I LOVE NORTH SHIELDS | ISSUE 7

I Love North Shields.

NOVEMBER 2024 COMMUNITY: Dot the Lollipop MUSIC: Interview Sabrina Kennedy HISTORY: Oldest survivor of the Kindertransport BUSINESS: Victoria Print Studio

Megan Ramsey Photography

ISSUE 7

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Hello North Shields Issue 7 is here, and what a whirlwind of a month it’s been!

We had the absolute pleasure of attending the North Tyneside Business Forum Expo. Diane and I set up our stall, connected with loads of brilliant local businesses, and proudly promoted our magazine. We’re also super excited about the awards on November 14th—whether we win or not, we’re just thrilled to have made it this far! We collaborated with North Shields based photographer Megan Ramsey, who nailed this month’s gorgeous front cover featuring local singer Vanessa Clarke.

The I Love North Shields team has been busy, busy, busy! Mim checked out the Prefab77 and Mul Draws Expo at the Hancock Gallery, while Wayne and Suzanne gave us the lowdown on Howayfest, which lit up venues all across town. Jodhi has been smashing it with eye-catching TikTok content—don’t forget to follow us at @ilovenorthshieldstok for all the fun!

Mark sat down for a great chat with Sabrina Kennedy, with stunning photos from local talent Lisa Young. Jake caught up with Alona Mochulska, who’s new to the area, and Diane had a really touching conversation with Gay, one of the last survivors of the Kindertransport, now living right here in North Shields.

Pauline met up with Barry’s Fruit and Veg as they celebrated their 2-year anniversary, and Caroline paid tribute to Dot the Lollipop, while Richard O’Brien gave us the inside scoop on the Poetry Book Society. Working with everyone involved has been a real joy, and we’re proud to keep bringing you unique content from the heart of North Shields.

But that is not all, we’ve just launched our fab new tote bag in collaboration with Elevation Walls and Prefab77, celebrating the iconic 'Siren' mural—grab one while you can!

It’s been a month of inspiring people and exciting new connections, and we’re already gearing up for the next issue.

With Christmas around the corner, get in touch if you’d like to advertise in our festive edition—your support helps us keep promoting the best of North Shields.

P.S. The Comma is Going! Big thanks to everyone who took part in our poll—your feedback means the world!

Thanks for all your support!

Simmie Harper X

Contributors Founder/Editor-in-Chief Simone Harper ilovenorthshields @outlook.com Front Cover Subject: Vanessa Clarke

By Megan Ramsey Photography Authors Bazoox (Author for The Mag) Caroline Oswald Diane Wailes Jake Rusby Mark Tavender Mim Robson Rachel Chapman Suzanne Coulson Contributions Kristine Grey Dan Bowen Tatjana @That's Tats Illustrator Katie Stewart Art Director Kimberley Rumble kimberleycreative.co.uk @kimberley_creative Graphic Designers Holly Hammell-Purvis @h.llyhp 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.com ilovenorthshields.com

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Contents

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7

9

Check Out Our New Tote Bag design!

North Shields In The News

Dot the Lollipop - A Real Shields Lass

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Barry’s Fruit and Veg

New to Shields Alona Mochulska

If the Kids are United

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23 Brotherly Love of the Sea

Mount Toubkal Challenge October 2024

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24 In Conversation With... a 102 Year Old

Contents

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Read Our Howayfest Review

Sabrina Casts a Spell

Review Exhibition Review: Covert Couture

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The Poetry Book Society

Memoirs of a Northern Lass

The Oldest Survivor of the Kindertransport

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Linskill family

That’s Tats!

Q&A with Victoria Print Studio

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News THE NEW TOTE BAG We are buzzing to finally share our brand-new “I Love North Shields” tote bag with you! This brilliant collab with @prefab77_ and @elevation_walls is all about celebrating our town’s 800 years of history, and honestly, there’s no better time for a fresh start here in Shields!But this isn’t just any tote bag—it’s a symbol of our community pride! And get this—it features the stunning mural 'The Siren' which honours our rich fishing heritage and the incredible women who were the backbone of it all. How amazing is that? Elevation’s on a mission to turn North Shields into a living gallery! They’re creating an art trail that brings us all together and makes sure our town is on the map for generations to come.

Now, just picture us all strolling around with these totes, spreading good vibes and nodding to each other because, hey, we’re part of something special. You’ll spot someone else rocking one and know you’re in on it!

Order your tote bag now for £7,- through our shop, the link in our bio, or swing by a one of pick up points. The time is now North Shields, onwards and upwards!

Huge thanks to @gpo_visuals @stufearn @prefab77_ @elevation_walls for choosing to collaborate with us! And a big thank you to everyone in our community supporting us.

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News

NORTH SHIELDS IN THE NEWS Heart of the Community Award Text and Photo by Keith Newman | Highlights PR Three North Tyneside businesses have been recognised for their significant contributions to the local community, as finalists for the prestigious Heart of the Community Award, part of the annual North Tyneside Business Awards. The award celebrates businesses that have made a meaningful difference in the area, with nominees selected by members of the public. The finalists, North East Nipple Project from Wallsend, The Willow Chippy in Wallsend, and I Love North Shields in North Shields, were shortlisted by the Business Forum’s management group after reviewing dozens of nominations from the community.

The winner will be announced at the North Tyneside Business Awards ceremony on 14th November at the Village Hotel. Each of the finalists were nominated by members of the public and each has contributed significantly to local people in their area.

I Love North Shields was created by Simmie Harper and is a local magazine highlighting the unseen faces and stories of North Shields. It’s gained significant community support and Dutch born editor and founder Simmie who moved to North Shields in 2023, says,

“This nomination is an honour. It’s been incredible connecting with the community and sharing stories that often go unnoticed. I feel privileged to represent such a wonderful town.”

VOTE HERE FOR I LOVE NORTH SHIELDS Michael James, Chair of the North Tyneside Business Forum, said, “This award is very special as it comes directly from the people who benefit and use these businesses. Every one of them is already a winner but the public will vote for the award winner. Voting will remain open until 6pm on 14th November. Best of luck to all, and I look forward to welcoming them at the ceremony.”

The North Tyneside Business Forum is run by a management group made up of members from various industry sectors in the Borough and gives support in the form of networking, events and signposting for growth and development. Membership is free and open to any business of any size with a trading address within North Tyneside. The Business Forum is supported by, but not run by North Tyneside Council.

The Forum is FREE to join and is for any business with a trading address in North Tyneside.

E: business.forum@northtyneside.gov.uk www.northtynesidebusinessforum.org.uk

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Community 8 ISSUE 7

New Album Sam Fender

Pop Up Gallery

North Shields legend Sam Fender is teasing new music and we’re buzzing for it! His new single, "People Watching," launched last month and we love it!

Local artists took center stage at a Pop Up Gallery in North Shields, showcasing their work for free over two weekends in September and October 2024.

Organized by City Park Studio.

New Venue Spotted

Wall Mural Verne Road

Longsands bar is set to relocate to a new venue located on Albion Road, North Shields.

Check out the wall on Verne Road.This piece was created by Kourosh Edalat, a talented artist from KED Studio.

North Shields People

Project Nile Street

Brilliant photo by Diane Wailes @northshields_people which was picked up by @dfdsukire and shared thousands of times on their socials!

Onwards and upwards for North Shields!

Spotted! By @northshields_people!

A good turnout for today’s Project Nile Street litter pick. Although one passerby did ask if we were doing community service (not the voluntary kind)!

Community

DOT THE LOLLIPOP A REAL SHIELDS LASS

By Caroline Oswald Dorothy Ann Thompson MBE, who sadly passed away last month, was better known as, ‘Dot the Lollipop’, even to friends and family. The ‘lollipop lady’ for St Joseph’s RC Primary School in North Shields, Dot helped children across the road to safety for 53 years. She knew all the children by name and always had a smile and time for a chat. In 1977 Dot came second in a competition to find the best lollipop person in the UK. The children admired her so much they even recorded a song about her!

Dot loved being outdoors and was always gardening at the school, at home and for friends. She was often seen cycling around Shields in the height of winter with shorts on, her bike bags heavily laden with shopping. She never bought processed food and knew all the lads on the Fish Quay by name from her visits to buy fresh fish. She would often make her way down there to the Low Lights pub from establishments further up the town such as the Top House and Charlie Robson’s.

In 2008 Dot was awarded an MBE for her road safety and charitable work. She enjoyed more publicity in 2020 when she celebrated 50 years of being a lollipop person. Dot had thought about hanging up her lollipop but the COVID-19 pandemic made her believe her ‘bairns’ needed her love and care more than ever. Dot looked after people all her life, and she had this reciprocated when she later moved into Kingfisher Care Home. Many of the people caring for her had been children that she had once helped across the road, and they all remembered her.

When Dot passed away on 13th of September, her impact on the local community was evident.

Hundreds of tributes flooded in online. St Joseph’s school displayed a wreath in the form of a lollipop sign on their front gates, made by local florist, ‘Flowers from Charlotte’.

On 14th October, as the funeral procession took Dot over her old school crossing one last time, the street was lined with children clapping and displaying a banner which read, “THANK YOU DOT THE LOLLIPOP, WE LOVE YOU”.

The huge turnout was testament to how much Dot meant to the people of North Shields. £275.00 was raised for the Fishermen’s Mission and £348.81 for the local RNLI. There were more floral lollipop bouquets and everyone wore bright colours, in homage to Dot’s bold sense of style. She had revelled in dressing up and decorating her bike for the parades in the Fish Quay Festival. North Tyneside Council has dedicated a bench to Dot on the Fish Quay, a place so dear to her heart. No doubt many folk who will pause to sit there over years to come will have benefited from the guidance of Dot the Lollipop.

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Community Open Day Collingwood Primary School At Collingwood we are committed to developing each and every child in our nurturing environment with respect and friendship at the heart of everything we do. Our youngest children in Early Years have been settling into their new classes and making new friends. They have been learning about how they are all different, but all special, just like Elmer the patchwork elephant. To celebrate their differences, each child has painted a portrait - look at how fantastic they are!

Admissions are now open for children starting school in September 2025 and we know it can be a big decision choosing the right school for your child. We are offering parents a chance to come and look at our Reception classrooms on Wednesday 6th November and Thursday 7th November at 4pm. We asked the current Reception children what was so good about Collingwood.

Ben said, “We have a breakfast club.”

Poppy said “We share the toys.”

