28 minute read
Riverside Sunderland
How to get your culture fix in Sunderland this season
Advertisement
Calling all culture-vultures! Diaries at the ready as we guide you through some of the city's finest events, exhibitions and online programmes at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, National Glass Centre, Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art and Arts Centre Washington... Take those little culture vultures to see one of the most famous paintings of a castle in the world! Bellotto's masterpiece will be displayed alongside five other castle themed Old Masters from the National Gallery, along with paintings from the Museum's own collection. Or if you prefer, check out the virtual tour of the exhibition from the comfort of your own home.
SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK Exhibition: Extended! Received Wisdom
Until 1 November Last chance to see Sunderland Museum’s Received Wisdom exhibition which challenges the idea that creativity, boundary-breaking and dynamism are the preserve of youth.
SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK New App New App: Art Crush
An exciting new app has been produced by Sunderland Culture! Created in partnership with the Arts Council Collection, Art Crush allows you to swipe through hundreds of artwork images by the biggest names in British Art. Create your own digital art collection, browse artworks or find out what your art personality is. The free mobile app will be available to download from Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK No Strings
Extended until March 2021 No Strings should have opened to the public back in March, but was unable to due to the COVID-19 closure of National Glass Centre. The exhibition moved online with a short video tour, but when the centre reopens, will be available to see in person for the first time! No Strings features the work of seven international artists working with glass beads in unconventional ways. The exhibition will include a beaded burger and coke by Faranak Sohi, an evening dress made using beads and safety pins by Shige Fujishiro and a beaded chicken showing his gymnastic prowess on the rings by Felieke van der Leest.
NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM Chad McCail: Toy
Extended until 2021 This exhibition by Chad McCail has been extended to the new year, and we’re delighted to hear it! 'Toy' is a monumental cityscape populated by gigantic mythical creatures battling for its future freedom. This exhibition is full of extraordinary details, creating an intense and almost surreal experience for visitors. Don't miss the optional audio tour by Chad himself, as he talks visitors through the toy city at Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art.
Arts Centre Washington
Exhibition: Looking Out, Looking In
From September 2020 Created by artists Sally Southern and Nicola Lynch with the help of the local community. The artists connected ‘virtually’ with residents of Hetton, Easington Lane and Moorsley and asked them to reflect on their lockdown experience. Asking questions like, who have you looked out for? Who has looked out for you? How has the whole experience made you feel? The exhibition contains photography,
text and installations.
NORTHERNGALLERYFOR CONTEMPORARYART.ORG.UK The Next Step
From 24 October 2020 The Sunderland Indie presents an exhibition of new contemporary art works by seven Sunderland artists. An artistic response to the Coronavirus pandemic and Lockdown. Next Step is about resilience, optimism and patience. We will not be beaten. This is where we were and this is what we are doing about it!
Online programme:
Arts Centre Washington has a combination of online and physical programmes this autumn. From watercolours, oil painting, youth theatre and kids art club, as well as online exhibitions featuring Andrew Tift and Sunderland Photographic Association, there's plenty going on.
ARTSCENTREWASHINGTON.CO.UK
Riverside Sunderland – a masterplan for the city’s transformation
Introducing a buzzing new district in the heart of Sunderland. Think stunning homes, offices and venues as thousands of people enjoy living the a good life in the city...
IT’S A MASTERPLAN THAT WILL REINVIGORATE
THE CITY IN A WIDER
SENSE TOO – CREATING
Riverside Sunderland is city centre living for a new age. A reimagined heart of Sunderland. Dynamic and distinctive - a world-class place to live, work and play.
