I, Daniel Blake’s Geordie in Crisis

October 5, 2016July 25, 2018 Tom DraperLeave a comment

Ken Loach’s latest film is set in Newcastle and stars Dave Johns as a traditional Geordie facing up to the challenge of living and getting by in 21st century England.

Articles · Newcastle and North East · Politics

Four Visions of T. Dan Smith

September 29, 2016June 14, 2022 Tom Draper2 Comments

T. Dan Smith remains as one of Tyneside’s most controversial political figures. Hero or villain? Visionary or crook? Smith’s legacy distilled into four narratives.

Newcastle and North East · Politics

Joseph Cowen: Geordie Entrepreneur, Politician and Radical

April 7, 2016June 6, 2020 Tom DraperLeave a comment

At the foot of Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, stands a bronze statue of Joseph Cowen (1829-1900), strategically placed to remind contemporary Geordies of his influence as they travel up towards the Tyne Theatre and Opera House which was designed and operated under his guidance. Cowen dominated Tyneside politics between the years 1850-1900: as editor… Continue reading Joseph Cowen: Geordie Entrepreneur, Politician and Radical