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WI N T ER 2 0 21
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It’s that time of year again when the irrepressible sparkle of Christmas beckons, and we reflect on the year just gone and look ahead to what’s to come. It’s fair to say 2021 has been another tumultuous year, but thanks to the stoicism and ingenuity of the people, communities and businesses in Sunderland, the city is bouncing back with speed and purpose. And we have so much to look forward to. In this issue read about exciting new developments across the city, our wonderful restaurants, College and University facilities and Sunderland’s quality shopping offer. We share exciting news about The Fire Station - our stunning new £18m state-of-theart auditorium which opens its doors on December 10, with a red-hot programme of music, theatre, comedy and dance to suit all tastes. With packed programmes at National Glass Centre, Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, and Arts Centre Washington, the welcome return of Panto at Sunderland Empire, live music returning to the Stadium of Light, Independent and The Peacock, and the eagerly anticipated opening of Pop Recs on High Street West, the doors of the city’s wonderful cultural venues are well and truly open at last. And we can’t wait to welcome you all in! Here’s to 2022!
4 Spent Grain
The lowdown on a vibrant restuarant
6 A cultured Christmas
Festive affairs at Sunderland Culture
8 Panto season is here
10 Summer at the stadium
A blistering music programme is heading to SR1
22 University of Sunderland
Exclusive insight into new £1.4m facilities
16 The Engine Room opens
Publisher Christopher March chris@allies-group.com Editorial Matthew Thomas matthew@allies-group.com Advertising Rebecca Jackson rebecca@allies-group.com Design studio@allies-group.com All contents copyright ©2021 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, November 2021. ISSN 2633-4518
A celebration of game-changing developments for Wearside
The iconic Su Pollard chats with Vibe
Helen Connify Head of Marketing and Communications Sunderland Culture
Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0SR Allies-group.com
20 Sunderland Means Business
Sunderland's £18m cultural venue is here
18 Pop Recs 2 is here
The lowdown on SR1's new award-winning culture hub
27 Vibe Vault
We revisit stunning images of Palmer's Arcade
30 Plan Ahead
Unmissable events arriving in Sunderland
#SunderlandVibe TO ADVERTISE CALL 0191 500 7865 OR EMAIL REBECCA@ALLIES-GROUP.COM
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Community cuisine Tucked away on St John Street Sunniside, Spent Grain is a sleek, contemporary restaurant serving up modern bistro dishes that prides itself on local neighbourhood vibes. Matthew Thomas spent an afternoon with owner Michael Jameson to find out more… Sunderland is undergoing a radical transformation. It’s clear to see that our business sector is booming, a gamechanging £18m culture venue has opened and a raft of independent businesses have joined Sunderland’s ever-expanding pool of local ventures. One of the busiest spots for soaring activity in recent months has been at St John Street. What was an abandoned unit left derelict for some time, local lad and kitchen maestro, Michael Jameson, is on a culinary crusade to expand Sunderland’s hospitality offering through a new venture with business partner, Julie Gibson.
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Having already found success on Wearside with The Urban Terrace Kitchen Deli in Pallion, Michael has opened Spent Grain with a completely overhauled offering that has already proved to be a major hit in Sunderland. So much so, he’s opened a second site named The Pickled Radish. Spent Grain is the place for small plates, off-the-cuff specials and hearty mains that offer a delicious mix of flavours and locallysourced produce unlike anywhere else in the city. Michael and the team have made their mark on this unit. It's an enticing, intimate and airy space without that sense you're sitting on top of fellow diners, with a vibrant finish that makes for a cosy affair. The skylight above the bar is a standout feature and amplifies the space beautifully. With access to some of the finest produce around, the food here is top-notch. Delectable nibbles include beef tacos with chipotle mayonnaise, ham hock terrine and a delightfully-refreshing spinach and goat’s cheese frittata. An incredibly moreish bite. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or cocktail specialist, you'll love it at Spent Grain as both are vitally important to their offering. Coffee beans come directly from
Fika Coffee in County Durham and a rich flat white makes it oh-so-easy to while away the hours here, whereas stronger sips such as the espresso martini is deliciously indulgent, the old fashioned packs a fruity punch and the mojito is guaranteed to warm the cockles. Another equally clement plate brings tender beef that’s been braised for eight hours, a zingy watercress salad that’s punctuated by a healthy dollop of salty French fries and a radiant roast tomato. Other mains include a pearly piece of cod fresh from the North Sea. This is accompanied by a colourful pea and leek risotto before a generous helping of smoked cheddar to add a sharp contrast to the lightness from the cod. A labour of love, Spent Grain is a perfect example of what a local, neighbourhood bistro looks like in the modern age. A comfortable hangout, a place where local people can bond over fresh food made by chefs desperate to please, a hub where come nightfall, it takes on a speakeasy vibe where people can converse with quality drinks. You’ll not find any slap-dash meal, lacklustre service or flashy vibes here, it’s a place that goes against the grain.
A RE AL LOCAL AF FAI R OFFE RING T HE BEST T H AT T HE NORT H E AST H AS TO OFFE R, YOU CA N F I N D SP E NT G RAIN AT: 67 J OHN ST RE ET, SR1 1 Q H
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WIN A BOTTLE OF GIN AND NEW NOVEL FROM GLENDA YOUNG WITH SUNDERLAND VIBE! Gin and a gripping new Sunderland saga! We’ve teamed up with Sunderland bestselling author Glenda Young and House of Ruhr to offer one lucky winner a prize steeped in the Wearside’s mining heritage. Glenda Young, who hit the UK Top 50 Bestsellers List with her last book ‘The Paper Mill Girl’ continues to shine a light on the North East, in particular the coal mining heritage of Ryhope village in her dramatic new gritty saga, The Miner’s Lass. House of Ruhr, whose brand, although distilled and bottled in Germany, bears a strong local connection to the region. Wanne-Eickel (the town where the distillery is based) is known for its rich coal mining
heritage and the Renton gin is named after House of Ruhr’s owner, Sunderland based Bryn Jones’s, maternal, great, great grandfather Captain James Ogilvie Renton, who was lost at sea in 1871, after leaving the North East with a cargo of coal.
TO EN T ER OU R PRI ZE D RAW, H EA D O N L I N E A N D S I G N U P TO OUR MON T H LY N EW S L E TTE R @ S U N D ERL A N DV I B E . C O.UK
Terms and conditions: One winner will receive 1 x 500ml bottle of Renton gin and a copy of The Miner’s Lass by Glenda Young, 3 runners up will receive a copy of The Miner's Lass. Winner will be chosen by Sunderland Vibe, and Sunderland Vibe T&C’s apply. Entrants must be over 18 years old and proof of age will be required on redemption of the prize. No monetary value will be given. Prize to be collected by the winner from Allies Group offices. houseofruhr.co.uklendayoungbooks.com
A FAIRYTALE WEDDING
The Sea Hotel’s newly refurbished Bramhall Suite is ideal space for the best day of your life. In the heart of South Shields’ seafront, overlooking the picturesque South Marine Park and Littlehaven Beach, your wedding-by-the-sea will be the start of a lifetime of beautiful memories.