And this vision for the city centre is hurtling ahead, as a masterplan to reinvigorate Riverside Sunderland – the emerging heart of the city centre - has been shared by Sunderland City Council. The masterplan, which is backed by millions of pounds of public and private sector investment, will transform the former Vaux Brewery site and surrounding areas like Sheepfolds, Galley’s Gill, and High Street West. It will create the UK’s first carbonneutral urban quarter in a stunning location on the banks of the River Wear, with dramatic views across the city. Sunderland City Council’s bold and ambitious plans will move the city centre to a new level and strengthen connections to the rest of the city. A first wave of projects is already underway, including the new City Hall, and the 450-seat Auditorium, part of the Fire Station arts complex. Work will start soon on the 120-room Holiday Inn in Keel Square. The masterplan will build on these early wins, with headline proposals including: • 1,000 new homes to buy and rent in four sustainable city centre neighbourhoods • The creation of a new central business district, with 1 million square feet of modern office space, home to 10,000 jobs • The transformation of Galley’s Gill into a wonderful landscape park, and new green spaces in the heart of the city • New bridges across the river for walkers and cyclists • Plans to create the Culture House – a state of the art library and community hub that will attract 600,000 visitors a year. “Riverside Sunderland is a vision that will transform a part of the city that has vast potential. It’s a masterplan that will reinvigorate the city in a wider sense too – creating a place we can be proud to call the heart of Sunderland,” says Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council. “It’s a vision that we know is deliverable, and that will be truly game-changing for Sunderland. We’re aiming high because it’s what our residents deserve and it’s what the city needs – vision backed by a determination to deliver. “Riverside Sunderland is just the beginning. Sunderland is springing back to life. We’re seeing more and more investment flooding into it. The private sector is alive to the opportunities and that is bringing about transformation at a pace not seen for decades. “This will be a place where people want to live, work and play. Aspirational families will move here. Corporates will see this as a place they want to do business – and they will bring teams who will spend their money in our city centre and stimulate its economic growth by day and by night. Visitors will come to enjoy our unique offer – riverside, seaside and city centre. “This masterplan is our blueprint for the development of Sunderland, and we’re very proud to be driving it.”
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RIVERSIDE SUNDERLAND, AND TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS, VISIT RIVERSIDESUNDERLAND.COM
Boosting business: Utility Works Merchant Services
With thousands of businesses across our region pivoting to meet the demands of the new normal in the retail sector, contactless payments have never been more imperative to businesses in 2020. We caught up with UW Merchant Services. A local business that’s supporting the financial recovery of our city with their low cost, payment solutions…
Situated on Silksworth Lane in the city centre, UW Merchant Services are a team of industry experts that work in partnership with one of the UK's largest financial institutions to deliver a range of payment solutions. From countertop card machines that are ideal for all business services, to portable card terminals that are a great solution for the hospitality sector, UW Merchant Services have a wide variety of tools ready and waiting to take your business forward. Offering businesses both big and small a straightforward, transparent approach to low cost, fast payment solutions, the UW Merchant Services team offer a bespoke service that’s tailored to your specific business needs and their reputation precedes them given their extensive client portfolio. With vast experience with the UK’s largest financial institutions and a clientele list featuring Barclaycard, Ingenico and Paytek, it’s not hard to see why UW Merchant Services are fast becoming the go to spot for trusted payment solutions in the North East.
Perfect for boosting business…
In today’s tough economic climate and competitive marketplace, having a readily available card machine to accept debit and credit cards is a vital element for any business. With over 80% of all retail customers paying via credit and debit card transactions, card machine products and cashless payment services are quickly making cash a thing of the past.
Safety first in the new normal…
This rise of contactless payments has been nothing short of meteoric since the Covid-19 pandemic. With social distancing a vital requirement for shoppers and staff in the retail sector, social distancing guidelines now include contact with publicly shared devices like point of sale terminals and checkout counters. Contactless cards offer consumers a safer, cleaner way to pay, while reducing long queues at checkout counters, and more control over physical proximity during such tough times.
Therefore, consumers and merchants alike, have the much-needed peace-ofmind. During the lockdown period, people also had the opportunity to experience the convenience of contactless cards. As more people will be inclined to use contactless cards even when Covid-19 becomes a page in the history books, UW Merchant Services are on hand, supporting businesses across our
New kids on the block…
region with a modern solution.
Looking to take your business into the 21st century? Get in touch with the team. Unit 2 & 3, 8 Silksworth Lane, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR3 1LL 0191 535 9050
Half term happenings
The cooler weather may be knocking on our doorsteps, but there’s tons of family fun activities to get involved in during October half term...
Beacon of Light
Kick off half term in style with an unforgettable footy excursion at the stunning Beacon of Light centre! Every half term holiday, the Beacon of Light runs a wide range of sporty activities for boys and girls throughout the region, helping them to blow off some steam and enjoy a run-around. It’s an ideal way to let little footy fanatics get involved with Sunderland AFC. Head online for dates and more information.
