North East
Sycamore Gap was one of the most iconic locations in the North East, with a large leafy sycamore tree standing proudly in a dip along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. Planted over a century ago, the tree gained celebrity status due to its appearances in music videos and television programs, most notably in Kevin Costner’s […]
Sunderland Under-21 claimed a thrilling 4-3 extra-time victory at the Select Car Leasing stadium over Reading Under-21 in the Premier League 2 play-off semi-final to book their spot in the final. Black Cats captain Ellis Taylor scored a superb hat-trick, which included a last-gasp equaliser with the last kick of normal time to force the […]
In the aftermath of this year’s local elections, there has been a big change in how the North East is governed. We now have a mayor, a devolved leader who has powers over transport, and local investment as well as serving as a powerful voice for the region. The idea of regional devolution is not […]
Durham County Council made the decision earlier this year to introduce parking charges in many of their local car parks. This decision has been unwelcome by local residents and the small businesses situated along the seafront amid fears this will take business away from Seaham. Residents are sharing their fears for the community and urging […]
Patients in need of maternity services within the North East of England are “at risk”, according to a watchdog, in January 2024. In a Care Quality Commission (CQC) report at Middlesbrough’s James Cook University Hospital, staff shortages are causing midwives to be overstretched on shift. They are struggling to give mothers and babies the care […]
Small music venues are in crisis, according to the Music Venue Trust, 66 venues have closed in the last 12 months. However, we at Spark believe they need celebrating. As part of this we went to Cobalt Studios and asked them why they love their venue and why you should too. One of the reasons […]
Andrew Quinn, a friend of Robbie Robson who was murdered, is attempting to run five marathons in five days to raise money for Emmaus North East. Robson (far right) is pictured with friends, including Andrew Quinn (second from left). The South Shields local was 38 when he was murdered while working on an oil rig […]
Sunderland has a few fantastic opportunities to better someones mental and physical wellbeing, therefore impacting mental healthy positively. Physically, Sunderland has a handful of gyms across the city that are very affordable, but it is also a very walkable area for those who may be shy to go to the gym. The city is also […]
