Much-loved South Tyneside TV comedy star gets blue plaque - here's where
South Tyneside TV star gets honoured in Hebburn ceremony.
A South Tyneside TV comedy star has been honoured with a Blue Plaque in recognition of the heights he hit in the world of entertainment.
Friends, family and admirers were at an unveiling ceremony in Hebburn for actor Terry Joyce, whose hit shows included Byker Grove, Super Gran and Spender.
The plaque now adorns an exterior wall of the Hebburn Iona Social Club in Station Road, a venue he was known to attend.
Hebburn-born Terry died aged 71 in June 2024 but his legacy to the stage and mainly small screen is now secure after the touching memorial tribute.
Those present included his son, Terry Joyce Jnr, and Deputy Mayor Alan Rice and his wife Margaret Rice, the Deputy Mayoress.
And John Burke, Terry’s best friend, was also on hand to talk fondly of him in a speech during the unveiling on Friday, June 17.
They say he was liked and respected for always staying true to his roots and remaining immensely proud of Hebburn.
As well as his acting credentials, he was known as a polished and popular after dinner speaker.
He often worked alongside footballers and managers including Alan Shearer, Jackie Charlton, Sir Bobby Robson, Kevin Keegan, Peter Reid and Bryan Robson.
After the unveiling, a celebration of his life took place at the Iona club, where a full house enjoyed an afternoon of memories, laughter and stories.
Terry jnr said: “To see so many people line Station Road for Dad’s plaque unveiling and then walk into a packed Iona was incredibly emotional.
“Dad loved Hebburn and the people of Hebburn clearly loved him back.
“People remember him for so many things – his comedy, his acting, and most importantly the way he made people feel.
“He was the kind of man that made the world brighter by his very presence. The number of people he helped is immeasurable.
“Hearing all the stories and seeing so many faces there was very special for our family.”
Terry Jnr added: “Our Dad touched so many lives. It's a regular thing for people to tell us about a touching memory or telling us about the joy he brought.
“Friday was a wonderful celebration of his life and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who came along.”
South Tyneside’s Blue Plaque programme celebrates individuals and places that have made a lasting impact on the borough’s history and heritage.