Life-sized replicas of local heroes will appear in Newcastle for a series of events and exhibitions this summer.
The figures will honour the likes of 1830s Prime Minister, Charles Grey, heart surgeons at the RVI hospital, and everyday heroes, nominated through those touched by their legacy.
Newcastle is the first city to host an exhibition outside of The Hero Project’s hometown, and will play part of Newcastle Council’s ‘Together We Are Stronger’ campaign, celebrating the city, as well as its people, strength and pride.
The Prince’s Trust Cheryl’s Trust Fund Centre, which opened on Blandford Square in February, is just one of the organisations taking part. Colin Jeffrey, Fairbridge programme manager at the centre, said:
“Creating a local hero provides opportunities to be challenged and I hope that researching heroic figures will be inspiring to the individuals taking part and encourage them to ask what impact they want to have on their community.”
Other organisations involved include Newcastle College and Gateshead College.
Project director, Deana Wildgoose, said: “We’re working with colleges as there is a belief that a lot of people go into college and do their own subject, only mixing with students in that subject area. The colleges wanted to get involved to encourage all faculties to come together and use their shared skills.”
The Hero Project aims to get people thinking and engaged in their community, by sharing their experiences, having fun and facilitating public exhibitions which bring personal stories to life.
Anyone wishing to nominate and recreate a hero should call into the Geek Retreat café on Grainger Street in Newcastle and follow The Hero Project on social media for further information.