Sunderland Vibe - Spring 2022 by Allies Group Ltd

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hello

It’s an exciting opportunity to be able to welcome you to the first issue of Sunderland Vibe of 2022, at a time when we have so much to look forward to. There’s no denying it’s been a tough couple of years but hopefully, we can all start to put that behind us and start anticipating a fruitful, positive and lucrative time for the city. There’s barely a day goes by without some new announcement and we continue to hear about further investment and transformations, from the creation of new, world-class training facilities, to the growth of our arts and culture sector. The BID is also looking forward to a busy year – from the return of our extremely popular Restaurant Week to our highly successful gift card, which is playing a major role in boosting the local economy. We’re also planning ahead with a full programme of exciting events on the horizon, including our Easter augmented reality trail and our giant Easter eggs. This edition of Sunderland Vibe will bring you right up to date on city life and help you shop local and support Sunderland! Sharon Appleby Chief Executive of Sunderland BID

Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0SR Allies-group.com Publisher Christopher March chris@allies-group.com Editorial Matthew Thomas matthew@allies-group.com Advertising Debi Coldwell debi@allies-group.com Design studio@allies-group.com All contents copyright ©2022 Allies Group Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All content marked 'profile feature' is paid for advertising. All information is correct at time of going to print, February 2022. ISSN 2633-4518

4 World-class transformation

Sheepfolds is set for a stunning makeover

6 My Delhi Sunderland

The lowdown on a vibrant new business

8 Sunderland Restaurant Week The city's biggest celebration of food

22 Sunderland Means Business Exclusive insight into city-wide projects

10 Regional radio star

Sunderland graduate bags top job

24 Shaping your future

Sunderland College launch new courses

12 Jersey Boys arrive in the city

26 Culture is calling

Lead actor, Michael Pickering, reveals all

The city is teeming with world-class events

14 Sunderland's shopping scene

30 Plan ahead

A new chapter for the Bridges

Unmissable events heading to Sunderland

16 Spring into action

Big sporting events arriving in the city

#SunderlandVibe TO ADVERTISE CALL 0191 500 7865 OR EMAIL DEBI@ALLIES-GROUP.COM

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A stunning £2m city centre venue is on the horizon!

ONCE COMP LE T E, SUNDE RLAND W I LL HAVE ADDE D A VIBRANT VE NU E TO I TS ARSE NAL - MAK I N G I T A WONDE RFUL AREA TO HOST MARKE TS , SU PPO RT LOCAL RE TAILE RS AN D E NCOURAG E P O P- U P F OOD STALLS. T H I N K OF IT AS A BUSY U RBAN ME T ROP OLIS T E AMI N G WIT H INDE P E NDEN T BUSINE SSE S!

Transformative plans for a spectacular hospitality and events venue have recently been submitted, as city planners take Sunderland’s offering to the next level… Here’s everything you need to know about the Sheepfolds project, as Sunderland rejuvenates its historical assets into world-class spaces… Visionary plans to breathe new life into the former Grade II Listed Stables at Sheepfolds have been revealed in a series of spectacular CGIs. A bold, collaborative projective between Building Design Northern and Sunderland City Council, Sheepfolds is set to be the latest gamechanging addition to Sunderland’s burgeoning hospitality scene. Just a stone’s throw away from the 4

Stadium of Light, plans to transform derelict industrial buildings into a spectacular new food, drink and leisure venue have been submitted as the city continues its monumental regeneration project. In addition to a selection of wonderful independent businesses, Sheepfolds will also be a forwardthinking space that is capable of

holding open-air music shows, pop-up events, markets and loads of vibrant daytime activities. The project to restore the building is being led by Building Design Northern (BDN). A Sunderland-based company, BDN are the same company behind the tasteful regeneration of the former Grade II Listed Simpson Street School in Deptford. The plans will go before the city council’s planning committee during the first half of 2022, and if planning permission is granted, work will start on the redevelopment of the space with the hope the project will be completed by 2023. For businesses interested in learning more about the retail and commercial spaces available at Sheepfolds, contact hello@bdn.com or call 0191 535 6189.

FRIDAY 5

JACK SAVORETTI + SPEcIAL GUEsTs

SATURDAY 6

+ SPEcIAL GUEsTs To Be AnnounCeD

SUnDAY 7

DEACON BLUE / i vA l c e t s e A ge F k TeRR n i R F in & DR D o o F

MowbRAy PARk, sunDeRlAnD lAmplIghtFeStIvAl.com

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My Delhi arrives in Sunderland! A colourful Indian eatery that has skyrocketed to become one of the region’s most-loved restaurants, My Delhi are soon to be opening a brand new restaurant in Sunderland as the city’s hospitality scene continues to flourish. We caught up with Gaurav Dayal and Elahi Shah Amin, My Delhi’s executive chef and managing director to find out more... Tell us a little about yourself? How did you get into hospitality and the restaurant scene? I qualified as an Indian chef after attending catering college before joining one of the most eminent hotel brands as a Kitchen Management Trainee. Having 6

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learned from the best Indian chefs in India, I came to the UK as a skilled chef in 2011 and worked my way to the top at various restaurants chains. How did your My Delhi journey begin? I was approached to join a new team that had the vision to take diners on a journey through the streets of Delhi. As a Delhiite myself, it was simply a no-brainer. I had the opportunity to *wow* diners with flavours and share tasting experiences with people from my time growing up in Delhi! Promotion to Executive Chef at My Delhi must have been a proud moment for you… It was indeed a proud moment for me! We have something special here at My Delhi and I’m proud to be a part of it. What we’ve achieved here at My Delhi has been unprecedented in the short space of time we’ve been open. I don’t see this as a job, it’s something I enjoy doing and am hugely passionate about! How has the region shaped your cuisine? We know people’s palettes have evolved and have become more accustomed to traditional Indian food. Our

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‘cauliflower Manchurian’ is a dish that is quite unheard of in the UK yet is hugely popular in Delhi is a super hit here as well. We don’t have ‘chicken tikka masala’ on our menu and that’s OK! People who visit us know that and want to try something completely unique and authentic. What makes a ‘My Delhi’ dish? Authenticity is what gives the dishes our stamp. We wanted to bring something unique to a market dominated by traditional curry houses and introduce diners to traditional Indian food that’s loved and enjoyed in Delhi and across India. We see ourselves as ambassadors of Delhi, representing the true flavours and recipes of our nation’s food! Your favourite dish that’s currently on the menu? Tough question! For a chef, this is like choosing his favourite child! If I were to choose one, it has to be the ‘butter chicken 1950s’. It’s creamy, buttery, tomatoey and most importantly, the chicken is roasted in the tandoor and cooked within an aromatic butter masala sauce. It’s the most popular dish on our menu and it’s one that is always recommended when you visit My Delhi.

