Visitors included former Benwell and North Shields Community Development Project workers; local councillors, a local MP, and local authority workers.
The exhibition showcased a range of work undertaken by 12 community organisations from Benwell and North Shields and researchers from Durham University.
Photos taken by Steve Pool.
The opening speeches were at 11am. Professor Sarah Banks (Durham University) welcomed everyone and introduced the Imagine North East project.
She was followed by Lord Jeremy Beecham (Councillor for Benwell and Scotswood); Margaret Reynolds (Councillor for Chirton, North Shields); Ian Harford (former Director of Benwell Community Development Project); Penny Remfry (former North Shields Community Development Project worker) and Professor Alan Townsend (Imagine North East statistics).
Finally, Sarah spoke again for a few minutes to introduce the Imagine North East Durham University team members (Andrea Armstrong, Fred Robinson and Vincent Chu). She launched the two booklets on Benwell and North Shields. Hot off the press and available for the first time.
The speeches were followed by an excellent lunch.
After lunch, as well as looking at the exhibits there were plenty of opportunities to take part in numerous activities:
- A slide show of old West End photos with the West Newcastle Picture History Collection.
- Meeting the Cornerstone Knitting and Crafts group.
- Adding your Imagine photo to the Patchwork digital selfie wall.
- Touring the historic graveyard at St James’ Church with Olive, a Newcastle City guide.
- Taking part in Durham University Vox Pop to share thoughts on the exhibition and changes over time in Benwell and North Shields.
