Does Sunderland sit in the shadow of Newcastle?

Having lived in the North East for some time a strange phenomenon happens whenever you meet a certain type of person. This person looks down on the rest of the North East like they are the poor relation. They feel superior and act as though the rest of the world want to be one of their select bunch. What has made them like this?

• Is it the fact that they have achieved great things in their life?
• Does it stem from owning riches beyond the imagination of others?
• Have they been chosen by a higher power to be 'better' than everyone else?

No. The people that I refer to are people from Newcastle. They feel that the accident of being born in or near the city suddenly elevates them above the rest of the people that live in this part of the country, and probably the rest of the world too. You can feel it when you walk through the city. You can hear it in conversation. You know it from the way they support their football team. They feel that being part of the city of Newcastle makes them something that everyone else aspires to.

Now I like Newcastle. The city is a great place to spend time, do some shopping and get some amazing food and drink. It has some museums that deserve greater exposure, nightlife that is lively and entertaining to a point and a history that is something to be proud of. But not for one second do I, nor anyone else I know, want to be a Geordie.

There is a city just down the road that has as much history and things to do as Newcastle but doesn't quite get the same exposure. Sunderland has a city centre that could do with a little investment, but it has a great deal that Newcastle cannot offer. The museums stand up to its neighbour and the fact that you can visit the beach from Sunderland is a bonus that the bigger city cannot compete with.

Sunderland is seen as the poor neighbour, and looks like to stands in the shadow of Newcastle but that isn't necessarily the case. House prices may be higher in Newcastle, but Sunderland has the draw of jobs with the Nissan factory on it's doorstep. If only for another couple of weeks, Sunderland can boast a football team in a higher league. Take the small wins while you can.

Nationally, there is a lot more awareness and exposure for Newcastle than there is for Sunderland. People think about stag parties and hen do's, they think about Newcastle races and some sightseeing in the city. It has an airport, the rest of the North East is constantly told. It is a growing city that has managed its image well and developed into a destination. Maybe Sunderland is on the same path. As I said earlier, the city centre needs a lot of attention. It looks drab and doesn't attract the higher end shops that would allow it compete with the city up the road.

I think that there is a lot to do in both cities, but the way that Newcastle has grown sees it attract more investment and attention at the moment. Who knows what the future will bring?