Blue Reef Aquarium (Tynemouth)

Blue Reef Aquarium in Tynemouth has established itself as one of the most well loved coastal attractions in recent years, with a collection of sea life ranging from tropical fish, sharks, reptiles and monkeys - yes monkeys (but more about them later). I popped down to the Aquarium and instantly felt myself drawn to all of the colourful fish and animals on display. Looking around at the visitors I could see many parents, grandparents and children happily talking about and interacting with the displays and creatures.

I like the fact that when adults visit the Aquarium they exude a childlike happiness that makes me smile. Being surrounded by the bright tropical fish and the sleek sharks and rays is a very exciting experience.

One of the more unusual but amazingly entertaining displays features the Amazonian miniature monkeys. These tiny adorable little animals are hugely entertaining, one minute they are lazing in the shade eating and the next thing they are scampering up ropes and vines. I was amazed at how curious they were to view us watching them. The children watching the monkeys were laughing and excited every time one of the monkeys came right up to the glass.

Another one of the popular displays is the sea lions which are fantastic huge yet graceful creatures. There is a daily show for the public where the sea lions, amongst other things, kiss each other and the animal carers (there is some teeth brushing involved first ha ha) I don't want to say too much about the show because its much better to just pop down to the Aquarium and see it for yourself.



I just wanted to pop this little fellow (below) in the blog because I thought he was great. Every time I put my camera down he looked at me and then away when I tried to take his photo. Sometimes the little things can be fun and interesting and make you smile.

Check out the Blue Reef Aquarium website below for details about displays, events and much more:

http://www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/tynemouth.htm

Oh - and you might find a Nemo or Dory in the gift shop.

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The 1st Annual Tynemouth Classic VW Rally (A Huge Success)

Tynemouth was the place to be in the North East yesterday as it hosted the  1st Annual Classic VW Rally. On a gloriously sunny Saturday, around 4000 visitors flocked to the village to see up close a selection of fantastic vintage Volkswaggens, from campers to bugs and more. The first vehicle most people saw was the 'Doodlebug' featured below which was parked outside the Priory and Castle. The 'Doodlebug' was a massive success with many visitors including my girlfriend, writing their own messages and drawings and really getting up close with the vehicles.

All Photos by Anthony Dorman

With many VW owners and fans coming from all over the country the atmosphere was buzzing with a mixture of excitement and pride. As someone who knows very little about Volkswaggens I was amazed at the variety of vehicles on display and all of the unique customized features lovingly installed by their passionate owners.

One of the fantastic things about the rally was the range of the ages of the spectators who turned up for the event and the amount of fun being had by everyone, I nearly dropped my camera laughing at the picture I saw below.

All Photos by Anthony Dorman

The owners of the vehicles were all friendly and very proud to show me their campers and bugs often opening doors for me to get interior shots or engine close ups. I can now say that I really want a VW of some description and that I have the 'Bug' myself. A number of the vehicles were for sale yesterday, sadly for me I can guarantee the bank manager would say no if I tried to buy one. I did see a VW camper hire company there so my next holiday may be an exciting road trip.

All Photos by Anthony Dorman

The retro vibe was amazing yesterday, I had to keep pinching myself and reminding myself it was not the 60's or 70's. I think the mixture of people, vehicles and sunshine gave the event a sense of golden nostalgia - don't we all remember our childhood summers as baking hot and full of adventure?

One of the things that really made an impact on me was how important VW is to so many people and how big a part of their life this motor manufacturer has become. This was summed up by a lovely young couple who asked me to take an image of their new baby on his first VW rally (below) I look forward to taking his portrait on the 2nd rally next year.

All Photos by Anthony Dorman

To Jill Snailham, all of the members of the Tynemouth Business Forum and all of the other people involved behind the scenes I would like to say Thank You. This was the regional event of the year by far and as I heard so many visitors say 'I can't wait to see next year's event.

You can check out the Tynemouth Classic VW Rally facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Tynemouth-Classic-Volkswagen-Rally/206689336015444

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'Brucie' Tynemouth Dog

'Brucie' the smiling Staffy visiting Tynemouth to see the Classic VW Rally

Photo by www.anthonydorman.com

I will be posting some photographs taken yesterday during Tynemouth's first ever Classic VW Rally which was a massive success - watch this space.

Tynemouth Classic VW Rally

 Photo by www.anthonydorman.com

This Saturday is the first Tynemouth Classic VW Rally. There will be Beetles and campers of all kinds coming from all over the UK. Why not come down to Tynemouth this Saturday Saturday (30th July) to see these fabulous vehicles and meet some of the owners who are mad passionate about them. The event is taking place in Priors Car Park (in the shadow of Collingwood Monument) just 2 minutes walk from Tynemouth Village and all of its fantastic shops, bars and restaurants.

 Photo by Anthony Dorman

I took these shots a few months ago for Jill Snailham the owner of Ruby and Frank who has organised the show with the help of the Tynemouth Business Forum. Even with just 4 vehicles for the shoot a crowd of admirers appeared within minutes.

Photo by Anthony Dorman

Why not pop down for some fun this Saturday, the weather is looking good and I'm sure these wonderful vehicles will put a smile on your face.

