Good News 
Newcastle council rejects plans to demolish The Balloon pub for a Starbucks drive-thru
Newcastle City Council has blocked a proposal to replace The Balloon pub in Fenham with a drive-thru coffee shop. Councillors cited concern…
North East offshore wind sector receives £4.5m funding boost
A new three-year programme, NEOWIND, has launched to provide £4.5m in support to offshore renewable energy firms across the North East. Fun…
Houghton-le-Spring cyclist Eddie McGourley becomes the fastest octogenarian to ride from Land's End to John O'Groats
Eighty-three-year-old Eddie McGourley completed the journey in 11 days, shaving three days off the previous world record. He undertook the …
Northumberland County Council to lead £1.8 million refurbishment of Alnwick bus station
Northumberland County Council has secured a long-term lease for Alnwick bus station, clearing the way for a £1.8 million upgrade. The proje…
Newcastle pub hosts the North East's first arm wrestling championship
The Three Mile in Gosforth welcomed 30 competitors from across the UK for the region's inaugural arm wrestling tournament. Local club North…
Eight jobs saved at South Shields family firm Viking Plywood and Timber
Viking Plywood and Timber faced closure after a major client went bust, putting the long-standing South Shields business at risk. The compa…
Film and TV productions bring £88.5m to the North East economy
The North East has seen a significant rise in filming activity over the last four years, resulting in 1,419 new jobs and an £88.5m boost to…
Newcastle-based rail firm Lumo carries record 772 passengers on single service
Lumo has transported 772 passengers on a single intercity train between London, Newcastle and Edinburgh, setting a new record for the opera…
Redhills Durham Miners' Hall upgraded to Grade II* listed status
The Redhills Durham Miners' Hall, once home to the 'Pitman's Parliament', has been upgraded to Grade II* listed status by the Department fo…
Gateshead actress Jill Halfpenny receives honorary degree from Northumbria University
Jill Halfpenny is one of 14 people being recognised by Northumbria University for their contributions to the arts, science, and business. T…
Child rescued from the sea at Whitley Bay after volunteer raises the alarm
A child was rescued from the water at Whitley Bay by the Cullercoats RNLI after a member of the public spotted them in difficulty and calle…
Newcastle Airport families benefit as eGate age limit drops to eight
Children aged eight and over can now use eGates at Newcastle International Airport, provided they meet the 120cm height requirement. This c…