Two of the region’s most loved television icons will be appearing in North Shields this month on their regional tour. Jeff Brown and Ian Payne who between them presented award-winning local news on the BBC and Tyne Tees Television for more than 30 years will be sharing the stage at the Exchange Theatre.

People will get the chance to learn about the interests and lives of these TV personalities who have been welcome guests in our living rooms for decades.

Jeff, 62, joined the BBC over 20 years ago, co-presented Look North with Carol Malia until he left in May last year. Ian, 56, joined Tyne Tees in 1992 from Nova International where he worked with Brendan Foster on the Great North Run. Ian has presented with Mike Neville and the much-loved Pam Royle. He now shares news anchor duties with Amy Lea.

Despite once being on rival stations they are good mates – having worked together at Tyne Tees for six and a half years in the 1990s.

The compere for the evening will be South Shields playwright Ed Waugh (Wor Bella, Hadaway Harry, The Cramlington Train Wreckers) whose play Carrying David transfers to Newcastle Theatre Royal in June. Ed explained “I’ve worked with Jeff and Ian at various times, especially at Sunday for Sammy. They’re both really entertaining and interesting lads. Whenever we get together it’s one long laugh.”

He continued “We put them together a year ago at the Lit & Phil in Newcastle and the Customs House in South Shields where it sold out twice at both venues. It went down a storm. They are both cultural icons of the region, that’s why we are touring to The Exchange in North Shields, Gala Theatre Durham, Bishop Auckland Town Hall and Gosforth Civic theatre.”

Ed continued “Ian was a top trampolinist in his youth and appeared on the children’s television show Blockbusters! He’s also a creative writer, a budding artist and loves music. Likewise, Jeff is a creative writer. His excellent play – The Bench – is touring the region in June. He’s also a canny chanter. I’ve seen him sing live with a band and he rocked”

“It’s a cracking show their stories are captivating and hilarious. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get to know Jeff and Ian better.”

An Evening with Jeff Brown and Ian Payne will be at: Durham Gala April 24, North Shields Exchange April 29, Bishop Auckland Town Hall May 12, Gosforth Civic Theatre May 16. Contact the venues for details.

April 2025