FOUNDATIONOFLIGHT.CO.UK/ BEACON-OF-LIGHT Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens
Get ready for Halloween this October half term with spooky castle crafts and stories inspired by Sunderland Museum’s virtual exhibition Castles: Paintings from the National Gallery, London. Make your own model castles and scary puppets then listen to the ghost story of the ‘Cauld Lad of Hylton Castle’. Get creative and make your own sustainable textile creations inspired by the by artist Lubaina Himid and the Received Wisdom exhibition from Arts Council Collection. Some sessions will take place at the Museum and some are online only - check out their half term happenings online at:
SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK
The Art Room
Throughout October Art is where the home is! Time to check in for a fabulous Zoom class with your bubble this autumn, thanks to The Art Room. As the cold wind blows and the leaves begin to fall, The Art Room is nurturing your love for all things creative with a family fun craft workshop. From dazzling costume props, invigorating worksheets and awesome activity pack, this is a must-try to keep your little Picassos entertained at home! A great way to keep creative souls busy during half term.
THEARTROOMSUNDERLAND.COM
Tumbles
Rally the troops and tootle over to Hylton Road for an exhilarating bubbledate at Tumbles! Since opening in 2018, Tumbles has gained a reputation for its exhilarating play area, incredibly friendly staff and delicious coffee shop, packed with glorious goodies to kick back and relax while little ones head out on adventures!
FACEBOOK.COM/TUMBLESWORLD
Super Tramp
Nestled away on Enterprise Park, keep the little ones occupied this October with a day at this amazing trampoline park! A state of the art centre right here in Sunderland, Super Tramp caters for everybody; from complete beginners to expert trampolinists, there's something for the entire gang to enjoy! Make sure you visit them for an action-packed day out this February!
SUPERTRAMPSUNDERLAND.CO.UK
AAAsports
Last month's Vibe Giveaway friends are back in action this half term with another round of thrill-seeking activities! Twist, flip and catapult your way over to AAAsports in Southwick this October and let little ones jump into a wide range of fun, sporting activities. This amazing sports centre is offering children the opportunity to take part in a whole host of gymnastic activities during half term - sure to help youngsters let off some steam. Run by extremely friendly coaches who are renowned for their enjoyable sessions and Covid-19 safe sessions, this kids are sure to love a day out at this super sports venue!
AAASPORTS.CO.UK Clue HQ
Take your little explorers over to John Street this October for an exhilarating escape room with Clue HQ. A perfect activity for those rainy days or to help blow off some steam in your bubble, the guys at Clue HQ have an abundance of escape rooms that will test even the biggest masterminds. Known for their purse pleasing deals, visit their website and get your bubble booked in before slots disappear this autumn.
CLUEHQ.CO.UK/SUNDERLAND
Sunderland Culture Autumn fun:
Frightening Fusing
Design and make your own spooky decoration for Halloween - use colourful glass mosaics and glass grains to create a solid glass decoration.
NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM
Bags of Ideas!
Take inspiration from the "No Strings" exhibition and make a colourful bag. Use a range of different craft materials on a fabric bag that you can use time and time again, and it’s much better for the environment!
NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM
Art Seekers
Come along for a special Halloween arts session! Spark your imagination in this workshop and make funny bone sock puppets. Then follow creepy clues around NGCA and finally mix all of the creative ingredients in a cauldron to make a silly spell to turn us into... who knows what?
NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM
Spooky Glass Painting
Get set for a spooky week by painting your own glass decoration - make it creepy, make it spooky, make it anything you want it to be!
NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM
Could you foster a child?
Find out more at
www.togetherforchildren.org.uk/families/foster-care
or call our team on 0191 561 2223. There’s no such thing as a typical foster carer – they come from all walks of life and all sorts of backgrounds.
• Earn up to £34,320 per year plus allowances • A flexible, home-based role • Ongoing training and support • Short or long term foster caring opportunities
Topman
These high street giants have released an AW collection that you cannot afford to miss this season! Stone Two Pocket Overshirt, £34.99
FOR HIM
schuh
Boot up your style game this season with schuh’s selection of the sturdy winter boots. Guaranteed to stand the test of time! Dr Martens Black 101 Unbound 6 Eye Boots, £139
JD Sports autumn The North Face TNF Logo Beanie, £25
River Island
Stand out and make heads turn with the latest arrivals from River Island. Their latest collection of autumnal clothing and accessories are musthaves for any fashionforward guy this season. Check out this overshirt! Stone Stripe Zip Front
JD Sports
collections are out in full force and we have our eyes firmly set on their North Face collection, perfect for those cooler days at the seaside! Overshirt, £38
H&M
Timeless and beautiful. H&M’s autumn collection is here and we’re already head over heels in love. H&M Studio AW20 Collection, The Refined Rebel, £69.99
at The Bridges
FOR HER
Footasylum
Stay ahead of the game with the latest kicks at Footasylum. Featuring trainers and tons of stylish garms for men, women and kids, get the hottest gear from the street specialists. Vans Womens SK8-Low Trainer, £56.99
New Look
Discover the latest in women's fashion and new season trends at New Look. The perfect spot for chunky knits and cool coats to beat the autumn chill. Dark Brown Faux Fur Lined Leather-Look Aviator Jacket, £55.99
Primark
Treat yourself to something (or everything!) from the new Primark women's range. This khaki duvet coat is an absolute must for winter! Khaki Longline Padded Duvet Coat, £35
Next
Next have all your furnishings covered this autumn. Think beautiful fabrics, statement seating and accessories for your living space.