T HE NORT H E AST HAS ALWAYS H AD TOP RE STAURANTS AND A DIVERSE F OOD SCE NE , SO F OR US, IT ’S JU ST G RE AT TO BE PART OF T HAT.

Any famous faces you’ve cooked for? We were honoured to welcome cricket legend Chris Gayle alongside the Sri Lankan cricket team which included Milinda Siriwardana, Jeevan Mendis and Dimuth Karunaratne! It’s not often I get to leave the kitchen, but this was one occasion I wasn’t missing out on! I was starstruck and to serve a cricketing icon is something I’ll never forget. My Delhi is hitting the headlines after a series of high-profile awards, tell us how it feels to be part of the team that’s bringing national success to the region? I’m lucky to be part of such a high calibre team that believes passionately in what My Delhi is all about. The North East has always had top restaurants and a diverse food scene, so for us, it’s just great to be part of that. We have diners coming to visit us from all over the country, including diners who have recently visited us from the U.S.! Which award means the most? To receive such awards are great honours. However, The Asian Curry Awards’ Best Street Food Restaurant is the most cherished for us. Winning the Best Street Food Restaurant award twice amongst some of the country’s great restaurants was a night to remember. It’s a real testament to our team’s hard work and I’m extremely proud of everyone for what we’ve accomplished.

You can get booked in with My Delhi Sunderland by following the link! mydelhistreetfood.com

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Sunderland Restaurant Week returns! 12 - 20 March The tastiest week of the year has returned in triumphant fashion, as Sunderland BID welcomes one of the region’s biggest food and drink celebrations back to the streets of Sunderland! ,Yes, Sunderland’s ever-popular Restaurant Week is returning, a fantastic opportunity to try out some of the new kids on the block or a good excuse to return to an 8

old favourite. The city’s food scene has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few years, which is great news for hungry foodies. With cuisines ranging from Mexican to Italian, from Chinese to Indian, from classic British gastro pubs to high street favourites – those hitting the city streets are really spoilt for choice. Sunderland Restaurant Week which runs from 12 – 20 March (yes, we know, slightly longer than a week in reality, but, is anyone complaining about that?) already has some

amazing venues signed up with more joining every day. Each restaurant, bar or pub across Sunderland will have deals at £5, £10 or £15. Think of it as your exclusive invitation to make that visit to a newly opened eatery or reacquaint yourself with a much-loved haunt. Restaurants in the mix so far include favourites such as Angelo’s Ristorante, Asiana and No2 Church Lane, along with Grannie Annie’s, Enfes and Port of Call. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then take

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advantage of the deal available at Hotel Chocolat at the Bridges, or why not order from the popular Sweet Petite which is participating for the first time. Seaburn Bay, which is fast gaining a reputation for its high-quality fish and chips, is also taking part as are city centre favourites 808 Bar & Kitchen, The Keel Lounge, The Old Vestry and Ttonic. Which means it doesn’t matter what your tastes are, there really is something to please everyone. The event, which is organised by Sunderland BID is now in its sixth year and is always one of the most popular weeks on the city calendar. “Sunderland Restaurant Week is always a brilliant experience and it puts a focus on the really exciting food scene we have in the city,” said Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID. “We have so many great places to eat and the event not only flags this up to people who live in Sunderland but also brings visitors from outside of the city to take advantage of the offers, which gives a huge boost to the local economy.”

FULL DETAILS O F A L L TH E PARTICIPATING R ESTAUR A NTS , THE OFFERS AND TH E VOUCHERS WH ICH NEED TO BE DOWNLOA D ED CAN BE ACCESSED AT SUNDERLANDBI D. CO.UK / RESTAURANT-W EEK

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Boosting Sunderland’s shopping scene

It could be a birthday, anniversary or simply just a thank you – how many of us have agonised about buying someone the right gift? Your taste might not be the same as that of the recipient, so there’s always that worry that you’ve picked something you’d adore but that actually it’s the polar opposite of what your friend/relative/ colleague would like. A recent survey carried out by Royal Mail highlighted that people really do like to receive gift cards. It gives shoppers the flexibility to choose something for themselves that they *really* want. And if you needed further proof, a second poll carried out by YouGov said that money or gift cards were the top present choice by adults. Giving money can often feel a little uncomfortable, a gift card is a perfect alternative – and by using the Sunderland Gift Card you also have the additional factor of knowing you are giving back to the local economy. Since it was launched more than a year ago, the Sunderland Gift Card has gone from strength to strength. Now there are more than 150 businesses signed up, from major retailers to beauty services, from florists to hotels, bars, restaurants, cinemas. In fact, pretty much

every kind of retail outlet you can think of. What also makes this a very attractive option is the numerous ways that it can be purchased. From buying a card online that would be sent out, the scheme, which is operated by Sunderland BID, now offers a digital E-card which means that it can land with the recipient almost immediately. That’s great news when you’re faced with the panic of a forgotten birthday or a last-minute thank you – it gets send out within minutes and can be added to Apple Pay or Google Pay and used to make contactless purchases. Of course, some people prefer to pick up their cards when they’re out and about, which is why the city now has several physical sales points where you can just buy in person. These sales points include Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens and National Glass Centre. More locations will be announced soon. The physical cards can be bought from the value of £5 upwards, with the minimum value of the E-cards £10.

F O R M O RE I NFO RM ATI O N O N HOW S U NDE RLA ND G I FT CARD WO RK S O R TO PU RC HASE O NLI NE , V I S I T S U NDE RLA NDGI FTCARD. C O M 9

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From Spark to Steve & Karen: Sunderland graduate bags top radio job When Liam Milburn listened to Steve and Karen while he got ready for school, little did he know that 20 years later, he would be part of one of the biggest breakfast shows in the North East. Sunderland Vibe caught up with Liam to find out more about his road to success… Through sheer hard work and determination, Liam has worked his way up from volunteering on community radio to helping wake up millions of listeners across the region every weekday morning - as the new Breakfast Show Producer at Metro Radio and TFM. The 25-year-old, who graduated from the University of Sunderland with a Radio, Audio and Podcasting MA in 2018, is responsible for the day-to-day running of the Steve and Karen Breakfast Show, which involves getting callers on-air, editing audio, facilitating competitions and developing new ideas. And Liam’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time, as this year Steve and Karen are celebrating the 21st anniversary of their iconic show. “I think I’ve been working with them just about long enough now to get over feeling 10

star-struck!” Liam, from Newcastle, said. “Steve and Karen have been on breakfast radio in the North East since I was four years old, so when I was getting ready for school and starting to develop a taste for music, it was their show which soundtracked those years and gave me a reason to get up bright and early. “They’re incredibly down to earth and just like anyone you’d meet in the North East. They’re so connected to the area and

IT ’S A RE ALLY UNIQUE SHOW W H I C H P ROUDLY WAVES T HE FLAG F O R T H E NORT H E AST AN D MAKE S T HE L I ST EN ERS T HE STAR, WH I C H I ABSOLUT E LY LOVE.

