Bigg changes down the ages for market

MORE than half a century separates our two images showing the same view of Newcastle's Bigg Market.

- By DAVID MORTON

Much water has flowed under the Tyne Bridge since our older picture was captured in the late 1960s by photographer Laszlo Torday, but the topography and buildings in the view remain relatively unchanged with one notable exception.

The area has enjoyed substantial regeneration in recent years with NE1 Ltd's Bigg Market project breathing new life into the area. But from the 1980s, it became synonymous with the image of 'party city Newcastle'. The sight of young revellers in minimal attire braving rain, wind and snow while flocking to the local bars, clubs and restaurants has become an enduring Tyneside stereotype.

But the Bigg Market has a long history, predating its 21st century reputation as a magnet for hen and stag weekends. Named after a type of barley, it was a bustling, thriving market from the Middle Ages onwards. It was one of many - along with the neighbouring Groat and Cloth Markets - operating in the vicinity of St Nicholas' Church (later cathedral) and located on the Newcastle stretch of the Great North Road that linked London and Edinburgh.