Plaque honours man who helped to preserve borough's Roman heritage

A pioneering antiquarian has been honoured with a commemorative Blue Plaque recognising his pivotal work in the excavation and preservation of South Shields' Roman heritage.

- by Gazette Reporter

The Mayor and Mayoress, historian Jean Stokes, President of the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle Don O'Meara and Geoff Woodward, Arbeia Roman Fort.

It is through the dedication and efforts of South Shields-born Robert Blair that the site of the town's Roman fort was excavated before housing development got under way in the area.

The plaque to Blair was unveiled at Arbeia by Mayor, Councillor Jay Potts, during a ceremony also attended by the Mayoress Audrey Huntley, historians, representatives of North East Museums, the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne and the community.

The Mayor said: "The Mayoress and I were delighted to unveil this blue plaque in honour of Robert Blair.

"His vision and commitment to preserving our local history have left an enduring mark on South Tyneside.