The Shields Gazette: A Legacy of North East Journalism
For over 170 years, The Shields Gazette has served as a vital source of information for the communities of South Tyneside. With a history stretching back to the mid-19th century, it holds a distinguished place in British media as a cornerstone of regional reporting in the United Kingdom.
A Rich History of Regional Reporting
Founded in 1849, the publication began its journey as a weekly paper known as the North and South Shields Gazette and Northumberland and Durham Advertiser. The landscape of the industry shifted in 1855 following the repeal of Stamp Duty—a government tax on newspapers—which allowed the publication to transition into a daily evening newspaper. Over time, it evolved further, becoming the Shields Gazette and Shipping Telegraph.
The publication claims the prestigious title of being the oldest provincial evening newspaper in the United Kingdom, reflecting its long-standing commitment to local news.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Ownership and Modern Operations
Today, The Shields Gazette is owned by National World and operates as part of North East Press, a division of Johnston Press. To streamline operations, the newspaper has integrated its production with other regional titles.
Since 1992, the paper has been printed using the presses of the Sunderland Echo located in Pennywell, Sunderland. This operational synergy increased in July 2012, when the majority of the editing staff, sports journalists, and reporters relocated to a new base at the Sunderland Echo offices.
Coverage and Reach
The primary focus of the publication is the comprehensive coverage of South Tyneside. While circulation figures have evolved over the decades, the paper maintained an average daily circulation of 15,161 between December 2010 and June 2011. As of 2023, the circulation stands at 1,420.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1849 |
| Owner | National World |
| Region Covered | South Tyneside, UK |
| Language | English |
| Circulation (2023) | 1,420 |
| ISSN (Print/Web) | 1350-0554 / 2755-8754 |
Key Facts
- Oldest Provincial Evening Paper: It claims to be the oldest of its kind in the UK.
- Historical Shift: Transitioned from weekly to daily in 1855 after the repeal of Stamp Duty.
- Production Hub: Printed at the Sunderland Echo presses in Pennywell since 1992.
- Digital Presence: Maintains an active online presence via shieldsgazette.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Shields Gazette founded?
The newspaper was established in 1849, originally starting as a weekly publication.
Who currently owns the publication?
The Shields Gazette is owned by National World and is part of the North East Press division of Johnston Press.
What area does the newspaper cover?
The publication provides news coverage for the entire region of South Tyneside.
Where is the newspaper printed?
Since 1992, it has been printed on the presses of the Sunderland Echo in Pennywell, Sunderland.
Why did the paper change from weekly to daily in 1855?
The transition to a daily evening paper was made possible by the repeal of the Stamp Duty tax in 1855.