£1,600 If you have any further queries about our wedding services or package options, get in touch today on: 01914270999 The Sea Hotel, Sea Road, South Shields NE23 2LD www.seahotel.co.uk
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Cultural festive affairs! ‘Tis the season for wondrous workshops and awe-inspiring exhibitions at Sunderland Culture’s city-wide venues…
ARTS CENTRE WASHINGTON
Hansel and Gretel 9 - 11 December
Take a pinch of magic, a dollop of great music, a dash of thrill and a large portion of laughter, stir it all up with Lyngo’s muchloved theatrical skill and you get this wonderful show about a brother and sister with the wit to win through all adversity – even being abandoned in the forest by their own parents! You won’t be able to resist this classic story of adventure and fun, as sweet as a gingerbread house! With shifting scenery and ingenious props, Lyngo serves up their own special recipe of multi-roled performances, captivating songs and beautiful imagery. ARTSCENTREWASHINGTON.CO.UK
NATIONAL GLASS CENTRE Festive fun at National Glass Centre Throughout Christmas There’s something for everyone at National Glass Centre this festive period! From Christmas activities for families, including family fusing, creating a glass snowman, angel or snowy owl, festive glass painting and more, to hands-on experiences and workshops for adults where you can make everything from baubles to flameworked or ceramic Christmas decorations. On the last weekend of November (27/28), you can also visit their Christmas craft fair and celebrate the beautiful handmade crafts that the North East has to offer. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy a unique handmade Christmas gift or to treat yourself to something special!
NORTHERN GALLERY FOR CONTEMPORARY ART
Patrick Hough: The Black River of Herself Until 9 January 2022 Visit Patrick Hough’s new film ‘The Black River of Herself’ as it premieres at Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art. In Hough’s film, a female bog body is uncovered at the site of a dig that awakens her from her sleep. She talks to an archaeologist tasked with recovering her from the earth. She tells of her own fate and her premonition for our environment. The race to save this bog body is also a story about the race to save ourselves from ecological collapse and inevitable extinction. NORTHERNGALLERYFORCONTEMPORARYART.ORG.UK
SUNDERLAND MUSEUM & WINTER GARDENS Snow White’s Enchanted Forest Trail Until 2 January
Can you find the hidden treasures lost in the forest and release Snow White from her enchanted sleep? Follow the clues to find the words of the magic waking spell and claim your themed prize from the Museum reception. Trails cost £2.50 each. This activity is inspired by the pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Sunderland Empire.
Snow White’s Enchanted Forest Family Day 11 December
During your visit, you can also view their exhibitions, including NGC Glass Prize that is open in the main gallery and showcases spectacular glass pieces by artists working across Europe, or you can attend their free glassmaking demonstrations, enjoy a bit of retail therapy in the shop, or treat yourself to lunch in the riverside café, The Glass Yard.
Create a magical forest window display decorated with trees, animals and characters from the story of Snow White, at Sunderland Museum. This activity is inspired by the pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Sunderland Empire. Sessions at 11am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 3pm. £2 per child, adults go free.
NATIONALGLASSCENTRE.COM
SUNDERLANDMUSEUM.ORG.UK
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IN BUSINESS FOR GOOD? Funny man Lee Kyle and his pals are laughing all the way to being in business for good. Here’s how… Lee and the team at Felt Nowt social enterprise are great at taking comedy into communities where laughs are often in short supply, but making a social enterprise like theirs work wasn’t in anyone’s CV when they started. But then they met Kevin from the BIC, whose jokes aren’t so good, but knows all about helping social enterprises make a difference. And now everyone’s smiling… Thanks to Kevin, Lee and his fellow funny men and women can relax and get on with what they do best – making people laugh. And as they’re a social enterprise, they’re reinvesting their profits in Felt Nowt, meaning they can take comedy to communities where it’s needed most. Maybe you’re like Lee and co… ready to make a difference through your own social enterprise? Inspired to set up a social enterprise, but don’t know where to start? Looking for free specialist support to keep your social enterprise afloat or guide it into growth? That’s okay, Kevin’s looking forward to hearing from you…
www.ne-bic.co.uk 0191 516 6138
Funny man Lee Kyle with BIC Social Enterprise Manager Kevin Marquis
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A sit down with Wicked Queen, Su Pollard!
She’s behind you! Su Pollard chats exclusively to Sunderland Vibe about the magic of panto season and her villainous role in the new production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs arriving at Sunderland Empire this winter... Su, after such a long time away from the stage, how good does it feel to be back on the Sunderland Empire stage? It has felt like decades away from the stage. You miss doing warm-ups, learning music, you long for everything that goes with the production - it all adds to the excitement of being back again! We’ve just had the launch event for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and it was lovely meeting the cast. The best part for me was being in the Empire, it’s a fantastic theatre! What makes Sunderland Empire so special for you? I love it! It was great being on stage and looking out onto that beautiful auditorium
CATCH SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS AT SUNDERLAND EMPIRE FROM FRIDAY 10 DECEMBER 2021. TICKETS PRICED FROM JUST £13 AND ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT ATGTICKETS.COM/SUNDERLAND again - it’s the West End of the North East, isn’t it! I have to say a special thanks to the cleaning ladies at the Empire - they are tremendous! Do you know how much brass there is? And I don’t mean money! They’re forever polishing and it just gleams fabulously. Any standout memories when performing at Sunderland Empire? I think one of the first theatre trips I ever made, nearly 50 years ago, was to the Sunderland Empire. We were performing in Godspell at the time! The Empire has always been known as a theatre that’s a top date on tours and it really is. Everybody looks forward to visiting, because the dressing rooms are beautiful, and the audiences love to join in. Which is their right, especially in panto! If they don’t boo me, I shall be upset! I love it when the first child has to be carried out crying. Not in a cruel way of course! What do you think makes a good panto? First and foremost, a good story! People have got to have a good narrative to follow, because if the story is really good and told properly by everybody in show, the audience will just love to follow it. People want to see 'spectacularness'! They want to see beautiful colours, they want to
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see fabulous costumes, beautiful bright lights and they want great music. I do believe we’ve got all of these elements in this show... so there are several reasons why you should come see it! You’ve played the Wicked Queen a few times now, what is it about this character that makes you keep coming back? Well, I’ve been very lucky in that I started off as a principal boy. You see I was quite young and it was all fabulous! I then got a slightly older and they said, 'look, Su, you can’t keep thinking that you’re 28', so they said let’s do the Wicked Queen - that’s the next step along. I try to make it fun, but when I’ve got to be evil and mean to all my staff, like Muddles, and especially Snow White, I don’t mind that, it’s fun to act. If you’re going to be evil it’s no good being Mandy Pandy, you’ve got to scare people! What can people expect when they come to see Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Sunderland Empire? They can expect to be surprised, lots of ‘ums’ and ‘arrs’, lots of joining in and just tons of fun! People can come out and forget all of their worries that they might be going through at the time and have a fabulous night. They’ll go home feeling like they’ve had a lovely time!
The Canniest Panto Of Them All! MARTIN DODD for UK PRODUCTIONS proudly presents
THE NORTH EAST’S QUEEN OF COMEDY!
Miss Rory as NURSE RORINA
THE LEGENDARY!
HE’S BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Su Pollard Tom Whalley as THE WICKED QUEEN
as MUDDLES
CLAIRE MAYNARD asSNOW WHITE JONATHAN CARLTON asPRINCE FREDERICK 10 Dec ’21 to 2 Jan ’22 | 0844 871 7615 | atgtickets.com/sunderland | Transaction fee applies. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
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Summer at the Stadium A blistering programme of world-class music arrives in Sunderland!