FOR HOME
Debenhams
Whether you're looking to create a new look or give your home decor a seasonal refresh, you'll find all you need in Debenhams' divine range of home accessories.
REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE
Our chums at the Bridges are always looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint in the city. We caught up with the team to find out how we can support the fantastic retailers who are doing their bit for the environment.
Sell your old phones to O2
Since O2 Recycle launched in 2009, the phone company has recycled more than 2.9 million devices, saving over 280 tonnes of materials ending up in landfill. You don’t have to be a customer of theirs to take advantage of the scheme, they’ll take your phone even if it’s broken and if it’s in good condition then they’ll pay you for your trouble too.
Recycle your batteries at Tesco
More than 20,000 tonnes of batteries are sent to landfill sites in the UK each year, but Tesco is helping to reduce this number by offering battery-recycling points at Express, Metro, Superstore and Extra stores. Powerful work!
Reduce your plastic waste with Lush
Not only are Lush famed for their rich scents and vibrant face masks products, but these cool cats also make huge efforts to reduce the amount of packaging that gets thrown away. Along with plastic-free products such as solid shampoo and deodorant bars and pressed conditioners, you can return black and clear Lush pots to store to be recycled, with every five you bring earning you a free face mask!
Return your plastic bottles to The Body Shop
You may have noticed the recycling boxes in The Body Shop stores, but did you know returning your empties could actually be earning you special perks? Bring back clean, bottles or tubs and, if you’re a Love Your BodyTM Club member, you will receive a stamp for every one returned and a reward for the fifth return.
Save money on your morning coffee
Many single-use coffee cups contain a film of polyethylene, meaning only three centres in the UK can recycle them. Reusable coffee cups are gaining in popularity and you can even get a discount for using them. Take one in store and enjoy 25p off at Costa Coffee and Starbucks, 20p off at Greggs and double rewards at Caffè Nero. A flat white never tasted so good.
Get money back at H&M
H&M offers a garment recycling programme to prevent customers’ unwanted clothes going to landfill. Just bring a bag of clothes – from any brand and in any condition – to a till point and staff will give you a £5 voucher to use towards your next purchase of £25 or more in store or online.
Support UNICEF with Primark
Primark is another high street retailer who has recently announced a nationwide recycling programme – taking clothes, footwear and bags from any brand. Profits from the collection scheme will head directly to UNICEF and support education programmes for vulnerable children around the world.
Winter ready…
Time to beat the freeze! We caught up with the Gentoo gang to learn all about their helpful tips to get your home winter ready and help keep you and your loved ones warm during the colder months…
With the winter season fast approaching and COVID-19 restrictions meaning we’re all spending more time than ever in the safety of our homes, it’s important to make sure you and your home are prepared for the weather and temperatures that lie ahead.
From heavy rain, strong winds to freezing temperatures and snow, the colder months bring new challenges to our homes, gardens and businesses. To help prepare Sunderland’s residents, Gentoo Group has launched its ‘Winter Ready’ campaign with some top tips to help ensure everyone is safe, warm and secure this winter season.
Winter can also bring a financial strain on some households, with higher energy bills, festive spending and other costs adding up. If you are a Gentoo tenant, you can also benefit from the specialist advice and support offered the Group’s Money Matters Team.
Covering everything from energy saving advice and benefit entitlement, to budgeting and debt advice, the team is available to help support with a wide range of issues to help you make the most of your money.
FULL DETAILS OF THE GROUP’S CAMPAIGN AND MORE TOP TIPS ARE AVAILABLE ON THEIR WEBSITE: WWW.GENTOOGROUP.COM/ WINTERREADY
Gentoo’s top tips for the colder months…
Prepare your radiators
Many residents won’t have used their radiators over the summer months. Make sure they’re working efficiently by always bleeding your radiators to remove any trapped air! Don’t forget to top up your boiler pressure afterwards.