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always have been, it’s part of what’s made them so successful for so long. Apart from the fact they have a wealth of radio experience, they talk to the listener like they’re a mate. “It’s a really unique show which proudly waves the flag for the North East and makes the listeners the star, which I absolutely love.” Liam’s road to radio success began at the age of 14 when joined the University’s community station Spark on work experience. He enjoyed it so much, he returned to Sunderland four years later to study a Media Production degree before completing his MA. During his studies, Liam still made time to volunteer at Spark, producing and presenting several shows, and working his way up to Deputy Programming Manager. Liam said: “Being part of Spark has been massive in my development. “Working in an encouraging and collaborative environment with like-minded talented people really helped to push me on. “You have to go the extra mile to make sure things get done to a high standard, but it’s also a place to make mistakes, learn, experiment, and grow confidence and self-esteem.” Thanks to Spark’s links with the BBC at the time, Liam went on to present and produce shows for BBC Radio Newcastle, where he remained for the next three-and-a-half years before taking up his new role at Metro Radio and TFM. Two-thirds of the Steve and Karen Breakfast Show is now made up of Sunderland graduates – as Karen also studied at the University, graduating with a Media and Communications degree in 1998. Liam said: “The career opportunities at the University are second to none. “You just have to look across the radio industry and see how many Sunderland graduates have made it. “Having Spark on your CV can bump you up the list when it comes to radio jobs. It shows you’ve worked on an FM station, and you’ve developed skills at a really high level. “Put the work in and the possibilities are enormous.” Richard Berry, Senior Lecturer in Radio at the University of Sunderland and Station Manager at Spark, said: “Liam seemed to spend every waking hour making radio and working on our own station, Spark. Like other graduates now working in other

stations, he used that time to great effect and it’s wonderful to see it paying off with the move from the BBC to Metro Radio and TFM and one of the most established breakfast shows in the country. “Just like Steve and Karen, Liam is from the North East and knows what makes it tick. He used this to great effect in all his shows at Spark, where he showed a great sense of creative thinking and local knowledge. Local radio can really win over national because the presenters live and breathe their communities, and this is especially important in the morning. “Liam is a great producer and I wish him well in his amazing new job.” North East Regional Content Director at Bauer Media and Liam’s new boss,

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Chris Cotton, said: “It was clear when we met Liam, he already had a solid understanding of what makes a successful breakfast radio show. “His knowledge of Metro Radio and Steve and Karen’s show was evident from our first conversation. “We were particularly impressed with his appreciation of how powerful the ‘local’ attribute can be for a brand - when the team genuinely takes it to heart and delivers it with authenticity like Steve and Karen. “We’re very excited for Liam to join the team, we think the strong crafts skills and knowledge he already possesses will make him a great fit.”

T HE UNIVE RSIT Y OF SUNDE RLAND IS SUP P ORT IN G MADE AT UNI: CRE AT IVE SPARKS, A NAT IONAL CAMPAI G N TO SHOWCASE T HE CRE AT IVE TALE NT P RODUCE D BY UK UNIVE RSIT IE S AND E NCOURAG E T HE G OVE RNMEN T TO P ROMOT E AND SUP P ORT T HE IMP ORTANCE OF CRE AT IVIT Y AND CRE AT IVE COURSE S.

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city, so I’m looking forward to getting back and seeing new faces and different businesses. Luciano’s is still my favourite spot! That’s the one right there, I think I’ll be sat in there, at least two or three times on my tour! I like a wander down by the river and over to the beach too. Sometimes, we're guilty of not realising how amazing the North East is!

A natter with Jersey Boys star

Michael Pickering Lead actor and hometown star of the stage, Michael Pickering, chats exclusively to Sunderland Vibe as Jersey Boys arrives at Sunderland Empire... You’re playing Frankie Valli, the lead singer of The Four Seasons. What’s the process like preparing to play a real person? I think there’s a lot of similarities between me and Frankie Valli - so, that helped! Frankie is one of those guys who will put up with a lot until he breaks. He’s a strong character. And that’s a big part of the story in Jersey Boys. One of the great things about this production, that the directors love too, is that they don’t want caricatures, they want you to bring your spin to it. We are playing Frankie Valli or playing Bob Gaudio, but we are not doing an impression or a caricature. You’re spending two weeks in each city you visit on this tour, how do you keep yourself entertained in-between shows? I find a good coffee shop and I continue with my writing, I add strings to my bow. I play a lot of guitar, I have my country duo - One Trick Pony, with a young lady called Georgia Lennon, who is from Hartlepool. So, I focus on that. We’ve got a few big gigs on in between my performances, 12

so in my dressing room, I’ll be playing that gig over and over to make sure I get it right. I’m always grafting… the day I stop learning is the day I die! We hear rou’re a big sports fanatic and credit a lot of your success to practising Judo. Do you ever find the time to do anything like that now? Judo still plays a major role in my life. I think the physical confidence I gained helped me progress in the industry. For example, when I was learning to dance, I had no real inhibitions, there was no kind of ‘oh that might hurt’, because I’d thrown myself around my whole life thanks to Judo. Sometimes, that confidence filters through to my voice and my acting too. We all have our insecurities, but I think the confidence of Judo and the sense of respect you give your boss, your sensei and your teacher has stayed with me. Tell us some of your favourite spots to visit in Sunderland... My mam keeps telling me there's a lot of great new businesses opening up in the

What can fans expect when Jersey Boys arrives at Sunderland Empire? You should expect an incredible story and an incredible production teeming with incredible music! It's one of the only shows out there that the wife can bring her husband who says he hates musicals, and he will leave singing the songs saying ‘when are we going to the next musical?’. I’ve heard that story so many times! Jersey Boys is a wonderful production that has the power to change people’s perceptions of what musical theatre is. It’s an absolute joy to be a part of!