Ed Sheeran announces three exclusive shows in Sunderland! 2, 3 & 4 June 2022
Elton John brings his awardwinning Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour to Wearside! 19 June 2022
The Stadium of Light will be packed out next summer, as the sounds of a Grammyaward winning artist and rock ‘n’ roll pop icon arrive in Sunderland for a scintillating summer at the stadium. Sunderland Vibe brings you the lowdown on what’s shaping up to be a jam-packed summer of music in 2022… SAFC and city partners have announced that a dazzling celebration featuring some of the biggest global stars will be heading to the Stadium of Light for an exceptional music programme, sublime sing-along moments and a raft of city centre activities. Whether you’re an Ed Sheeran superfan or looking forward to hearing your favourite song by Elton John, a summer spent with loved ones, vibing away to sublime sounds and sipping on cold brews, the Stadium of Light is where you want to be!
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In what’s certain to be one of the biggest gigs in Sunderland’s history, the Stadium of Light will welcome the chart-breaking sounds of Ed Sheeran to the city when he arrives on Wearside to celebrate his Mathematics Tour! Undoubtedly one of the world’s biggest artists, Ed Sheeran will play the Stadium of Light on Thursday 2, Friday 3 and Saturday 4 June – a Bank Holiday weekend to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee! The ‘+ - = ÷ x Tour’ will see Ed return to stadiums for the first time since his record-breaking ‘Divide Tour’, which officially became the most-attended and highest-grossing tour ever by the time of its completion! Belting out brand new tracks such as Shivers and colossal comeback track, Bad Habits, Ed’s exclusive Sunderland shows will also feature a new production set-up with staging surrounded by the crowd in each corner of the stadium. A quintessential pop icon who boasts a back catalogue of chart-busting powerhouse tracks, be sure to bag tickets for Ed’s date in Sunderland as Christmas rolls around…
One of the biggest names in music history, Elton John, will be bringing his awardwinning Elton John Farewell Yellow Brick Road: The Final Tour to the Stadium of Light on 19 June 2022! One of the topselling solo artists of all time with one diamond, 40 platinum/multi-platinum and 23 gold albums, over 50 Top 40 hits and more than 300 million records sold worldwide, Elton John is undoubtedly one of the globe’s biggest stars. His critically acclaimed show is a dazzling affair that takes the audience on a magical journey through Elton’s incredible 50-year career with never-before-seen photos and videos all set to the tune of some of Elton’s most beloved songs from his legendary catalogue. Featuring iconic tracks such as Bennie and the Jets, Rocket Man, Tiny Dancer and Candle in the Wind. Tickets are on sale now price from £129 per You can find details, book tickets, and person - make sure you pop Elton’s browse ticket options on SAFC’s website unmissable date in the diary and which houses all the goings-on across the book your tickets this Christmas whole summer in one place! before they sell out! safc.com/concerts
Marcela Livingston Founder of SacPot
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Exploring Bridges’ winter emporium
The most wonderful time of the year is here! Sunderland Vibe nipped into the city to bring you the latest with all the festive affairs going on in the Bridges…
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING HOURS
Left it late once again? Worry not - the Bridges has all your festive shopping needs covered with their late-night shopping hours! Peruse over 80 amazing high-street retailers safe in the knowledge that the centre is alive with the sound of festive deals until 7pm on weekdays and Saturdays from 13 December, and there’s also earlier opening and closing times for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve - meaning you’ve got plenty of time to gather those all-important, showstopping gifts for your loved ones! What’s more? The Bridges have also announced that their car parks will be free during all late nights! Get in! F R OM 13 D ECEM BE R MON DAY - SATURDAY 9: 0 0AM - 7:00P M (CLOSI NG AT 8P M ON TH UR SDAYS) S U NDAYS 1 1 : 0 0AM - 5:00P M
For more information and a full list of opening times, kids events and parking information taking place at the Bridges this Christmas, visit T H EBRI D GES-SH OPPING.C OM
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Festive affairs
THE REINDEER DASH RETURNS! 5 December
Spread festive cheer for Sunderland charities this Christmas as The Reindeer Dash zooms into the Bridges shopping centre this December! Brought to you by Sunderland BID, Red Sky Ball and the Bridges, this magical fun-run encourages little ones to don antlers, polish those red noses and whistle around the mall! Little prancers will also be invited to Santa’s enchanting Grotto for free, so make sure you have those allimportant wish lists ready as it’s your exclusive opportunity to let the big man know what you’re expecting come December 25th! For all the information you need, head over to the Bridges website!
SETTLE IN AT SANTA'S GROTTO Until 24 December
Head over to the Bridges for a magical Christmas experience! Back with a bang for 2021, Santa’s Grotto will run throughout the festive period right up until Christmas Eve. So, what are you waiting for? With entrance at £2, round up your loved ones, head into the city centre and get into the festive spirit for a guest appearance from Father Christmas and watch on as little one’s eyes light up with joy as they meet the man himself and receive a gift at the end.
QUIET SHOPPING HOURS
A fantastic initiative from our friends at the Bridges and one that encapsulates the community spirit of this fantastic shopping centre perfectly. The first hour on Sundays means simple steps to create a more autism and additional needsfriendly experience, such as turning down music and dimming bright lights - ensuring all shoppers can enjoy the centre’s fantastic offering. It’s an hour of retail for anyone who needs a more relaxed approach to bagging your Christmas buys, with super-friendly staff on hand to help ensure it's a safe and friendly environment for all.
Get involved with The Bridges gift card! Now that Christmas is here, the Bridges are inviting us all to give the gift of gifts with the Bridges Gift Card, which can be used in over 70 of your favourite brands in the centre! Whether you’re buying for an awkward uncle, need to nail secret Santa at work or you’re a great boss gifting Christmas incentives, this nifty offering means choosing the perfect gift has never been easier. How do I get my hands on the Bridges Gift Card we hear you ask? Simple! Head into the centre, pop over to the customer service desk or order your gift card online or via their click and collect service, with the amount of your choice, starting from £5 to £1000. The possibilities are endless!
WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE BRIDGES GIFT CARD Available from £5.00-£500.00 Get yours today from the Customer Service Desk or online at
thebridges-shopping.com
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Rink is providing families across the region with a great opportunity for family and friends or work colleagues to have a day – or night – out with a difference! To make the experience even more exciting, there will be a number of skating sessions with themed characters and there's unique sessisons to ensure youngsters with special educational needs can enjoy the festivities. Skating can be thirsty work, which is why on certain dates there will be a number of pop-up food and drinks stalls also taking up residence by the rink! Dessert masters, Sweet Petite, will be among those selling delicious items on 4, 11 and 18 December, so make sure you’re in the city to get your mitts on their incredible dishes!
Businesses or groups wanting to hire the ice rink for their own private event can also do that by emailing christmas@sunderlandbid.co.uk or calling 0191 722 1002.
Christmas is calling! From a breathtaking tipi-style ice-rink, the return of Santa’s Grotto and a sensational range of independent food and drink vendors, check out our guide to a cracking Christmas in Sunderland!