Only pay for what you use!
Get into the habit of taking a gas and electricity reading every month and give it to your energy supplier via the telephone or their app or website! This will make sure that your bills are always correct, and you’re paying the right amount.
Save money on your bills
The Government's Warm Homes Discount scheme is available to people on low incomes or some pension credits. This means you could be eligible for a one-off discount on your electricity bill between September and March!
Keep your home warm
Tucking heavy curtains behind your radiators can help to keep your home warm this winter. Make sure they don’t cover the thermostatic valve, as this could affect how well your radiator works!
Test your carbon monoxide and smoke alarms
We rely so much on our boilers during the winter, which makes us vulnerable to carbon monoxide. This is extremely dangerous and can kill. You should test your carbon monoxide detectors at least once a month to make sure they are working. While you’re at it, there’s no harm in checking your smoke alarms too – it could save your life!
Know what to do in an emergency
It is important to familiarise yourself with the location of your water stop-tap and electrical controls in case an emergency situation arises!
Dragon-backed parking app ready to kickstart Sunderland – are you IN?
Innovative loyalty app ParkingPerx is coming to Sunderland in October and the deadline is fast approaching for businesses to join the scheme ahead of the launch.
Over 50 independent businesses and national brands are already registered with ParkingPerx, including Harrison & Brown Furniture. Mandy Brown, owner of Harrison & Brown Furniture, explains why she got involved: “ParkingPerx is a great way to attract customers that are put off by parking charges. It will encourage customers to engage and enjoy the perks of shopping in the town centre.” The app is backed by former Dragon from the BBC series Dragons’ Den, Jenny Campbell. Jenny said: “From the minute I heard about ParkingPerx in the Den, I knew it was a game-changer. It’s a solution to help our high streets and for that reason, I was in!” The unique loyalty solution will be available in three car parks in Sunderland; the Bridges, St Mary’s and Sunniside, and will reward customers with free parking when they shop local.
TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT WWW.PARKINGPERX.COM OR CONTACT SALES@PARKINGPERX.COM.
Sunderland has been named University of the Year for Social Inclusion, according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021.
The prestigious honour recognises the University’s long-running success in attracting capable people into higher education, whatever their background or circumstances, and helping them to achieve their potential. This is the third year in a row the University has ranked in the top 20 of the publication’s unique social inclusion list – but the first time it has achieved
the University of the Year for social inclusion honour. Last year, the University opened a new School of Medicine with the specific intention of attracting a more diverse intake into the medical profession. Sunderland is one of a handful of universities where more than 60% of the intake are the first in their family to go to university and more than 98% are educated in non-selective state schools. Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University, said: “Whether undertaking a foundation degree or studying in our medical school, students from all kinds of backgrounds have the opportunity to improve their career prospects and life chances when attending the University of Sunderland. “With a long tradition of being an open and accessible institution, we are absolutely delighted to have been recognised as University of the Year for Social Inclusion.” Alastair McCall, Editor of The Sunday Times Good University Guide, said: “Sunderland’s track record for widening participation to higher education is hard to match. “The new medical school is the cherry on the cake with its ambitious plan to make the intake to medical profession more closely resemble the diverse backgrounds of their patients. “Initiatives to engage schoolchildren who have the capability but not the motivation to aim for university are particularly bold. The sheer range of outreach and access work here makes an unanswerable case for making Sunderland our University of the Year for Social Inclusion.” Georgios Vasilakis, 19, originally from Greece, arrived in Sunderland last September to study Web and Mobile Development. He said: “Everyone at the University, and in the city, has been very welcoming. From the very first day I felt right at home. “The University has guided me in the right direction. Even though I came from another country and a totally different background, I never felt alone here, I always had someone to speak to. “Once I’ve finished my degree, I’d like to stay in Sunderland and do a Masters here.” Professor Tony Alabaster, Academic Dean for the University's Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, said: “We have always been proud of the diverse and rich
HERE AT SUNDERLAND OUR ETHOS
IS THAT OF INCLUSIVITY,
FORCE FOR CHANGE.
