Gareth James Chocolatier (Behind the Scenes)

I am having a rare day off on Thursday and I am taking my recently retired Mum on a bit of a tour around Tynemouth and the North Shields Fish Quay. It's rare for us to spend time like this together so I am going to take her to some of my favourite places. One such place is Gareth James (Chocolatier) on front Street on Tynemouth. Please see my earlier blog post for more details about this great Tynemouth venue here: http://intynemouth.blogspot.com/2011/05/gareth-james-chocolatier.html



 I was warmly invited to see some of the processes that take place behind the scenes that go into the production of some of the yummy goodies on offer. It's great to see the attention to detail and the passion that Gareth has for chocolate. Here are some of the behind the scenes images that make this venue a place to visit and enjoy.

Not only will you find great chocolates here you can also grab a great cup of coffee, tea or a simply wonderful hot chocolate.

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Larrys Fishcakes

I met Craig in my favourite local pub The Low Lights Tavern earlier this year. I have been meaning to write about his family business 'Larrys Fishcakes' for some time but only just got round to visiting their unit this week. Through a commission I have undertaken to photograph people with businesses connected to the Fish Quay I knew I wanted to pay Craig and his mum Jean a visit.

Jean's Father 'Larry' started the business in 1960 and the company has grown into the oldest manufacturer of Fishcakes in the UK whilst remaining a family firm that is well loved by its customers. I had never met Jean before but I think I have a new friend as she is such a bubbly person and has even written and published a book about growing up on the Fish Quay and North Shields. I am going to post about this later.

After chatting with Jean and Craig they kindly gave me some fishcakes to take away for my lunch. I should have posted and image of them but my fiancee and I wolfed them down before I could take a photograph. I can tell you that they were lovely and that I will be back for some more soon and also for some of the other savoury products on offer.

It's great to see a local business doing well in such tough times. Perhaps the legacy that was started by Larry and lovingly continued by Jean and Craig was built on the best ingredients both as a foodstuff and a business. I'm a great beliver in people and that good people show their goodness in their faces. Both Craig and Jean are great honest people who are not only proud of their business but their area.

For more information about larrys Fishcakes please visit this link:

http://www.larrysfishcakes.co.uk/

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Garden Remedy

For all your garden requirements please get in touch with Garden Remedy who are based in Tynemouth and offer bespoke gardening and tree specialist service in Tyne and Wear and Northumberland.

You can find out more about what Garden Remedy do here;

http://www.gardenremedy.co.uk/

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Martineau Guest House (Breakfast fit for a King or Queen)

A recent TV program featuring Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and his Fish Fight Campaign featured a locally filmed scene in which Sally the owner of Martineau Guest House was choosing some some locally fished produce. This reminded me that I had not posted about Sally's amazing Breakfast that she cooked for me and my girlfriend Rachael earlier this year.

Because food is such a large part of the Martineau Guest House experience I thought the breakfast deserved its own post. My 'Big Geordie' breakfast was amazing - I loved the sausages which are produced for Sally by a local butcher and also the home baked bread - mmmmmmm. If you are thinking of visiting Tynemouth I can recommend the Martineau as do a number of people giving great reviews on Trip Advisor.

To see my earlier post featuring info on the rooms and further links follow this link here:

http://intynemouth.blogspot.com/2011/05/martineau-guest-house.html

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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.

The Toy Museum

The Toy Museum in Tynemouth is the result of Tony and Maureen and Bracken's passion for toys. There are over 7000 toys on display and you can tell that every single one of them is well loved. The museum was set up to house their ever growing collection of bears, dolls, cars, robots and childhood memorabilia.

Part of the collection that really appeals to me is the selection of vintage robots which are fantastic. They remind me of old 1950's sci-fi films and the TV series 'Lost in Space' which I used to love. Because there is such a mix of toys from the 1890's until the present day there is something for everyone of all ages. My visit to the museum took me back to my childhood, it had everything I loved and collected from Star Wars, Batman and toy cars. I'm sure the massive collection of dolls, bears and comics will have the same nostalgic effect on every visitor.

One of the things that surprised me on my first visit was the sheer size of the museum and the astonishing variety of toys on display. The museum is TARDIS- like in size, much bigger than the building facade suggests.

I was made to feel hugely welcome on my visit and was shown some of the behind the scenes storage areas brimming with toys of all type. It's great when you meet people with passion, people who love what they do, Tony and Maureen are collectors with a passion for toys. I am sure that everyday their collection inspires warm memories of may a viewers childhood.

If you are in Tynemouth and fancy doing something nostalgic and fun then pop in and say hi to Tony and Maureen. Please check out their fantastic website here: http://www.tynemouthtoymuseum.co.uk/

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All photos by www.anthonydorman.com

Busy Lizzies

Flowers can really make somebody's day, it may be a big day like a wedding or a simple thank you for someone special. Busy Lizzies situated on Percy Park Road is a bright friendly florist offering that personal touch for any occasion.



Check out their full list of services on their website below or why not pop in to the shop and view the wonderfully colourful displays and enjoy the floral aroma first hand.

www.busylizziestynemouth.co.uk

Ice Cream Memories on a Hot Day

I have been way too busy to update the blog properly over the last few days which have seen some great weather in Tynemouth. Although I have been sizzling further in land in Newcastle I have simply wanted to walk along the fantastic beaches on offer in Tynemouth. I am a little behind with my photo editing for the blog but will soon be posting about Busy Lizzies, the Toy Museum and Blue Reef Aquarium. Until then here is a retro style image of one of the ice cream vendors in Tynemouth.