Katie said “We have good teachers.”

Tynemouth Photographic Society - The Nature Group The Nature Group shares a passion for nature photography, providing members with support and feedback on their monthly assignments. Each meeting includes a review of previous assignments, discussions about members' images, and suggestions for upcoming topics. The group encourages exploration of new subjects and meets on the second Saturday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Clubrooms on Howard Street, North Shields. More information can be found at tynemouthps.co.uk.

Poppies in memory of lives lost during world wars Two North Shields sisters have once again arranged a display of poppies on Clifford’s Fort in memory of lives lost during world wars. For Margaret Sturmey and Sue Myers, the poppies have a special meaning. After looking into their family history, they realised that they lost two grandfathers at sea during WW1 and WW2. Their grandmother Hannah Hutchinson’s first husband, a steward on a merchant ship, was torpedoed in 1918 and lost at sea. Her second husband was a fisherman. Many fishing boats and small crafts were requisitioned by the Royal Navy during WW2. Like many fishermen, Hannah’s second husband was seconded to the Royal Navy and his boat was mined on Dec 23, 1939, with the entire crew of 13 lost. Last year Margaret and Sue appealed to knitters and craftspeople to help them create a sea of poppies on railings outside the Old Low Light Heritage Centre and were inundated with bags of beautiful handmade poppies.

Sue explained: “Last year we had a wonderful response to our appeal for poppies, which has allowed us to do another display.

For Margaret and myself it is a lovely way to remember our grandfathers, but it is also a tribute to the many others whose lives came to a similar end during past conflicts.” The display can be seen on the railings outside the Old Low Light Heritage Centre on Clifford’s Fort, North Shields Fish Quay.

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Community

EARL’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER APPEAL

CHRISTMAS CREATIVES We are excited to announce we are setting up stall at the Christmas Creatives Event at the Salt Market!

Date: December 5 Time: 6 PM - 9 PM Location: @saltmarketsocial Secure your spot for just £20 per table (222x60 cm). Contact mick792@hotmail.com Let’s join forces and make this the best community event of the year! Can’t wait to see everyone there!

FREE entrance Poster Design by simonhetherington.com

📅 ⏰ 📍 🌟

Hi, I’m Earl John Charlton, and I’m asking for your help this Christmas. Having grown up in the care system and experienced homelessness, I know how tough the holidays can be for children who feel forgotten. After turning my life around, I’m on a mission to give back to those going through what I once did.

This year, I’ve launched Earl’s Christmas Cracker, an appeal to support children in care homes across the North East. I don’t want any child to wake up on Christmas morning to just a pair of socks. With your help, we can make sure they feel loved and valued this holiday season.

How You Can Help: Drop off gifts at the Fishnet Tavern Fish Quay/North Shields.

Donate directly through Earl's Xmas Giving 2024.

Every contribution, big or small, will make a huge difference. Let’s come together and give these kids a Christmas to remember!

"Born in south shields made on the streets, I was homeless not hopeless"

CHRISTMAS MARKET North Shields Baptist Church on Howard Street is excited to open its doors as part of the North Shields Christmas Market on Saturday, December 7th!

With your help, we can make this Christmas extra special for children in care. Thank you! gofundme.com/f/earls-xmas-giving2024

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Community

STA YC UTE ;

UIT! R F EAT

BARRY’S FRUIT AND VEG AT 70 BEDFORD STREET, NORTH SHIELDS, NE30, SERVING WHITLEY BAY, SHIREMOOR, AND BEYOND. NEED TO PLACE AN ORDER? GIVE THEM A CALL AT 07901 694181 OR EMAIL BARRYSEGGSANDVEG@GMAIL.COM 12 ISSUE 7

Community

BARRY’S FRUIT AND VEG THE HEART AND SOUL OF NORTH SHIELDS

By Pauline Stewart

Barry and Bernie, the dynamic duo behind Barry’s Fruit and Veg, are more than just your average grocers—they are community heroes. With over 14,000 followers and 100% recommendations on Facebook, this team has become a lifeline for many in North Shields and beyond. Whether you need fresh produce, meat, shellfish, or even concert tickets, their little shop on the corner is a bustling hub of warmth, humor, and good food. This year marks a milestone as they celebrate their 2-year anniversary of serving the community.

During lockdown, Barry and Bernie didn’t just keep their shop running—they saved lives and lifted spirits by delivering fruit and veg straight to people’s doors. “First time ever getting a delivery service—great, and the soup deal is amazing. Will definitely be ordering again,” says one happy customer, Margy. Their dedication, from early mornings at the market to thoughtful customer care, shines through in every interaction. Bernie’s pick for the “Oscar” of fruits? The exotic Horned Melon, or Kiwano. This spiky fruit might seem prickly at first (literally), but inside, it’s a bright, delicious surprise—much like the spirit of this shop! Barry, on the other hand, focuses on the community-driven, homey side of things. The pair are known for their banter, humor, and a customer experience that turns grocery shopping into a fun, memorable outing.

Customer Vicky Reilly shared her experience: “I have had a delivery today—sirloin steaks, new potatoes, and salad onions. We had the steak tonight, and it was beautiful with the new potatoes.

Thanks so much for my items and fast delivery. Great selection!” This is just one of many stories where Barry’s fruit and veg not only meet expectations but go above and beyond to deliver topnotch quality.

Their shop is not just about buying produce; it’s a pillar of community support. Regular customers rave about their generosity, like Theresa Parvin, who says: “I spent £12 and came away with a huge bag of fruit and veg, plus a massive sack of spuds and onions, which were delivered to my door. Excellent quality and superb service—what more can you ask for?” Barry’s team is known for giving away surplus stock to those in need, spreading kindness with each carrot and onion sold. They even signpost customers to other community resources, always with a smile and a joke. This dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed—they’ve already won Business of the Month and are up for Business of the Year, thanks to a community that knows how much they’ve given back.

Barry’s day starts long before the shop opens—at 3 a.m., to be exact. Battling cold mornings and flying apples, Barry and his team fight to select the freshest produce for the local community.

Next time you’re in, ask Barry about the secret market language he uses—it's a code you’ll only learn if you’re a regular! From making North Shields laugh to feeding it with fresh, high-quality produce, Barry’s Fruit and Veg is a cornerstone of the community. Their journey has been one of generosity, grit, and good old-fashioned fun.

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Community

NEW TO SHIELDS ALONA MOCHULSKA

By Jake Rusby For Alona Mochulska, North Shields has provided something almost all of us take granted: safety.

Alona left her home, a small town in the Vinnytsia region of central Ukraine, to journey to the North East after Russia invaded her homeland in 2022.

Landing in the middle of the night at Newcastle Airport, with one hand she grasped the single, small suitcase she had hastily packed and brought with her; with the other, she guided her daughter Sofiia (sic) out of the terminal and onwards towards their new life in England.

She remembers: “We thought we would be ok after Russia invaded, but after seeing the news on TV about lots of victims being killed we decided we had to move. At that point we didn’t know to what country, we just had to get to a safe place.

“We didn’t really spend any time packing, we just left. I had to think about my daughter. I kept thinking about what would happen if the Russian army came to my house. Although we were not near the front line, it was dangerous everywhere.

“I saw that the UK had started a campaign to provide homes for Ukrainian people. I put a post into a Facebook group and was contacted by a volunteer from Whitley Bay who was trying to find families for refugees.

She told us all about the North East and it sounded wonderful. She found us my first hosts – Gemma and Dan Saleh, who lived in Whitley Bay.

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Community @JAKE RUSBY

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“They opened their doors and their hearts for us. They gave us everything and we are so grateful. But, most importantly, they gave us a chance to live new lives.”

After a year living with Gemma’s family, Alona and Sofiia, now eight, found their own home in North Shields. In November 2023, Alona took up the new role of Community Connector at the life-changing charity Cedarwood, on the Meadow Well Estate, helping to forge friendships and bonds between the native North Shields community and her fellow Ukrainians, who now also call this town their home.

She is also leading a new project, Uk-rainian Life on the Tyne, which will be a celebration of both British and Ukrainian cultures and the developed friendships between the two communities.

She adds: “At Cedarwood we have lots of sessions bringing together the local community, for example Ukrainian crafts, cooking or even watching Ukrainian films.

“We want to share our traditions with British people. This is also a way for us to keep our traditions alive while we are away from our homeland. I love working there because I love helping people and supporting them in different ways.

“I also love living in North Shields. There are many beautiful parts and people are very friendly and polite. They have helped me a lot and I am very grateful.”

Despite finding a new life in North Shields, Alona still misses her home, and her family in particular: “My father is in the local army, trying to protect people in my hometown.

Every night, drones are flying overhead and it's very scary. I think about the safety of my parents all of the time and miss them so much.

“I was so lucky to see my parents every day.

Unfortunately, now it is just a dream to see my parents again and to tell them how much I love them. We should appreciate life and our families; and treasure the precious moments.”

What does the future hold for Alona and her daughter? At the moment, she does not know.

Alona has set her aspirations high: Having studied for – and passed – GCSEs in English and Maths, she now wants to study at university in the UK. However, with their Visas due to expire at the end of 2026, it could be that before-too-long mother and daughter will have to swap the safety of the North East for the uncertainty of her embattled homeland.

One thing is for sure: while she is here, Alona is making a real, positive difference to North Shields and its community. She’s now one of our own.

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IF THE KIDS ARE UNITED Monthly column by Bazoox (Author for ‘The Mag’) | Illustration Katie Stewart With yet another international break in the football calender currently upon us, it's time for me to have a look back on Newcastle United's fortunes in September and early October.

Just in case anyone is wondering, the reason this column seems regularly back-dated, is because I have to submit an article at least two weeks before the 1st of each given month, when 'I Love North Shields' comes out.

Our latest fixture against Everton ended in a goalless draw. This was the last time that Newcastle United will face the Toffees at Goodison Park, before they relocate to their new stadium in the Bramley Dock area of Liverpool.

After boycotting St James' Park and all club merchandise back in 2008, I finally made my long awaited return to Gallowgate for the visit of Manchester City on the 28th of September. On the morning of the match I was tingling with excitement, and went on to thoroughly enjoy the day.

After being drawn away against Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup, this game was eventually played at St James' Park after severe flooding had decimated the pitch at the Cherry Red Records Stadium, formerly Plough Lane.

After a spirited second half performance, United managed to salvage a well deserved point against Pep Guardiola's Citizens.