CATCH J E RSE Y BOYS AT SUNDE RLA N D E MP IRE FROM T UE SDAY 22 MARC H 2022.

Competition

WIN two tickets to Jersey Boys with Sunderland Vibe! SUNDERLAND VIBE IS GIVING YOU THE CHANCE TO WIN TWO TICKETS FOR THE OPENING NIGHT OF JERSEY BOYS ON TUESDAY 22 MARCH 2022! For a chance to win: Like @SunderlandVibe AND @ SunderlandEmpire on Facebook Tag the lucky person you’d take on Sunderland Vibe’s competition post on Facebook Share Sunderland Vibe’s Facebook post The prize draw closes at noon on 21 March 2022 and winners will be picked at random! Good luck! Terms and conditions: Sunderland Vibe’s prize is for two people to attend Jersey Boys on Tuesday 22 March 2022. No monetary value will be given, and tickets are non-transferable to another performance.

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LUXURY treehouses Taking luxury to new heights

New A-Frame Treehouses are now available to book at Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa, complete with private hot tub and sauna - the ultimate in Treehouse luxury.

E a c h A - F r a m e T r e e ho u s e i n c l u d e s : First floor master bedroom with 7ft Hypnos bed & large flat screen TV Ground Floor luxury pull-down 5ft bed Master en-suite with free-standing copper bath & walk-in rainfall shower Ground floor bathroom with rainfall shower Ground floor decadent lounge with large flat-screen TV Pet friendly, perfect for families Private sauna & hot tub on the decking

Kitchen with American style fridge/freezer, microwave, toaster & kettle Private decked outdoor area Shuttle service to and from the hotel Tulipalo fire in the lounge Swimming pool & gym access (full access upgrades available to purchase) Discounted rates on our two Championship golf courses

We have 8 luxury Treehouses, with our new A-Frame styles available to book now at www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk 0191 386 5282

Ramside Hall Hotel Golf & Spa Carrville Durham DH1 1TD

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Celebrating our shopping scene!

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With spring beginning to blossom across the city, a new season is on the horizon at the Bridges shopping centre.

And for our spring edition, it feels like the right time to check in on the place that defines Sunderland’s key shopping scene. Here’s all you need to know about the new additions and the latest high-street finds arriving at the buzzy metropolis this spring… Home to big-name brands and fresh inspiration, the Bridges is a major player when it comes to shopping in style - be it for a family day out at the weekend, a lunch break pit-stop or a shop-’til-you-drop mission!

What’s New?

Ann Summers If you haven’t already done so, make sure you check out the sparkling new Ann Summers store! A huge high-street favourite, Ann Summers has returned to Sunderland with a wonderful store nestled between the O2 unit and Great Reads. Here, you can shop a dazzling array of lingerie items, adult products and they’ve even got a bra fitting service! A must visit on your spring shopping agenda! 14

The Fashion Bible

As ever, the Bridges continues to welcome an eclectic mix of big-name favourites and smaller independents, and their latest arrival, The Fashion Bible, is a wonderful example of this! Having risen to prominence selling stylish and affordable clothing across the globe, The Fashion Bible has opened a forward-thinking fashion boutique offering customers a fabulous selection of celebrity-inspired looks. Founder and local lass, Lisa Fox set up The Fashion Bible online ten years ago, with just an initial £90 investment and since opening in late 2021, the store has skyrocketed to become the go-to place for those looking for inspiring styles and a huge of range to choose from. Well worth checking out next time you’re out!

Get involved with the Bridges gift card! Whether you’re shopping for an important birthday, looking for a show-stopping piece or want to treat Mam to something nice with Mother’s Day just around the corner, the Bridges Gift Card has all your shopping needs covered. Available to spend at high street favourites such as Lush, Pandora, H&M, Waterstones and JD, the Bridges Gift Card is the perfect way to show someone special just how much you appreciate them by gifting them a shopping spree on you! Purchasing the Bridges Gift Card couldn’t be easier; with options to buy it either online, at the Customer Service Desk or via Click and Collect – making it an excellent choice for those last-minute shoppers. And, as well as having 12 months to purchase something delightful, the Bridges Gift Card allows you to keep spending at multiple shops until the balance runs out - meaning you can even pick up a whole outfit in one shopping trip! The possibilities are endless!

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Brighten your wardrobe Say goodbye to chunky winter coats and reunite with warmer fashion pieces this spring. From floaty dresses, colourful knits and bold colours, there’s plenty of colourful clobber to peruse at the Bridges…

H&M Women’s Purple Dress

River Island Boy’s Knit Two Piece

Women’s Patterned Blouse

Next Floral Dress and Chunky Boots

Clarks Mens White Lace Ups

Primark Tie Dye Top and 90s Jea ns

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Spring into action As first hints of spring arrive, our thoughts turn to warmer weather and the opportunity to become more active, whatever your ability. That doesn’t have to mean running a marathon (although well done if you do!) in fact, regular, gentle exercise including walking, swimming or yoga help us to lead healthier and happier lives. And the benefits go far beyond a healthy body - regular exercise also helps to maintain positive mental health, as regular activity is proven to relieve stress, improve sleep and boost our overall mood. The good news is, there’s lots going on across the city to help you stay fit and active. No matter your age or fitness level - from major sporting events to local community health programmes - there’s something for everyone to get involved in… here’s just a flavour..

Building a healthy future This February Sunderland City Council became the first local authority in the 16

North East to sign the Healthy Weight Declaration, underlining its commitment to supporting residents to live full and healthy lives. It means health will always be front of mind, whether when planning new buildings, roads or parks or organising events and activities.

Getting active in your community.. In a bid to help everyone get more active, Sunderland City Council is supporting a number of community groups to provide a range of activities including; 'Come On Coalfields: Let’s Get Healthy' This programme is run by Active Families North East - in partnership with Easington Lane Community Access Point (ELCAP), Community Opportunities and The Positive Living Company North East

- and offers a range of healthy eating and exercise activities to support Coalfield families. Amy Swan, Creative Director at Active Families North East, said: “Following lockdown, we have all come to realise the importance of physical activity and the need for local communities to come together. We believe there shouldn’t be any barriers to exercise or wanting to participate in being active. By working closely with the Coalfields community we are encouraging families to be healthier and get active together.” TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT WWW.ACTIVEFAMILIESNE.CO.UK

'Moving Out of Lockdown' The programme - run in partnership with Sunderland People First and Media Savvy - offers residents free Health & Wellbeing sessions every Thursday from 10.30am at City Space,

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TH E BENEF ITS GO FA R BEYOND A H EA LTH Y BODY - REGUL A R EXERCISE A L S O H EL PS TO MAINTA IN PO S ITIV E M ENTAL H EA LTH , AS REGULAR ACTIV ITY IS PROVEN TO R EL IEV E STRESS, IM PR OV E SLEEP AN D B O O ST OUR OVER A L L M O O D.

