The iconic Herd Groyne lighthouse has reopened following extensive storm damage repairs, ensuring it continues to guide ships safely into the River Tyne.
South Shields: The Herd Groyne lighthouse is back in action! After a storm caused some serious damage, it has officially reopened. The restoration cost a whopping £250,000.
This lighthouse, a local gem since 1882, took a hit during Storm Babet in October 2023. Thankfully, the Barbour Foundation stepped in with a generous £100,000 donation to help with repairs.
The funds were crucial for fixing up the lighthouse. They cleaned, repainted, and tackled structural issues. Now, it’s not just pretty; it’s also a working navigational aid for ships entering the River Tyne.
Dame Margaret Barbour and Port of Tyne CEO Matt Beeton were there for the reopening. Barbour, known for its lifestyle brand, has a long history with the lighthouse, featuring it in their catalogs since 1908.
Dame Margaret shared her excitement about the restoration. She called the lighthouse a treasured landmark and expressed joy in seeing it restored to its former glory.
Matt Beeton also praised the Barbour Foundation for their support. He highlighted the lighthouse as a vital part of the region’s heritage and a symbol of the North East.
It’s great to see such community spirit in preserving our local history. If you want to learn more about the lighthouse, check out the Port of Tyne’s website!