The previous weekend had saw us lose our first game in the EPL this season. Craven Cottage had became a happy hunting ground for Newcastle in recent seasons, but Fulham were well worth their win on this occasion.

This game had been preceded by a trip to Molineux in which we had overcome Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1.

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A much changed United side won the tie 1-0 in front of an impressive 50,000 crowd. With Wimbledon getting half the gate receipts, it ended up a canny night all round(Newcastle United had already pledged £15,000 into the fund set up to pay for the Dons' ground repairs).

Our next EPL fixture is at home to Brighton and Hove Albion. This will be followed by a trip to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea.

Chelsea will then make the reverse journey three days later to take us on in the Carabao Cup. We owe them for the unlucky way we departed the competition last season. By the time you read this latest installment, lets hope that United have come out of the League games unscathed and remain in the Cup.

Community We have recently had an update on a feasability study being carried out by senior figures at Newcastle United. This is about whether to either upgrade and increase the capacity of St James' Park, or build a brand new stadium. After learning of the potential costs involved, I think it will be in Newcastle's best interests to build a new state of the art stadia.

This is one of the most important decisions our club will have ever had to make in our near 133 year history, and we should know one way or another in the coming months. For the record I'm all for a new stadium with a greatly increased capacity, that will increase commercial revenue and the potential for lucrative sponsorship deals. This is the fastest way to catch up with the EPL's Septic Six cartel of Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Spurs, Chelsea and Manchester City.

We have recently learned that United's Chief Operating Executive Darren Eales, has been diagnosed with chronic blood cancer. This is devastating news and may we wish Darren and his family happier times to come.

As I mentioned in the last edition of ILNS, I lost my beloved Mother Jean in August.

Ma's funeral took place on Saturday 7th September, and was witnessed by a huge turn-out. This day had previously been earmarked for Ma's 85th birthday celebrations. The party went ahead anyway just as she would have wanted, and turned into a wonderful celebration of her life. I would like to take this opportunity to once again thank the singing and dancing trio the Darling Dollies, for two fantastic sets in the afternoon. Also Mick Jeffels for catering, the staff of Tynemouth Social Club and everyone else present.

Always remember my friends that 'If the Kids are United, then We'll never be Divided'.

MEMORY LANE We love seeing old photos of North Shields! Do you have any hidden gems?

Share them with us in the comments or send them our way – let’s bring these memories back to life!

In response: I did Saturday job in Woolies and managed to get on the record counter.

Played The Clash.

Bedford Street? Recently franks carpets at the end of our road.

I love old photos too!!! So interesting My dad used to tell me a family member ran the fruit and veg stall there. I used to live on Bedford street too ❤️ First album bought in that Woolworths.

Michael Jackson - Bad, on cassette Used to queue with my mam and nana for fruit and veg Have you go any vintage photos for us to share? Get in touch and see what memory it sparks!

Got any vintage photos you'd love to share? Send them our way and let's see what memories they bring back!

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Community

DISCOVERING HIDDEN TREASURES NORTH SHIELDS LIBRARY

By Simmie Harper Recently, I had the opportunity to delve into the North Shields Library, and what I found was nothing short of amazing! Thanks to Joyce Marti, who generously took the time to show me around, I uncovered a treasure trove of resources, brimming with our town’s rich history. For someone like me, deeply interested in social history, this library is an absolute hidden gem.

North Shields Library offers a world of discovery, particularly for those researching their ancestry. From birth, death, and marriage records to census data, parish registers, and old copies of the Shields Daily News, the resources are vast. The library even provides free access to premium genealogy platforms like Ancestry, FindMyPast, and British Library Newspapers, making it easier than ever to trace family history.

What really struck me was the community’s enthusiasm for sharing their findings. Many locals contribute their family trees to the library’s research files, helping others in their own genealogical searches. Some have even indexed parish records, making it easier for everyone to explore the past. It’s heartening to see how North Shields’ residents come together to preserve and share their history. But the library’s resources go far beyond just family trees.

Whether you’re investigating the history of your home, researching old businesses, or looking into local landmarks, the library has something for everyone. With trade directories, photographs, maps, and local history books penned by North Shields authors, the opportunities for exploration are endless.

The library is also deeply involved in collaborative heritage projects with schools, TV companies, and community groups. These projects ensure that the history of our town is not just remembered but celebrated by future generations. They work on everything from intergenerational projects to TV documentaries, constantly keeping the town’s stories alive.

If you haven’t yet explored the North Shields Library, I highly recommend paying a visit.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just curious about the past, the library’s wealth of resources will surprise you. The library, located at Northumberland Square, North Shields, is a gateway to discovering the untold stories of our town.

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Community

FAMILY ROOTS

By Simmie Harper With so much history in North Shields, I’ve started digging into my husband’s family roots and uncovering surprising links to the area’s rich maritime past.

My father-in-law has a box of old documents from his dad, James Harper, who served as a chief officer in the Merchant Navy. Tragically, James lost his life at sea at just 26 when his ship was attacked by a German U-boat, leaving behind a wife and two young children. As we reminisced, my father in law Jimmy, recalled how their mother would often say, “I’m sending you to Bearwood!” At one time, by far the largest proportion of pupils at Bearwood were from the North East, especially North and South Shields and Sunderland.

In 1827 the Royal Merchant Navy School was established under the name of the Merchant Seaman's Orphan Asylum to provide a home for the destitute offspring of British Merchant Navy Seamen, with a view of assisting and benefiting them when disease, accident or calamity at sea deprived them of their chief support. The school was later renamed 'The Royal Merchant Navy School', eliminating the word 'Orphanage' which so many men and women who had been educated there alleged carried a stigma and in order to remove the objections of so many widows of Captains and Officers to place their children in a school entitled an orphanage.

We will continue researching and find out what we can uncover in the local library! If anyone has information to share,we would love to hear from you!

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Your Stories

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MOUNT TOUBKAL CHALLENGE OCTOBER 2024 With weary legs and hearts brimming with pride, the challengers have successfully completed their descent from the mountain refuge, journeying through Aremd and Imril before arriving back in the city of Marrakech. A big round of applause is in order for these 15 incredible participants who took on this trek in support of a vital cause!

This unforgettable journey offered breathtaking mountain vistas and stunning landscapes. The group faced daunting peaks nestled among Berber villages, culminating in the ascent of Jebel Toubkal, the highest mountain in Morocco, towering at an impressive 4,167 meters! This trek challenged their mental and physical endurance at high altitudes.

The aim of this challenge is to raise funds for a mobile Community Bus, which will provide essential services to some of the most isolated areas of County Durham, ensuring access throughout the year.

To date, an incredible £6,941 has been raised thanks to two generous donors! Donations are still being accepted, and every bit helps to make a positive impact.

Thank you for bringing the I Love North Shields tote bag!!!

This initiative supports YMCA North Tyneside. If you’d like to contribute: www.justgiving.com/ymca-northtyneside

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Your Stories

THE YMCA

By Dan Bowen North Shields resident Dan Bowen wants to sing the praises of the YMCA – particularly the gymnasium…

For most people in their 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s, the mention of YMCA generally leads to marching on the spot, letter shapes being made with arms in the air, perhaps even the spontaneous growth of a handlebar moustache or the donning of a Native American tribal chief’s feathered head dress. If, however, you’re a resident of North Shields or Tynemouth, you’re just as likely to think of an organisation that adds massive value to our community.

Let me say from the outset: I don’t work for YMCA, I’m not a Christian or even a Young Man – but I’m one of many North Shields residents who thinks we really benefit from having the YMCA as a community hub. There’s a very-popular café that hosts numerous community events, a charity shop, a good day-care nursery and probably most-significantly, accommodation for those who have found themselves in severe difficulty. 55 young people were given supported housing in Sir James Knott House and over 14,000 safe nights were spent in North Shields YMCA accommodation in 2023-24. Many of these people have since been given further help and support to get employment and private accommodation by YMCA North Tyneside and I recommend a read of the inspiring stories about this on their website (www.ymcanorthtyneside.org/impact-24-supported-housing).

Fantastic community/charity work aside, the gym is absolutely excellent. We’re very lucky to have it in our midst. You may have wandered past it and heard enthusiastic instructors, over thumping EDM beats, entreating their acolytes on spinning bikes to give more of their sweat.

You may have heard the pounding of running machines or the clanking of metal against metal through the open windows (thankfully polarised) on Church Way. This is the aural landscape of a good community gym. You can find the true breadth of the North Shields populace (perhaps not so much the enthusiastic drinkers) in the ground-floor entry area. The ladies and gents in their seventies and eighties doing mobility and gentle cardio and the entry-level enthusiasts working on isolation machines.

Venture down a short flight of stairs to your right and you’ll encounter the next level of gymnasium experience: the kettlebells, the assisted dips/chin ups machine, the cable station.

Here you’ll tend to find a more specifically-focused crowd, lots of abs work and some impressive calisthenics. There are people in their fifties and sixties to be found walking on their hands and doing amazing bar work in here, people in their teens doing bench work because they have in their heads that they’re not yet ready for… THE DUNGEON DOWNSTAIRS! The dungeon is no dungeon at all. It’s probably the most comprehensive, inclusive communal space I know in North Shields. There are people aged 12 to late 60s, working with heavy free weights and machines to focus mostly on muscle building and sports fitness. There is a wide range of cultural, ethnic, sociological and linguistic backgrounds down here, all with a friendly and supportive atmosphere. It has been great to see more and more women and girls feel confident enough to use this space in the last few years, which has helped improve the over-all community feeling.

The staff are great, you’re becoming more involved in your community and supporting a charity, as well as getting purely buff and that. See you there!

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Your Stories

BROTHERLY LOVE OF THE SEA

By Kristine Grey The history of North Shields is inextricably linked to sea faring and one North Shields family certainly played their part in that history – one which goes back a number of generations and made a mark globally through the careers of six brothers.

The older Foreman brothers were born in North Shields until, needing more space, their parents Adam and Elizabeth moved from a flat in Shields to a family home in Wallsend.

Eldest brother Sydney (Syd) became a Chief Engineer on fishing trawlers and then second son William (Bill) become a Director at Swan Hunters Shipbuilders.

Third son Alan followed his father into blacksmithing at Swan Hunters – custom making metal goods for the shipbuilding process.