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It’s a fantastic way to reward staff or entertain clients - or just get a group together for some fun! It’s time to get your skates on and have the best Christmas ever! And that’s just one of many reasons to head into Sunderland this winter. All the stops have been pulled out to make sure that there are plenty of festive activities lined up in the city centre this year! Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council have taken on the roles of Santa’s little helpers and put together a programme guaranteed to make everyone feel full of festive cheer. And that includes a funfair, food and drink stalls at the former Crowtree site, the return of Santa’s grotto to the Bridges and the welcoming sight of the ever-popular ice rink. We’re all making up for lost time this year so why not make your seasonal shopping much more of an occasion? The city has seen numerous bars and restaurants open in recent times, so this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a pit stop in between buying those gifts! At the centre of all of the activities, under a canopy of twinkling lights which will also serve to protect everyone from the elements, is the ever-popular ice rink! Right through to 3 January, Sunderland Ice
DAT ES , TIME S A ND PR ICE S F O R S UND ER LAND ICE R INK ! UNTIL 17 DECEMBER Monday - Friday: 12pm – 9pm Saturday - Sunday: 10am – 9pm
18 DECEMBER – 3 JANUARY Monday - Sunday: 10am – 9pm Christmas Eve: 10am – 6pm Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Tickets cost £10 for adults, £8 for children aged five to 17 and £3 for anyone aged four or younger. A family ticket – for two adults and two children- costs £28. TO BOOK TICKETS VISIT W W W.S UNDERLANDICERINK. CO.UK AND TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT W HAT’S G OING ON IN S UNDERLAND THIS CHRISTMAS VIS IT MYS UNDERLAND.CO.UK/ CHRISTMAS
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Sunderland hero Marty Longstaff when they and their bands will be the first acts to perform on stage at The Fire Station Auditorium at the venue’s opening gig on Friday, December 10. Kathryn and her band The Darkening have been thrilling audiences with their brand of ‘dark and rocky folk’ while Marty and his band The Lake Poets have a growing army of fans, thanks in part to his powerful, poignant and passionate song Shipyards providing the opening titles song for the hugely-popular Netflix documentary Sunderland Til I Die.
Firestarters ignite The Fire Station
I’M J UST SO EXCITED, I CAN’T WAIT. IT’S A REAL HONOUR AN D A PRIVILEGE TO BE PERFORM IN G T H E AUD ITORIUM ’S FIRST GIG AND TO PLAY WITH M ARTY IN HIS HO ME CI T Y IS EXTRA SPECIAL. KATHRYN TICKELL, THE DARKENING
Kathryn, the foremost exponent of the Northumbrian pipes as well as a renown singer and fiddle player, is counting the days to the gig: “I’m just so excited, I can’t wait. It’s a real honour and a privilege to be performing the auditorium’s first gig and to play The Fire Station, an £18m gamechanging cultural with Marty in his home city is extra special.” hub in Sunderland city centre, is set to host a After the December 10 double bill, the region’s chamber orchestra scintillating opening programme. Royal Northern Sinfonia, featuring their new leader Maria Wloszczowska, will perform a candle-lit Christmas concert on The new venue incorporates an auditorium, bars, a restaurant, Sunday, December 12, followed by British queen of soul and dance and creative writing studios and the Parade Ground, a gospel Mica Paris on Wednesday, December 15. 600-capacity outdoor performance space with an external stage The celebrated singer, actress and presenter is set to perform an and bar. unmissable night of powerful soul and gospel classics, along with Sunderland Vibe has been talking to Sunderland Culture to find hit singles from her illustrious 30-year career, including the chartout more about Firestarters, the first programme of performances topper My One Temptation, I Should’ve Known Better and Breathe at The Fire Station Auditorium, which starts in December. Tickets Life into Me. are now on sale for Firestarters which will run to next June and Friday, December 17 will see the main event to officially open The features more than 40 artists and performers – with yet more to be Fire Station, when Mercury Music Prize nominees Field Music will announced. present The Firestarters Revue, with a sensational line-up of The programme will include a homecoming gig from singer guests including rising stars Martha Hill, songwriter Emeli Sandé, who will deliver Reali-T, Faye Fantarrow alongside an intimate performance on Saturday, Sunderland icons Barry Hyde and Ross January 15. Millard (The Futureheads) and Frankie Firestarters will also include a Christmas Francis. Other performers for this very cracker of a concert when funk icons special housewarming for The Fire Station Smoove & Turrell and gospel powerhouses will be announced. Voices of Virtue headline a festive David Brewis, of Field Music, said: "The celebration on Sunday, December 19. The cultural life of this city is something which is gig will feature MC Kay Greyson and The very close to our hearts, so we're extremely Origin Crew dancers. Voices of Virtue will excited and proud to be able to contribute to kick things off with an uplifting set of soul/ the opening of this fabulous new venue gospel classics before Smoove & Turrell along with an amazing cross-section of the take to the stage. region's musical talent." But Firestarters will be lit by north-east Mica Paris Tickets for An Evening with Emeli Sandé are musical icon Kathryn Tickell and home-grown 16
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WIN a special Fire Station competition with Sunderland Vibe! I T I S S O E XC IT ING TO H AV E A BR A N D- N E W H OME F OR MU S IC AND P E R F O RMIN G A RTS IN T H E H E ART O F S U NDE RL A N D! TAMSIN AUSTIN, DIRECTOR OF THE FIRE STATION already selling well. The singer songwriter, who is also Vice Chancellor at University of Sunderland, recently signed to independent label Chrysalis Records. Famed for her powerful vocals and heartfelt songs, her January 15 date at the auditorium is for an intimate, acoustic performance. Other New Year highlights at the High Street West venue include a solo show from vital folk-troubadour Richard Dawson on Saturday, January 22; UK country stars The Shires playing an intimate acoustic show on Thursday, January 27; Amy Winehouse: A Celebration of her Life and Work with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra on Thursday, February 10; Japanese drumming sensations Kodo bring their One Earth Tour on Wednesday, February 16 and a performance by The Transatlantic Ensemble of Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours on Friday, February 18. Firestarters will end in the summer of 2022 with a special one-off acoustic acapella show by The Futureheads on Saturday, June 11. The Fire Station has been developed by Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture (MAC) Trust and is run by Sunderland Culture. The auditorium will programme up to 300 events a year – in music, theatre, comedy and dance. It can host up to 550 people seated or up to 800 people standing, bringing acclaimed national and international artists to Sunderland, as well as showcasing emerging and established local performers. For more information about all events and to buy tickets head to www.thefirestation.org.uk or follow @FireStationSun. As well as providing a perfect platform for professional, established artists, The Fire Station aims to provide a showcase for community talent. So from Monday, February 21 to Saturday, February 26 (half-term week) the venue will throw open its doors for Open House. Amateur performers of all types, backgrounds, ages and experience are invited to be among the first to grace the stage at the brand-new music and performance venue. If you want to be part of Open House, please visit sunderlandculture.org.uk/openhouse to find out more and how to apply. For more information about all events and to buy tickets head to www.thefirestation.org.uk or follow @FireStationSun
Sunderland Vibe is giving you the chance to WIN A SET OF TICKETS FROM A DECEMBER SHOW OF YOUR CHOICE at The Fire Station, plus A FREE MEAL at The Engine Room! The Fire Station is a brand new, £18m game-changing cultural hub in Sunderland city centre that is hosting a scintillating opening December programme featuring Kathryn Tickell and The Lake Poets (December 10), a candlelight Christmas performance from the Royal Northern Sinfonia (December 12), gospel icon Mica Paris (December 15) and an exclusive show from funk powerhouses, Smoove & Turrell (December 19). The winners can choose a pair of tickets from any of these shows!
