and Streetdoodler was born. Sarah has always had an appreciation for architecture. As she explained modestly: “I would have loved to have studied it but I don’t think I’m good enough at maths!” Nevertheless, her talent for highlighting the beauty of buildings is evident in her illustrations, which she sketches by hand in pen and then colours digitally: “I just use my mouse as paintbrush!” Sarah mainly works from photographs, which means she has been able to illustrate buildings from further afield, taking commissions from afar as France, Spain, India and Nigeria. She has also used old photos to draw a family home that had been knocked down. As well as producing portraits of individual houses, Sarah has illustrated many iconic North East buildings, including the Grand Hotel, Spanish City, and Rendezvous Cafe. She has drawn an array of local pubs, such as The Strawberry, the Free Trade Inn and the Cumberland Arms in Newcastle and closer to home the Tynemouth Lodge and Lowlights Tavern in North Shields. Her work is tremendously popular with both individuals and businesses, who have recognised the potential for using Streetdoodler illustrations. Sarah has seen her artwork used on menus, advertising and even on the back of delivery vans! Streetdoodler has been present at Tynemouth Market for the past 13 years, every Saturday at the foot of the steps and on a Sunday in different spots. There are prints of various sizes on sale as well as mugs and coasters. Enter the tote bag competition to win a free mug and coaster set featuring the Lowlights Tavern! www.facebook.com/SarahSutherlandBuildingPortraits
Food A SWEET SPOT EARTH & FIRE BAKERY Did you know that fifteen minutes from North Shields you could find yourself in the middle of a countryside oasis? Spanning 162 hectares, The Rising Sun Country Park in North Tyneside is a nature reserve with ponds, woodlands and extensive grasslands, providing a haven for wildlife and a multitude of footpaths, bridleways and cycleways to explore. You may be familiar with the exhibition space, cafe and play area near the Benton end. However if you walk along one of the many peaceful routes towards the Rising Sun Farm near Wallsend, you will come across the hidden gem of the Earth & Fire Artisan Bakery. A family run business, Earth & Fire offer a range of artisan breads, savoury pastries and sweet bakes, as well as refreshments including barista coffee. These can be enjoyed in the seating area surrounded by picturesque views, play area and animals including donkeys and sheep. There is also DLS Falconry with 30 birds of prey and Belle & Herbs fermentary next door. Alternatively, Earth & Fire also offer free home deliveries of their baked delicacies within a wide radius, including North Shields, which can be ordered through their Facebook page. Not only that, they have weekend stalls at markets across the region including Tynemouth Market. Their bakes include organic ingredients grown on the farm and they offer unique specialities at different times of year. They will be open across the festive season for hot drinks and seasonal bakes, including topped hot chocolates, hazelnut lattes, mince pies, spiced sultana and pumpkin muffins and cranberry and pork sausage rolls. They are now taking orders for their highly sought-after Christmas puddings. Enter the tote bag competition to win a free Christmas pud, delivered to your door! So if you’re looking for a peaceful seasonal stroll followed by warm winter refreshments, head to Earth & Fire bakery at The Rising Sun Countryside Centre, Wallsend, NE28 9JL. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100046468307881
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