Fourth son Kenneth (Ken - the author’s late father) rose to the peak of his career as a Chief Engineer in the Merchant Navy, working all the over the world including North and Central Africa, U.S., Japan, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand and nearer home in Scandinavia and Germany. Fifth son Derek also joined the Merchant Navy spending much of his time in North America and the ice flows of Canada. And finally Edward (Ted) became a Lloyds of London insurance surveyor working all over the world.

As Kristine explained: “Sadly none of the brothers are with us now but the collective memory of their exciting and interesting jobs lives on in the memories of their children.

“However the story of the Foreman family didn’t start in North Shields and was distinctly more rural.” Research into the Foreman family history following the receipt of a Georgian will petition from the County of Kent, it was discovered that this side of the family came from a small Kent village and the Foremans were originally Yeoman farmers.

Kristine explained: “A descendant of the main will petitioner, James Foreman, was a ships rigger and he travelled up to North Shields where rope making was thriving and he met a local lass and stayed here. They could not have lived anywhere more central to the hub-bub of the Fish Quay – on Bell Street! “James was the great grandfather of the six Foreman brothers and their grandfather William also went to sea so the family’s maritime history came full circle.”

Ken’s career is featured as part of the current Merchant Navy Exhibition at the Old Low Lights.

Photo Captions: 1. Ken in uniform at the start of his Merchant Navy career.

2. The Lloydsman tug which Ken worked on off the coast of South Africa.

3. Ken’s older brother Alan and his father Adam with colleagues in the blacksmiths workshop at Swan Hunters.

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Your Stories

In Conversation With... a 102 Year Old Last month Mim Robson met for a chat with her 101 year old grandpa, Harold, and shared part of their chat in our October issue. This month, Harold turns 102! He has lived on the North East coast for 77 years, was married to his beloved wife Joan for 68 years, and has raised 3 children here. He now has 7 grandchildren and a growing number of great-grandchildren.

Here we share the rest of Mim and Harold’s chat about what he has seen, experienced and learnt over his 102 years, not least his zip wire off the Tyne Bridge at age 93.

M: Thinking more in terms of a period of your life, rather than specific things, is there time in your life that you think was the happiest time?

H: [long pause]… no I think... this would very much depend on an individual’s attitude to life, and temperament. As far as I’m concerned, the present time, and always the present time whenever that was, has been the happiest time, you make the most of it. You can pick out certain things... happiest time getting married, having your first child... all significant points.

M: I suppose I wondered if there was a period of time, perhaps 5 or 10 years, where you think “that was a really good time in my life” H: It’s very difficult to say. I think it would be wrong to pick out any particular time, because any particular period of 10 years, or whatever, they all have their moments… and you make the most of them according to your temperament or ability at the time M: Yeah, I thought that would be an interesting question to ask you [laughs] because that’s how you’ve lived a lot of your life isn’t it, being very present.

H: The time that you’re living, as far as I’m concerned, at the time, can be the happiest, because you make the most of it according to your ability to enjoy life at that time.

M: What about when difficult things are happening, you know, like if you’ve lost family members, or work’s very stressful or…

H: Well they’re all very significant and very sad at the time, and after it, but... you learn to live with it and accept that this is part of life, it’s what has happened then, you know.

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Harlold Then and Now!

Your Stories

Harold (centre) and his family

M: I would say, it seems to me that you’ve had a very happy life, and you’ve been lucky in life.

H: Yes, oh yes definitely. Obviously at times been, probably times I’ve been upset, or it’s been difficult or whatever, but no, on the whole my life has been a happy one.

M: And on the whole you’ve generally been pretty well as well, health wise... and spiritwise I would say, you’re not someone that strikes me as having struggled a lot with feeling low or that sort of thing H: Yes I’ve been generally well. Spirit-wise I don’t think it’s anything you can sort of control yourself, so to speak, it’s just the way you are, you know.

M: What do you think has contributed to you being so well and happy in your life?

H: Well I think initially the way you live your life goes back to your early days with how you were brought up by your parents. So my happiness in life has been created you might say by the fact that I was very happy with my parents, and the family. And you have this sort of… foundation, you might say, to build your own life on. And that foundation was the experience of your own parents and the way they brought you up.

M: One of the things I often think seems very healthy in your life is that you’ve always had a lot of structure and routine. And that doesn’t come very easily to me, but when I manage to have some structure and routine in some way, I benefit from it. I suppose I wonder whether you think that that’s

something that’s been part of your life because of your family, or just because of who you are, or whether it possibly ties in with your time in the army… because that would have been very structured. I wondered if you took to that well because it was in your nature already, or whether that time in your life was so formative that it has actually contributed to you having quite a routined and structured life going forwards.

H: Yes well I think I was brought up in a fairly structured sort of way. Which I think was a good thing. And then that was reinforced you might say by the war years and going into the army, where things were very structured obviously, and that fitted my temperament very well.

M: So do you think it a bit of nature and nurture, neither one nor the other really…

H: Yes I think it’s a combination of the two.

Yes I think initially it goes back to your own parenting. My parents, because I mean they’re from the Victorian era, they brought us up in a very structured way, which I think was a very good thing, but in a very loving way, you know.

M: And then what do you think has kept you so well and happy in your life apart from that?

H. It’s difficult to say, it’s really just down to your temperament, how you... accept things as they are, and so on… it’s… I don’t think there’s any one particular aspect of it… it’s just I mean… within the family, within any family, you’re all brought up, presumably the same way, but different members of the family will react differently to it.

M. I think you’re right. What you’re really good at is accepting things as they are and being present with that. Have you heard, there’s a quote, “Comparison is the thief of joy”?

H: [laughs] I’ve not heard of that.

M: Well I think it’s true, because if you are always looking at what could have been, or what could be, then you’re never going to be happy.

H: Yes, probably.

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Your Stories M: But I think as well, it’s difficult now, the way that life’s changed, because it’s impossible to not be confronted with endless choices. So it’s then very difficult to avoid that comparing and wondering whether there’s a better option.

H: Well this is where your innate being comes in, because you can either be a bit dissatisfied with the way things are, or when things go wrong you can say, well that’s it, get on with it, you know, accept it. As far as I’m concerned, the latter is the case. You say right, this is the situation, ok, you can’t do anything about it, right, get on.

M. Yeah, I think I’m prone to that as well, but in a less clear way. I think you have to accept that that’s what’s happened. But it’s also… a bit of… you also have to process it a bit as well. So I think I’ve always been doing both things at once, sort of lamenting things a bit but also ultimately being quite accepting really. But… it’s about having a positive attitude to life really isn’t it, and thinking… you just have to get on with life. But I would say that you’re probably more skilled at that than anyone else I know. Next question… do you have any advice or wisdom from your 101 years? Have a think...

H: …Live a day at a time, and do not fill your time by regretting the past. [long pause] I would say just live your life so that it is an expression of gratitude of being alive, really.

But without being conscious of it all the time, you don’t want to ram it down other people’s throats as to how lucky you are or, anything of that sort. Just accept things as they are, and make the most of the time you have.

M: Yeah I think that’s good advice. I wanted I’d ask you about your zip wire off the Tyne Bridge.

H: Yes, yes. Of course, you did it with me.

M: I did. What made you want to do it?

H: Well purely, it’s something that I always wanted to do, but couldn’t quite drum up the… courage to do it. And then, what made me want to do it, was that after Grandma had died, I wanted to do something as a tribute to her, and in acknowledgement of the good times that we’d had together. And I thought that the way to do that would be to get this

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Community bee out of my bonnet and do something which I’d always wanted to, and at the same time, raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society, which I did, and in fact it raised £7000. And I felt by doing it, I’d achieved various aims, for one thing, I did something I’d often thought about doing, but never actually did it. And, I wasn’t doing it just for self satisfaction, I was doing it for a good cause, and in particular, a good cause in memory of Grandma. That was the main reason for doing it. And of course, I think those various reasons clubbed together and helped me thoroughly enjoy doing it.

M: Yeah it was great wasn’t it. Do you think it helped you sort of… in the process of… grieving Grandma as well.

H: Yes, it was part of that.

M: Sort of like a really positive…

H: Yeah. It was part of a healing process, you might say.

M: And so tell us a little bit about the actual day. So you went to the top of the Tyne Bridge… and how were you feeling when you got up there?

H. Really quite… interestingly excited, really.

M: Because I felt… sick. [laughs] I felt really nervous, and sick!

H: Funnily enough, I don’t recollect feeling nervous at all… because they were all so… the organisation was so good. And I remember two or three incidents which helped… be quite.. be quite funny… within the queue on the bridge, just before, strapped up, I think you were in front of me, did you go before me?

M: Yeah I went first because I was feeling so…

H: There was a girl, just behind me, we were talking, and I’ve often thought about this because she was obviously amazed at the age that I would be doing it, and I remember her saying “Were you in the First World War?” [laughs], well, not exactly, no.

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Your Stories H: I had thought of that… that was one of the things I really... I should have done years ago… and of course the more I thought about it, I thought well look, this is a bit silly. Accept the fact that you are no longer 65, or 70, but you’re 99 or whatever it was, and, its possibly pushing it a bit far, so I never really.. I chickened out!

M: Well I think it’s alright to change your mind, you’ve done it once, you’ve done the zip wire once, that’s it, you don’t need to do any more.

H: No, I think [laughs] that’s about it.

M: [laughs] you weren’t even born then were you?!

H: And then I remember, I found it all so interesting, sitting on the edge of the bridge, strapped up and waiting to be pushed of, and I remember just looking down saying “… a hell of a long way down there” [laughs]… I found it all very interesting.

M: The worst bit for me was that you had to sit on the edge of the bridge and then swing both legs over so you were right on the edge and then, I made them push me off because I couldn’t jump… I was just…

H: Yes well I think that was part of the procedure, they give you a bit of a push.

M: Anyway I think that’s plenty for the interview too. Any final words, any further comments?

H: Live life to the full, all the time.

M. Brill. You know what, I would say, is that for some people, living life to the full feels like saying yes to everything, but actually you don’t do that.

H: Oh no!

M: And I think that’s quite an interesting thing really, because its more of a sort of, its more of an internal living life to the full than external living life to the full really isn’t it?

H. Yeah… yeah.

M: Then we waited for you for quite a while… and they said that they had to give you some help getting your second leg over the bridge [laughs].

H: I’d forgotten about that M. And then what was it like going down?

H: Ooh just good fun. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

M. It went very quickly didn’t it.

H: Yes. Oh yes I thoroughly enjoyed it.

