Hello! My name is Kieran. I run the North East Heritage Library - a local history project based in Newcastle which aims to research and showcase the the area's heritage. We've been going for 5 years now, and have amassed a collection of nearly 3000 entries covering everything from shipyards, collieries, cinemas, schools and even deserted medieval villages. You can find all of our work here: https://www.northeastheritagelibrary.co.uk/

Over the past 3 years, we've managed to raise over £4300 for some amazing causes across the region with our History Hikes. Across 3 days, I venture into the North East wilderness to uncover some remnants of our past, whether it's old railways in Shildon or incredible prehistoric standing stones at Plessey Woods. I take my drone and camera and document everything live on social media. You can find all of last years over on X: https://x.com/neheritagelib/status/1813074875122393395

This year, I'm dedicating fundraising to Hadrian School. As many of you will be aware, Hadrian is one of Newcastle's schools which supports kids with additional needs. From first hand experience, the work they do to make kids feel like they have a place in this world is exceptional - they don't simply give children the tools to survive, but shape a world around them to know they deserve their place here. My daughter Molly is one of the pupils, and her progression from her first day has been nothing short of transformation for her and our family. Upon arriving she was entirely non-verbal, but only 9 months later she's stringing words together and now we can't shush her!

You'll have probably seen the narratives across the tv and online around SEN schools - I don't need to repeat some of the stories, but this heartless response to a lifeline for our own kids. It couldn't be more wrong too - finances are stretched and parents who have the means support through buying nappies, wipes, toys & equipment. Every kid deserves the best start in life, and pupils here deserve the best possible shot too.

From the 13th July, I'll be setting off from South Shields to walk the old Stanhope & Tyne Railway and Weardale Railway to Bishop Auckland. I'm so so excited to cover patches I've never been to before. I hope you can join me!

Kieran