Business Spotlight

The lifeblood of our town — North Shields’ small businesses. Meet the makers, shopkeepers, creatives, and dreamers behind the places we love to visit. Each spotlight celebrates local pride, resilience, and the power of community.

Q&A with Emma Carlton: Sweet Patisserie’s baker to the stars

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Emma Carlton, award-winning baker and owner of Sweet Patisserie, Whitley Bay (image credit: Sarah Atkinson)

Step inside Sweet Patisserie in Whitley Bay and meet Emma Carlton, the award-winning baker whose creations have impressed everyone from Fortnum & Mason judges to global celebrities. Trained in classical French pastry and driven by a bold, health-conscious philosophy, Emma is redefining indulgence with less sugar, exceptional ingredients and uncompromising skill. From baking for Kylie Minogue at twenty minutes’ notice to hosting world-famous chocolatier Paul A. Young, this is the story of a baker whose journey is every bit as irresistible as her desserts.

Local Hero: Prabhu Sharma | JAPS Sports

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By Diane Wailes I’ve always been fascinated by the signage on ‘Sharma Wines,’ a traditional corner shop at the junction of North King Street...

Crew Gal: Shaking Up the Live Events Scene

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By Pauline Stewart Founded by Susan French, affectionately known as Frenchie, CREW GAL emerged from a vivid vision sparked by none other than Prince’s Purple...

Kimberley Creative | Graphic Designer and Art Director

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Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your day-to-day life? I work from my home office in North Shields. I am a graphic...

The Big Tote Bag Drop: Four New Sponsors, Four New Stories

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I Love North Shields launches four new limited-edition tote bags — each sponsored by a local business and full of community spirit. Discover the Purple, Yellow, Black, and Smile totes and join the Tote Bag Challenge today.

Grease, Waves & the Rave: 30 Years of Tynemouth Surf Co

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Discover the story behind Tynemouth Surf Co — from a greasy café on Grand Parade to the beating heart of North East surf culture. How Mark Ward, Stephen Hudson, and a crew of dreamers built a movement on the waves of Longsands Beach.

INTERVIEW WITH VICTORIA SMITH FROM ADVERSITY TO ADVOCACY

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Victoria "Tori" Smith's life has been a testament to resilience and dedication. Having faced significant challenges, from navigating a difficult educatiovnoal.l 1 journey to...

#LeadFreeWater: could you have hazardous lead water piping in your home?

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Luke Leighton from Kurek Utilities explains their #LeadFreeWater campaign and the importance of checking your home for potentially hazardous lead piping February 2026

Many homes in North Shields and across the North East may still have hidden lead water pipes dating back to before the 1970s. The #LeadFreeWater campaign, launched by North East–based Kurek Utilities, aims to raise awareness and help homeowners better understand their water supply. Find out why lead pipes are often overlooked, who is responsible for replacing them, and what practical steps can be taken to reduce risk and make informed decisions.

Where to Stay in North Shields: Discover The Farlan

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Planning a visit to North Shields? Whether you're escaping to the coast for a weekend, visiting family and friends, or exploring everything the North East...

New Sponsor Alert: Caroline Opacic Photography x I Love North Shields

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Limited Edition Limited Edition I Love North Shields Pink Tote Bag | Say "I do" in Shields. Let's Make it Iconic The sunshine one’s here!...

MUST READ

North Shields Opera Chorus Suzanne Coulson article

Eager for an encore: Gala 2024

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From the moment the lights rose at the Parks Sports Centre, Gala 2024 revealed itself as something far more than a concert. This ambitious collaboration between the North Shields Opera Chorus, Tête à Tête Opera Company and the Royal Northern Sinfonia brought together professional musicians, community choirs, dancers and local schoolchildren in a powerful celebration of shared creativity. What unfolded was an evening rich with local pride, musical brilliance and a striking sense of togetherness – a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to create something extraordinary.
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