Shields Ferry carries the King’s Trust 50th anniversary baton across the River Tyne
The Shields Ferry has played its part in a baton relay to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the King’s Trust.
The King’s Trust 50th anniversary baton safely made it across the River Tyne thanks to help from the Shields Ferry.
The event, which has involved young people taking part in a 40-mile relay across the region, is an Olympic torch-style baton relay to celebrate 50 years of the King’s Trust, formerly known as the Prince’s Trust.
Wednesday, June 24, marked day three of the five-day North East-wide event - with those taking part boarding the Shields Ferry in South Shields to cross the River Tyne.
Nine young people, ten officers from the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS), and Merlin the Urban Search and Rescue dog carried the baton on the Ferry.
‘We were thrilled’
Kevin Leonard, Customer Services Operations Manager at Nexus, has expressed his delight at the Shields Ferry being able to play a key role in the relay.
He said: “We were thrilled to be a part of this event, celebrating 50 years of the King’s Trust in our region.
“The Shields Ferry is a popular local connection, so it was a great idea for us to be involved, helping to get the baton across the Tyne following its long journey here from Teesside.
“Well done to all involved.”
Visiting local landmarks
Once the baton arrived in North Shields, it was handed over to representatives from the Newcastle United Foundation.
The Tyne & Wear leg of the relay saw the baton visit a number of local landmarks, including Penshaw Monument, Souter Lighthouse, the Angel of the North, Washington ‘F’ Pit Museum, and more.
John Anderson, Diversionary Activities Manager at TWFRS, commented: “We are proud to support The King’s Trust as it celebrates 50 years of empowering young people.
“The programme provides a vital springboard, helping individuals build confidence, self-esteem and the life experience they need to succeed both socially and professionally.
“At Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, we see first-hand the positive impact it has - giving young people the skills, resilience and belief to fulfil their potential and play an active role in their communities."