Interested? Of course you are! Here’s all the key details you need… For a chance to win: Like @SunderlandVibe AND @FireStationSun on Facebook Tag the friends you’d take on Sunderland Vibe’s competition post on Facebook Share Sunderland Vibe’s Facebook post Winners will be picked at random! Good luck! Prize draw closes noon 6 December 2021. Terms and conditions: Prize draw closes noon 6th December 2021 on Facebook and winners will be notified via Facebook from Sunderland Vibe. Maximum spend on the meal at The Engine Room is £100 including drinks. Over 16s permitted. Party of 2 needs to arrive at the venue together for the event. Please be aware that all events will be subject to government guidance in relation to COVID 19 at the time of the event. Individual venues may also impose their own rules which must be adhered to. Please check the venue for more information. The Fire Station operates a Challenge 25 policy during live events and if you are fortunate to look under 25 years of age, please be aware that you could be asked for proof of age if buying alcohol. Meal for two at The Engine Room redeemable on December event nights only of the winner’s choosing. Restaurant booking is essential Additional T&Cs may apply, so please check these with The Engine Room ahead of booking.
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Pop Recs 2 is here! A driving force behind Sunderland’s burgeoning culture scene, Pop Recs has become a beacon of light for creatives around the region. Matthew Thomas popped in to learn more about Pop Recs 2 - the cultural institution run by the people, for the people… Having established a well-loved hub on Stockton Road nearly 10 years ago, Pop Recs have been painstakingly restoring 170-173 High Street West to transform a 217-year-old, dilapidated shell into a vibrant community hub for the people. Originally built in 1804, 170-173 High Street West began life as a three-storey townhouse that was home to sailors and tradesmen working along the harbour of the River Wear. The building’s purpose took on a totally different meaning during the 1840s, as a household name chain department store, Binns, took over residency selling everything from bicycles to confectionary 18
in which it earned the nickname, ‘Harrods of the North East’. It’s been some journey for Michael. Guitarist for Frankie & The Heartstrings, he and other band members opened Pop Recs in 2013 in an abandoned tourist office on Fawcett Street in what was intended to be a makeshift pop-up store to support the launch of their album. It organically became more than just a pop-up store for the city. Soon, art exhibitions began springing up, more people arrived for good coffee and the
likes of James Bay, The Vaccines, Edwyn Collins, Franz Ferdinand and The Charlatans all took to the stage as Sunderland began embracing Pop Recs. Fast-forward to 2021 and this historic spot is enjoying a new chapter of history with the opening of Pop Recs 2. Following a meticulous restoration process by Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust, Michael McKnight, Jo Gordon - training and development manager at Pop Recs - and Dan Shannon - the genius behind Midnight Pizza Crü, have teamed up to breathe a
WHAT WAS ONCE A DERELICT SHELL ON THE BRINK OF COLLAPSE, THE SPACE HAS BEEN ENTIRELY TRANSFORMED INTO AN OPEN, AIRY SPACE THAT FEATURES SUBTLE NODS TO THE BUILDING PAST TENANTS.
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new lease of life into this historic building with Pop Recs 2; a community hub that hosts live music, offers cultural workshops to the people and boasts a cafe space featuring produce from local businesses such as Vaux Brewery. Upon opening, Pop Recs invited young people from across the city to participate in their accredited 4 week POP Project training programme; a workshop that offers youngsters the chance to learn new skills and gain confidence working in a professional setting. Excitingly, two young people have joined the team as part of the Kickstart scheme which is being overseen by Jo Gordon. A local hero, Jo has run Sunderland food bank in previous years and has been managing every stage of Pop Recs’ big move for some time now.
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Having expressed his desire to open Midnight Pizza Crü’ first bricks and mortar HQ in our recent Vibe interview, Dan Shannon will bring his pizza phenomenon to Pop Recs as café master with MPC finding a permanent base. Midnight Pizza Crü was born out of an inherent passion for food, and following an opportunity to use the pandemic as a catalyst for a major change in profession and lifestyle, Dan has struck a chord with thousands of people across the region. A match made in heaven if you ask us. What was once a derelict shell on the brink of collapse, the space has been entirely transformed into an open, airy space that features subtle nods to the building's past tenants. A commanding stage sits at the rear, overlooking a communal hall with multi-functional seating and table arrangements. The handmade bar counter, sound booth, café servery, tables and chairs have all been reclaimed and given a new lease of life from designer, Tony Guerilla. Remnants of 19th-century wallpaper are littered across the brick walls that have been completely rebuilt, there’s a state-ofthe-art sound system floating above and the show-stopping atrium is truly stunning. Their delightful café features a stylish interior coupled with a warm and enticing atmosphere. It's a stunning space that was once ridden with damp, but now serves up rich flat whites from Hasbean Coffee, there are four lines of artisan beer from Vaux Brewery, sustainable food arrives from Sunshine Cooperative and meat is sourced locally from De Giorgio - a traditional butcher in Whitburn. The community is pivotal for Pop Recs. Deeply embedded in Sunderland, ask anyone in the city and nearby neighbourhoods about this place and you’ll be met with a wave of positivity. Whether it’s a show they’ve seen, a chat with the legendary Dave Harper or just a safe space to enjoy coffee with loved ones Pop Recs is a sacred space, a collective thinking that is going from strength to strength. Pop Recs, as their slogan suggests, is a good thing for a good reason.
For more information and a full list of programmes taking place at Pop Recs, visit instagram.com/poprecsltd Dan Shannon Michael McKnight
Jo Gordon
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Sunderland GP Alliance expand offering at the North East Business and Innovation Centre
Exclusive insight into the businesses, people and places driving Sunderland forward… Inaugural City of Sunderland Business Festival roaring success Sunderland launched its first-ever business festival in October in what was a celebration of dynamic companies based across the city and a festival that showcased a range of opportunities for local people. Taking place at numerous venues such as the Stadium of Light and the Bridges, the week-long celebration combined in-person events with virtual sessions, roundtables and talk-ins to bring to life Sunderland’s vibrant business scene. It also connected local people to job opportunities, inspired business people with thought-provoking speeches and sessions from world-class speakers, and showcased the industries that are driving the economic regeneration of our city.