M: And then you had quite a lot of attention afterward didn’t you. You were in the paper, and then you had all sorts of... the radio came over didn’t they. Did you quite enjoy that?

H: Yes, it surprised me but it was all good fun.

M: And then you had plans to do it again when you were 100 didn’t you, but you also, I’m sure you talked about doing… wing walking?

Top Left: Harold triumphant after his zip wire!

Above: Mim and Harold together

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Music

HOWAYFEST Howay Fest 11 Oct: Think Tank | Suzanne Coulson Newcastle’s Think Tank was buzzing with energy on Friday, 11th October, as Howay Fest delivered a blinding lineup that made for an unforgettable night of eclectic sounds. Showcasing a mix of local talent, the festival continues to celebrate the North East’s thriving music scene.

Opening the show was Conor Michael, whose soulful and resonant voice immediately drew the crowd in. Next, indie-inspired Craig Redpath took to the stage, displaying his musical prowess with a dynamic set that had the audience fully engaged. Newcomers to the scene, Central Arcade, followed with an alternative rock set that injected raw energy into the venue. Closing the night, Palma Louca brought the crowd to a fever pitch with their commanding stage presence. They kicked off with a powerful cover of Underworld’s *Born Slippy*, which immediately grabbed the audience’s attention and never let it go. Their intensity wrapped up the night on a high, leaving everyone buzzing.

Think Tank’s quirky atmosphere, with its mishmash of media collages perfectly complemented the diverse lineup. It felt like the perfect backdrop for such an electric night, adding an air of the underground. The night truly encapsulated the spirit of Howay Fest—a celebration of vibrant talent, infectious energy, and the unmistakable pulse of the local music scene.

SHADY QUID ROSES IN DECEMBER STRAYS JAM TUB Review: Howay Fest 12th Oct @howayfest Three Tanners Bank @threetannersbank One of the things I absolutely love about North Shields, is the mix of people who adorn its landscape. And what a crowd the @howayfest night at @threetannersbank pulled in both in audience and in its live music offering.

Kicking things off, @shady_quid drew a solid crowd, with their frontman’s crooner-like voice layered with just the right amount of angst. Their energy set the tone, and as the reverberation was felt throughout the venue and the crowd grew, so did the atmosphere.

Next up, @rosesindecemberband brought their signature selfconfessed ‘Geordie alternative rock’ sound. Their hard-hitting tunes didn’t falter, keeping the momentum high.

Following them, Strays @strayshq delivered a gritty, indie rock vibe reminiscent of 90’s Indie, but with a tougher edge. The mosh pit crew showed up in full force, making the floor bounce under the weight of the energy. @jamtubofficial headlined and closed out the night, maintaining the high-energy atmosphere and captivating the crowd with their heavy, powerful sound. The band delivered covers of lesser-known gems, keeping the audience fully engaged and hanging on every note.

In true North Shields style, the night delivered a perfect blend of powerful bands and an electrifying crowd. The bands rallied behind one another, their camaraderie evident throughout, which only amplified the tight-knit, energetic vibe of the night.

All in all, it was a cracking night out!

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Waynebordeliphotography

HOWAYFEST

2024 SALTMARKET

Music

Music

LIZZIE ESAU IDLE HANDS KIWI PATRICK HARRISON

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Text & Photography by Wayne Bordoli Photography The Salt Market has seen a remarkable transformation, enhanced by the addition of a stage and vibrant lighting that complements its quirky and inviting decor. This flexible space has truly become a hotspot for live music, and last night’s lineup showcased its potential perfectly. The evening kicked off with solo singer-songwriter Patrick Harrison, setting a laid-back yet engaging tone. Next up was Kiwi, a powerful indie four-piece that delivered a dynamic performance, winning over the audience with their infectious energy.

The thrilling sounds of Idle Hands kept the momentum going, leaving everyone eager for the headliner. Lizzie Esau took to the stage as the main act, delivering a powerful and diverse set that ranged from indie rock to poignant ballads, clearly influenced by Radiohead.

Lizzie’s passion for music began at a young age, and after over a decade of writing and performing, her determination to express herself through song is stronger than ever.

Now 22, she has made waves in the industry, particularly in 2022, with a packed live schedule and collaborations with notable acts like Baby Queen and The Amazons. Her set featured standout tracks such as the jealousyfueled “Shade of Green,” the indie anthem “The Enemy,” and the introspective “Bleak Sublime.” Each song showcased her evolving songwriting prowess and cemented her reputation as an artist to watch. With new tracks produced by Catherine Marks (known for working with Foals and Wolf Alice), Lizzie's sound is set to grow even further in the coming year. Often compared to Wolf Alice, Lizzie offers much more than just a resemblance. After nearly a decade of hard work, her performance at BBC Introducing was a highlight, and it’s clear that her time is finally arriving. With early support from platforms like BBC Introducing and Notion, she’s poised to seize all that 2024 has in store.

Overall, the Salt Market proved to be an excellent venue for this diverse lineup, showcasing the best of local talent and leaving the audience buzzing with excitement. Keep an eye on Lizzie Esau—she’s ready to take the music scene by storm!

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@LISA YOUNG

Music

@LISA YOUNG

Music

SABRINA CASTS A SPELL

By Mark Tavender | Photography by Lisa Young North Shields never ceases to amaze me. I’ve known for some time that this town is home to many wonderful creative artists, whether they are musicians, singers, painters or potters but I am beginning to wonder just how many.

You really don’t have to look far and the chances are you have met someone living in North Shields who’s written a song or penned a poem or painted a picture. In fact, it was a chance meeting that led me to discover the musical talents of Sabrina Kennedy.

I was having a coffee at the ultra-cool Hyem coffee shop in Church Way when Sabrina and Johnny Cash walked in. I had never met either before. Casual conversation followed and I noticed Sabrina’s American accent - naturally, I asked where she was from (Boston, Massachusetts) and we got chatting.

I soon discovered that Sabrina Kennedy is a singer-songwriter who is going places and I wanted to know more - especially how she ended up in North Shields all the way from Boston. We arranged to meet properly so I could find out. Johnny Cash was invited along too (he’s Sabrina’s dog, by the way, and loves cheese.)

A couple of weeks later we meet again in Hyem and settle down for a proper chat over a coffee.

By this time, I’d carried out a bit of background research and soon realised that she had a fascinating story to tell.

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Music In her home town near Salem, Massachusetts, Sabrina was writing and performing music from a young age but in 2015, she decided to put herself forward for an MTV reality TV programme called Real World which was shot in Las Vegas and focused on a group of diverse strangers living together for several months as cameras documented their lives and interpersonal relationships. Having successfully passed the auditions, Sabrina hoped that by appearing on the programme she would be able to build a fanbase for her music. At the time she was a student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst where she was studying film, acting and zoology (‘If the music didn’t work out, I wanted to be an exotic cat trainer!’)

The show’s subtitle was ‘Go Big or Go Home’ the contestants were given daring tasks such as jumping out of a hot air balloon or flying a plane. Sabrina was also given a particularly tricky task; as babies, she and her sister were adopted into the extensive Kennedy clan (yes, those Kennedys) and one of her challenges was to find and meet her birth mother. With the assistance of a private detective, she tracked her down and the first time she met her was on the TV show, in front of millions of viewers.

‘I’m a strong person but emotionally it was quite difficult to meet my birth mother on my own like that. Reality TV is not something I’d ever do again,’ she says.

Despite the emotional challenges, Sabrina was glad for the experience and made some good friends. After the show, she moved to Nashville to immerse herself in the music scene, writing and performing again. She worked the country music and gig circuits with labels like Warner Bros and Atlantic but soon felt constricted in her artistic pursuits.

‘I was writing music in these country music spheres but at that time there wasn’t much of a crossover between pop and country’ Sabrina explains.

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Things came to a bit of a standstill and didn’t quite work but then, in 2018, Sabrina made another big decision; to move to London.

It proved to be a success; after only a year she had written and recorded her song called ‘Hold Tight’ which was featured heavily on the reality TV hit show ‘Love Island.’

‘Although there was nothing set in stone, I was set for a big trajectory,’ she recollects.

But then the pandemic hit and the world stood still. Sabrina was living in Notting Hill by this time and being in lockdown and living by herself led her to a period of deep self reflection. She had lost her adoptive father in 2017 and restrictions on travelling meant that she couldn’t easily see her family in America.

‘All of that,’ she says ‘helped shape what my music is now and helped me discover who the real Sabrina Kennedy is.’

She also found herself delving into her ancestry and re-discovering her spirituality.

Growing up near Salem meant that she had always had a fascination with witchcraft and paganism – a form of spiritual practice that involves a deep reverence of the earth.

Salem was infamous for its 17th Century witch trials which strongly inform the city’s cultural identity to this present day. Sabrina recognised that in reality the ancient witch trials were misogyny in plain sight where powerful and confident women were being suppressed by a patriarchal society.

‘I WAS WRITING MUSIC IN THESE COUNTRY MUSIC SPHERES BUT AT THAT TIME THERE WASN’T MUCH OF A CROSSOVER BETWEEN POP AND COUNTRY’ SABRINA EXPLAINS.

Music This realisation was somewhat of a relief for her and enabled her to find the confidence to tell agents and others in the music industry which direction she wanted to develop rather than being told what she should and shouldn’t focus on. And it all fed into her songwriting.

Her debut EP ‘Wheel of the Year’ was the result and once the pandemic was over and the world returned to normal, Sabrina put on a successful launch show at the esteemed music venue ‘The Grace’ in London. She ended what proved to be a busy and successful 2023 by supporting Alabama 3 on tour including shows at Newcastle University and London’s o2 Forum.

At this point I ask the inevitable question; ‘So what brought you to North Shields?’

One of her friends had suggested visiting Newcastle and when they arrived she felt an immediate connection. They visited King Edward’s Bay (which also has links to ancient witch trials) and straightaway Sabrina knew that was the place she wanted to shoot the video for ‘Puritan’ - a nod to the Puritans in Salem responsible for the witch trials. The opening lyrics sum up Sabrina’s journey to that point

‘YOU CAN BURN ME AT THE STAKE LIKE A PURITAN. BUT I’M A PHOENIX UP FROM THE ASH AGAIN’ The track was part of ‘Wheel of the Year’ which was featured in Wonderland Magazine and who recognised her as a ‘refreshingly honest, soulful, and powerful artist, with a voice as strong as her message.’ Even Kerrang!, considered to be one of the world’s biggestselling rock music magazines, ran a piece about her. They dubbed her an ‘alt.pop witch’ and featured two of her EP tracks - ‘Magic & Mayhem’ and ‘Red Wine’ - alongside tracks by Foo Fighters, Royal Blood and Metallica. What company to be in!

