Meet South Tyneside's Stars of 2020 - the incredible people who have helped you get through a tough year

From essential workers to kind-hearted neighbours and volunteers, Shields Gazette readers got in touch to nominate their Stars of 2020 – the champions who have gone the extra mile for the South Tyneside community during the coronavirus pandemic this year.

And reading your touching comments and messages really reminded us of just how much the borough has to be proud of.

So as we head into the final moments of 2020, we’ve put together this round-up highlighting just some of the hard work carried out by your loved ones this year. They sang, they shopped, they taught and they baked.

Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard – from those on the front lines to community volunteers and entertainers – and thank you to everyone who sent in a picture or message.

Here are some of your nominations from the Shields Gazette Facebook page:

Sasha Armstrong: “Val Armstrong School of Performing Arts has went above and beyond for all the children (and parents) during one of the most difficult years.

"During both lockdowns they had daily Zoom classes, challenges and incentives to keep all the children going while trying to bring a little normality back. Thank you Team VA.”

Deborah Armstrong: “I’d like to thank this amazing man Colin Burgin-Plews aka Hairy Berry. He has entertained, encouraged and fundraised during the whole pandemic.

"His group Hairy Berry’s Great-Iso-Bake-In has brought so much pleasure and support to help people cope through these difficult times.

"Children and adults have took to baking and sharing their creations all hoping to win one of his personalised wooden spoons.

"He has truly helped my mental health for which I will be forever grateful!”

Leanne Ferriday: “Stephen Sullivan for hosting street parties, story time with Stevie, his Father Christmas videos, campaigning on behalf of the hospitality sector and for being just amazing all the time. He has a heart of gold! Top fella loved by all.”

Julie Ann Stones: “Deborah Taylor-Smith aka Wor Vera/Elf Vera ... not only selflessly entertained outside in all weathers at over 150 care homes free of charge during our first lockdown this year, but recently brought festive cheer to youngsters over December to provide for her own family.”

Stephen Sullivan: “Blake entertained care homes, streets and communities across the North East. He also hosted radio shows and helped raise money for charities! Well done to Blake Robson.”

Angie Comerford: “It’s got to be this amazing man and his fantastic team. Mick Abbott’s Auto Repairs Ltd go above and beyond to help anyone at all.

"They play a vital part in keeping Hebburn’s little helper on the road so that we can keep providing the service we do. Thank you so much lads.”

Deborah Anne Swan: My first is Pat Hay, I think we have been some of the luckiest constituents ever to have someone like Pat.

"Throughout the entire pandemic she has been there with constant, up-to-date advice, support and morale-boosting messages.

"She has gone above and beyond her role and duties to help anyone in need, whatever their need may be. I would like to say a huge thank you to her from myself and my family!"

Stephen Sullivan: “Davey Hopper aka Arbuthnot has done so much to raise money and spirits online. He regularly hosted quizzes and interviews and games on Facebook for all and helped raise money for The Customs House.

"He then went on to write and direct this year’s beautiful Christmas show which was streamed and put on DVD to bring much-needed entertainment across the region this year!”

Amber Natalie Griffiths: “Angie Comerford is a real life earth angel! She goes above and beyond for not only family and friends but also anyone in need or struggling, her and her team of heroes have selflessly put all their time and energy Into the North East to help families in poverty and families struggling when they needed it the most!”

Brenda Leggett: “Our daughter Julie Elliott for helping us every week getting our weekly shopping, she’s done so much to help everyone else at work too, we would like to thank her very much.”

Deb Ann McIntosh: “Kaitlyn Lauder for helping me keep safe during lockdown.”

Graham Henderson: “George Thompson and his wonderful family for hosting lockdown parties and singalongs from his home during this horrible time, well done mate, people won’t forget.”

Katie Masoodi: “Every single public transport worker, we have worked front-facing throughout the pandemic, trying to keep our systems running the best we can.”

Jacqueline Penman: “I don't have a photo but every single member of staff at Roseway House.

"They have gone above and beyond keeping people safe and being family, counsellors, hairdressers, entertainers but most of all they stayed with my darling dad during the height of this virus when family couldn't and didn't leave his side till he took his last breath unsung heroes all of them.”

Caitlin Mckenna: “Kerry King-Neale, she walked around as Santa on Christmas Eve and also decorated her street for Halloween so kids could go and have a look.”

Anderley Powell: “John Stewart and all those involved with Friends of Hebburn Cemetery. The continuous work they do all year round is immense and brings joy and comfort to many people.”

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