North Shields – an overview of 800 years

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North Shields began life around 1225 on the banks of the Tyne, sparked by the ambitions of the Prior of Tynemouth. Its early growth clashed with Newcastle’s trade monopoly, leading to centuries of fierce rivalry, riots, and recovery. From booming medieval trade and fishing fleets to decline, reform, and resurgence, the town’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. Today, 800 years on, the quay is thriving once again. Discover the full story in Mike's book, The Pow Burn NS800 edition.

Interview exclusive: Simon Donald – him off the Viz

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Simon Donald in the Viz office, 188

Dive into our exclusive interview with Simon Donald, the irreverent force behind Viz and infamous characters like Sid the Sexist. From launching a 12-page cult comic in a Newcastle bedroom to selling a million copies an issue, Simon reflects on family, fame and life beyond Viz. With tales of rock stars, stand-up and North Shields roots, this is the story of the man far beyond ‘Him off the Viz.’

The Iron Man: literary legend Peter Mortimer 

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Peter Mortimer in his Cullercoats Garden (Image credit: Sue Wilkinson)

Step inside the Cullercoats home of poet, playwright and Iron Press founder Peter Mortimer and you enter a world of myth, manuscripts and fearless imagination. In this candid interview, he reflects on five decades of radical writing, from “Broke Through Britain” to time spent in Shatila refugee camp, and his deep ties to North Shields. Thoughtful, witty and still chasing new challenges, Mortimer proves creativity has no finishing line.

Baba Yaga’s Café and Bar

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Staff at Baba Yaga from left to right: Madé, Jack, Gabby and Kester.

The eclectic heartbeat of North Shields' creative scene. In the ever-evolving landscape of independent music and art venues, Baba Yaga’s in North Shields stands out...

Local Author: Shields Sherlock- The Books of B Baskerville

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Have you ever walked the streets of North Shields and thought this would be a great place to dump a body? No? Well, local...

A Flight Through Time

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Andrea Hewitson, a talented author from Rowlands Gill, has released her debut children’s novel, A Flight in Time.

By Keith Newman | Highlights PR Andrea Hewitson, a talented author from Rowlands Gill, has released her debut children’s novel, A Flight in Time. The...

“Leap headfirst into the unknown”: local author Daniel Tawse tells his own story

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Depicted: Daniel Tawse Image credit: Daniel Tawse local author

Growing up in North Shields gifted Daniel Tawse a deep-rooted sense of belonging—one that continues to shape his stories, characters and settings. From small northern towns to big-city awakenings, his novels draw on lived experience, community, and the magnetic pull of home. In this excerpt, he reflects on queerness, nostalgia and why returning to the North East has helped him find his most authentic voice as a writer.

Use it or Lose it:YOUR Local libary

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By Pauline Stewart Over the past 25 years, Joyce has always been incredibly helpful and knowledgeable whenever I've visited the library in North Shields, especially...

Local Author: Gillian Denton

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The Adventures of 'Ollie and Joe’ Gillian Denton recently caused a stir among the youngsters at her workplace, Collingwood Primary School, when they discovered she...

Poetry: Our Town

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Our Town by Roslyn Renwick honours North Shields’ enduring spirit, celebrating its history, people, and everyday life. Through vivid images of fishing roots and daily rituals, the poem asserts that the town’s streets are more than places—they are living memories shaped by community pride and resilience.

MUST READ

Liam Fender performs in North Shields

800 Years – Here We Are: Liam Fender Premiere at The...

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“800 Years – Here We Are” premiered to a sold-out crowd, marking a milestone for the town’s growing creative scene. Fronted and narrated by Liam Fender, the music documentary dives deep into Shields’ cultural DNA — tracing how sound, soul and storytelling have shaped a community from shipyards to stages.
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