North Shields 800 website goes live featuring dozens of exciting projects and events for 2025
The North Shields 800 website, by North Shields graphic designer Kimberley Creative.
The North Shields 800 website www.northshields800.com is live, featuring dozens of exciting events and projects, history resources and information about the town’s 800th anniversary celebrations during 2025.
A year-long programme of events and activities is planned, appealing to a wide range of audiences to celebrate North Shields’ past, present and future.
The programme reflects the town’s maritime, mining, railway and industrial heritage as well as its reputation as a vibrant destination for arts and culture and a thriving location for business.
This follows a tremendous response to a public call for project ideas, with more than 60 separate proposals sent in. These included a wide range of arts and heritage projects, put forward by both established groups and new creative talent.
Plans are in progress for community events, art installations, exhibitions, music performances, publications, podcasts, photography and film. There will be a spectacular regatta and a blessing of the fishing fleet, a parade along the Fish Quay, exhibitions, street art murals and heritage projects.
Social media accounts have been set up to keep people informed – follow @northshields800 on Facebook and Instagram.
The accounts feature a Fact of the Day, one for every day of 2025. A mix of light-hearted and deadly serious facts about the history of the town, researched by local historians Alan Fidler, Dave Young and Rachel Chapman.
Chair of the North Shields 800 Committee Sir Alan Campbell MP said: “There is a great deal of pride, passion and creativity behind the North Shields 800 projects.
“I am looking forward to seeing them bring communities together, raise the profile of the town and create a lasting legacy for the 800th anniversary celebrations.
“North Shields is a town of great character, energy and heritage and that is reflected in this diverse programme of projects and events.”
Elected Mayor of North Tyneside Dame Norma Redfearn DBE said: “The people of North Shields have come up with some incredible ways to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the founding of the town. This exciting calendar of events will help attract visitors, support local businesses, and inspire pride in the town and its unique identity. 2025 is going to be a great year for North Shields.”
North Shields 800 Creative Director Dominic Smith said: “Working alongside the passionate individuals who are delivering these inspiring and thoughtful projects is a privilege. I feel very lucky to be a part of this vibrant community and its 800th anniversary celebrations. It is a genuine honour.”