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Father and son trip the lights fantastic
A FATHER and son got to the art of the matter by getting on their bikes at Hebburn Riverside Park.
David Swailes, 42, and son Alistair, 10, changed gear from onlookers to participants while cycling past the 150,000 Flash@Hebburn art project.
After meeting artist Charles Quick by chance while on their regular riverside cycle route, the pair now form part of the industry-inspired light installation.
The artist invited them to Hebburn Community Centre, to learn all about the project, and they later inspired part of the Flash@Hebburn light sequence, called Hebburn Cyclist: The heart rate of a cyclist.
Mr Swailes, a council worker, said: "It's very exciting to be involved with Flash@Hebburn.
"It's an attraction that will add character to an area of Hebburn which, I believe, is an underused resource.
"The workshop was really interesting and informative as it delivered a wonderful take on the history of Hebburn.
"I was very impressed by Charles's knowledge of the region.
"Every time we cycle along the quayside, Alistair eagerly asks when he'll be able to see his sequence up in lights.
"We hope that Flash@Hebburn is around for years to come."
Mr Swailes's father worked for 20 years at the Hawthorn and Leslie shipyard in Hebburn, another inspiration for the new riverside feature.
Alistair said: "I enjoyed taking part in the workshop, especially having my pulse taken."
Mr Quick said: "From the very beginning, the people of Hebburn have been quick to understand the concept of what we're trying to achieve.
"Both from a heritage and creative point of view and, gratifyingly, as an artist, it has resulted in them warmly supporting the work, with people of all ages – teenagers to pensioners – taking the project under their collective wing."
More than 300 people have attended workshops as part of the Flash@Hebburn project – funded by the Arts Council and delivered by South Tyneside Council – ahead of its official launch on Saturday, March 7.
The free event, which will include music, starts at 6.30pm, with the switch-on at 7pm.
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Weather for South Shields
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Light sleet showers
Temperature: -1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
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