350 ECO jobs at Doxford International Business Park ECO (EC Outsourcing) is set to create 350 new contact centre jobs at Doxford International Business Park. Opening a new base at Solar House as part of a wider recruitment drive, the move will see the contact centre business expand from a team of 450 to as many as 1,200 people. Established in 2013, ECO supports clients in a range of sectors – in particular the energy sector – delivering both sales and service support and boasts notable clients such as ESB Energy, Buzz Bingo and You Garden. ECOU TSOU RCI NG.C O.UK 20
Sunderland GP Alliance has expanded its base at the North East Business and Innovation Centre for the fourth time in six years - now adding a second office to accommodate their rapidly growing team of 220 clinical and office workers. An organisation that supports GPs in Sunderland, the not-for-profit business is owned by the GP practices in Sunderland and exists to help GPs work collectively for the benefit of patients and staff. By pooling resources and expertise via the alliance, they can offer services to patients that could not be delivered by individual GP surgeries. S UNDERLANDG PALLIANCE.CO.UK
Fulwell 73 open regional office at University of Sunderland There’s opportunity on the horizon for Sunderland creatives, as independent production company Fulwell 73 have recently launched a new regional office at the University of Sunderland. Located on Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter’s, Fulwell North is the new base for the company’s creative activities in the North. It focuses on developing new programming, nurturing local talent and discovering new creators from diverse backgrounds on and off-screen. The award-winning company is internationally renowned for projects like All or Nothing Juventus, One Direction music videos and, of course, Sunderland ‘Til I Die. Fulwell 73’s new location aims to help address the skills gap for those starting out in the industry and to attract talent to the region. Their new HQ will also leverage the company’s heritage in the North East and enhance their reputation for creating award-winning film, TV and digital content in entertainment, sport, comedy, scripted and non-scripted sectors. FULW ELL73.COM
Sunderland BID strengthen Street Ranger team Sunderland BID’s street ranger team has added another team member to their ranks following the appointment of Andrew Brown. A Sunderland resident originally from Scotland, Andrew joins Lee Taylor to create a dynamic ranger team to help keep our city looking spick and span. The Street Rangers are vital to the city centre; from cleaning up litter, removing graffiti and just generally being good folk who help visitors find their way across the city, these friendly faces are the eyes and ears of SR1. Next time you’re out and see the boys, be sure to give them a smile and a wave! SUNDERLANDBID.CO.UK
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Just Eat to create 1,500 jobs at new base in Sunderland Game-changing news for Sunderland’s business scene! Global online food takeaway company, Just East, has confirmed that they will create a brand new facility in Sunderland, bringing with it over 1,500 customer service jobs. Part of a £100m investment that’s heading to the North East, Just Eat recently set up shop in Houghton with 300 new staff members and immediately noted that customer satisfaction had risen as a result. We’ll put it down to our iconic Mackem charm… JU ST EAT TAK EAWAY.C OM
Plans for Quantafuel plant in Sunderland Port of Sunderland has been chosen as the preferred location for Quantafuel’s first UK operation. A leading brand that specialises in transforming plastic waste into sustainable products, Quantafuel has chosen a prime 12-acre (approximately 50,000 m2) site on Port of Sunderland’s eastern edge due to its close proximity to shipping berths, transport links, and presence of local skilled workforce. The plant will be designed to process more than 100,000 tonnes of plastic per year, will create hundreds of jobs during construction and will provide sustainable business links for local suppliers. PO RTOFSU ND ERLAND.ORG.UK
Sunderland partner up with BAI Communications to create the UK’s most advanced smart city
Sunderland is set to have next-generation 5G mobile infrastructure, putting it on track to become one of the UK’s most advanced smart cities, it has been announced today. Sunderland City Council has awarded a 20-year strategic partnership to BAI Communications to design, build and operate next-generation digital infrastructure including a private 5G small cell network. The project is the next step on Sunderland City Council’s journey to achieve its global smart city ambition, having been awarded the UK Smart City of the Year 2020 accolade and Connected Britain Digital Council of the Year 2021. The first phase of the partnership will see a backbone of 5G connectivity, based on a neutral host model, established within the city by Summer 2022. The new high speed 5G coverage will provide a platform for business growth and innovation, supporting the Government’s levelling up agenda by bringing substantial social and economic benefits to its residents, businesses and visitors, including the creation of over 100 jobs. Through the partnership, supported by the North East Local Enterprise Partnership and HM Government’s Getting Building Fund, Sunderland will be able to scale its advanced smart city plan, allowing the city to be at the forefront of innovation and achieve true global competitiveness. Greater high speed 5G mobile connectivity, which offers much faster response times across the network, will be complemented by other networking technologies to enable Sunderland to deliver transformative digital services for communities and sectors across the City. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT S MARTCITY @SUNDERLAND.G OV.UK
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Emeli Sandé checks out University’s new £1.4 million facilities! Multi-platinum award-winning singer and songwriter Emeli Sandé has returned to check out the University of Sunderland’s new state of the art photography and media facilities. Last month, Emeli, Chancellor of the University, took a tour around the Sir Tom Cowie Campus which is home to the new photography centre, a new virtual production studio and community radio station Spark’s new studio. Lee Hall, Head of the School of Media and Communication at the University of Sunderland, recently shortlisted as University of the Year, in this year’s THE (Times Higher Education) annual awards, said: “This is a special time to 22
be studying media at Sunderland. “The Media Centre is a thriving hub of activity, home to BBC Newcastle journalists, TV station Tyne and Wear Local and now Hollywood production powerhouse Fulwell 73. They provide the icing on the cake for our industry-focused School of Media and Communications, with opportunities to connect to a company at the front edge of TV content globally. “We also have our own blockbuster brand in Spark, a radio station broadcast from the newly revamped Studio 5 and shortlisted for nine Student Radio Awards this year, including Best Station. “As well as opportunities to connect with employers, which are an integral part of
our offering, students are increasingly exploring enterprise. Many have signed up to the Digital Incubator to access guidance and funding to launch their freelance careers and media businesses. “With new investment in a 4k Ultra High Definition virtual production studio, as well as our superbly-equipped multi-camera TV studio, we are giving students a platform to do their best work with cutting edge technology and expert support from our technical and teaching teams.” And it doesn’t stop there. The University has ambitious plans to invest in the Media Centre, including upgrading the mediaHUB and cinema.
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THE LOWDOWN ON UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND’S NEW STUDIOS: NORTHERN CENTRE OF PHOTOGRAPHY
The £1.1 million centre at David Goldman Technology Centre is kitted out with architectdesigned breakout spaces with access to the new Digital Incubator, which supports students interested in exploring freelance work.
VIRTUAL PRODUCTION STUDIO PR OFESSOR AR A BEL LA PLOUV IEZ, ACA DEMIC D EAN OF THE FACU LTY OF ARTS A N D C REATIVE IND USTRIES AT THE U NI VERSITY OF SUND ERLAND, SA ID: “OUR A IM I S TO CONTINUE TO DEVELOP OUR PROF ESSI ONA L MEDIA ENVI RONMENT WHETHER YOU ARE I NTER ESTED IN FILM, TV, PODCASTING, PHOTOG RAPHY, A NI MATI ON, JOUR NALISM O R GAMES, AND TO S U PPORT OUR GR ADUATES IN TO THE CREATIVE IN DUSTRI ES OF TODAY A ND TOMORROW.”
The £300,000 system at the David Puttnam Media Centre includes a wireless-linked handheld StarTracker Viewfinder, high-grade green-screen walls and flooring, and a Mo-Sys StarTracker Studio with a camera tracking unit – the same tech used for the BBC’s Tokyo Olympics studio coverage.
SPARK’S STUDIO 5
The new £80,000 custom-designed studio, also at the Media Centre, includes new wall art designed by Sunderland graduates, a new camera system, which allows students to film or stream interviews, and a new height adjustable desk. It was officially opened in September by BBC Radio 1 presenter and Sunderland graduate Jordan North.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PROGRAMMES ON OFFER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND VISIT SUNDERLAND.AC.UK 23
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College group helps secure 125 jobs for young people... employers must also ensure the young people develop their employment, teamwork, organisational and communication skills for the role, while supporting them with CV writing and interview preparation and training. As one of the most successful gateway providers in the region, Education Partnership North East can support employer applications for funding by submitting all relevant information to the Government on their behalf and providing the required employability training and specialist training as required. A young person completing a Kickstart placement in England can then progress on to an apprenticeship with organisations receiving access to the full range of financial support and grants available.