Sunderland. The fun sessions are inclusive of everyone’s needs and abilities and include activities from indoor cricket to football and boxing. Simon Burdus, Operations Manager at Media Savvy CIC, said: “We always welcome new people and participants are very welcome to come along and watch the sessions before deciding if they would like to take part. We have lunch together which gives people an opportunity to meet new people, develop confidence and hopefully enjoy the banter.” To get involved simply email rob@mediasavvycic.co.uk or andrew@sunderlandpeoplefirst.com to reserve a space. The sessions run until May.

Try a tri Over the weekend of 20 & 21 August, Sunderland’s seafront will host the 2022 British Triathlon Grand Final which will see the best of British athletes go head-to-head. The city is also earmarked to host the world’s best triathletes during a leg of the prestigious 2023 World Triathlon Championship Series which sees the world’s best travel to iconic cities around the world.

Swim / Bike / Run As part of Sunderland City Council‘s drive to help residents keep active and healthy this year will see a whole host of activities for residents getting involved in swimming, cycling and running. Everyone of all ages and abilities can participate in various activities - it’s all about getting involved and making the most of the city’s green spaces and wonderful coastline. As part of the programme of events the city is set to host not just one but three major sporting events to inspire people to try something new to be active and promote the positive physical and mental impact of sport.

Pedal to the metal Following an unforgettable day of elite cycling in 2021, on Tuesday 10 May the Tour Series will return to Sunderland once again. Britain’s leading men’s and women’s teams will battle it out for glory around the city centre as part of the UK’s most prestigious domestic cycling series.

More ways to stay fit and healthy: Sunderland Weight Management Programme A free 12-week programme including group support, healthy eating tips and physical activity plans. Eligibility criteria applies. For more information see sunderland.gov.uk/ weightmanagement

Change4Life Sunderland Healthy lifestyle sessions for young people (0–18) and their families.

Step Up Sunderland App Download the free App to track your steps.

Walking Programme On your bike On Tuesday 6 September, Sunderland will host the finish of stage three of the UK’s most prestigious cycle race, the Tour of Britain. Over 100 of the world’s best riders will compete in the 18th edition of the modern race which is visiting the city for the very first time. TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT MYSUNDERLAND.CO.UK

Including nordic walking, nature trails, and heritage and sculpture trails.

Aqua Bumps Programme Free and a great way to keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy. To find out more visit, sunderland.gov.uk/activesunderland or see Change4life Sunderland on Facebook

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Tour Series 10 May

A huge year of world-class events

We’re looking ahead to some of summer’s game-changing events and spectacular celebrations heading to Sunderland in 2022…

Experience an unforgettable day of community events and elite cycle racing as the Tour Series, one of Britain's most prestigious domestic cycling series returns to Mowbray Park this May. Watch on as Britain’s leading athletes battle it out for glory around the roads of Mowbray Park on Tuesday 10 May, as part of the UK’s most prestigious televised domestic cycling series. An evening of top quality sporting action and family-friendly activities is guaranteed, with the Tour Series’ return to Sunderland forming part of another year of top-class events in the city. Nice!

Scrantastic Food Festival 28 - 29 May

Active Sunderland Easter Family Fun 14 April It’s back! An egg-stra special family day out is on the horizon, as tons of kids activities including walks, cycling, running challenges, family games and the ever-popular Easter egg roll activities land in Sunderland for an Easter party like no other. Keep an eye out on our social media channels for more information as it arrives - @SunderlandVibe

2022 Sunderland City Runs 7 - 8 May All eyes are on the 2022 Sunderland City Runs, as Wearside welcomes in a raft of major sporting attractions to the city this summer! With 5,000 runners expected and thousands more cheering on from the side, expect a huge turnout as exuberant fitness fanatics descend on the city to enjoy one of the biggest sporting events of the year. From Events of the North’s 5K, 10K and half marathon, to Active Sunderland’s familyfriendly 3K run, there is something for everyone to get involved in this summer! Entries are now open. sunderlandcity10k.com

One of the city’s tastiest events is back next year, and it won’t be long before a wonderful family food festival teeming with delicious produce arrives in the city. Taking place at the Broadway and Rectory Park in Houghton-le-Spring, look forward to a dazzling array of market traders, exciting cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs and tons of delicious street food in a dazzling celebration of food. This year's festival promises to be one of the best yet!

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Weekend 2-5 June We can’t wait to see the city streets transformed this summer, as Sunderland comes together to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Weekend in spectacular fashion. With tons of city centre celebrations planned and a monumental bank holiday gig from Ed Sheeran at the Stadium of Light to look forward to, you can be certain that summer 2022 is going to be huge!

WE ARE HIRING We are always looking out for talented people to join our award winning agency. With a growing range of exciting clients, we like to work with the best of the best and in order to do that, we ensure our team contains the best of the best.

OUR CURRENT VACANCIES • DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER • MID WEIGHT GRAPHIC DESIGNER • UX DESIGNER • FRONT END WEB DEVELOPER • SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER If you would like to learn more about this role then please email guy@allies-group.com, visit allies-group.com or call 0191 500 7900 for a chat and to learn more about our exciting opportunities.

ALLIES-GROUP.COM

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Sunderland Food & Drink Festival 10 - 12 June

Active Sunderland BIG Walk 26 June Sunderland City Council’s beloved family event is returning this year and it's one that we cannot wait to get involved with! Active Sunderland BIG Walk is striding into action this June as organisers have announced that three scenic routes complete with incredible views and lush wildlife will be available for participants to choose from. Whether you’re after a family-friendly 3-mile walk around Herrington Country Park or keen on venturing further afield with either a 7 or 11-mile hike across the city, the BIG Walk 2022 promises to be a jam-packed adventure in the sun and we cannot wait!