For more information about the Rally please go to this website: http://www.tynemouthclassicvwrally.co.uk/index.html

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Tynemouth Tour

The lovely lady below is Keiran-Ann Keilty, a qualified local guide who has just started a guided walking tour of Tynemouth. We got in touch with each other through the Tynemouth Business Forum and agreed that I should do a preview walk with Keiran-Ann. I won't give too much information about the walk as it would spoil the experience. What I  will say is that I learnt more about my local area during my walk than  had learnt in the five years living in Tynemouth. 

photography by www.anthonydorman.com

The walking tour starts at Tynemouth Priory and finishes with a delicious cream tea at The Grand Hotel. I really enjoyed my walk with Keiran-Ann and would recommend it to both local residents and visitors to Tynemouth. The talk will educate you and keep you fit whilst enjoying some splendid scenery.

Please combine Keiran-Ann for more details including times and booking information.

kkeilty@hotmail.co.uk

07816789685

Tynemouth Surf Co

Tynemouth is known for its surfing which has long played a big part in bringing new visitors to the area. You can often see many surfers in the sea just off from the Long Sands beach with many locals surfing when they finish work. I have to admit that I have never surfed due to the fact that I am hopeless in the water. After spending some time in Tynemouth Surf Co I think I may have changed my mind. Everyone there is as you would expect being surfers i.e. very chilled and laid back, but in a way that assures you that they live for surfing and can teach a land lubber like me to surf.

photos by www.anthonydorman.com

I had a good chat with Stephen the founder of Tynemouth Surf Co about what they do which includes lessons and hire facilities as well as stocking everything you would think of relating to surfing. In the short time I was there I got the sense of a growing community of people who live for the weekend, longing for the surf. I am thinking of asking for a surfing lesson for my birthday as its about time I tried a sporting past time that is available right on my doorstep.

Check out the Tynemouth Surf Co website here for details including lessons and opening times;

http://www.tynemouthsurf.co.uk/about.htm

Ruby and Frank

Ruby and Frank has established itself as one of the great shopping destinations of Tynemouth. Owner Jill has put together a great collection of clothes and accessories from predominantly local designers. Combine this with a funky location, great background music and a friendly service and you have a winning formula.

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Photo by Anthony Dorman

Every time I have popped into Ruby and Frank to see Jill there is always a buzz about the place. Like many independent business's that are successful there is clearly a great sense of attention to detail combined with personality. All of these things are infectious and have clearly captured the imagination and interest of many visitors. There have been many great write ups in the local press including 'The Crack'. Check out the Ruby and Frank facebook page or even better pop in and check out a great selection of designer clothes at affordable prices.

Jill has organised this great event coming to Tynemouth this summer

Tynemouth Classic Volkswagen Rally

I will be posting more photos and information about Ruby and Frank as well as the forthcoming Volkswagen event over the next few weeks. Why not pop in and see Jill to find out more about an event that is already causing a stir of excitement in Tynemouth.

www.anthonydorman.com   www.anthonydormanphotography.blogspot.com

Syon Street Royal Wedding Street Party

For the last few months I have been photographing the people and places in and around Tynemouth for the purpose of writing this blog. I was going to wait until I had about 6 weeks worth of postings but have instead decided to let the blog happen in an organic daily fashion.

I was contacted recently and asked if I would like to take some photographs of a Royal Wedding Street Party happening in Syon Street, Tynemouth. Here is a small collection of images taken on the day which I hope convey the sense of community that Tynemouth has to offer?

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

There were lots of children dressed in very patriotic outfits who were great subjects for me to photograph as well as bringing a great family atmosphere to the party. I quite fancied having a go at the egg and spoon race myself.

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

Below is Gabrielle and her brilliant family who invited me to the party and made me feel very welcome all day, they very kindly kept me fed and watered and were great hosts.

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

Everyone brought food and drink for the event, including the Grand Hotel who kindly supplied some Rose Wine for the party.



http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade made an inpromtu appearance to entertain the children who all had a go with the hose. I think there were quite a few Dad's desperate for a shot whilst all the Mam's were eyeing up the firemen, ha ha. Lets face it Firemen and Woman are pretty cool and they definitely made a big impression on everyone.

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

Gabrielle's (the party organiser) sisters from Glasgow where in attendance including classical singer Rosa (Rosalind Sutherland) who performed a selection of classical arias that captivated the party goers and brought a tear to many an eye and also a standing ovation. Check out Rosa on this YouTube clip here

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

Food Glorious Food WOW!!!

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

Not even a little downpour - how British - could stop the party spirits especially these little ones who never budged and continued  to eat cake like it was going out of fashion.

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

http://www.anthonydorman.com/ © Anthony Dorman

I have to admit that The Royal Wedding of Will and Kate's brought out the best of the British public both in Tynemouth and throughout the UK. Considering all the doom and gloom that we see everyday on the news this was something that made you feel proud and happy to be British.

I will be posting more stories and photographs of the people and places in and around Tynemouth over the next few days. Please feel free to check out the postings and re-post/tweet/facebook any of the stories.

Check out my regular photoblog here http://www.anthonydormanphotography.blogspot.com/.