09/06/2026
Tis the ‘ninth of Joon, two thousand and twenty one on a summer’s afternoon’ which Geordies will know means it’s the day of the Blaydon Race.
While the modern equivalent is a sober affair, the above lyrics are an updated version of the opening line of the legendary anthem penned by Victorian music hall singer Geordie Ridley in 1862 which captured in song the spirit of the then much more raucous event.
50 years later, artist William Irving produced his memorable interpretation on canvas of it, the original painting now on permanent display at the Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead however the hotel displays a copy of it.
Next time you visit be sure to stop for a look 👀🎨