backgrounds of our dedicated students. "From our teams of nurses, pharmacists, paramedics and most recently trainee doctors, to our researchers, psychologists and sports students, we have always aimed to put inclusivity at the heart of what we do.” The North East has the lowest proportion of school-leavers going on to university and Sunderland provides an avenue to degree-level education for many who might otherwise miss out. Professor Lynne McKenna, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Society, said: “Our Faculty in particular has a strong focus on inclusion, equality and diversity both academically and in the support and opportunities that we offer to our students and staff. We measure success by the contribution our staff and students make to society.” University of Sunderland Chancellor, multi-platinum singer Emeli Sandé MBE said: “Here at Sunderland our ethos is that of inclusivity, giving people the chance to reach their full potential. We want our graduates to go on and be a force for change.” Lee Hall, Head of School of Media and Communications, said: “Inclusion is absolutely core to our identity. “Creating opportunities for students to express themselves and develop their talents, irrespective of their social and economic background, is a key part of our mission as a life-changing institution.” Francesca Cockell is a second year student at the School of Medicine. She said: “One of the main reasons why I chose Sunderland was the knowledge that, if I got my degree there, I’d have the opportunity to get to know and build lasting relationships with people from all walks of life. The diversity and inclusivity of the student body at Sunderland is something rarely found in higher education; which makes it an invaluable asset to any course studied here.” The University moves up six places from 109 to 103 in this year's Guide.
As Sunderland’s port became increasingly busier during the late 20th century, more and more seafarers of Arabic, Middle Eastern and African heritage began docking at Sunderland. This photo is from around 1889, and although it’s an unassuming building, this small church on Kayll Road is perhaps one of the first places of worship, refuge and learning for those from Africa.
Emile Ford
During the late 50s and 60s, Wearside welcomed chart-topping sensation, Emile Ford into the community after marrying a local lass from Hylton Castle. Emile was a popular culture figure during the early 1960s; as the leader of Emile Ford & the Checkmates, Emile would regularly visit the North East, touring and entertaining. He even visited Downhill and Pallion clubs in Sunderland! Kumbuka was the University of Sunderland’s first black Student Union president from 1999-2000 - helping thousands of students feel comfortable and find their voice during university life. Originally from Zambia, Kumbuka settled in the region after graduating with a BA Business Administration degree, and now currently lives and works in the North East.
Gary Bennett
Gary is a hero on Wearside. Having began his career with Manchester City, Gary joined the lads in 1984 and went on to make over 350 appearances for Sunderland - placing him fifth on the club's all-time appearance list. Having given 11 years of service to Wearside, Gary moved on to other local clubs in the North East before retiring. Nowadays, Gary is actively involved in better society. He’s a vocal member of the Show Racism the Red Card campaign, he is a regular and loved member of the commentating team for Sunderland AFC's live matches and he’s recently opened a football academy on Wearside for youngsters.
Roly Gregiore
In January 1978, Sunderland AFC signed Roly Gregoire for £5,000, becoming the first black player to play for the Black Cats. Roly had impressed then manager, Jimmy Anderson, with a string of impressive performances during a trial period. Roly caught the attention of many scouts, but after scoring a hat-trick against Sunderland reserves - Jimmy Anderson signed him promptly after the full-time whistle. Roly made his debut for Sunderland against Hull City later that season and spent two seasons on Wearside before retiring in 1980
Black is beautiful: Black History Month
We’re marking Black History Month by championing the people and places that have influenced our city over the course of history. Time to dig deeper, look closer and think bigger this October.
Kumbuka Collins
Sunderland Antiquarian Society
Introducing culture…
due to injury.
Emeli Sande
Sunderland-born Emeli Sande is another inspirational figure who is impacting the city. The multi-platinum selling singersongwriter is the chancellor of the University of Sunderland and works closely with the Uni’s various departments to enact positive change for students and residents alike. Having been awarded an MBE in 2017, Emeli was thrust into the spotlight in 2012 when her debut album, Our Version of Events, spent 10 weeks at number one and broke a chart record set by The Beatles.
Donna Chambers
Donna is another highly-intelligent intellectual that is changing the lives of students in the modern era. Having joined the University of Sunderland in 2013, Donna is now head of the renowned Faculty of Business, Law and Tourism Research Institute in the city and leads cutting-edge research into postcolonial and decolonial tourism.
Black History Month
Time to dig deeper, look closer and think bigger this October by heading over to blackhistorymonth.org.uk and educating yourself with the issues and injustices faced by people with black and other minority ethnic backgrounds. From poignant features, thought-provoking history segments about slavery and educational services on offer for those wanting to learn more, blackhistorymonth. org.uk is a vital tool for those wanting to educate, listen and understand this October. Black is beautiful.