Fortunately for us, Sabrina has decided to base herself permanently in North Shields and has become entrenched in the community. As part of her interest in the power of modern day witchcraft Sabrina also became involved with ‘The Green Door,’ a small collection of holistic and shamanic health practitioners based in Nile Street.

But her main ambition remains songwriting and performing. She feels unburdened living here and is set for lift off. She believes the stars have aligned for her and, for the first time, she is able to express who she really is - her songs Puritan and Magic & Mayhem are testament to this.

‘I want to lead my life with the utmost authenticity. And I love this place, there’s something magical here, there’s an energy for creatives.’

As if to prove her point she tells me that she has recently been working with Martin Glover (‘Youth’) from Killing Joke who is producing her new material and already has big shows in Newcastle and London planned.

With her talent, determination, and a growing fanbase, Sabrina is poised to take the music world by storm. Her recent collaborations and upcoming performances are just a taste of what's to come. As she continues to evolve and share her music with the world, North Shields can proudly claim Sabrina Kennedy as one of its own.

‘But the plan is world domination,’ she smiles, purposefully, while Johnny Cash nods in approval.

Discover more here; https://www.sabrinakennedymusic.com https://www.instagram.com/itsabrinak Sabrina is playing Cluny 2 Newcastle on Friday 8th November (opening for The Entitled Sons).

Tickets can be purchased here; https://www.ticketweb.uk/event/the-entitledsons-cluny-2-tickets/13525533 (click 'Sabrina Kennedy fan')

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Art REVIEW EXHIBITION REVIEW: COVERT COUTURE I Love North Shields The Hancock Gallery’s latest collaboration with street artists Mul Draws and Prefab77 is nothing short of a visual explosion. Transforming the gallery’s historic Georgian townhouse into a modern canvas, this first-of-its-kind exhibition seamlessly merges urban art with the elegance of traditional gallery space—creating a striking juxtaposition that captivates from the moment you step inside.

Mul’s vibrant use of bold, abstract colour and Prefab77’s dark, gritty depictions of pop culture and rebellion come together in a stunning collision of styles. Their works cover everything from large-scale murals to intricate pieces, showcasing the raw energy of street art while retaining a refined, contemporary edge.

What’s particularly refreshing is how the exhibit breathes life into the gallery’s classic architecture. The dialogue between the traditional Georgian features and the modern, unapologetic nature of street art adds depth and contrast, highlighting the evolution of artistic expression. Each piece feels like it’s alive, with Mul Draws layers of colour and Prefab77’s political undertones telling stories that are both personal and universal. The artists have also cleverly embraced Newcastle’s cultural identity. The themes of rebellion, heritage, and transformation resonate with the city’s industrial past and its growing creative scene, making this exhibition feel like a love letter to the spirit of the North East. The gallery’s decision to host a giveaway of an exclusive, limited edition piece by the duo adds a sense of excitement and inclusivity to the event.

Overall, the Mul Draws & Prefab77 exhibition is a bold, innovative step forward for the Hancock Gallery. It pushes the boundaries of what contemporary art can be, offering a fresh and thought-provoking experience for anyone who steps through its doors. Whether you’re a street art fan or a newcomer, this exhibition is a mustsee.

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Yevhen Slabun Freelance photographer from Ukraine, now based in North Shields. Interested in collaboration.

Check out my work at yevmedia.co.uk Instagram @yevphotography

Art

SHOW

Artwork of Dodgin's Yard, formerly known as Berteas during the ownership of Bertie Forster.

Show will be a monthly feature showcasing visual artists who are from, live and/or work in North Shields. If this is you, please send your name and contact details, social media or website address, and/or 3-5 images of your work to shownorthshields@gmail.com, for consideration.

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Poetry

Poetry

POETRY EDITION: I LOVE NORTH SHIELDS We're excited to share a special edition of Crafts & Vessels featuring all the incredible local poetry we've collected so far—curated by our Poetry Editor, Richard O'Brien.

We’re shining a light on the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique culture of the North East, North Tyneside, and especially our beloved North Shields. The special issue is now available on our website —head over and dive into the beautiful words from your community!

Calling all poets in North Shields—We want to hear your take on the region. Send up to three of your poems in a single Word document to craftsandvessels@gmail.com. Richard O'Brien (from Northumbria University) will be in touch with editorial feedback within a few weeks.

Check out our site to explore poetry previously published in 'I Love North Shields'. https://ilovenorthshields.co.uk/special-poetry-issue

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Poetry

‘A LITTLE POETRY JEWEL’ IN OUR REGION Richard O’Brien finds out more about the Poetry Book Society In 2016, a piece of literary history came to the North East. The Poetry Book Society was founded in 1953 by T. S. Eliot to ‘share the joy of poetry,’ but fifty years later it was in challenging financial circumstances. Help arrived in the form of Inpress Books – a sales and marketing agency for independent publishers based in Newcastle. With Inpress taking over the PBS portfolio, disaster was averted, and the result is a ‘little poetry jewel’ on our doorstep, in the words of Megan Robson, a North Shields resident who works as the Society’s Operations Assistant, and publishes poetry under the name Megan Pattie.

When this specialised role came to the region, Megan jumped at the chance: ‘I was always told that if you want to work with books you have to be in London, and I’m stubborn to a fault.’ But the PBS is part of an overall change, as the North East is becoming ‘much more of a publishing and particularly a poetry hub.’

Hybrid working practices that sprang up during the pandemic have begun to level the playing field, making the pull of the capital less magnetic. In recent years bigger publishers, like Harper North and Hachette, have opened local offices, while for the first time this year the prestigious Forward Prizes ceremony took place in Durham.

The PBS fulfils a vital role in this ecosystem.

Once a quarter it chooses the best new poetry book to deliver to members, making four recommendations and commending pamphlets and translated work. An important accolade for writers, the recommendations are also useful in helping booksellers and readers decide what to stock and buy in a crowded market. Being selected can be a big boost for writers publishing with smaller, independent presses, and a diverse team of selectors ensures that a broad range of perspectives are involved in the choice.

vol. 1

Megan Robson

Current selectors include Yomi Sode and Victoria Kennefick, while recent picks include Songbook, by MOBO-winning jazz musician Joshua Idehen.

For poets just starting out, there are ample opportunities on the local scene: Megan mentions open mic nights at Baba Yaga’s (both in North Shields and Whitley Bay) and ‘Out of Your Head’ at the Cumberland Arms as particularly welcoming spaces. She also often recommends local authors through her free ‘Meg’s Monday Muse’ email newsletter for the PBS. And a recent competition, run in tandem with Nexus, gave writers one of the biggest local platforms there is: the winning poem on the theme of ‘Care,’ judged by North East poet Jane Burn, will go on display soon at Longbenton Metro station. Keep an eye out for next year’s callout, and it might be your words reaching the commuters of North Tyneside!

Readers can find out more about the PBS, join the society, and browse their huge range of books and pamphlets at https://www.poetrybooks.co.uk/, or find them on Instagram @PoetryBookSociety and X @PoetryBookSoc. Megan Robson is on all social media @pattiepoetry; you can buy her work at pattiepoetry.bigcartel.com, or read some on the adjacent pages.

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Books

MEMOIRS OF A NORTHERN LASS

By Diane Wailes Carol Mary Belshaw is 93 years young and her memory is as sharp as a pin; a treasure trove of recollections of a life spent in North Shields. Carol says she’s never wanted to live anywhere else.

Born in 1930, Carol’s family moved to Balkwell Green in Chirton when she was a baby. She was one of the first intake into the newly opened St Joseph’s Primary School on Wallsend Road, then it was on to senior school at St. Cuthbert’s on Albion Road. She remembers that one of the lessons was ‘housewifery skills’ - being taught how to launder clothes, mop floors and polish the brass. The school didn’t have its own cookery room so the girls had to walk to Queen Victoria School on Coach Lane for cookery lessons, returning home with baskets full of pasties and steamed puddings. Carol left school when she was 14 and started work as a hairdresser in Bell Brothers department store, above the furriers on Bedford Street. Her teenage years (not that the word ‘teenager’ was used back then) are full of happy memories of dances: Wednesdays at the Oxford Galleries in Newcastle; tea dances at the Empress Ballroom at the Spanish City; then on to the Plaza in Tynemouth on a Saturday night.

The Rex Cinema on Billy Mill Avenue was another popular hotspot. Carol remembers it as being quite plush, with beautiful marble steps leading up to the top floor screens, and usherettes in smart uniforms selling ice creams and pop. Carol married her beloved husband, Matt, in 1952.

Their wedding reception was held in the North Eastern Hotel on Nile Street; look carefully and you can still see the remains of the imposing-looking building.

In those early days, Matt worked as a coal teamer on the staithes, loading the coal from local pits onto boats. It was a tough job, knocking the pins out from under the coal wagons, which then emptied into the boats below. In the winter the coal froze hard into solid blocks. The lads had to stand on top of the load to loosen it - dangerous work as there was always a risk they might fall through the hole in the bottom of the wagon, down into the ship’s hold, if they didn’t move sharpish when the coal began to shift. The housewifery skills Carol had learned at school came in handy as they didn’t have a washing machine and she had to wash Matt’s coal-black trousers in the bath! Carol’s children have been keen to capture these and many other wonderful memories. With their help, Carol has recorded them for posterity in a book called ‘Memoirs of a Northern Lass’. It’s a lovely record of the life of an ordinary - but also extraordinary - working woman, in a town that’s seen many changes over the years.

Copies of the book are available in North Shields library, and to buy from the Old Low Light Heritage Centre or direct from her family, email: andrewj_belshaw@icloud.com

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vol. 1

RACHAEL MEYER, HUMANIST CELEBRANT SHARING STORIES OF LIFE AND LOVE IN AND AROUND NORTH SHIELDS, NEWCASTLE AND THROUGHOUT THE NORTH EAST. NON-RELIGIOUS CEREMONIES FOR EVERYONE. WEDDINGS: RACHAELMEYER.COM FUNERALS: GRANDGOODBYES.COM

History

LINSKILL FAMILY WORKED TO IMPROVE TOWN’S ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL LIFE

By Rachel Chapman Linskill is a well-known name in North Shields. Streets have the name and many townspeople were pupils of the former Linskill School, now a thriving community hub.