Active Sunderland BIG Bike Ride 24 July Time to saddle up and hop on your trusty two-wheel steed this July and join other Mackems on a mega bike ride across Sunderland! Starting from St Peter’s Riverside, Active Sunderland’s BIG Bike Ride will see you and your loved ones cycle through a mixture of woodland, urban and rural landscapes before heading back for a euphoric finish line. The Family Bike Ride will be a mega family affair that will see a mix of bike demonstrations, a led cycle along the River Wear as well as tons of fun and games. 20

Sunderland’s Food & Drink Festival is back in action this June and this wonderful city-wide culinary bash is shaping up to be one for the ages! Expect food challenges for the whole family to get involved in and a showcase of some of the finest restaurants and food retailers that the city has to offer.

Music in Mowbray 4 August

British Triathlon Grand Final 20 - 21 August

Ey up! There’s a brand new, inner-city music festival to look forward to this year! Taking place on August 4th at Mowbray Park, join X Factor star Joe McElderry for an all-new family-friendly affair celebrating classical music. It’ll be a mega affair in the city, packed full of sublime live entertainment featuring The Voice UK finalists duo, Belle Voci and Faith Tucker, who will be serenading audiences all evening long. Slap 4 August in your social diaries and get set for a mega Music in Mowbray!

Watch the best British triathletes go head to head in a high-octane weekend of racing as the British Triathlon Grand Final races into Sunderland for the first time. Serving up some serious city centre thrills, gather your tribe, find a spot along the route and cheer on the competitors as we enjoy another spectacular sporting event in Sunderland. Don't miss it this August.

Lamplight Festival 5 - 7 August

Woah! Sunderland will play a starring role when the Tour of Britain, the UK’s most prestigious cycle race, races up North for the first time in 2022! Sunderland is all set to host the finish of stage three on Tuesday 6 September, as the eight-day event works its way down from Aberdeenshire to the Isle of Wight. Gather your gang, head into the city and watch on as over 100 of the world’s best riders compete in this unforgettable, free-towatch spectacle.

It’s happening! Sunderland’s inaugural Lamplight Festival will transform the city centre into an urban oasis of world-class music this summer, as international headliners Jack Savoretti, Kaiser Chiefs and Deacon Blue all take to the stage for the ultimate summer blowout. For the phenomenal full lineup and to buy tickets visit, www.lamplightfestival.co.uk.

Tour of Britain 6 September

AND T HAT ’S JUST A GLIMPSE OF WHAT’ S TO COME IN 2022! F OR MORE INFORMAT ION ON BRE AKING NE WS, EXC I T I N G DE VE LOP ME NTS AND MA J OR E VE NTS ARRIVING I N SUNDE RLAND, VISIT SUNDE RLANDVIBE .COM AND MYSUNDE RLAND.CO.UK

As you get out and about more, having all your jabs is the best protection against Covid.

Find out more at

BeatCovidNE.co.uk

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Exclusive insight into the businesses, people and places driving Sunderland forward…

Seaburn’s historic bay shelter set to become a high-end restaurant Two restaurateurs tasked with transforming a much-loved North East heritage site have spoken of their excitement at the once in a lifetime opportunity! Ben Wall and Neil Bassett have officially been handed the keys to the historic Bay Shelter on Seaburn’s Lower Promenade, as they look to bring a ‘high-end’ seafood restaurant to the city. The duo, who are also partners in Sunderland’s Mexico 70, The Little Shop and The Ship Isis, applied to take over the shelter last year and – following a competitive tender process – were chosen by Sunderland City Council to breathe new life into the historic site. Serving up an array of seafood dishes inspired by cuisines across the globe, the menu will be made up of small and seasonal plates comprising sustainable, locally sourced produce that can be washed down with a range of natural wines and craft beers.

World-class education facility planned for Riverside Sunderland Ey up! Planning application for a world-class training facility that will provide ‘next generation skills for next-generation homes’ has been submitted this week. A collaborative project between Sunderland City Council, Sunderland College and the Ministry of Building Innovation and Education (MOBIE), HICSA is a groundbreaking development that will create an ultra-modern facility to educate, train and upskill local people to create innovative factory-built new homes. Positioning Sunderland as a driving force behind net-zero homes, the £15m facility has been backed by Sunderland born TV architect, George Clarke and his organisation, MOBIE.

Sunderland AFC’s 1973 FA cup-winning team receive freedom of the City Haway the lads! Sunderland’s heroic 1973 FA Cup-clinching squad will forever be immortalised, as players and squad members received Freedom of the City in a recent celebration. A Division Two side at the time. SAFC overcame the odds to dethrone current FA Cup holders and Division One giants, Leeds United, in a 1-0 victory in front of a 100,000 strong Wembley crowd. Other freedoms of Sunderland include the late John Hays, founder of Hays Travel; Nissan’s chief performance officer Trevor Mann; Niall Quinn MBE, Bob Stokoe, Jimmy Montgomery and Joël Batteux the Mayor of Sunderland’s twin-town St Nazaire.

@SunderlandVibe

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@SunderlandVibe

University of Sunderland open new multi-million pound Cadaveric centre More fabulous news emanating from the city centre! More than a year in the making, the University of Sunderland’s multi-million-pound Cadaveric centre has officially opened. Situated on City Campus, the Cadaveric centre further enhances the facilities at Sunderland’s School of Medicine and will provide a great future for the teaching of anatomy. As well as providing vital training for other students within the Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, the centre will also benefit many of the region’s current surgeons and surgical trainees, providing vital facilities. One of the key features of the facility is the range of dedicated, state-of-the-art learning environments for staff and students. The facility will primarily be used to help students improve their depth perception, spatial orientation and visualization of body structures below the skin.

Plans for a game-changing £80m arena development in Sunderland unveiled Sunderland city centre is set for a showstopping addition, with early plans for a large-scale arena and events space revealed for Riverside Sunderland. Sunderland City Council has set out a game-changing vision for the site of the former Crowtree Leisure Centre, with plans for a massive leisure investment anchored by a new 10,000-capacity, multi-purpose arena, that will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city every year. As well as this large indoor arena, the multi-use leisure development will also feature a food hall, restaurants, a hotel and studio space.

Seaburn tram shelter to be transformed into delicatessen A new chapter awaits for Seaburn Tram Shelter, as it’s been confirmed that Blacks Corner has been named as the tenant for a brand new delicatessen and cafe. One of three historic buildings being revamped as part of an £850,000 investment, will be transformed into a new delicatessen. The listed building application on Seaburn Tram Shelter has been approved and work to create a delicatessen, an accessible WC, kitchen and servery counter of cheese and charcuterie will soon begin. A wonderful project that brings a local heritage asset into the future through a sympathetic restoration, Seaburn Tram Shelter is set to become a fabulous focal point for local residents and visitors to the city.

