Sculpture aims to create a chain reaction and boost tourism

HERE are hopes that a new sculpture designed by renowned local artist Ray Lonsdale will become a focal point for coast-to-coast cyclists.

- DANIEL HALL

The artwork, which consists of a larger-than-life steel bench and a vintage bike, is close to Tynemouth Rowing Club and overlooks the mouth of the River Tyne. It is hoped the bench will become a starting point for the Coast to Coast cycle ride or a finishing spot for those who take it on - though many don’t consider themselves done until they've dipped their wheels in the sea!

Nevertheless, with six national cycle routes passing through Tynemouth, as well as the £11m Seafront Sustainable Route, which will eventually connect Whitley Bay and North Shields Fish Quay, tourism bosses see the village as the ideal place to enhance the area’s active travel credentials.