So where does this name come from?

The Linskills were Whitby Quakers, involved in shipping, who came to North Shields in the mid-18th century when the town was booming. For three generations they worked hard to improve the town’s economic and social life. The first to arrive was William Linskill (1726-1783) in 1754. He married Jane, the daughter of another Whitby Quaker, Anthony Pearson, son of a wealthy ship owner and rope maker.

When Anthony Pearson died in 1769, William inherited his North Shields rope works and other properties. William and Jane moved into the “Summer House” on Pearson’s estate, later moving to Lawsons House in Chirton.

One of their five sons was William junior (1766 – 1845), who later became Colonel William Linskill. William junior demolished the “Summer House” and built Tynemouth Lodge in 1790, a mansion with a long drive and iron gates.

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History History

He was the first President of the North Shields Dispensary which gave medical aid to the poor, inoculated children and supported many patients.

In 1794 he raised the North Shields and Tynemouth Volunteer Corps to defend the town in the event of a French invasion.

He became High Sheriff of Northumberland and led a great social life, giving balls at the Lodge.

Close to key Northumberland families, he made numerous visits to the Duke at Alnwick Castle.

He campaigned unsuccessfully for a chain suspension bridge linking North and South Shields.

In 1827 the Linskill Ropery was sold and he and his wife moved to Nottinghamshire.

Colonel Linskill’s son, another William (1807‒1901), later became Captain William Linskill and the first Mayor of Tynemouth County Borough.

Born in Tynemouth Lodge and educated at Harrow, he led the life of a wealthy young man, hunting with Lambton Hounds and was a part owner of the Lady Jane, the best known of the Tyneside whaling ships. Aged 19, he enlisted in the 28th Regiment of Foot becoming Captain in the 5th Dragoon Guards before retiring in 1836.

He then led a group of ‘River Reformers’ fighting to take management of the River Tyne from Newcastle and in 1848 helped to achieve an independent Customs House at North Shields. He was also a leader in the fight for the incorporation of Tynemouth Borough which succeeded in 1849, when he was became chief magistrate.

Banners were flown in Shields saying 'Linskill - Emancipator of the Tyne'.

The Linskills sold the family estate in 1857 and bought the Morwick Estate near Alnwick, later moving to Cambridge. In 1881, St Augustin's Church was built on a site given by him and in 1885 he made land available for the creation of Northumberland Park.

In 1889 William became the first Honorary Freeman of the Borough for his untiring exertions to promote prosperity and his role in the successful struggle for the emancipation of the River Tyne.

Local historian Mike Coates has researched the Linskill family, along with others who helped to shape the town. His book, ‘North Shields Inspirational Folk’, available at the Old Low Light Heritage Centre has informed this article.

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History

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GAY WITH THE TEDDY BEAR SHE TOOK WITH HER ON THE JOURNEY FROM VIENNA

History

GAY KEENAGHAN OLDEST SURVIVOR OF THE KINDERTRANSPORT

By Diane Wailes Imagine being sent away from your home as a child. Away from your family, to a strange country where you don’t speak the language. That’s what happened to North Shields resident, Gay Keenaghan - known to her family as Gabriele Weiss who, at 98 years of age, is one of the oldest survivors of the Kindertransport.

‘Kindertransport’ - ‘children’s transport’ in German - was a rescue mission in the months leading up to the Second World War, which brought 10,000 unaccompanied refugee children to Britain. Most were Jewish, sent on the perilous journey by their families to escape the Nazis. Many never saw their parents again.

Gay was born in Vienna in 1926, to a Catholic mother and a Jewish father, and was cared for by her grandmother, after her mother died in 1935. The course of Gay’s life changed forever in March 1938, when Austria was annexed by Hitler’s Nazi Germany and German soldiers marched into Vienna. Gay remembers being forced to wear a yellow Star of David on her coat and being unable to play in the park: the sign in the park said ‘Jude Verboten!’ (Jews forbidden).

In November 1938, the situation suddenly became much more dangerous. Gay vividly remembers hearing screams, gunshots and breaking glass, as Jewish homes and businesses across Vienna were ransacked on what became known as ‘Kristallnacht’, or the Night of Broken Glass. “A dreadful night, I could never forget it in all my life” she says.

The day after Kristallnacht was Gay’s 12th birthday. She waited for her father to come to celebrate with her but he had disappeared and she never saw him again. Years later she was able to piece together what had probably happened to him; a period in hiding followed by arrest and transportation to a Jewish ghetto in Poland, then a final journey to Auschwitz.

News of the horrors of Kristallnacht reached Britain and the plan was hatched to rescue children who were in danger and bring them, unaccompanied, to Britain. Gay doesn’t know when her grandmother heard about the Kindertransport but in early 1939 she remembers her grandmother saying, "Let's go and have our photographs taken, we don't know when we'll meet again, how we'll meet again or if we'll ever meet again. Let's have something to remember each other."

Gay can still clearly recall the night of 24th April 1939 when her Grandmother took her to the railway station at midnight. Only children were allowed on the train, some as young as three, and each one with an identity label around their neck. Each child was allowed to take with them only one small case for clothes and one toy; Gay took her favourite teddy bear. Even now, the memory of that night makes her feel emotional, as she remembers the train doors being closed, children waving goodbye to their families and the fear of heading to an unknown destination.

The journey from Vienna was long and difficult. Members of the Gestapo patrolled the train, searching the children’s bags and checking the details on their labels. At the Dutch coast, Gay saw the sea for the first time and from there it was a boat to Harwich and a new life in England.

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History Placed with a foster family who spoke no German, she had to quickly learn English and settle into a new school and a completely different way of life. Thankfully, her grandmother had the foresight to hide some writing material in the bottom of the little suitcase so Gay was able to send letters back to Vienna. But with the outbreak of war, all contact with her family stopped.

Gay’s new life in Britain wasn’t easy but she was resilient and determined to do well at school, to achieve her ambition to become a teacher.

When she reached her sixteenth birthday her hopes received another blow: her Austrian birth meant that she was now classed as an ‘enemy alien’ and was forced to leave school.

A period in London followed, where she trained to be a nursery nurse. Gay had a stroke of good luck when her first employer helped her to apply for British citizenship just before her 21st birthday.

Talking to Gay, the vivid memories come flooding out, painting pictures from a truly amazing life: the London skyline glowing red with fires during the Blitz; celebrating in front of Buckingham Palace on VE Day; the absolute joy after the war ended when a letter came in a handwriting she knew very well, from her beloved grandmother.

After the war, Gay secured a place at a teacher training college in County Durham, and her life in the North East began. She met her future husband, Ken, and in 1951 he arranged a surprise road trip all the way to Vienna for her to be reunited with her grandmother. Children followed - two daughters - then three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. And Gay achieved her teaching ambition, eventually becoming headteacher at Central Middle School in Wallsend. She now lives in Linskill Park in North Shields which she describes as a lovely place to live - and she’s an avid reader of ‘I Love North Shields’!

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It’s been an enormous privilege to talk with Gay and to hear first-hand her amazing life story, living through some of the most tumultuous and significant events of the twentieth century. Surely, one of North Shields’ most remarkable residents.

If you’d like to read more about Gay’s life, ‘My Story’ by Gabriele Keenaghan BEM is published by the Association of Jewish Refugees on www.ajrmystory.org.uk

History

WHAT LINKS A LASS FROM NORTH SHIELDS WITH THE BIRTH OF OUR LATE QUEEN?

By Diane Wailes Lena Margaret Ashwell (née Pocock) had a rather unusual start in life. Her father was Commander of HMS Wellesley, an old gun ship which was anchored at North Shields and used to train ‘Tyneside waifs’ and young men for a life in the Navy. Lena was born onboard the ship in 1869 and lived on it until she was eight. But her less than glamorous childhood was never going to hold her back.

When she grew up, Lena trained as an actress - and when war broke out in 1914 she was determined to use her skills and experience to help raise the morale of the lads in the trenches. She organised companies of singers and entertainers to travel to France and Belgium, and went along herself to entertain the troops. Lena was the first person to do this on a large-scale and, in 1917, she was awarded an OBE for her invaluable, moraleboosting work.

After the war, she set herself up as a theatre manager with a group called The Lena Ashwell Players, which put on plays across London. One of the ‘Ashwell Players' was an 18-year-old just starting his acting career, called Laurence Olivier. Unfortunately, Lena didn’t spot his talent and fired him for getting the giggles in the middle of a performance of Julius Caesar!

Lena married twice, the second time to Sir Henry John Forbes Simson, the royal obstetrician who had the great claim to fame of delivering both the future Queen Elizabeth Il and Princess Margaret.

On her death in 1957, the Times described Lena as, ‘an actress of force and sincerity’.

The Manchester Guardian remarked that during the course of the Great War, 600 artists had been engaged by her to entertain the troops, and that she had raised over £100,000 to pay for their expenses.

Not bad going for a girl born and raised on a training ship in North Shields!

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Living COASTAL KITCHEN MAKEOVER Setting off to transform her new home, room by room, slowly, when the budget allows it, Tats shows how it is possible to update your home on a budget with some clever DIYs and upcycling ideas.

The latest project recently completed was her kitchen makeover, but her love of home transformations, and interiors more generally, was sparked when she found herself renovating her parent’s kitchen in her childhood home in her teens. Without any prior experience or training, but with bags of enthusiasm and passion, she went from styling her own bedroom with images cut out of magazines, to planning, drawing, sourcing and building a full functioning and practical space, which has withstood the test of time and is still in use today.

Now, having studied interior design and transformed a few homes, she puts all of that knowledge to good use by sharing her current renovation online to help us all create comfortable, well-functioning, and personal spaces without the need to cost the world or follow trends.

Her recent kitchen makeover is a great example. The cupboards have been painted but not before adding some interesting detail. The worktop wasn't replaced but simply recovered with vinyl film. The splashback is easily mistaken for ceramic tiles, but is made of selfadhesive tiles. Adding to this, Tats put a lot of attention to detail into creating the overall scheme and getting the finer details just right, like finding the perfect cupboard handles or a clever way to disguise the appliances.

