Why rainbows are appearing in the windows of homes around South Tyneside

A cheery idea is brightening up the lives of those affected by the spread of coronavirus in South Tyneside.
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Rainbows have been spotted appearing in the windows of homes across South Tyneside in the last few days, as the community aims to spread a little happiness in uncertain times.

Rainbows are popping up in windows around South Tyneside. By Harper, 6 and Lyle 5.Rainbows are popping up in windows around South Tyneside. By Harper, 6 and Lyle 5.
Rainbows are popping up in windows around South Tyneside. By Harper, 6 and Lyle 5.
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As of Friday, March 20 schools in the borough have closed to all pupils except those of key workers and pubs, bars and restaurants have shut as people are advised to social distance.

Their efforts inspired mum-of-four Carly Maddison and friend Shannon Beaton, of The Nook, South Shields to set up the Chasing Rainbows South Tyneside Facebook page.

It encourages people to put a picture of a rainbow in their window in a bid to brighten the days of those who pass them, on their way to work, walking the dog, or getting some fresh air while social distancing.

Amber Jean Wright, 8, with her rainbow.Amber Jean Wright, 8, with her rainbow.
Amber Jean Wright, 8, with her rainbow.
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Carly will also be out leaving little gifts outside any house sporting a rainbow.

“Kids don’t fully understand what is going on, so it’s a way to keep it positive for them and something to distract them while you are trying to keep them safe, when they just want to be playing outside,” said Shannon.

But they have been also cheering up elderly residents and those with dementia, who may not be able to have their loved ones around them.

“We hope it will make people smile and bring the community together,” she continued.

Rainbows are appearing in the windows of homes across South Tyneside. By Matthew Burrell, 11.Rainbows are appearing in the windows of homes across South Tyneside. By Matthew Burrell, 11.
Rainbows are appearing in the windows of homes across South Tyneside. By Matthew Burrell, 11.
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“It’s just a little bit of happiness for the key workers, the NHS staff, the postal workers and the food bank volunteers. They are all still out and about and I’ve had messages telling me they have been giving them a spring in their step.”

Each week will see a new theme introduced, from rainbows to sunshine, flowers and smiley faces in the coming weeks.

Shannon added: “With everything that’s going on, we just need a bit of positivity and cheer.”