What inspired you to become a content creator for I Love North Shields?
I manage the ‘North Shields People’ Facebook and Instagram pages so when ‘I Love North Shields’ came along I was curious about this new kid on the block. Simmie and I met for coffee and we hit it off straight away; we both love living here so I was really pleased when she asked me if I’d write for the magazine. The more positive stories about North Shields, the better, I reckon.
Can you tell us about your favorite place in North Shields and why it holds a special meaning for you?
Well, obviously there’s the fish quay and the views along the river! But I also really love Preston Village and the walk down Preston Road, into town. There are some beautiful old buildings dotted around this part of North Shields – my local, The Spread Eagle, dates back to the 1760s – and the area has a real sense of history.
What type of content do you enjoy creating the most, and what message do you hope to convey to our readers?
I’m a bit of a history nerd so I love uncovering quirky stories about North Shields, such as the lady balloonist who almost came a cropper over Billy Mill (Issue 5) and the wartime kids who sold their toys to help raise cash to ‘buy’ a Spitfire (Issue 3). For a relatively small town, I’m constantly amazed at how many important, fascinating – and sometimes improbable – things have happened here!
What does community pride mean to you, and how do you think your work contributes to it?
There’s so much about North Shields that feels quite unique to me. I lived away from the area for over 40 years and it was only when I came back in 2018 that I realised what a special place it is. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else now. I’m pleased that ‘I Love North Shields’ has given me the chance to express why I like living here so much!
Can you share a memorable project or piece you’ve worked on for I Love North Shields?
My highlight so far has been interviewing Gay Keenaghan, who escaped from Nazi-occupied Vienna in 1939 on the kindertransport rescue programme (Issue 7). Her story was truly astonishing and it was a real privilege to meet her and hear about her incredible life. That’s something that will stay with me for a long time.