There's so much detail to this makeover, that we cannot possibly cover it all here, so go check out the full project and learn more about Tats design approach online: https://thatstats.substack.com/

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@gpo_visuals

THE SIREN

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Living

Q&A WITH VICTORIA PRINT STUDIO Victoria was born and raised in the North East of England and educated at CCAD The Northern School of Art. After living in creative hubs like London, Italy, Paris, and New York for over two decades, she found herself drawn back to North Shields, her true home. A passionate designer, Victoria now runs Victoria Print Studio, offering customised wallpaper and fabric design services, and she has a heart for giving back, volunteering for local charities.

What do you love most about North Shields?

The community spirit! There’s such a strong sense of togetherness here, and I love being part of it.

How does the North East inspire your work?

I’m always finding new angles for wallpaper designs with each new project. There’s always something new happening or popping up, and the people here are a constant source of inspiration.

How do you usually spend your weekends in North Shields?

You’ll usually find me at my stall at Tynemouth Market, surrounded by my creatively talented market family. It’s a wonderful space to connect with the community.

What are your must-see spots in North Shields?

I’d say Engine Room, Three Tanners, Low Lights, and Juke Shed for some great live bands. One of my favorite happy places is the little beach on the Fish Quay—grab a cuppa and a crab sandwich from Lindisfarne Seafoods. There are so many gems around here—just take a wander, and you never know what might be around the corner!

Where can people find and order your products?

You can visit my website, or check out my Instagram and Facebook page. Or, if you’re local, come see me at Tynemouth Market every weekend!

What changes or opportunities would you like to see for creatives in North Shields?

I think the creative community is already thriving with meet-ups, social events, and collaborative projects. But I do miss having a daily gathering place like a hub. It would be wonderful to have open studio days, where everyone’s spaces are open to the public, creating more opportunities for connection and collaboration.

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Business

TEACHER TRAINING North Tyneside’s outstanding early years and primary teach training programme is looking for the next generation of inspiring trainee teachers.

North Tyneside SCITT is proud to be the only outstanding initial teacher training provider in the region (Ofsted 2023).

The SCITT is led by a partnership of primary and first schools in North Tyneside where nurturing and training our next generation of teachers stands at the core of our work. Our teacher training programme offers Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), accredited by Northumbria University.

Our highly successful programme combines both high quality extensive classroom experience and up-to-date pedagogical theory from experts in the educational field. Our trainees benefit from working with expert mentors and educators, providing invaluable guidance and support throughout their training journey. Our personalised approach ensures that every aspiring trainee receives the attention and resources needed to excel during their training and beyond into a successful teaching career.

Our recent graduate Erin commented ‘My initial teacher training experience with NT SCITT has been transformative, enriching and nothing but joyful. I am deeply thankful for the opportunities, support, and experiences provided, which have prepared me well for my future career in teaching.

Applicants for the course must have an honours degree of 2:2 or above and must have gained grade C/4 or above in English, mathematics, and science GCSE or equivalent qualification.

If you would like to find out more about our unique training programme please visit North Tyneside SCITT’s website: https://ntscitt.org.uk/

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Health

SHAME SPECIALIST TAKES GROUNDBREAKING WORK FORWARD WITH VETERANS CHARITY LISA AND TONY (HIGHLIGHTS PR)

North Shields-based psychosexual therapist and PhD researcher, Lisa Etherson, has teamed up with Dudley based Forward Assist, a veterans' charity, to tackle the complex and often overlooked issue of shame. Lisa's pioneering "Shame Containment Theory" provides a new framework for understanding and working with shame, offering a practical model for practitioners across various fields, including therapy, coaching, and social work.

Lisa has spent several years researching shame and has had her work published academically.

Her Shame Containment Theory integrates different concepts of shame, offering a unique approach that not only helps individuals understand shame but also provides a structured method for working with it. Unlike previous models, Etherson's theory focuses on changing one’s relationship with shame rather than merely trying to eliminate or heal it. “Shame is one of the most painful emotions we experience,” she explains. “It's more than just feeling bad; it's a protective mechanism that keeps us aligned with social norms. But because we don't talk about it, we often misunderstand it. My theory offers a way to not only understand shame but to work with it in a therapeutic setting.” Lisa’s innovative work has already attracted widespread interest, particularly among therapists, social workers, and even corporate professionals. The Shame Containment Theory is making waves across various sectors, as it addresses an emotion that touches everyone, whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or therapeutic contexts.

In an exciting development, Lisa is collaborating with Forward Assist, a charity that supports military veterans, to apply her shame theory to a particularly vulnerable group – veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma. The charity’s CEO, Tony Wright, founded Forward Assist in 2011, focusing on veterans who have fallen through the welfare cracks, often struggling with issues like trauma, isolation, and criminal justice involvement. As a qualified registered social worker with over 40 years’ experience working in the sector, Wright's charity has recently turned its attention to the often-hidden issue of military sexual trauma, a subject rarely discussed among veterans, particularly men. “When I came across Lisa’s work on shame, I knew immediately that this could be transformative for the veterans we work with,” Wright says.

“Shame is one of the key reasons many of our clients remain silent about their experiences, especially male veterans.” The collaboration aims to help veterans who have been trapped in a cycle of shame, unable to talk about their trauma or seek the help they need. By integrating Lisa's theory into their programs, Forward Assist is breaking new ground in providing a path for veterans to confront their shame and begin the healing process.

“Men, in particular, are less likely to talk about military sexual trauma, making it a hidden and voiceless population,” says Wright. “Lisa’s work offers a way to break that silence.”

“I’m confident that this partnership represents an important step forward in addressing the mental health challenges facing veterans, especially those dealing with the lasting effects of trauma. Through my work, I hope that veterans will not only gain a better understanding of their shame but will also be equipped with the tools to manage and overcome it,” said Lisa.

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Events

NOVEMBER 2024 FRAN O'HANLON AKA MEZANMI Check out the music of Fran O'Hanlon AKA Mezanmi, who was born in North Shields and went to St Thomas More School. Proud recipient of the Alan Hull Award and one of the winners of the 2020 Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition, he’s performed extensively in the UK and Europe, including live dates supporting Van Morrison, Sandrayati, Bernard Butler & Jessie Buckley (who sings on one of his songs). Fran is playing at Three Tanners Bank on 30th November.

GHOST TRAIN Ghost train rides and entertainment with free museum entrance.

Stephenson Steam Railway, North Shields, NE29 8DX Sun 3rd November 2024 11:30AM Get ready for a spook-tacular experience aboard the Halloween Ghost Trains at Stephenson Steam Railway! Don your best costume and join us for a frightfully fun train ride, with entertainment from the theatre group, The Moss Troopers.

OUSEBURN OPEN STUDIOS When: Saturday, November 23 and Sunday, November 24, 2024 Where: 14 venues across the Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle, England The Ouseburn Open Studios event invites you to explore the creative heart of Newcastle. Taking place on November 23 and 24, this annual event allows artists and designer-makers to open their studios, providing visitors with the chance to meet the creators and purchase their original works, including paintings, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, furniture, and prints.

Attendees can expect a weekend full of creativity, featuring a variety of activities for all ages, such as a Winter Gnome Hunt. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the vibrant art scene in Ouseburn, explore the studios, interact with artists, and buy unique pieces directly from the makers.

Newcastle Christmas Market Date: November 16 to December 22, with stalls on Grainger Street, Grey Street, and Old Eldon Square.

Suzi Ronson - in conversation about her work with David Bowie Fri November 22, 2024 7:30 pm The Engine Room ,The Old Maltings Building, North Shields

Tynemouth Cricket Club's Fireworks Display Location: Tynemouth Cricket Club, North Shields, NE30 2BE Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024 Time: 7:00 PM

UKULELE FESTIVAL DEBUTS IN NORTH SHIELDS The North Tyneside Ukulele Festival is making its North Shields debut from November 810 at the Exchange 1856, with the final day at The Globe music venue in Newcastle.

This three-day event features international acts, workshops, open mic slots, singalongs, and retail stands.

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Event

@marcus_reed_art

ARE YOU AFFILIATED: NORTH SHIELDS WORKING MEN’S CLUB TO HOST DJANGO DJANGO’S ONLY GIG OF 2024

British art rock band Django Django will play their only gig of 2024 at King Street Social Club in North Shields, in a major coup for the town’s music scene.They take to the stage for an Are You Affiliated event on 7 December, with support from rising star Lizzie Esau. Are You Affiliated is an independent music venue operated by North Tyneside-based international DJ Man Power (aka Geoff Kirkwood). It has hosted some of the biggest names in electronic dance music for the last two years, with guests including Caribou, Skream, Daniel Avery, Optimo, Paranoid London and many more.

Django Django’s appearance marks the first live band performance in the venue since recent investment from Kirkwood and partners saw the venue upgraded to include the installation of a brand new Martin Audio sound system. The bill features Lizzie Esau, a North East-based artist who is starting to gather lots of attention with support from BBC Introducing and an appearance at Glastonbury Festival. The event has led to new music from the headliners with a collaboration between Django Django and Man Power being released exclusively on vinyl on the day of the gig, and available to buy at the venue.

The event is presented as a collaboration between Are You Affiliated, local promoters Shin Gigs, Mouth of the Tyne Festival and North Tyneside Council. Geoff Kirkwood said: “For over a decade Django Django has been one of the most exciting and least predictable bands to dominate British leftfield music. “They’ve chosen to do their one and only gig of 2024 at a working men’s club in a post-industrial town on the North East coast of England.

“This event sees all involved coming together to continue the incredible music-led transformation of a town that has previously seen relative hardship over the last decades.

“The musical offering in North Shields, combined with its warm community and open-minded audiences has seen it go from being a little-known town to a cultural destination in a very short space of time, with press coverage by everyone from The Sunday Times, to the Guardian, to Mixmag and more.“ Cllr Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor for North Tyneside and cabinet member responsible for Regeneration, Economic Development and Culture said: “The Council and its partners have been committed to revitalising and reimaging North Shields Town Centre through our ambitious regeneration programme. Events like this, securing a big name from the UK music scene to play at a recently developed independent venue, show that this approach is working at the North Shields Town Centre has so much to offer. “We are bringing the culture of our Borough to life, through shows, gigs, exhibitions, venues, the arts and creative spaces.

“Working with imaginative minds like Geoff Kirkwood, Shin Gigs and Are You Affiliated gives the Borough a strong platform to deliver more, celebrating our rich heritage, bringing the stars of today to North Shields and showcasing the talent of the future. “The Mouth of The Tyne festival continues to go from strength to strength, we have already announced Elbow as a headliner for 2025 and are looking forward to revealing more of the line up and ticket information in the coming weeks.”

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I Love North Shields.

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