View this image here © Anthony Dorman

I hope they have been having a busy time with the weather being so hot. Every time I walk past I am transported back to when I was little and the sound of the ice cream man's siren sent kids into near hysteria. Would it be a 99 with a flake or a screwball? Oh for the days when these were the toughest decisions to make.

Photo by www.anthonydorman.com

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Jack Tynemouth Dog

(Jack) Jack Russell Terrier from Tynemouth

Spotted with pal Woody and owner Sue out for a walk near the TVLB

Photo by www.anthonydorman.com

The Low Lights Tavern

In January this year I ventured inside the Low Lights Tavern for the very first time. I was there to meet someone to discuss a photo shoot and as soon as I walked in I realised I had found a true local gem. The first thing you will notice when entering this fantastic old pub situated on North Shields Fish Quay is the welcome you receive.

 Marek 41/100 "100 Strangers Project" by Anthony Dorman (View the project here)

On my first and every visit since I have been welcomed warmly and made to feel at home, not just from the staff but the regulars who always say hello. So many bars these days are stuffy or pretentious, I don't drink in those, I like character, warmth and charm. The pub has been around since 1834 however there is evidence that there has been a pub in that location for some 400 years. Once you get through the low front door (5ft 8 or so) you will find the bar and two side rooms both with real fires.

© Anthony Dorman

It is such a lovely old pub and a real slice of local history, the walls are covered in old photographs of the surrounding fish quay as well as a number of brilliant real ale beer mats with great names like 'Wylam Dognobbler'.  The pub is known for its selection of real ales and has a great reputation for the quality and range on offer. I overheard two real ale aficionados one day who were touring the regions 'real ale pubs' who were raving about the fine quality of the ale on offer.

 © Anthony Dorman

Another thing the pub is know for is its music, there will often be a buskers night featuring local musicians. These nights are great, fun lively and the music is great, I heard a fantastic version of Mumford and sons 'Winter Winds' one night. It is a song that has a very special emotional meaning to me and I was chuffed to hear it played so well in my favourite local bar.

 © Anthony Dorman

I reckon that some of you reading this will be thinking that this bar is my hideaway - not quite, I have introduced this bar to friends and family who love it. I never have to twist my girlfriends arm to go there for a drink as she loves the place too. The image below is of my girlfriend at a 'Pirates and Wenches' night that was simply the most hilarious night out I have had in ages. This image was early in the evening and for the sake of my camera I stopped shooting and simply enjoyed the atmosphere, many fine pints of Guinness and a great laugh with our friends Simon and Amanda. There may or may not be video of me as Captain Jack Sparrow to be found somewhere on the Internet!!!

 © Anthony Dorman

I cant stress how much I love this bar, If they would let me live there I would. Considering the pub provides brilliant food and free WiFi as well as warm comfortable friendly surroundings and great beer it has everything you need. I will do more features on the pub in this blog soon focusing on the food and also the newly refurbished rooms upstairs where you can buy art and antiques.

View 'Spot On' by Anthony Dorman here © Anthony Dorman

If you have never been inside the bar simply pop in and enjoy the experience. You may fancy a quiet pint next to the real fire or some scrummy food and live music. Whatever you are looking for in a bar I guarantee that you will enjoy your visit.  I now try and get into the bar whenever I can, the only danger is that I never want to leave when I get there. Always a great time to be had in the Low Lights Tavern.

The images in this post have been taken at different times throughout 2011. (The pub now takes cards)

Visit the pub website here: http://lowlightstavern.co.uk/default.aspx

and they also tweet here: http://twitter.com/#!/Lowlightstavern

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(TVLB) Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade

If there is one institution or place in Tynemouth that should never be taken for granted is the TVLB Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade. For a number of years I used to wonder what the unusual old wooden building overlooking the mouth of the Tyne was. Last year I ventured inside the Watch House and was amazed at what a wonderful place it is, full of history and character.

The TVLB was founded in 1864 due to a number of serious shipping disasters that plagued the surrounding area. It was the first station of its kind anywhere in the world and is still very active today. The TVLB is separated into two distinct parts: the Life Brigade, which is an active emergency rescue team based at the watch tower and the museum itself; which is open 6 days a week (I mentioned Billy the museums' caretaker earlier in this blog). It is worth visiting just to listen to his funny stories about everything from his younger days in Australia hunting crocodiles to the often humorous events within the museum. The museum is a treasure trove full of local history and brimming with interesting artifacts.

I feel that it is important to feature this museum as it is truly astonishing. If you love history, anything nautical or antiques this place is a must see local attraction. The museum relies on visitor donations as it is free to enter. If you are visiting Tynemouth or are local please pop in and be transported back in time and donate what you can to keep the building and organisation going. It is important to note that the Museum Watch Tower is home to a brigade of volunteers who will probably be the first response to any accident or emergency in the area. Not only will you see antiques in the museum but also modern rescue items. You may even see a couple of volunteers reviewing maps of the local area or other such invaluable training procedures.

So if you are out for a walk and see this unusual building please pop in and support the TVLB by simply visiting one of the area's hidden gems or by telling a friend how much you've enjoyed your visit. I have taken a number of people into the museum in the last 12 months and every one of them has loved the experience. This place is something real, something special and unique. If you have never visited and are local please visit, if you have been before then why not visit again.

Please visit the TVLB website for more information and links:

http://www.tvlb.org/

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