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Your Stories: Men On Boats
Three generations, one shared curiosity: a springtime return to North Tyneside in search of the names and stories that shaped them. Though “Hartley” is the family banner today, it’s the Rodgersons and Pattisons—lifelong servants of the sea, the Customs, and the river—that anchor their history here. From boatmen on Bedford Street to master mariners at the Hit and Miss Wharf, their ancestors lived lives tied to the tides. As we trace their footsteps - visiting old streets, uncovering dramatic tales, and standing by long-rested graves - they discover just how deeply North Shields runs in their blood, even if their legs are far steadier on land than their ancestors' ever were.
Unveiling the punch: Legacy of boxing in North Shields
Through the eyes of local author Terry Patterson, we dive into North Shields’ rich boxing heritage. From the Tyne Boys Club of the ’50s to the famed “BLOODKIT” gym, Terry recalls legends like Manny Burgo Senior and Stan Hawthorn. His own journey began despite being born with club foot, guided by coach Joe Myers. After setbacks and tragedy, Terry continued shaping the sport across several clubs. Retiring in 1986, his story reflects the resilience, passion, and community spirit that define local boxing.
Part Two: North Shields resident built a 13-foot wooden sailing boat in his attic
Only a few decades ago shipyards lined the Tyne and regularly blocked views at the end of North Shields streets. Here, Caroline Oswald recounts...
Letters in response: I Love Big Boats
Ellen hadn’t always loved big boats. In fact, her affection for them was hard-won; a peace treaty forged after years of nautical distrust. And it all began, as these things often do, with Leonardo DiCaprio.
To Wave or Not to Wave?
Settling into her Tyneside flat, Mim Robson has grown used to the quiet companionship of the neighbours she sees from her kitchen window—especially the older man who washes up directly opposite. For four months, the two have carried out their routines in silent parallel, never acknowledging each other. Raised in a village where everyone waved, Mim now wonders whether a greeting is welcome in a town setting—or whether it might create an unspoken obligation to wave forevermore. Caught between friendliness and caution, she poses the dilemma: to wave, or not to wave?
Christ Church bell ringers: ringing the changes of Shields for more than 200 years
For nearly 240 years, the soundscape of North Shields has been shaped not just by gulls and foghorns, but by the proud, resonant peal of Christ Church’s ten historic bells. First installed in 1788—after an ill-fated original set was lost at sea—the bells have rung out from their ship’s-oak beams through royal birthdays, national celebrations, and countless Sunday mornings. Today, the tradition is kept alive by a warm, multigenerational band of bell ringers who climb the church’s spiral stairs every Tuesday evening to “ring the changes.” Led by ringing master Karen Dickinson, the group blends centuries-old technique with modern camaraderie (and homemade cake), welcoming newcomers of all ages to be part of one of the town’s oldest living rhythms.
Your Stories: Back to my roots – a family history from Cardiff to the quayside
What starts as a simple curiosity about family roots quickly becomes a powerful journey of connection, identity, and pride. Believing himself Welsh through and through, the writer uncovers a rich North Shields heritage stretching back centuries — shipyard workers, barbers, and everyday lives full of character. Through names, memories, and stories passed down, a picture forms of a place never visited but deeply felt. This is more than genealogy; it’s a homecoming to a history that still lives on today.
Earl John Charlton: “It doesn’t cost anything to acknowledge a homeless person – but it makes a big difference”
After 16 years living rough on the streets of London, Earl John Charlton has turned his life around—and is now using his experience to help others. Now based in North Shields, Earl is a support worker and the inspiration behind the powerful new film Someone’s Daughter, Someone’s Son. With raw honesty and a big heart, Earl shares his story of recovery, resilience, and hope—and his vision to help end homelessness for good.
I Love Big Boats
Since moving to North Shields, I’ve become obsessed with the sheer spectacle of big boats on the Tyne—those vast floating giants that glide silently past as life ticks on around them. From spontaneous waves to app-assisted ship spotting, this piece is a love letter to the boats that remind us how big, strange, and wonderful the world can be.
Part One: How a North Shields resident built a 13-foot wooden sailing boat in his attic
From a backyard canoe to crafting lifeboats at a historic boatyard, Peter Irving’s journey is a testament to passion and skill rooted deep in North Shields’ maritime heritage. Discover how a young apprentice’s determination and craftsmanship helped shape some of the region’s finest vessels—and what comes next in his incredible story. Don’t miss Part Two in the June issue!
