Sir Ridley Scott exhibition set to open The Word in South Shields

South Tyneside will pay tribute to one of its most illustrious sons at the opening of The Word, National Centre for the Written Word - the new library and digital media centre in the town.

The Word, which is part of the £100 million regeneration of South Shields town centre, will host the exhibition showcasing six of his most well-known movies: Alien, Blade Runner, Gladiator, Robin Hood, Thelma and Louise and The Martian.

A seven-foot-high alien is just one of the iconic props that have been commissioned by South Tyneside Council for the exhibition, which will also feature interactive experiences, kids’ activities, movie trivia and a dedicated mobile app.

The exhibition, which is sponsored by Port of Tyne, will be launched on October 22, when The Word officially opens to the public.

The three-storey building, being built on the town’s market place, will celebrate the borough’s literary heritage, and will be a home for North East writing talent.

Coun Iain Malcolm, leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “We’re confident that The Word will draw people from across the region and beyond, so it is fitting that one of South Tyneside’s most prominent talents should be celebrated in its opening exhibition.

“This exhibition has a universal appeal that will not only provide a fantastic visitor experience, but will signal that South Shields is open for business as a premier coastal resort.”