Good News 
Hebburn mother returns to work after NHS aquafit programme boosts her confidence
After 14 years away from the workplace due to chronic health conditions, 40-year-old Amy Mercer has secured a new job following her partici…
New theme park inspired by history and myth opens in Bishop Auckland
The Storied Lands has opened in County Durham, offering visitors immersive historic environments and live performances alongside the existi…
Newcastle's Leazes Park retains Green Flag status as one of the UK's best green spaces
Leazes Park has been awarded a Green Flag for 2026, marking a successful return to form for the city centre site after it lost the accolade…
New Viking-themed arena and visitor attractions approved for Bishop Auckland's Kynren
Durham County Council has approved plans for a new Viking Arena and an immersive experience called The Legend of the Wear at the Kynren sit…
Breast cancer survivor Lisa Gibbons credits new Wansbeck Hospital support service
After undergoing surgery in 2023, Lisa Gibbons struggled to find a suitable breast prosthesis until she contacted the new Macmillan Cancer …
Newcastle Centre for Life chief executive Linda Conlon receives honorary science degree
Linda Conlon has been awarded an honorary doctor of science degree from Northumbria University for her 26-year contribution to science enga…
Newcastle vicar completes first skydive to raise funds for church youth work
Revd Gerard Rundell of St Aidan's Church in Gosforth completed a 14,000ft skydive over County Durham, even finding time to bless his camera…
Northumberland National Park contributes £146m to regional economy as visitor numbers rise
Visitor numbers at Northumberland National Park have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching 1.79 million in 2025. This growth has generate…
Whitley Bay games shop launches dedicated sessions for home-educated children
Bay Games in Whitley Bay is now hosting exclusive sessions for home-educated families, providing a space for children to socialise and lear…
Newcastle woman completes 37 challenges in 37 days for her brother's birthday
Danielle Aikin is undertaking 37 daily challenges to mark her brother Paul's 37th birthday, raising funds for The Percy Hedley Foundation w…
Emmaus North East receives funding to provide domestic abuse support for homeless women
Emmaus North East is launching a new support service for women escaping domestic abuse, funded by the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissi…
Newcastle Eagles legend Darius Defoe to be awarded the Freedom of the City
After a 22-season career that saw him contribute to all 28 of the Newcastle Eagles' major title wins, 41-year-old Darius Defoe is to receiv…