From literature...
Elinor Brent-Dyer, author of the popular Chalet School books was born in South Shields and educated in Westoe Village.
Whitburn has strong links with another famous literary figure, Lewis Carroll. The author spent holidays in the village and gained inspiration for his books, "Alice in Wonderland" and "Alice Through The Looking Glass" from people he met in the area.
Catherine Cookson was born in 1906 at Tyne Dock and drew inspiration for her best-selling novels from her life and place of birth.
The writer Alan Plater was born and raised in Jarrow.
From theatre and screen...
Westoe Village was the birthplace of actress Dame Flora Robson
Creative South Tynesiders also include film directors Tony and Ridley Scott.
More recently South Shields has been given tv exposure thanks to the talented X Factor winner Joe McElderry.
Funnyman Eric Idle from the popular Monty Python series was born in Harton Village, South Shields.
From politics...
Sir William Fox, three times Prime Minister of New Zealand.
From sport...
Jarrow Arrow Steve Cram and middle distance runner David Sharpe
Frank Williams was born in South Shields and lived in Jarrow before going on to conquer the world of Formula 1.
From music...
Alan Price, who shot to fame with The Animals, was educated at Jarrow Grammar School.
Musician John Miles was born and bred in Jarrow.