MORE T HAN A Y EAR IN T HE MAKIN G , T HE UNIVE RSI T Y O F SUNDE RLAND’ S MU LT I MILLION-P OUN D CADAVE RIC CEN T RE H AS OFFICIALLY OP EN ED.

Stack Seaburn celebrates strong start in Sunderland What a fabulous addition Stack Seaburn has been to Sunderland’s offering. Despite opening during the pandemic, Stack Seaburn has become a huge hit that stitches together an eclectic mix of street food businesses, lifestyle enterprises and entertainment hubs. Furthermore, more than 700,000 people passed through Stack in a tumultuous year affected by you know who. A standout moment arrived in May, as Netflix transformed the venue into a post-apocalyptic Las Vegas scene to celebrate the then-new $90m Zack Snyder film, Army of the Dead. We’re buzzing to see what 2022 has in store! 23

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New courses for adults at Sunderland College Sunderland College has launched a wide range of courses to help adults achieve their life and career goals in 2022! From full and part-time courses to short courses, higher education programmes and free distance learning, there is an exciting choice of courses especially for adults to realise their potential, achieve their career goals or fulfil a lifelong ambition. With a supportive, welcoming and inclusive environment across its campuses, it has never been easier to get back into education and, with flexible options, studies can even fit around lifestyle, family or work commitments. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed about studying again as an adult but lifelong learning can support you in taking control of your future and becoming empowered. Whether adults are looking to learn a new skill, keep their mind active, progress their careers or choose a new direction, there are so many benefits such as improving mental wellbeing, developing selfconfidence, increasing earning potential and developing a support network. With a motivation to succeed and a wealth of knowledge and experience, adult learners are one step ahead!

Judith Quinn, Vice Principal of Curriculum and Achievement, said: “Our range of adult courses are designed to meet the demands of our learners’ work and lifestyle commitments, an ever-changing employment landscape, and improve their family’s health and wellbeing in times of uncertainty. “Many of our courses are free and are available online or as flexible learning, and whichever programme adults choose, there will be a range of resources, tutorials and one-to-one support available to help them along the way.” Essential digital skills for everyday life are a highlight of the new offer for adults, helping them to get to grips with an increasingly digitally focused world. Courses to support families and children’s mental health and wellbeing are also available, as are hobby courses for adults who would like to find a new interest, develop an existing one, or just meet new friends. The college’s Access to Higher Education courses are a great option for those who want to begin a new career, progress for university but don’t have the required grades, or who have been out of formal

education for a while. For adults looking to gain a university level qualification but stay close to home, HNC, HND, foundation degree and degree top-up courses offer full and part-time study, using a blended approach, to combine the benefits of classroom-based and online learning. People looking to make the most of their free time or expand their horizons without needing to come onto campus can take advantage of a wide range of free distance learning courses.

“ MANY OF OU R C O U RSES ARE F RE E AND ARE AVAILABLE ON L I N E O R AS FLE XIBLE LE ARN I N G , AN D WHICHE VE R PRO G RAMME ADULTS CHOOSE, T H ERE WILL BE A RAN G E O F RE SOURCE S, TU TO RI ALS AND ONE -TO-O N E SU PPO RT AVAILABLE TO H ELP T H EM ALONG T HE WAY.”

Take your next step Are you looking for a new direction, to develop your skills or advance your career? Sunderland College offer a range of full-time, part-time and distance learning courses designed specifically for adults. Learn from expert staff in an inclusive learning environment. Together we can help you achieve your future ambitions.

Choose from our wide range of adult courses: University Level Qualifications Professional Qualifications Apprenticeships Access to Higher Education

Come along to one of our Open Events

Skills & Qualifications Employability Courses Maths & English ESOL Distance Learning Hobby Courses

Book now!

sunderlandcollege.ac.uk

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Culture is calling! From awe-inspiring art exhibitions, thrilling theatre productions and searingly-hot music performances, Sunderland Culture have a world-class culture programme to dive into this spring…

Credit: Von Fox

National Glass Centre

The Fire Station

Bringing together ground-breaking contemporary artists, with some of the most highly skilled glass makers in the country, Glass Exchange presents four ambitious new art works across the North East, in sites ranging from Durham Cathedral to a disused shop in Sunderland Centre. Over the past 24 months, artists Pascale Marthine Tayou, Katie Paterson, Monster Chetwynd and Ryan Gander have been working with specialist teams at National Glass Centre to realise their ideas. This fascinating process of artistic and technical exchange is documented in a brand-new exhibition at National Glass Centre. Glass Exchange is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, with additional funding from Art Fund, Henry Moore Foundation and the Coastal Communities Fund, and with thanks to the University of Sunderland.

Whether you’re an indie rock champion, adventurous jazzer, theatre devotee, standup fan or just after a great night out, there’s something for everyone at The Fire Station this spring. Check out Firestarters, their red-hot opening season running up until June 2022 – highlights include: former Maccabees frontman Orlando Weeks, star of Live at the Apollo Gary Delaney, awardwinning folk songwriter Rowan Rheingans, a musical puppet-filled adventure for the kids The Smartest Giant in Town, Speakeasy - a devilish piece by awardwinning choreographer Robby Graham (Southpaw Dance Company), the radical circus performance company Extraordinary Bodies and many more.

NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM

THEFIRESTATION.ORG.UK

Throughout spring

Glass Exchange From 26 March

Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art

Vinca Petersen: Make Social Honey – A Collective Search for JOY Until 2 May Make Social Honey presents new and existing work by internationally renowned photographer, installation, multimedia and performance artist Vinca Petersen. Her work emerges from a deep understanding and commitment to social and political engagement with underrepresented communities in order to give them a voice and recognition. The exhibition asks us to consider where can JOY be found, is JOY a subversive act within our capitalist society, and how can we come together again after a long period of restrictions and social isolation. This project is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. NORTHERNGALLERYFORCONTEMPORARYART.ORG.UK

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At A Glance:

Arts Centre Washington Drama, live music, film and an exhibition from young local artists help make up a busy spring programme at Arts Centre Washington. Theatre highlights start with These Hills are Ours, a play written and performed by Chumbawamba founder Boff Whalley and award-winning Dan Bye. The pair decide to run a series of routes from the centre of a city to a peak overlooking

the city. In story and in song, this is the story of what they found - about the relationship between city and country, between wild and controlled, about land ownership, about why we’re drawn to wild places – and about what we’re really running from. These Hills are Ours is at Arts Centre Washington on Thursday, March 3. Later the same month, Rebecca Vaughan brings her one-woman show I, Elizabeth, to the venue. Using only Elizabeth's own letters, speeches and writings, Rebecca continues her successful collaboration with director Guy Masterson (Austen's Women, the Unremarkable Death of Marilyn and The Time Machine), exploring the Queen's struggle to reconcile the desires of womanhood with the duties of sovereignty. I, Elizabeth takes to the Arts Centre Washington stage on Thursday, March 17. With original songs from Maximo Park’s Paul Smith, Luca Rutherford’s Hold On, Let Go arrives at Arts Centre Washington on Thursday May 5. This Unfolding Theatre production is a personal, poignant meditation on the gaps in our memories and what it is that we want to pass on to

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future generations. Shows for all the family include Benjamin Storey’s epic adventure The Boy and The Sea Horse (Thursday, April 14); Hedge, a show combining immersive dance theatre, beautiful costumes and puppetry to tell the tale of a hedgehog waking up from hibernation (Saturday, June 25) and The Secret Garden, a story told in word and song about the mystery behind a secret garden on Wednesday June 15. ARTSCENTREWASHINGTON.CO.UK

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences 9 April – 5 June 2022 Grayson Perry’s series of large colourful tapestries depicting the life of fictional Sunderland born character Tim Rakewell returns to the city for the tenth anniversary of the work. Follow Tim’s story through the British class system from working-class roots through to computer software millionaire. Produced alongside the television series All in the Best Possible Taste the tapestries document a variety of British tastes and lifestyles. Britishness is also the focus of Perry’s monumental tapestry ‘Comfort Blanket’, shown in the North East for the first time and described by the artist as ‘A portrait of Britain to wrap yourself up in, a giant banknote; things we love, and love to hate.’ Free tickets are available from Monday 7 March at SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK

Pyrex100 & Joblings Art Glass From 19 March – 27 August This year marks 100 years since Pyrex was made in Sunderland. At the Museum there will be three displays celebrating glass; beginning with Jobling’s art glass. Pyrex100 opens by highlighting the art glass Jobling’s Wear Glass Works made in the 1930s. The range was an experiment by the firm at a time when their highly lucrative licence to produce Pyrex was under review. Designers were recruited from France to produce modern glass in up-to-date colours. The range was only made for a few years. Although not a profitable line in its time, Jobling’s art glass is now popular with collectors today. SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK

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Vibe loves local

and extremely knowledgeable Experts in Residence, all of which, have a great understanding of smaller businesses and the challenges they face on a daily basis. To speak with someone who’s walked in our shoes is invaluable to a company like us. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending aspiring new start-ups based in and around the Sunderland area to get involved. I know that Sunderland Libraries Services provides access to BIPC sources and can also be found within the Local History Library @ETR, Washington Library and Houghton Library. It’s great news for our city!

Any notable improvements following your time with the BIPC?

As Sunderland’s business community continues to flourish, the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) North East are helping local businesses, wherever they are on their company venture, by providing them access to free information resources and advice. A fabulous initiative that’s changing the lives of business owners across the region, the BIPC North East recently launched six, brand new BIPC Local centres including Local History Library @ETR and local businesses, such as Carole Loader, are already feeling the benefits. We caught up with Carole Loader, Co-founder and Director of Mesma, to find out more...

Give us an insight into Mesma. What do you supply and who do you typically work with?

Mesma helps organisations to build world class quality assurance systems that have a direct and positive impact on their success. Working with education, employability and regulatory organisations, our aim is to ensure they can focus their attention on doing what has the most impact on learners and customers. We achieve this with our specialist quality assurance software platform. Mesma is for leaders whose quality assurance requirements depend on them and their people having access to up-to-date information about their provision or services they can be confident in – quickly, and accurately – in whatever way and at whatever times work best for them. That way, they can move on to doing what matters most, for the people who matter most to them.

Any standout moments during your time with Mesma?

There have been so many since the beginning of our business. Collaborating with global names and The Department for Education are just some of our big achievements over the years.

Give us an insight as to how the BIPC supported you?

I can’t speak highly enough of the BIPC, the team there and the free information support services that are on offer. Our journey with BIPC began around 12 months ago, having been made aware of the type of service they offer. It’s fabulous to see that there is now a BIPC Local Centre located in Sunderland. They have a far-reaching network of more than 30+ super friendly 28

We worked alongside BIPC’s Corporate Law & Intellectual Property Expert, Matt McCormack of Ward Hadaway, to complete a detailed review of our contractual paperwork. Following this, Mesma feels incredibly secure that our offering is fit for purpose - all thanks to the BIPC. We originally sought advice to undertake a detailed review of our contractual arrangements and from there, the BIPC guided us in the right direction and helped us to make major improvements to our terms and conditions. This has enabled us to focus on protecting our intellectual property and helped us to thoroughly scrutinize our trademark.

What do you think of this support being made readily available in your local area?

The BIPC is an invaluable resource for businesses located in and around Sunderland. A wonderful service provided by a dedicated team of experts, the service enables small businesses to access the right service and collaborate with trusted BIPC partners on a wealth of topics. The BIPC help us to access services that are not available in-house. It’s a wonderful, free source of information and invaluable help for small businesses anywhere in the North East.

How do I get involved?

For those who are looking to start, grow and develop their business in Sunderland, the BIPC have an array of free and accessible online & offline resources enabling both new & existing businesses to grow from strength to strength. Visit their centres or drop them a line to find out more bipcnortheast.co.uk 0191 561 8439

Get involved with free events!

BIPC North East have teamed up with North East Business Innovation Centre (BIC) alongside PR & Social Media Expert Jodie Balmer and professional training and consultancy company 50:50 Future to offer practical, jargon-free recruitment workshops for Sunderland businesses in need of advice around recruitment and how to attract the best candidates. These workshops run on Friday 4th March and Friday 11th March and can be booked in advance by visiting the following link: bipcnortheast.co.uk/events

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The Lindisfarne Gospels 17 September – 3 December 2022 See the spectacular Anglo-Saxon manuscript and explore what it means in today’s world Tickets released 10am, 20 March

Laingartgallery.org.uk Headline sponsor:

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Sunderland Vibe - Spring 2022

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