More than 100 young people have taken their first steps towards a fulfilling career thanks to Education Partnership North East and the government’s Kickstart scheme. Since launching in 2020, companies such as Gentoo, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, Tritility, Bernicia, Roundel Manufacturing and Vaux Brewery have offered vacancies with support from Education Partnership North East, of which Sunderland College is a part. The scheme offers 16-24-year-olds who are receiving Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment a six-month high-quality placement so they can develop skills, confidence and behaviours to enhance their career prospects. The Government funds 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus National Insurance and pension contributions. In addition, successful employers will also receive £1,500 per placement towards setup costs, ongoing support and training. Rebecca Storey, Senior Business Advisor at Education Partnership North East, said: “We are thrilled to have achieved 125 successful Kickstart placements and the 24
positive impact this will have on the businesses and individuals involved. “The Kickstart Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to create new roles and grow their workforce, in turn providing young people with invaluable work experience. “The scheme has recently been extended until March 2022 and we are excited to support more businesses on their Kickstart journey.” Roles offered under the scheme must be new jobs that do not replace existing or planned vacancies or cause current employees, apprentices or contractors to lose or reduce their employment. During their six-month placement,
T HE KICKSTART SC H EME I S A FANTAST IC OP PO RT U N I T Y F OR BUSINE SSE S TO CRE AT E NE W RO L ES AN D G ROW T HE IR WORK F O RC E, IN T URN P ROVIDI N G YO U N G P E OP LE WIT H IN VALUABLE WORK E XP E RIE N C E.
Alexander Hammond, Head of Learning and Organisational Development at Gentoo, said: “Working with Education Partnership North East, we have been able to create opportunities for seven young people through the Kickstart scheme to get into work and gain some valuable experience. “In addition, we’ve been really impressed with the young people on the scheme who are all performing really well and helping to deliver essential services to our tenants and customers.”
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE KICKSTART SCHEME VISIT WWW.EDUCATIONPARTNERSHIPNE.AC.UK EMAIL EMPLOYERS@EDUCATIONPARTNERSHIPNE.AC.UK OR CALL 0300 770 1000.
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From left- right – Paul Miller, Surbhi Vedhara, Jess Fenwick & Damien Todd
Sweeney Miller Law continues to soar following notable internal appointments Rapidly growing, Sunderlandbased law firm Sweeney Miller Law has continued its impressive 2021, following news that Jess Fenwick and Damien Todd have joined Surbhi Vedhara as Equity Partners, whilst founder Paul Miller steps into a training and business development consultancy role at the firm. Sunderland Vibe caught up with the team to learn more about their soaring success… Having both begun life at Sweeney Miller Law as junior paralegals, Jess and Damien’s promotion lays a solid foundation for continued growth and reflects the firm’s commitment to the career progression of its team. This pathway demonstrates the opportunity for members of the team to achieve their goals and the absence of ‘glass ceilings’ which many ambitious lawyers across the UK face during their careers.
The firm’s headcount has increased by 15% in the last 3 years reaching nearly 75, and with a strategic commitment to scaling the business, its pipeline of future talent currently includes 5 trainee solicitors, 6 apprentices and 23 paralegals. Commenting on the new partnership structure, head of Commercial and Commercial Property, Jess said: ‘I am very excited about the future opportunities for the partnership. We are ready to take the firm to the next level and build upon the incredibly strong base that previous partners have put in place. The new partnership gives us the opportunity to expand this reputation through the continued provision of first-class legal services delivered with exceptional client care and relationships. Damien, who heads the firm’s Conveyancing team and is Secretary of Sunderland Law Society, added: ‘I am privileged to become an Equity Partner in Sweeney Miller. This has been my ambition since I qualified, and I am extremely grateful to my colleagues, friends, and family for helping me reach this milestone. I am extremely excited about where we can take Sweeney Miller
and what the long-term future holds.’ Sweeney Miller Law was established in Sunderland by Paul in 2002 with a second office opening in Newcastle in 2014 to service increased client demand. As well as working with clients in the North, the firm is instructed by individuals and businesses from across the UK, including London. The firm’s focus on excellent service and glowing reputation has helped to attract recent instructions involving large commercial landlords, extensive property development projects, business sales, acquisitions, mergers and management buyouts, as well as exceptional growth in domestic conveyancing, private client and family work. This increased activity has resulted in a 25% upturn in turnover in the firm’s latest financial year.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND A FULL LIST OF FIRST-CLASS SERVICES AVAILABLE AT SWEENEY MILLER LAW, VISIT SWEENEYMILLER.CO.UK
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Your guide to enjoying a merry Christmas! As the winter months set in, costs can shoot up. Whether you’re getting gifts for the family this Christmas or keeping the house warm while energy prices are on the rise, it’s easy to see why money dwindles and purse strings are pulled. Sunderland Vibe checked in with Sunderland City Council to bring you five top tips to help your money go further and to prevent the chills from setting in when you check your bank balance this winter.
1. What are you wasting? The UK throws away around 9.5 million tonnes of food every year, despite 8.4 million people living in food poverty. Try to plan your shop and don’t be tempted to stock up on items you don’t really need – even if there’s a special offer that hooks you in. Be sensible – and try not to shop on an empty stomach! Swapping branded products for lower priced alternatives is also a great way to keep costs down. And if you do buy too much, why not let it help others, and donate to a local foodbank? Foodbanks across Sunderland have worked tirelessly to support some of our most vulnerable residents all year and rely on donations in the run up to Christmas. Sunderland Foodbank operates eight separate foodbank distribution centres and Washington Community Food Project operates from four separate locations in Washington. Give them a Google to find out more about how to donate items. 26
2. Remember the meaning of Christmas... Spending shoots up during December. The average household will shell out nearly £740 more in December than a typical month according to the Bank of England – and while presents may be the greatest expense, spending on food and alcohol surges during the festive period. Think of the best Christmas you have had… presents, food and drink probably don’t even come into your mind. It’s easy to get swept up in the occasion, but for most people it is the memories they make with the people they love that is the true magic of Christmas.
3. Love your locals! One great way of saving money is to shop local. Not only can you cut back on petrol costs by popping to your nearest high street on foot, but often independent businesses are able to provide high-quality produce for less than big chains. And by supporting Sunderland businesses, you’ll be doing your bit to help the local economy. You can also help others do the same by buying a Sunderland Gift Card (check out page 15!) for your loved ones this Christmas. Accepted by many local businesses, they’re a great way of keeping the Sunderland pound in the city, and a great gift to-boot!
4. Staying warm on a budget Energy prices are set to shoot up this winter, so it’s a good time to check you’re getting the best deal and consider switching. Energy comparison sites are a great place to start and will help you find the lowest priced provider based on your usage. You might also like to consider schemes like eco flex which can offer help for heating your home for less. Smart meters can also keep your costs down, ensuring you don’t overuse energy.
5. Support is available There are loads of things you can do to make your money go further but if you, or someone you know, is struggling, remember there is help available. VIS IT W W W.S UNDERLAND.GOV.UK/ MONEY TO FIND OU T MORE.
