Source to Sea A Journey Along the River Tyne
A powerful and personal exploration of the River Tyne through the eyes, wheels, and words of a group of young dads keen to learn about and care for the world around them.
“It was a totally different experience, one I never thought I’d have the opportunity to do. Each milestone we hit, we checked the water. It really surprised me to see the results over time. An incredible opportunity.” – Young Dad, aged 21
In May 2025 a group of young dads, supported by charity North East Young Dads & Lads, set out on an ambitious 89-mile bike ride with the aim of learning about the water quality of their local river. With help from Tyne Rivers Trust, they tested water samples along the full length of the Tyne, from its North source at Deadwater, Kielder Forest, to the river mouth at North Shields. More than just a physical challenge, the journey became a creative and emotional expedition with environmental care at its core.
The group collaborated with photographic artist and researcher Michele Allen through a series of workshops before, during and after the ride, to explore how they could record their observations and findings creatively. This exhibition is the culmination of their work together.
Artist filmmaker Mat Fleming joined the group along their momentous journey, documenting their progress, thoughts and findings whilst capturing moments of friendship and learning. The young dads were then involved in the editing process to create their final film.
Source to Sea is part of a series of activities by young dad ‘Green Ambassadors’ engaging in hands-on environmental research and creative interpretation as part of the Birds, Bees, Bikes & Trees partnership between Baltic, North East Young Dads & Lads and Newcastle University, funded by the National Lottery Climate Action Fund. This 3-year initiative aims to empower young fathers, reconnect communities with nature and inspire positive climate action around the North East.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the young dads who tirelessly peddled the 89 miles from source to sea, Dr Michele Allen, Mat Fleming and our partners and friends at Tyne Rivers Trust, Cycling UK, Angling Trust, North Sheilds Fish Quay and Earthwatch. This project would not have been possible without your support.
If you are a young father under the age of 25 or know of a young father who may be interested in future opportunities, you can contact NEYDL at info@neydl.uk or call 07990 164449 to find out more.
