Shields Ferry features in King’s Trust baton relay

The event saw young people take part in a 40-mile relay across the region, boarding the Ferry for their journey across the River Tyne, from South Shields over to North Shields.

Nexus, which runs the Ferry service, said it was delighted to welcome the event on board.

The relay took place on day three of a five-day, region-wide event. An Olympic torch-style baton was passed through Redcar, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Darlington, Bishop Auckland, Tyne and Wear, and on to Northumberland.

The organisations taking part help to deliver King’s Trust programmes across the North-East.

Nine young people, ten officers from the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS), and Merlin the Urban Search and Rescue dog carried the baton on the Ferry.

The King’s Trust, formerly known as The Prince’s Trust, provides free courses, career support, and business mentoring to help vulnerable and disadvantaged young people overcome barriers and get into work, education, or training.

Kevin Leonard, Customer Services Operations Manager at Nexus, said: “We were thrilled to be a part of this event, celebrating 50 years of the King’s Trust in our region.

“The Shields Ferry is a popular local connection, so it was a great idea for us to be involved, helping to get the baton across the Tyne following its long journey here from Teesside. Well done to all involved.”

John Anderson, Diversionary Activities Manager, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are proud to support The King’s Trust as it celebrates 50 years of empowering young people. The programme provides a vital springboard, helping individuals build confidence, self-esteem and the life experience they need to succeed both socially and professionally.

“At Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, we see first-hand the positive impact it has – giving young people the skills, resilience and belief to fulfil their potential and play an active role in their communities.”

The Tyne and Wear leg of relay visited a number of local landmarks including The Angel of the North, Washington ‘F’ Pit Museum, Cox Green Bridge, Penshaw Monument, Souter Lighthouse; and finishing with a trip across the River Tyne on-board the Shields Ferry, travelling from South Shields to North Shields.

Once it arrived in North Shields, the baton was then handed over to representatives from the Newcastle United Foundation.