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The walls may have come tumbling down during the 70s, but the sights, sounds, memories and businesses of Palmer’s Arcade still ring true 125 years since this independent arcade was erected. Originally named ‘The New Arcade’ when it opened in 1876, Palmer’s Arcade opened to the public on the site of the gardens associated with Frederick Lodge. A stunning addition to what was a rapidly developing shopping scene in Sunderland, Palmer’s Arcade featured an airy glass roof, small brick and mortar storefronts and provided a handy walking link between High Street West and St. Thomas Street. In 1900, Marks and Spencer unveiled their famous penny bazaar to the masses and Mrs Palmer’s Music Shop also became a major attraction for shoppers and passersby. That’s how ‘The New Arcade’ became to be known as Palmer’s Arcade - as the music shop came to occupy most of the arcade with walls upon walls of music paraphernalia. Before World War I, it was common for tenants to remain open until around 9pm on Saturday evenings, and each shopkeeper hung colourful bunting, vibrant banners and inquisitive trinkets above their store in an attempt to catch the attention of those walking by. The arcade was demolished in the 1970s to facilitate the extension of the British Telecom Telephone Exchange, yet the spirit of supporting local and exploring Sunderland city centre endures to this present day.
PALMER'S ARCADE: A SHOPPING ICON!
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR ALL ABOUT YOUR MEMORIES AND STORIES FROM LIFE IN AND AROUND SUNDERLAND. GET IN TOUCH ONLINE:
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Looking after your Wellbeing this winter
As the nights draw in and the weather turns colder, we’ve collated some top tips for looking after yourself and others this winter.
Drink less It’s the time of year when many of us may find we’re drinking more than we do normally. Like tobacco, alcohol can cause cancer and the UK’s top doctors advise it is safest for men and women not to drink more than 14 units a week, over three or more days, with at least a few drink-free days per week. 14 units is around 6 medium (175ml) glasses of wine, or 6 pints of 4% beer. Apps are a great way to help you cut back and keep track of how much you’re drinking. Here are our top picks: • One You Drink Free Days - One simple way to cut down is to have at least a few drink-free days every week. This app helps you to choose your drink-free days and access practical support to stick with it. Download free and see more tips and advice at www.nhs.uk/better-health/drink-less • Try Dry: the Dry January app - Pledge to take part in Dry January 2022 and set your own custom goals for your drinking year-round. You can also track your units as well as the calories and money you save. Download free: www.reducemyrisk.tv If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol and needs further support, contact Wear Recovery. Find out more at www.changegrowlive.org/sunderland
Give quitting another go If you smoke, have you thought about giving quitting another go this winter? Smoking causes heart disease, lung disease, COPD, cancer and stroke. But evidence shows it can also weaken the immune system, leaving people more vulnerable to infectious diseases such as Covid, influenza and pneumonia. There are more ways to quit now than ever before – from a stop smoking aids prescribed by a GP or pharmacist to visiting your local Stop Smoking Services for friendly advice, support and encouragement to help you stop for good. See www.stopsmokingsunderland.nhs.uk or www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/
Every Mind Matters Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. There are little things we can all do to help. See www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters
Get your jabs and help stop the spread With both Covid and flu circulating together, it’s important we continue to do all we can to prevent the spread of infection…. • Get all recommended doses of the Covid vaccine and get your flu jab (if eligible) as soon as you can. Anyone 12 and over can get a Covid vaccine and the booster programme is open to those most at risk from Covid 19, including anyone over 50 who had their last vaccine more than six months ago. Even if you haven’t had your first or your second vaccine, it’s never too late, find out more at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations - or ask your GP.
• Wear a face covering when in crowded and enclosed public places • Keep your distance when out and about • Meet outdoors if you can and if you are inside, open a window to let fresh air in • Test regularly with an LFT when you feel well and isolate and get a PCR test if your home test is positive or if you have any symptoms, even mild ones • And, with lots of winter viruses in circulation, you should also stay at home if you feel unwell to help stop passing on any infections.
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Lucy Spraggan 17 December 2021
The Shires
Looking ahead at The Fire Station throughout 2022 The Fire Station is Sunderland's brandnew, £18m state-of-the-art live music and performance venue in the heart of the city's Cultural Quarter and its programme is packed to the rafters with world-class talent! Whether you’re an indie rock champion, adventurous jazzer, theatre devotee, stand-up comedy fan or just after a great night out, their programme is packed with entertainment for all tastes. Firestarters is The Fire Station's red hot opening programme running from December to June 2022. Multi platinum singer songwriter Emeli Sandé kick-starts 2022 with a powerful, intimate performance on Saturday 15 January. Other highlights for the New Year include a solo show from vital folk-troubadour Richard Dawson on Saturday 22 January, UK country stars The Shires on Thursday 27 January, Amy Winehouse: A Celebration of her Life and Emeli Sandé Work with the National Youth Photo:Olivia Jazz Orchestra on Thursday Lifungula 10 February, Kodo - the globally renowned Japanese professional taiko drumming troupe on Wed 16 February, a production of Ibsen's A Doll's House on Thursday 17 February and a performance by The Transatlantic Ensemble of Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours on Friday 18 February. And during half term week Monday 21-Saturday 26 February, they're throwing the doors and inviting amateur performers
Orlando Weeks
of all types, backgrounds, ages and experience to be among the first to grace the stage at The Fire Station – showcasing the incredible talent we have right on our doorstep. Highlights for spring include a highly anticipated show by former Maccabees frontman Orlando Weeks on the back of his new album on Sunday 13 March, Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo sell-out comedy sensation Gary Delaney: Gary in Punderland on Saturday 26 March, and Speakeasy - a thrilling dance spectacle from Southpaw which combines vintage and contemporary styles from breakdance to Lindyhop on Friday 8 April.
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Firestarters will end in the summer of 2022 with a special one-off acoustic acapella show by Sunderland's home-grown success story The Futureheads on Saturday 11 June. THEFIRESTATION.ORG.UK
The Voyd 11 December If the sound of fast-paced, melodic indie anthems with big choruses fresh from the streets of Sunderland is your kinda’ music, then a trip over to Independent this December to see local lads, The Voyd, rock up a storm, is a must. Since bursting onto the scene, the boys from Sunderland have quickly rocketed to the forefront of Sunderland’s burgeoning music scene and have built a strong following thanks to their DIY attitude and riotous live shows. Their first hometown headline show since 2019, you’d be a fool to miss a night consisting of euphoric sing-alongs and rip-roaring guitar licks from one of the North East’s brightest talents. INDEPENDENTSUNDERLAND.COM
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The sensational Lucy Spraggan arrives at performing arts and culture venue, The Point, to celebrate her brilliant new album, Choices. What is her sixth studio album has gone down a treat since its release earlier this year and has raked in praise from critics for its reflective and honest collection of tracks that depict themes of self-care, divorce and personal solace. Tickets start from £19. Book yours now and be prepared to be taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride as Lucy and her trusty guitar rock the night away in what’s sure to be an incredible one-woman show…
Beauty and the Beast From 20 January 2022 The most enchanted musical of all time is arriving at Sunderland Empire in 2022! Disney’s beloved Olivier Award-winning stage musical Beauty and the Beast will come to Sunderland in January 2022 as part of the recently opened UK & Ireland Tour. Featuring spectacular stage designs, iconic songs and state-of-the-art technology fused with the classic story, settle in at Sunderland Empire as this timeless romantic tale sparkles into life on stage like never before. Breathtakingly reimagined using the latest theatrical innovations, this beloved tale will be brought to life on stage like never before. Catch it live at Sunderland Empire! ATGTICKETS.COM/SUN DERLAND
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